Prescott Valley Explore Local With RVshare

A laid-back town nestled amongst some of the most incredible natural spaces left in the entire state of Arizona, Prescott Valley is a unique place to live and visit. Here are our very favorite things to do and places to explore in Prescott Valley!

*Note: Some of the suggestions may not be doable due to coronavirus closures, but keep this list handy for when things start opening back up more! Be sure to check individual pages for specific operation details.

Those who make their home in this part of Arizona know that they’re blessed to be surrounded by a great diversity of wild spaces, from rippling red rocks to broad expanses of high desert forest. Here are some of the best state and national parks and preserves in the Prescott Valley, AZ area.

Dead Horse Ranch State Park

Despite its morose name, Dead Horse Ranch State Park is teeming with life, including lush foliage and incredible local wild animals. A working ranch for decades, today, this park draws visitors for hiking, kayaking, bird watching, camping, and more; it also offers two fishing lagoons with boat launches for those looking for a watery oasis in the desert. 

Prescott National Forest

Covering an expanse of more than 1.25 million acres, Prescott National Forest is one of the wildest places left in the entire continental United States, let alone Arizona. Along with its plethora of outdoor recreational opportunities, the national forest also holds historical significance: it was here that Sam Miller panned for gold before being attacked by a cougar, here where General Cook raised his flag during the Indian Wars.

Red Rock State Park

Although it might only be a few decades old — which is young, in the grand scheme of Arizona’s distinguished state parks — Red Rock State Park holds a vast and varied section of the desert countryside, covering almost 300 acres and displaying some of the most unique geographical formations on this side of the Mississippi. A popular spot amongst those living in or visiting Sedona, the park is also only an hour or so from Prescott Valley, so take advantage of your close proximity to this sought-after destination!

Slide Rock State Park

From its humble origins as an apple orchard to its current status as one of the most commonly visited state parks in Arizona, Slide Rock State Park offers a unique outdoor getaway opportunity for locals — particularly thanks to its namesake rock, which does indeed act as a kind of natural slip-and-slide during Arizona’s brutal summer heat. Along with swimming in the creek, the park also offers hiking trails for those looking to keep their feet firmly planted on the ground.

This part of Arizona is prized by people from across the state — and the country — for its incredible hiking opportunities. Here are some of the best trails for getting your boots on the ground in Prescott Valley and the surrounding areas.

Lynx Lake Loop Trail

Meandering the two-and-a-half miles that create the jagged shoreline of this beautiful body of water, Lynx Lake Loop Trail is one of the most popular in the Prescott Valley area, and for good reason. The beautiful waterside views are matched by a mostly flat terrain suitable for beginners as well as trail runners and bikers, and it’s also a good trail for bringing along the dog or kids.

Constellation Loop

With gently undulating hills making up about 200 feet of elevation change along Constellation Loop’s two-and-a-half mile length, this trail counts as an easy-to-moderate endeavor that offers beautiful scenery and shrubbery to make it worth your while. Located close to town, you’ll get both urban and countryside views, and leashed dogs are also welcome to wander along the path.

Watson Lake and Flume Trail

Tucked right into nearby Watson Lake Park, Watson Lake and Flume Trail is an easy-to-moderate hike of just under five miles that sees just 400 feet of elevation change along the way. Along with a beautiful and unique lake, studded with characteristic northern Arizona rock formations, the trail also meanders through ample wildflowers and greenery, making for a scenic breath of fresh air.

Spruce Mountain via Groom Creek Loop (#307) 

A lengthy and challenging hike that belongs firmly in the upper echelons of the “moderate” category, Spruce Mountain via Groom Creek Loop (#307) runs just shy of 10 miles and sees about 1,600 feet in elevation change along the way. For those willing to take the challenge, rewards include sweeping panoramic views and tall high-desert pines. The trail is also popular among mountain bikers and equestrians!

Little Granite Mountain Loop Trail

Coming in at just under 10 miles in length and seeing more than 1,800 feet in elevation gain over the course of that time, Little Granite Mountain Loop Trail is certainly a challenge — but one that’s well worth taking on, particularly for those looking for incredible views. Best used from September to May because of the brutal temperatures brought along by Arizona summers, this steep climb doesn’t offer much in the way of shade, but is dog friendly for those hoping to bring their pooches!

