Watson Lake at dusk, kayaking and Granite Dells in Prescott, Arizona

Anniversary trip in Prescott

3 min read5 sections
Quick answer
Stay at the Hassayampa Inn or Hotel Vendome. Sunset at Watson Lake or Thumb Butte. Dinner at Murphy's or El Gato Azul. Add a Verde Canyon Railroad day trip or a stargazing tour for a memorable night.

Historic stays

The Hassayampa Inn (1927) is the standard pick. Hotel Vendome (1917) is the quieter option two blocks south of Whiskey Row.

Fine dining nights

Murphy's Restaurant on Cortez for the local fine-dining steakhouse standard. The Peacock Room at the Hassayampa for atmosphere. El Gato Azul on Granite Creek for the iconic Prescott patio.

Memorable experiences

Verde Canyon Railroad four-hour scenic train (about 90 minutes drive each way to Clarkdale). Stargazing tour at the local dark-sky parks. Hot air balloon rides operate seasonally.

Photo spots for the milestone

Sunrise at Watson Lake. Sunset on the Courthouse Plaza. Granite Mountain Sunset overlook off Iron Springs Road. Thumb Butte at golden hour.

Splurge upgrade

Suite at the Hassayampa with a couples massage downtown, dinner at Murphy's with a bottle of Verde Valley wine, and a Verde Canyon Railroad first-class car.

Frequently asked

Best anniversary hotel?+

Hassayampa Inn.

Best anniversary dinner?+

Murphy's Restaurant or the Hassayampa Peacock Room.

Best anniversary view?+

Watson Lake at sunrise or Thumb Butte at sunset.

Day trip for the milestone?+

Verde Canyon Railroad scenic train.

Spa options?+

Several local spas operate downtown. Book ahead.

How many days?+

Two to three nights is the comfortable range.

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