Only 90 miles northwest of Phoenix, Prescott is the original Territorial capital of Arizona, one of the few towns in the state that still retains much of its historic character. Sitting at the edge of the Prescott National Forest on the Mogollon Rim, the mile-high community is generally 20 degrees cooler than Phoenix, meaning that summers are ideal. You’ll experience mild, dry days that will top out around 90 degrees and comfortable evenings. The region boasts many outdoor recreational opportunities, from hiking and boating, to sightseeing and birding; and you’re not far from other interesting sites, such Sedona’s red rocks or Jerome’s small-town funkiness. Prescott’s icon is its historic Courthouse Square, which features many summer events and abuts famous Whiskey Row, now converted into restaurants and gift shops.

Once named by Money magazine as the best place in the nation to retire, the region suffers from the seemingly unplanned growth that inflicts itself upon other towns. In that sense Prescott serves as a laboratory to study many of the insights about growth and tourism suggested by Aldo Leopold, who was, in addition to being a forester, secretary of the Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce. Many websites tell the Prescott story; for further information, we suggest you check out:

Prescott Area Chamber of Commerce. Here you’ll find the usual chamber of commerce information about lodging, business opportunities, and community events. Unlike many other chambers, however, the Prescott group understands that their town’s future should embrace preservation and conservation, and it is for that reason the Prescott Area Chamber of Commerce is supporting the Leopold institute. They’ll provide you a gift bag of discount meals and other goodies, and the chamber is also underwriting some of our public meeting expenses.

Prescott Area Coalition for Tourism. This site provides detailed information about the many amenities for travelers – museums, shopping, recreation, lodging, local events, and similar attractions. If you’re interested in researching other nearby tourist destinations, please visit Arizona Guide, the state’s official website.