What’s New in Phoenix: Spice Up Your Meeting Agenda with These Downtime Destinations 

The Pemberton 

1121 N. 2nd St., Phoenix, AZ 85004

Distance from Convention Center: 0.9 miles

Part cocktail bar, part food hall, part arts and music venue, the newly reopened Pemberton offers visitors a little taste of everything. Sip cocktails by the palm-lined pool, enjoy live music, or grab a bite of elevated, globally inspired street food. It’s also home to dynamic art installations and seasonal pop-ups, sharing a flavor of the local arts scene with patrons. Plus, their Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday night specials make it one of the most popular happy hour bars near the Convention Center, offering $10 drinks and bites that are hard to beat.

Carry On 

2 N. Central Ave. #101, Phoenix, AZ 85004

Distance from Convention Center: 0.4 miles

Carry On is Phoenix’s latest concept bar where visitors are immersed in a 90-minute journey back to the golden age of air travel, set in a retro 1970s jumbo jet cabin. Enjoy a welcome cocktail and signature in-flight snacks while sipping vintage-inspired drinks themed around rotating global destinations. Make sure to reserve your seat at this happy hour bar ahead of time, and for an elevated experience with food service, consider upgrading to the exclusive Captain’s Club. 

Alden at Phoenix Art Museum 

1625 N. Central Ave., Central Ave. and McDowell Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85004

Distance from Convention Center: 1.5 miles

Alden is the Phoenix Art Museum’s  stylish new culinary spot, named in honor of Alden B. Dow, F.A.I.A., architect of the original museum building. Located adjacent to the Dorrance Sculpture Garden, this mid-century modern space offers seasonal, artful fare from Conceptually Social. With grab-and-go breakfast and coffee in the morning, plus lunch and dinner five days a week, Alden celebrates design, flavor, and legacy in every bite.

Cleaverman

Arizona Center, 455 N 3rd St. Phoenix, AZ 85004

Distance from Convention Center: 0.2 miles

Cleaverman is bringing bold flavor and classic vibes to downtown Phoenix later this year. This reimagined steakhouse at the Arizona Center will serve up perfectly cooked steaks, stiff cocktails, and timeless ambiance in a vibrant 10,000-square-foot space — ideal for a memorable client dinner. It’s a fresh nod to old-school dining that’s refined, nostalgic, and ready to impress locals and visitors alike.

Uppercut

Arizona Center, 455 N 3rd St. Phoenix, AZ 85004

Distance from Convention Center: 0.2 miles

Also located at the Arizona Center and set to open later this year, Uppercut is an intimate, 12-seat dining experience built for true steak aficionados. With a 12-course omakase-style tasting menu, this exclusive spot offers a guided journey through the world of beef, from corn-fed to grass-fed and everything in between. Expect a high-end, reservation-only experience that’s as educational as it is indulgent.

Dorrance Planetarium Reopening

600 E. Washington St. Phoenix, AZ 85004

Distance from Convention Center: 0.5 miles

The Dorrance Planetarium at the Arizona Science Center  reopens on October 18, 2025, as one of North America’s most advanced digital domes. Featuring a cutting edge CX System, 100× brighter visuals, interactive storytelling, and seating for 194, it transforms stargazing into an immersive STEAM adventure that’s perfect for curious minds of all ages.