Founding Fathers Collective

Imagine a place where the historical spirit of America meets the modern urban rhythm. This is exactly the atmosphere created by the Founding Fathers Collective—a unique multi-functional space in the heart of Prescott, Arizona, USA. It is not just an eatery, but a true center of gravity for the local community and curious tourists alike.

Inside this stylish complex, several concepts coexist harmoniously: the cozy Merchant Coffee, the state's largest self-service taproom City Tavern, the classic John Hancock barbershop, and even the modern Founders Gym. The interior, inspired by the era of the American nation's founding, adds to the sense of belonging to something important and meaningful.

Visitors appreciate this spot for the chance to change their surroundings throughout the day: you can start your morning with an energizing espresso, hold a business meeting, and in the evening, relax in a leather chair with a glass of whiskey or a craft ale. The Founding Fathers Collective is rightfully considered a hidden gem of the state, offering guests not just a service, but a full cultural experience.

For more details or to book services at the barbershop, you can use the establishment's official contact information.

In this space, everyone will find something to their liking, whether it's seeking inspiration over a cup of coffee or staying active. Start your experience at Merchant Coffee, which brews excellent drinks perfect for a slow morning or a productive work session. For those looking for something stronger, City Tavern is a unique self-service taproom featuring an impressive selection of beers. It’s a great opportunity to sample rare varieties at your own pace.

For those who appreciate the traditions of classic men's grooming, the doors of the John Hancock barbershop are open. Here, you can not only get a fresh haircut but also enjoy the old-school atmosphere by ordering a whiskey or a cigar and settling into a comfortable chair. If you prefer to stay in shape even while traveling, stop by Founders Gym—a modern facility focused on functional training and building community spirit.

In the evening, the venue transforms: it often hosts social events, live music, and themed quests or bar crawls. This is the perfect time to chat with locals and feel the true rhythm of life in Prescott. The creators also plan to open a wine bar and new event spaces, so every visit might bring new discoveries.

This popular spot is located in the heart of the historic district at 218 N Granite St, Prescott, AZ 86301. Finding it is easy, as it is situated right next to the famous Courthouse Plaza and the legendary bars of Whiskey Row. If you are already walking around the city center, the stroll to the collective will take just a few minutes.

For those arriving from further away or other cities, the main landmark is Prescott Regional Airport (PRC). A drive from the airport to the venue takes about 15–20 minutes (approximately 16 kilometers). Since the public transport system in the city is relatively modest, tourists are often advised to use taxis or popular services like Uber and Lyft.

If you plan to arrive by your own or a rented car, keep in mind that downtown parking can be limited, especially in the evenings and on weekends. Nevertheless, its proximity to major pedestrian zones makes the Founding Fathers Collective an ideal spot to wrap up a busy day of sightseeing in the historic quarter.

The story of this ambitious project began on November 24, 2014. That was when Grant Quezada, along with his family, returned to his roots and opened the John Hancock Barbershop. Their goal was to revive the spirit of the classic men's barbershop, where a quality haircut is paired with the atmosphere of an elite club and good old-fashioned conversation. This barbershop became the foundation upon which an entire community later grew.

A major milestone in its development was October 5, 2020, when the space expanded significantly, transforming into a full-fledged collective. New venues were added, each carrying its own meaning: for example, City Tavern became a symbolic embodiment of the 18th-century taverns where American patriots discussed the future of the nation. Even Merchant Coffee was envisioned as a modern take on the marketplaces where dialogues were held and connections were made.

The name and concept itself are a tribute to the Founding Fathers of the USA. The creators sought to bring the values of freedom, unity, and entrepreneurship into a modern context. The interiors and overall aesthetic of the establishment are steeped in patriotism and respect for the past, which quickly turned it from a simple commercial venture into a "hidden gem" and a vital cultural hub for the city.

In a short period, the venue has managed to gather thousands of glowing reviews, becoming a living example of how historical heritage can successfully integrate into modern urban life. Today, it is seen not just as a business, but as the heart of the local community, bringing together people of different generations.

The amount of time you should spend here largely depends on your goals. If you are just stopping by for a cup of coffee at Merchant Coffee or to try a craft beer at City Tavern, 1 hour will be sufficient. This place is perfect for a quick break while exploring the city.

However, to fully soak in the "community" atmosphere, it is recommended to set aside 2–3 hours. This will allow you to not only enjoy the drinks but perhaps visit the barbershop, check out the fitness gym, or catch one of the regular evening events with live music. Many guests prefer to spend half a day here, combining relaxation with socializing with friends.

The establishment welcomes guests daily from early morning until late at night, making it a convenient stop on any travel itinerary. The operating schedule varies depending on the day of the week, allowing you to enjoy the atmosphere a bit longer on weekends.

Opening Hours:

• Monday — Thursday: 07:00 – 22:00
• Friday — Saturday: 07:00 – 00:00
• Sunday: 07:00 – 22:00

A stroll around the surroundings of this unique space will allow you to dive even deeper into the atmosphere of Old Arizona. Thanks to its central location, key historical monuments, cozy restaurants, and iconic city landmarks are just steps away.

Below are the most interesting sites you can visit before or after your stop at the Collective: