Prescott Arizona is rich in history and culture.  In 1838 Prescott was discovered due to the finding of gold in the area, Prescott became the state of Arizonas first capital. The ever-growing city became a popular western destination for pioneers and travelers.  In 1900 a fire wiped out the whole city.  It was rebuilt and much of what stands today is original.

 

The best way to discover the history and culture of Prescott is to visit the local museums and historic educational sites.  Listed are some of the locations we recommend seeing when visiting Prescott.

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary- Prescott's own wildlife sanctuary!  This sanctuary was formally the Prescott Heritage Park Zoo.  They are dedicated to the conservation and protection of native and exotic animals.

 

The Highlands Center for Natural History- Outdoor science education facility that offers classes to the young and old.

 

The Phippen Art Museum- Includes American art from the West both contemporary and historic.

 

The Professor Hall's Cinema Museum- This private museum offers historic Arizona films and the history of cinema technology.

 

The Prescott Fine Arts Association and Performing Arts- This facility offers the art galleries and performing arts venue.  The ever changing exhibits and performances keep ones curiosity.

 

The Sharlot Hall Museum- This museum tells about the settlers of Arizona through exhibits and artifacts.  The architecture tells the story of the city of Prescott from the early 1800s.

 

The Smoki Museum-This Native American cultural museum hosts an abundance of oil paintings and artifacts that showcases the western Native Americans and their culture.

 

The Yavapai College Gallery and Sculpture Garden- This visual arts gallery holds collections from local, regional and national artists.  It is an ever changing art gallery.  The outdoor Sculpture Garden offers a variety of contemporary sculptures made from copper, woods and various metals.