Prescott’s Western Culture – Experience the Old West in Arizona
Prescott is celebrated as one of the Top 5 Western Towns in the United States, and it’s easy to see why. Legendary figures like Wyatt Earp, Virgil Earp (who served as a lawman here), and Doc Holliday once called Prescott home. Today, the spirit of the Old West lives on through historic saloons on Whiskey Row, world-class western museums, cowboy cookouts, and even the World’s Oldest Rodeo.
When you visit Prescott, you can step straight into the history books—explore the Prescott National Forest on horseback, pan for gold, stay overnight at a working dude ranch, or enjoy an evening under the stars at a cowboy cookout with live entertainment.
How to Experience the Old West in Prescott
Whiskey Row – Arizona’s Most Famous Saloon Street
Once home to over 40 saloons, Whiskey Row was the center of Prescott’s nightlife during the late 1800s. After several fires reshaped the district, it became the iconic strip you see today. Step inside The Palace Restaurant and Saloon, which first opened in 1877 and still operates—making it the oldest business in Arizona. Wyatt Earp, Virgil Earp, and Doc Holliday were all known to spend time here.Sharlot Hall Museum – Arizona’s Territorial Past
Located in downtown Prescott, the Sharlot Hall Museum is a historic campus featuring 11 exhibit buildings (six of them original historic structures) and more than 40,000 artifacts. Here, you can tour Arizona Territory’s first governor’s residence, a restored log cabin, and enjoy immersive “Arizona History Adventure” programs that bring the Territorial Era to life.Phippen Museum – Western Art & Cowboy Heritage
The Phippen Museum showcases nearly 800 pieces of fine Western art, from paintings and sculptures to rare collections like the Solon H. Borglum Collection and the Ray Swanson Gallery. Exhibits such as the Western Heritage Gallery, Arizona Rancher & Cowboy Hall of Fame, and History of the Cowgirl offer a deeper look into cowboy life and artistry.Prescott Frontier Days
Atten the festivities during Frontiers days at the Prescott Rodeo Grounds. Since 1888, this traditional event has occurred annually over the 4th of July weekend with eight breath-taking performances including a wild horse race, steer wrestling, team roping, bull riding, barrel racing and much more!Prescott Frontier Days – The World’s Oldest Rodeo
Held every 4th of July weekend since 1888, Prescott Frontier Days at the Prescott Rodeo Grounds is the ultimate celebration of western tradition. Watch eight thrilling rodeo performances featuring bull riding, barrel racing, wild horse races, team roping, and steer wrestling—plus parades, dances, and western-themed entertainment throughout town.Cowboy Cookouts & Ranch Adventures
Just outside Prescott, Blazin’ M Ranch delivers a full Old West experience for all ages. Try your hand at roping, pitch horseshoes, or test your aim with a real Colt .45 six-shooter. Then, settle in for a hearty cowboy dinner served with live western music and entertainment in a rustic ranch setting.
Tip for Visitors: Plan your trip around late June to early July for the Prescott Frontier Days rodeo, or visit in the fall when the weather is perfect for horseback riding and outdoor western activities.
Top Old West Experiences in Prescott, AZ
- Walk Whiskey Row Visit The Palace Restaurant & Saloon (est. 1877) where Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday once gathered.
- Tour Sharlot Hall Museum Explore Arizona’s first governor’s residence, historic buildings, and frontier artifacts.
- Browse Phippen Museum See fine Western art, cowboy history exhibits, and the Arizona Rancher & Cowboy Hall of Fame.
- Attend Prescott Frontier Days Experience the World’s Oldest Rodeo with bull riding, barrel racing, and wild horse races.
- Ride Horseback in Prescott National Forest Scenic trails and guided cowboy rides.
- Try Gold Panning & Ranch Life Book a stay at a working dude ranch for hands-on western fun.
- Enjoy a Cowboy Cookout Head to Blazin’ M Ranch for a hearty dinner, live music, and cowboy games.
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.
Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided
1.5 Hour Horseback Ride
