Fort Whipple Arizona
Fort Whipple has not only been a vital part of Prescott’s history, but of the history of the United States as well. The fort was so prominent in the west at the time that is was considered the capital of the Arizona Territory. The fort was established in 1864, but has had many different lives since then. It started out as a tactical base for the United States Cavalry during the Indian Wars of 1864-1882. The fort was named after Lt. Amiel Whipple who was the first to discover and establish access to gold fields nearby. This new gold created conflict in the area and Fort Whipple was used to protect miners and settlers from raids. It was even the headquarters of the rough riders during the Spanish American war. These rough riders were the first voluntary cavalry created by Teddy Roosevelt to support the war.
Fort Whipple has seen many traumas of war and in World War I was used as a hospital for disabled veterans. Nowadays, the property has been greatly reduced in size and is used as a museum. The property went from 1,700 acres to 150 acres. Though reduced in sized, Fort Whipple hasn’t lost any of it’s history. This is done through the wonderful exhibits at the Fort Whipple Museum. These include those featuring medical instruments of the time, Army weaponry, information on the Buffalo Soldiers, maps, photographs, memoirs, and more. The museum is associated with the Sharlot Hall Museum and the Bob Stump Veterans Affairs Medical Center. The museum stands out in its authentic color scheme of crème and green and is full of friendly and knowledgeable volunteers to give tours and answer questions. Don’t miss out on the chance to get a real glimpse into the history of Prescott and the wild west!
MORE WESTERN CULTURE ATTRACTIONS
The Blazin’ M Ranch - A Western Themed Frontier Town, Dinner, and A Show
Join us at the Blazin’ M Ranch for an evening of western activities, dinner and an unforgettable show! The Blazin’ M Ranch features an authentic Western Themed Town located in Cottonwood, Arizona. You’ll find fun family activities and the best chicken and ribs in Arizona, along with f … More
Join us at the Blazin’ M Ranch for an evening of western activities, dinner and an unforgettable show! The Blazin’ M Ranch features an authentic Western Themed Town located in Cottonwood, Arizona. You’ll find fun family activities and the best chicken and ribs in Arizona, along with foil-wrapped potato, cowboy beans, our prickly pear coleslaw, flying biscuits and a delicious homemade dessert.
After dinner the Blazin’ M Cowboys entertain ya’ with their award-winning musical talents mixed with cowboy poetry and humor with a 1 hour show from 7:30pm - 8:30pm!
Family-Friendly | Dinner Included | Live Entertainment
Guided Horseback Tour only 30 mins from Sedona
Go horseback riding in Arizona during this small-group tour in Cottonwood, approximately 30 minutes from Sedona. Meet your guide and set out on a tour through the Alcantara Vineyards. Cross the water where the Verde River and Oak Creek meet, and get up close to see ancient Apache ruins. … More
Go horseback riding in Arizona during this small-group tour in Cottonwood, approximately 30 minutes from Sedona. Meet your guide and set out on a tour through the Alcantara Vineyards. Cross the water where the Verde River and Oak Creek meet, and get up close to see ancient Apache ruins. Admire panoramic mountain views during this scenic excursion. No prior experience is necessary.
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From Phoenix: Tour to Prescott and Whiskey Row
Escape the desert heat and head to the mile-high town of Prescott, Arizona. Visit the famous Sharlot Hall Museum and delve into Arizona's territorial past. Walk through the original Governor's Mansion and learn about the first settlers and miners in the Arizona mountains.
Visit … More
Escape the desert heat and head to the mile-high town of Prescott, Arizona. Visit the famous Sharlot Hall Museum and delve into Arizona's territorial past. Walk through the original Governor's Mansion and learn about the first settlers and miners in the Arizona mountains.
Visit Whiskey Row and enjoy great food, spirits, and a shot of whiskey if you prefer. Imbibe at the same famed bar that Doc Holliday himself leaned on. Explore antique shops, Arizona and western-themed galleries, and saloons.
Mutli-Attraction Tours
Prescott History Tour
Step back in time on Prescott's streets where history isn't just told, it's experienced. Unlike typical tours that offer surface-level facts, this immersive journey brings you face-to-face with Arizona's territorial capital through vivid storytelling that happens right where history unf … More
Step back in time on Prescott's streets where history isn't just told, it's experienced. Unlike typical tours that offer surface-level facts, this immersive journey brings you face-to-face with Arizona's territorial capital through vivid storytelling that happens right where history unfolded.
Walk the very streets where the Great Whiskey Row Fire of 1900 raged as your guide recreates the drama of ordinary citizens becoming heroes. Feel the urgency as flames engulfed building after building, and witness the remarkable resilience of a community determined to rebuild their beloved town.
From the historic courthouse plaza to the elegant Victorian mansions of Nob Hill, discover meticulously researched tales of famous figures and everyday pioneers. Each story reveals how Prescott shaped Arizona's identity and connects you to a past that guidebooks simply can't capture. This is a transformative journey that will forever change how you see the American West.
Family-Friendly
1.5 Hour Horseback Ride