If you’re going to keep up with all the adventure Prescott Valley has to offer, you’re definitely going to work up an appetite. Here are just a few of the best restaurants in town to choose from, whether you’re craving Mexican, Italian, or something else entirely!

Taqueria Don Omar

It’s Arizona, so you already know the Mexican food game is strong. If you’re looking for the best south-of-the-border spice in Prescott Valley, we recommend Taqueria Don Omar, a local favorite that’s been serving up delicious dishes out of a nondescript strip mall location for years. It’s easy to overlook… but trust us, you’ll be glad you found it!

Toi’s Thai Kitchen

Whether you’re looking for something delicious and unique, are in search of some serious spice, or are a vegetarian or vegan looking for some plant-based options, Toi’s Thai Kitchen has you covered. Serving up favorites like pad thai and massaman curry as well as kid-friendly options like orange chicken and spring rolls, you’ll be amazed at the authentic flavors of the far east out here in the desert west. 

Gabriella’s Ristorante

Looking for an impressive date night pick — or just some delicious Tuscan cuisine that’ll stick to your ribs and make you say “mama mia!”? Gabriella’s Ristorante will keep you satisfied either way. Serving comfort food in a comfortable, family-friendly environment, everything on the menu is spectacular, from the sauteed portobello mushrooms to the lasagna and cheese ravioli.

Sushi J Express

Think you can’t get good sushi this far from an ocean? Think again. Sushi J Express is the Prescott Valley go-to for rolls, bowls, nigiri, and more, including hot Japanese dishes like katsu and teriyaki. Serving up delicious options at affordable prices, this is the perfect place to grab lunch or dinner when you’re hungry, in a hurry, and not willing to compromise on quality.

Taj Mahal Restaurant and Lounge

There’s nothing quite like Indian food: warm, spicy, comforting, fragrant, and ultimately as satisfying as possible. In Prescott Valley, the best Indian eatery around is Taj Mahal Restaurant and Lounge, which serves a la carte menu items as well as a deliciously full buffet for your enjoyment. You can’t go wrong either way!

What is there to do in Prescott Valley this weekend aside from eating and enjoying the great outdoors? So much! Here are some of the top things to do in town, no matter what kind of adventure you’re after.

For Kids and Families

Prescott Valley is an incredible place to explore with kids. Here are some options the entire family will love.

Freedom Station Family Fun Center

A family entertainment center encompassing more than 40,000 square feet of activities and to-dos, Freedom Station Family Fun Center includes a miniature golf course, a laser tag course, rock climbing walls, air hockey tables and a wide range of arcade games, along with on-site dining options and the perfect venue to host birthday parties. Game on!

The Highlands Center for Natural History

Ting outside is one thing — but doing so with context makes it an even richer experience. The Highlands Center for Natural History offers folks in Prescott the chance to get up close and personal with the diversity of plant and animal life that make this part of the world unique, and also hosts a range of educational programs and events for adults and children alike. 

At Night

There’s no shortage of things to do while the bright Arizona sun is burning, but what about after the stars come out? Have no fear: there are plenty of incredible after-dark opportunities in Prescott Valley. Here are just a few.

Hawkins Theatre

Top of our list of things for couples to do in Prescott Valley, but also a great choice for families and even solo adventurers, Hawkins Theatre is the kind of cinema whose atmosphere is just as much part of the show as the film itself. Screening both new hits and old favorites in its 14 amphitheatres, this location also includes an expanded snack bar and comfortable rocker seating.

Antelope Lanes

It’s hard to beat bowling when it comes to a fun, nighttime to-do perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone who wants to play. Plus, it’s technically a sport… but it’s also totally possible to play while eating a plate of nachos. We don’t know about you, but we here at RVshare call that a win! Antelope Lanes is the Prescott Valley go-to for bowing, and also offers pool tables and other diversions along with its on-site restaurant and bar!

Cheap Things to Do in Prescott Valley

Don’t want to take out a second mortgage to get familiar with Prescott Valley? Good thing you don’t have to! Here are some of the best options that don’t cost very much at all.

Prescott Valley Ice Skating

Tucked inside the Findlay Toyota Center, Prescott Valley Ice Skating offers a seasonal open-to-the-public ice skating event that allows you to get on the ice even if you don’t have much experience. The skating session itself starts at just $6 for those ages 13 and up, and is even more affordable for younger skaters, and on-site skate rentals are also available for just $4 a pair.

