Spring Weekend in Phoenix
Valley of the Sun
The days are warm and the nights are cool as Spring comes to Phoenix. Flowers bloom and citrus fruit is prevalent on the trees. Known as the Valley of the Sun, this city in the Sonoran Desert is surrounded by mountains and parks.
Everyone seems to talk of the high-end shopping, beautiful hotels and lush spa resorts, renowned museums, and an impressive restaurant scene. After spending a weekend there, we pursued less touristy activities and enjoyed so much more that local Phoenicians enjoy.
Time to Get Outdoors
We awoke each morning enjoying coffee on the patio, soaking up the sun and warmer temps. Our neighbors thought it chilly, but compared to the snow at home, it was fantastic. We, like the locals, enjoyed outdoor activities as much as possible, although for different reasons. Temperatures start to spike come May and drive people indoors, much like we do in the winter, so many people are hiking, biking and dining outdoors while they can.
The outdoor dining scene is fantastic with live music, fireplaces and heaters for those chilly nights (and it does get chilly in the desert when the sun goes down!) The breadth of choices is fantastic as well as the cuisines. Our favorites were Windsor (favorite was Iconic Cocktail Co Prickly Pear Margarita) and Positano (with their amazing bruschetta). Central Ave was lined with choices for breakfast, drinks, or dinner.
Fun Along Roosevelt Row
Roosevelt Row had even more delicious choices and we couldn't possibly get through them all in just a weekend. But it was easy to spend a day stopping for coffee or drinks, admiring the murals, and shopping along RoRo. Our favorite spots were Bunky Boutique, Phoenix General and Made, located in a unique craftsman bungalow.
Great Vintage Scene
The vintage scene is a little further north in the heart of the Melrose District along 7th Street, and we have never encountered so many well-curated vintage clothing stores. Time Bomb Vintage Clothing and Retro Ranch were a treasure trove of great finds throughout the eras. Twigs and Twine and Modern on Melrose had fantastic furniture and art and we were only too sorry to not be in town when Sweet Salvage was open on the one weekend a month. Other favorite boutiques in the area were the Frances a sweet little boutique featuring many local Arizona makers as well as Practical Art, featuring local artists.
A Garden in the Desert
We loved the unexpectedness of meandering through the Japanese Friendship Garden and the Desert Botanical Garden in the middle of the city. These oasis were small but memorable and a lovely change of pace in a busy city. There are plenty of hikes within the city as well as a short drive away. It's so easy to get out and enjoy the flora, fauna, and incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
This city in the desert was unexpectedly delightful with its foodie scene and abundance of vintage stores, well-thought out parks, and easily accessible hiking trails. Phoenix makes for a wonderful destination for far more than its warmer spring weather!
Trip resources:
