Phoenix is one of the fastest growing cities in the United States. With 299 sunny days per year how could it not be popular? So where do we start? I could probably make a book out of this but in this post I will list some of the areas and a few of their perks. Whether you are just visiting or contemplating a move there’s something for you in the valley of the sun. Here are a few of my fave areas (in no particular order I love them all). I’ve included some buyer facts and a $ rating with $ being the lowest and $$$$$ being the highest.
Want to know more? Reach out to us to schedule a brunch, coffee or happy hour and we will fill you in on this beautiful city!
No 1 Central Phoenix $$$-$$$$
I had to start here because Central Phoenix most often is what everyone thinks Phoenix IS NOT. Lush grass lots, trees, shady streets, large homesteads and a lot of history. Once part of the beginning areas of Phoenix it has experienced a revival of epic proportions. Now home to some of the most prestigious restaurants, breweries, and real estate it’s a must see. With that said it’s convenient to just about everything. In the earlier years of the 2000’s Phoenix built itself a serious infrastructure and it paid off for the city. There is still plenty of gentrification happening but you can definitely find your dream home.
Buyer Facts: Terrific proximity to all things cool, drawbacks- gentrification still happening in some areas, homes are circa 1950-1970-ish and need work, so get ready to compromise if you want a piece pf Phoenix’s heart.
Places to Note:
Lux On Central- Epic coffee and baked goods in the am, fun bar at night
Ocotillo- Try brunch its on point, great outdoor area
Richardson’s Cuisine of New Mexico- I cant say enough- great food any time and love the southwest decor and copper bar
Central Corridor Home - Courtesy Architectural Digest
No 2 Arcadia/Biltmore $$$$-$$$$$
Currently the ‘darling” of the valley with the rapid addition of amenities, central phoenix style lots and a view of camelback what’s not to love? Like Central Phoenix these are older homes with new infill builds sprinkled in. Highly sought after this superb location is a must visit.
Buyer Facts: This terrific location has every amenity you can think of, houses sell fast and compromises often made to stay within budget. A great place to “buy and renovate” you can add instant equity if you put in the work
Places to Note:
OHSO Brewery- I call this the OG of Arcadia. They brew beer on site, have a fab patio, love dogs and even have spent grain dog biscuits. All with a view of the iconic Camelback Mountain
JT’s Bar and Grill- aka “the vortex” the wings are great drinks are strong- I promise you’ll have fun. Drinks used to be served in Red Solo Cups. Get “the works” wings.
The Little Woody- opens at 4- try and find the hidden owl- seriously they have skee ball- enough said.
Camelback Flower Shop- If you like plants or are looking for a unique gift there is not a better place. The vibe in there is magic go see for yourself. Every year I tell my fam to buy my Christmas presents there.
Le Grande Orange- Pretty much an institution- they can do no wrong in my book, cute gifts and bonus Postino a wine bar is located right behind. Breakfast? Try the commuter sandwich.
Arcadia Style Home Photo via Arizona MLS #5910096
No 3 Uptown + Downtown $$$-$$$ 1/2
For the sake of not writing a book as long as war and peace (look it up) I am combining some areas. These are also considered by some a part of the ‘central corridor” 7th ave-7th st, northern ave south to the I-10
Uptown- funky fresh vibrant area with mid-century vibes. 7th St is one of our most vibrant streets - happens to be where our Real Estate/Design studio is located too! Lots of grassy lots and a number of homes by the famous architect Ralph Haver. Uptown is known for it’s hip crowd and fun eateries.
Downtown- 15 years ago someone would have said- lets hang downtown and gotten a blank stare in return. Now it’s full of residential real estate both leased and owned. An actual business district has emerged and restaurants/nightlife beyond the 9-5. Downtown is also home to our most coveted Historic Districts. Get ready to swoon over restored and revamped homes. A neighborly area and oh so popular you’l fall in love
Buyer Facts- Both of these areas you may place more emphasis on the area than the home. Both areas are charming and highly sought after. Uptown being the more affordable of the two areas.
Places to note:
Downtown-
The Clarendon Hotel - from the rooftop deck watch the sun go down and the city lights turn on its unforgettable
Hanny’s- Restaurant night cub with DJ background music, great food and an interesting basement display- don’t miss
Arcade Bar- Seriously go play Ms Pac Man and have cocktails
Durant’s- Enter through the kitchen of this 60+ year old steak house and go back in time. From red velvet wallpaper to cocktails served by some of the cities top bartenders. If you want to experience a little bit of history this is the place. everything is good and try the strawberry shortcake for dessert.
Uptown-
Luci’s at the Orchard- Eclectic gifts and great eats make this a good choice for Breakfast and Brunch
Honor Amongst Thieves- A speakeasy that is open evenings above the great Stock and Stable Restaurant
The Swizzle- It’s a pretty fun dive bar
Downtown-Photo courtesy Durant’s - a steakhouse you won’t forget
Uptown MCM Home Photo via Arizona MLS# 5904338
No 4 Ahwatukee $$-$$$ 1/2
A whole array of amenities make this a place you wont want to leave home! If you like vaulted ceilings and larger lots this area is fantastic.
Buyer Facts- With some of the best schools in the Phoenix Metro this is a popular area. I call it the most central suburb in Phoenix. Near I-10, 143, and 60 many areas are easily accessible form Ahwatukee. Fun fact most people in Ahwatukee remodel their own homes, when shopping you will find builder grade but it will be a bargain when you look at the mountain views.
Places to note-
South Mountain Park- one of the largest parks in the US, fantastic hiking, biking, and horseback trail riding
The Buzzed Goat- Local coffee bar/night time bar
Bleacher’s Sports Bar- Ahwatukee’s high class dive bar even has OTB!
South Mountain Park- photo unknown