The Phippen Museum

Offering a one-of-a-kind window into the wild west of yore, The Phippen Museum catalogues the lives of both the Native Americans who called this land home for years and the cowboys and settlers who came and displaced them. Both permanent and revolving collections can be viewed by visitors for prices starting as low as $10 (with discounts available for seniors, AAA members and more). Although rainy days don’t happen too often in Arizona, this is a great place to spend an affordable afternoon when you just need to beat the heat.

Free Things to Do in Prescott Valley

It’s true: there are fun things to tackle in Prescott Valley that don’t require you to whip out your wallet at all. Here are some of our top picks!

Lonesome Valley Trails

A zig-zagging network of more than 10 miles of trails set into Lonesome Valley, the Lonesome Valley Trails will leave you feeling anything but. Get familiar with the landscape on foot and bring a friend or two for the journey. Best of all, it costs absolutely nothing to get out and enjoy nature… and it’s even good for you!

Local Parks

Prescott Valley is lucky to have a number of unique local parks available and free for people to enter, each of which offers its own unique benefits and facilities. For example, Tonto Park is known for its wide-open fields and fun, family-friendly playgrounds, while Fain Park features over 100 acres of land as well as a fishable lake and historical features like a refurbished stamp mill. There are plenty of other free local greenspaces to explore and get familiar with, so check them out!

Spas in Prescott Valley

Everyone needs some pampering from time to time. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of day spas and salons in Prescott Valley to get you looking and feeling your best!

Sundara Sanctuary

A good day spa is like a sanctuary: a place you retreat to so that you can later emerge feeling rested, restored, and ready to take on whatever life may throw your way. Sundara Sanctuary is one of the best-loved local spas, offering a full range of massage modalities as well as float therapy, skincare treatments, pressure therapy, an infrared sauna, and even beautifying treatments like waxing and teeth whitening. It’s woman-veteran-owned and operated, so you can feel great about where your money is going, supporting your local community while also performing an act of self care!

Salon Seven

There are times in our lives where nothing soothes the soul quite as fully as getting a new haircut or opting for a new color. Salon Seven offers hair care and treatment as well as facials, microblading, massage therapy, waxing, conditioning hair treatments and more. Conveniently located and staffed by skilled professionals, you’ll walk out feeling and looking incredible.

Best Gyms & Yoga Studios

Staying in shape is about so much more than what your body looks like: it’s about what both your body and your mind feel like, too. Here are the best gyms, fitness centers and yoga studios in Prescott Valley.

Fitness for $10

I mean, with a name like Fitness for $10, it’s hard to argue, right? Offering a full range of cardio and strength training equipment as well as ample floor space for stretching and ab work, this fitness center is all about getting you the stuff you need to achieve the results you want at a price that’s not just reasonable, but downright affordable: $10 a month. There’s really no excuse when it’s that cheap!

Bend Hot Yoga

A flexible body means a flexible spirit and a flexible mind — and Bend Hot Yoga is the perfect place to get cooking on your practice. Along with traditional heated flows, this studio also offers practices geared toward beginner yogis, as well as hot pilates classes, non-heated classes, and so much more. Check it out for yourself!

Let’s get it straight: you’re definitely not going to run out of things to do in Prescott Valley. That said, there are some incredible local opportunities if you’re looking for a getaway! Here are our favorite day trips in and around Prescott Valley.

Flagstaff

A quaint high-desert college town and the gateway city for none other than Grand Canyon National Park, Flagstaff has a unique feel all its own… and it’s one definitely worth the drive. Grab a coffee in one of its hip cafes before you head north to the Canyon for some sightseeing, and be sure to stay up after the sun goes down and gaze up at that endless scrawl of stars. You can even stop in Sedona on the way to or from!

Phoenix

The capital of the state of Arizona and home to a wide range of attractions besides, Phoenix is only an hour and a half away from Prescott Valley — and so it’s a perfect opportunity for a quick getaway just for dinner and a show, or a whole weekend if you’re looking to play hookey for a little longer.

As a final reminder, some of these activities may need to wait until businesses fully reopen from coronavirus closures. However, there is still much to see and experience in Prescott Valley that you can enjoy today! What are your favorite spots in Prescott Valley? Send them our way to [email protected] or by tagging us on Instagram @rvshare and using the hashtag #rvsharelocal.