Work, Study, Play...Downtown Phoenix flourishes

Whether you're looking to downsize, a college student, or anything in-between, Downtown Phoenix has something for you!

For many years, Phoenix was a destination for sprawling deserts, golfers, and suburbs as far as the eye could see. What it lacked was a strong downtown area. That has certainly changed!

Phoenix has done some amazing things in the last several years. According to dtphx.org, over 106 restaurants and bars have opened since 2008. All three of Arizona's state universities, ASU, NAU, and U of A, have downtown campuses. The Valley Metro Light Rail takes you through downtown, as well as to Tempe and Mesa, giving you access to other areas of art, shopping, dining, and education without the added stress of parking!

One of the most significant changes to downtown Phoenix has been the restaurants, and foodies are in! Experience global street food at the The Dressing Room, trendy cocktails at Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour, great local coffee shops such as Cartel Coffee Lab, and sushi at the James Beard award winning Nobuo at Teeter House. In fact, 22 of our local chefs were James Beard Nominees in 2020!

Want to see something live? The Crescent Ballroom offers a wide variety of musical acts in an intimate, historical downtown building. Larger venues like Arizona Federal Theater host larger acts and comedians. The Orpheum and the Herberger host everything from local dance recitals to touring Broadway shows.

Add the museums, small art galleries, and large sports venues and you've got enough variety to really spice up your life.