Sunset’s Insider Guide series highlights seasonal diversions and secret travel tips from local experts. Follow along as we learn where to eat, drink, stay, and shop.
Meet the Insider: Scott Brady, author of Overlanding 101: A Field Guide to Vehicle-Based Adventure Travel
Location: Prescott, Arizona
Scott Brady’s name is practically synonymous with overlanding. The man lives and breathes adventure travel, and he is the first person in history to take the same vehicle across all seven continents. Brady has circumnavigated the planet three times, and he shares his experiences through his photography and storytelling as the CEO of the company behind the Overland Journal. While he spends a lot of time on the road, Brady is equally proud of his hometown of Prescott. Here are his must-sees on a trip to this central Arizona hub known for its Old West history and access to the great outdoors.
STAY
Zack Hollander/Epoch Visuals
Air Village is a unique stay located within a block of Prescott’s historic courthouse square, featuring 10 renovated 34-foot Avion trailers. The back of the property runs along Granite Creek and is within a short walk of dining, museums, and shopping. Hassayampa Inn was built in 1927 during the Roaring Twenties as a grand hotel for downtown Prescott. It features an elegant lobby and timeless decorations, along with a coffee bar and restaurant. The location is perched above the downtown square and is an easy walk to amenities.
EAT
Jess Phillips
The Raven Cafe is a cornerstone of Prescott nightlife with live music, entertainment, and movie nights, which are as popular as its diverse menu of fish, burgers, tacos, and vegetarian options. This locally owned restaurant supports artists and has a beautiful rooftop dining area, perfect for watching the bats at sunset. Bear & Dragon is a whimsical cafe lined with books, art, and an afternoon tea fit for an Anglophile. Get a proper English breakfast named after J.R.R. Tolkien, or indulge in a cottage pie or bangers and mash for dinner.
DRINK
Founding Fathers Collective is a mixed-use space owned by veterans that has a coffee shop, a whiskey bar, a barbershop, and the largest self-serve beer taproom in Northern Arizona. The location backs up to Granite Creek and is within walking distance of a historic train trestle and mercantile. Fairweather Social Club is a vibrant bar occupying a historic building, featuring traditional cocktails, local brews, and zero-proof options. Beyond great drinks, it has become the destination of choice for live music with multiple bands every week.
DO
Benedek/Getty Images
One of the most stunning lakes in Arizona, Watson Lake, has a shoreline rimmed by massive granite cliffs with spires and boulders jutting from the water. The adventurous can hike the five-mile loop trail or rent stand-up paddleboards. Originally the capital of the Arizona Territory, downtown Prescott features a charming center at Courthouse Plaza with massive trees and acres of grass. The surrounding streets feature historic bars, the Sharlot Hall Museum, and Victorian-style homes.
We only recommend things we love. If you buy something through our site, we might earn a commission.
