Prescott Old West History

Territorial Governor John Goodwin selected the original site of Prescott following his first tour of the new territory in 1864. Goodwin replaced Governor John A. Gurley, appointed by President Abraham Lincoln, who died before taking office. Downtown streets are named in their honor.

Once upon a time, Whiskey Row (the 100 block of South Montezuma Street in Prescott) was a hotbed of social activity where dusty cowboys, including Wyatt Earp, his brothers & Doc Holliday, could enjoy a drink, some amiable company or a card game. Indeed, Whiskey Row was so named for the more than 40 saloons that populated that area of downtown.  On July 14, 1900, a fire destroyed much of Prescott's business district, including the Burke Hotel, whose claim to fame was "the only fire-proof hotel in Arizona."

An effort to rebuild was underway in only a matter of days and the newly constructed buildings, most of which were completed between 1900 and 1905, utilizing brick and masonry. Today, Whiskey Row is still a vibrant center of activity in downtown Prescott, and while the number of saloons has decreased from a century ago, you'll be at no loss to find a great place to eat, view exemplary works of art, visit a museum, shop the many antique and gift stores or simply find a spot to relax, cool your heels and people-watch. Whiskey Row and the adjacent Courtyard Plaza are considered a battery of social energy in Prescott where you'll find a variety of interesting places and things to do throughout the city, all with their own distinct flavor and charm.

AAA Highroads magazine publication counted the top 100 best things to see and do in Arizona and Whiskey Row came in at number 10. You won't be at a loss for finding live music in Prescott from rock, jazz, country, blues and everything in between with over 20 venues that offer live music.  *Golf Courses
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​*Info. provided by Prescott Office of Tourism

Train to Prescott Cocktail Tour

WHISKEY ROW ​

Tour's starting & I see Cowboys!