Phoenix

Arizona’s largest and most cosmopolitan city is framed by rugged terrain, including the red rocks of Papago Park and the signature spine of Camelback Mountain. Restaurants and bars fill adaptively reused buildings in midtown and Arcadia; Mexican food and murals spice up 16^th Street; and vintage shopping and LGBTQ+ nightlife flourish in the Melrose District. From speakeasies and hipster coffee bars to hyper-local retail and Sunday Funday brunch, Arizona's capital city has something to offer. 

The Newton PHX is an adaptive reuse project where visitors can read, dine, gather and shop. Uptown Plaza, built in 1955, blends mid-century modern architecture with local retailers and restaurants. Relax with a craft beer at Huss Brewing Co. before heading on to your next stop. The Colony, which offers shopping and dining, provides a wholly local experience. Swing into Phoenix General for one-of-a-kind Phoenix gear, candles and decor. 

Pedal through historic neighborhoods, along the canal or down Roosevelt Row to see art galleries, murals and boutiques. Be sure to stop by historic Heritage Square to see its 19th-century Rosson House and eat at James Beard Award-winning chef Chris Bianco’s Pizzeria Bianco. 

For a liquid refreshment, head to the downtown outpost of Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co., with its national reputation for Arizona-centric beer. Or swing by Little Rituals for the Big City Nights cocktail (spoiler alert: It comes topped with a replica of the bar’s Phoenix-inspired mural).