Fall Family Weekend Getaway

Prescott, AZ, is a year-round haven for those seeking outdoor adventures and a taste of Western culture. As the leaves change color and the mountain air turns crisp, our charming town transforms into an autumn wonderland with vibrant fall foliage, unique seasonal events, and an abundance of family-friendly activities.

To make the most of your fall getaway, choose from a variety of comfortable accommodations–from cozy cabins and charming inns to plush hotels and beautiful campgrounds–all offering prime access to the area’s top attractions. 

Explore Prescott's fall highlights with this two-day itinerary, featuring must-attend events, top attractions, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly dining.

Day 1

• Coffee & Breakfast

Jumpstart your weekend adventure with coffee and breakfast at one of Prescott’s eclectic coffee shops and cafes. Just a short drive from historic Whiskey Row, Bear & Dragon has a cozy cottage atmosphere serving coffee, spirits and an enchanting culinary experience for the entire family. Alternatively, if your four-legged family members are along for the ride, the charming, pet-friendly patio at Wild Iris Coffeehouse and Bakery is the perfect spot to fuel up with hand-crafted coffee creations and scratch-made pastries.

• Hike Off that Caffeine

After breakfast, grab your favorite sweater before setting off to experience Prescott’s mild autumn temperatures and stunning trails. Spanning 100,000 acres of pristine mountain wilderness, nearby Prescott National Forest is crisscrossed with over 950 miles of scenic trails to discover. Adventurers of every age and skill level are welcome here, with trail experiences ranging from relaxed to rugged.

• Picnic at the Lake

For lunch, picnic at the park’s sparkling Goldwater Lake, set against a backdrop of majestic Ponderosa pine, maple, cottonwoods, aspen, and ash. This recreation area is one of Prescott's most popular destinations for fishing. During your visit, you can also enjoy the colorful fall foliage and local wildlife on the 5.8-mile trail that encircles the water.

• Off Road Tours

And if you’re looking for an off-trail experience at Prescott National Forest, the seasoned guides at Angry Ape Off-Road Tours will lead your family on an exciting 60 or 90-minute nature ride in their specially equipped vehicles. Sights include the awe-inspiring Sierra Prieta, Quartz Mountain, and Banni Mine Trail.

• Burgers & BBQ

Step back in time and enjoy a delicious burger like a boss at Marino's Mob Burgers & Ice Cream. Known for their hand-pattied in-house daily and flame-grilled burgers served on a rich, buttery brioche bun, Marino's is the place to go. Or experience the taste of Prescott's Barbeque scene at State 48 Hometown BBQ, with flavors that remind you of family gatherings around an open fire pit. 

Day 2

• Breakfast at Cowboy Kitchen

Fuel up for a day of family adventure at Cowboy Kitchen! With secret recipes passed down through generations of Arizona cowboys and vaqueros to stories and memories from decades of serving the Prescott community, they will be sure to get you prepped for the full day ahead!

• On to the Zoo

Spend some time with Prescott’s wildest residents at Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary. Unlike a typical zoo, all animals here have been rescued and serve as a reminder of the sanctuary’s vital mission of conservation. Don’t miss Heritage Park’s seasonal events, such as Fall ZOOFest and the annual Boo at the Zoo on Halloween, where you and your family can trick or treat with the animals!

• Caffeine & Lunch at Berry's Pie Pantry

Gather for lunch at Berry's Pie Pantry, whether you're seeking a cozy meal or a relaxed coffee and pie break, this quaint restaurant is perfect for your family. 

• Time for Activities!

Capture picture-perfect family memories at Mortimer Farms' annual Pumpkin Fest & Corn Maze in nearby Dewey. Get lost in the maze, have everyone pick their own pumpkin, and bond over all the festive activities.

• Pizza & Drinks

Finish your weekend getaway with dinner at Rosa's Pizzeria, serving family friendly pizza, pasta, chicken and veal for lunch and dinner in a welcoming atmosphere creating a perfect last stop for the whole family.

Plan Your Fall Getaway to Prescott 

Come and visit Prescott, AZ, this season for an unforgettable family adventure your kids will approve of! Be sure to check out the many free, family-friendly activities, which include fall things to do.