Step into the Wild West and prepare for a spine-tingling journey through time at one of Arizona’s most storied landmarks—The Palace Saloon. Nestled in the heart of Prescott, this iconic watering hole is more than just a tribute to the past; it’s a living, breathing monument to frontier life, outlaws, and maybe even a few lingering spirits. With its swinging doors, bullet holes, and antique bar imported from the East Coast, The Palace Saloon is a beloved hot spot for locals, tourists, and paranormal investigators alike. If you’re a history buff who loves the thrill of the unknown, this is one destination you won’t want to miss.
The History
A Saloon Born in the Wild West
The Palace Saloon, located at 120 S. Montezuma Street in Prescott, Arizona, proudly holds the title of the state’s oldest operating bar. First established in 1877 during the height of the mining boom, The Palace was more than just a place to grab a drink—it was the social and political epicenter of a burgeoning frontier town. With booming business from miners, cowboys, lawmen, and outlaws, it saw more than its fair share of card games, gunfights, and legendary encounters.
The original building was destroyed in the Great Prescott Fire of 1900. But true to frontier spirit, not even a devastating blaze could extinguish the saloon’s legacy. Patrons famously carried the 1880s Brunswick bar—the pride of the establishment—out onto the street to save it from the flames. After the fire, the saloon was quickly rebuilt and reopened in 1901, bringing with it a more elegant Victorian-style interior that remains stunningly intact to this day.
Home to Legends and Lawmen
Throughout its storied past, The Palace Saloon has hosted notable figures that shaped the lore of the American West. It’s said that Wyatt Earp, Virgil Earp, and Doc Holliday were frequent patrons of the saloon. Prescott, after all, was a key waypoint for anyone heading to or from Tombstone during the boom years. The Palace was also a hangout for soldiers from nearby Fort Whipple, as well as outlaws of lesser-known fame who sought sanctuary—or simply a strong drink—within its walls.
Documents and oral histories confirm the saloon’s place as a pivotal cultural center in Arizona’s early days. The location served as the impromptu office of Sheriff “Buckey” O’Neill, who later became one of Teddy Roosevelt’s Rough Riders and died heroically in Cuba during the Spanish-American War. His portrait still hangs onsite, honoring his connection to the saloon and the region.
The Architecture and Restoration
After its 1901 reconstruction, The Palace Saloon took on a booming turn-of-the-century elegance. The mahogany bar, ornate ceiling tiles, and Victorian décor brought a level of sophistication, while retaining a distinctly rugged Western charm. During Prohibition, the saloon adjusted its offerings but continued operations, perhaps with a few beverages being passed under the table with a wink and a nod. The establishment has undergone several careful restorations over the last century, ensuring that visitors today still experience the grandeur—and grit—of Arizona’s past.
Whether it’s the original hardwood floors scuffed by spurred boots or the antique fixtures that have witnessed thousands of stories, every inch of The Palace Saloon seems to whisper tales from a bygone era.
The Haunt
Whispers in the Woodwork
Of course, any saloon with this much history wouldn’t come without a few resident ghosts. Over the years, employees, patrons, and paranormal investigators have reported an array of unexplainable phenomena inside The Palace Saloon. From sudden drops in temperature to phantom footsteps echoing down empty hallways, the supernatural seems to cling to this old bar with the same stubbornness as its embossed wallpaper.
The Lady in White and Other Apparitions
One of the most well-known spirits said to reside in the building is the “Lady in White.” According to local lore, this apparition is often seen gliding along the grand staircase or lingering near the second-floor balcony. She’s described as wearing a flowing, vintage dress, and while her identity remains a mystery, some speculate she might have been a saloon girl who met an untimely end during the saloon’s early days. Her presence is often accompanied by a distinct floral scent—even when no one nearby is wearing perfume.
Another frequently mentioned entity is believed to be that of a former gambler. Several visitors have reported an unseen hand tugging at their clothing or touching their shoulders, usually near the saloon’s old card tables. The skeptical may chalk it up to imagination, but seasoned ghost hunters will tell you these are classic signs of a residual haunting—one where emotional energy has tethered itself permanently to a location.
Tools Go Missing, Glasses Fly, and Doors Slam
Beyond visual and olfactory phenomena, The Palace Saloon is famous for its poltergeist-like activity. Bartenders have recounted stories of shot glasses flying off shelves for no apparent reason, while other staff members have found that tools and supplies moved mysteriously overnight. Doors are reported to open and slam shut by themselves, and alarms are set off even when no one is in the building.
Local paranormal investigation groups frequently conduct overnight sessions at The Palace, using spirit boxes, EMF detectors, and infrared cameras. Many report that the building is particularly active between 2:00 and 4:00 AM, with spikes in energy and voices caught on tape that seem to respond to questions. It’s become an unofficial stop on many supernatural tours of Arizona, and for good reason.
A Vibe You Can’t Explain
Even skeptics admit there’s something a little ‘off’ about The Palace Saloon—an atmosphere heavy with memory, maybe, or simply the unmistakable charge that seems to hang in the air. Whether or not you believe in ghosts, it’s hard to deny the eeriness of certain and unexpected moments—like when the jukebox plays a song no one selected, or candles extinguish themselves in a windless room.
It’s a haven for history lovers and thrill seekers alike. Paranormal enthusiasts say it’s not a matter of if you’ll experience something, but when.
Conclusion: A Must-Visit for Paranormal Pilgrims
The Palace Saloon is far more than just Arizona’s oldest bar—it’s a relic of the Old West still pulsing with energy, memory, and possibly a few unresolved souls. For ghost hunters, it’s a tantalizing location packed with historically grounded spirits and unverified mysteries begging for exploration. Whether you come for the rich heritage, the incredible architecture, or the chance to brush shoulders with the beyond, The Palace Saloon delivers an unforgettable experience.
If your dream vacation involves antique bars, ghostly sightings, and Wild West legends, make sure The Palace Saloon is on your itinerary. Bring your EMF readers, a camera with night vision, and an open mind—you never know what—or who—you might encounter.
Cheers to the past… and maybe a ghost or two.