Time is almost up on 2022. How the year ended we can’t tell you. What did we find out? It wasn’t much. A lot. Perhaps somewhere in the middle. It’s hard to know. However, after a year of ups and downs and chaos punctuated with peace, it’s the time as any to do some reflection on the positive. We’re certain of it.
Here are three things that we know: We are thankful for one another. We’re thankful to you. And we’re grateful to have these 28 things.
Grand Avenue is where it’s located.
The other downtown Phoenix stretch cosplay as Mill Avenue Jr. Grand Avenue remains steady, but there are a few. the Cha Ch’s The Tea Lounge as well as the Testal are both must-trys. Pueblo Pueblo is lush and is hosts an enclosed Sarah Hurwitz’s sculpture of a mushroom. Are you looking for spa-like experiences? A facial booked at the Skin By Ruby is as competitive and well-worth it — as securing an afternoon brunch reso Bacanora. Go explore. There’s more to discover. — Becky Bartkowski
Phoenix record stores spin on
In the course of promoting her newest album “Midnights,” Taylor Swift encouraged her crowd of followers to “visit your local record shop?” on Oct. 23. I knew precisely where to go that day and went to my nearest Zia Records first thing in the early morning to put my hands on the “Midnights” album. A local business that I can be a part of — and even be sure to get signed albums that helps me feel more confident about spending money on my top artists. -KiMi Robinson KiMi Robinson
The Downtown Phoenix cocktail scene is top-of-the-line and is growing.
Downtown Phoenix can be a excellent spot to have a drink and I’m not only talking about the OGs like Bitter and Twisted as well as Little Rituals. There have been a flurry of bars were opened over the past year, serving well-balanced drinks in unique spaces such as The Palo Verde Old Fashioned at Kim Haasarud‘s Garden Bar home or The Silk Road at Khla which is where you’ll find the most stylish decor and cocktails. — Felicia Campbell
Our carb monarchs were awarded the title of carb kings
They’re the carb the kings of carbs: Chris Bianco and Don Guerra deal in dough. The two motivations behind the Phoenix’s Pizzeria Bianco and Tucson’s Barrio Bread are well-known for reasons. They’re both good in what they’re doing. Like, galaxy-brain good. Little wonder then to know that James Beard Awards honored Bianco as Outstanding Restaurateur, and Guerra as the Outstanding Baker. — Becky Bartkowski
The natural splendor of Arizona is exceptional.
I’m convinced that the longer you’ve been in Arizona and the longer you stay there, the higher the number of sunset photographs on your photo album. However, even those images aren’t able to capture the beauty in all its beauty, and the same goes for the entire Arizona’s natural beauty. I find myself still oohing and aahing out of the window of my car every now and then when driving by the stunning mountain views I can enjoy when I am driving on freeways. — Endia Fontanez
A bookstore can feel like it’s a second home
Yes online ordering is convenient however, visiting an actual bookstore is more rewarding. Books are a sense: the promise of the moment you step into. It is likely that those shelves contain an exciting new (or previously owned!) book to read or a book of nonfiction that could inform, inspire, or cause me to rage. The Changing Hands located in Phoenix as well as Tempe or the Bright Side Bookshop in Flagstaff are my favourite places. The staff at Bright Side Bookshop are friendly and enthusiastic to assist customers discover a new treasure. I challenge you to not go home without a bag of change. The experience of visiting a bookstore isn’t just about shopping, it’s about community. -Jill Cassidy – Jill Cassidy
There’s always something interesting to do
One of the things I love that I love about Phoenix is that it seems like I will never get bored of activities to take part in. As a sports enthusiast I try not to overlook the fact that there are numerous professional teams. I enjoy cheering on teams like the Cardinals, Suns, Diamondbacks and Coyotes. There’s a regular schedule of events for every kind of music lover that range from must-see shows at the Rebel Lounge and underground acts at Valley Bar to unforgettable nights at The Van Buren. — Endia Fontanez
Route 66 still kicks
Its Mother Road was shut down in 1985, yet the distinct parts that make up Americana throughout its 359 miles of Arizona continue to flourish. Route 66 is a popular destination for travelers from around the world – not just those who are heading towards The Grand Canyon – for the classic charm of its scenic tourist attractions and historical downtowns. Along with a myriad of restaurants and trading posts The Arizona’s Route 66 towns collectively boast limestone caves and the world’s best golf club, a meteorite-impact site, an observatory where Pluto was discovered , and the free-roaming population of burros. — Michael Salerno
It is possible to run through this town with ease, thanks to the many trails and paths
Whatever you’re trying to train for a 5K or marathon, or just looking to breathe in some fresh air in the Valley is full of amazing walking and running trails. I ran my first half marathon in March, and I was able to take in a variety of routes. A few of my favorite places were walking along canals along in the Encanto Palmcroft neighborhood, the vast Chaparral Park in Scottsdale and around the buttes in Papago park. — Shanti Lerner
There’s creativity and culture every the way
There’s not been a single day in Phoenix where I didn’t meet an individual who is making an impact on the city’s vibrant and vibrant culture. The artist Antoinette Cauley returned in Germany with a collection of her work. Phoenix Art Museum presented a lowrider exhibit to accompany the books. There are less blank walls because muralists are claiming them every day. The people truly want to create Phoenix beautiful , and it’s evident. — Sofia Krusmark
Hello to the boba boom
Metro Phoenix is home to several fantastic locally-owned Boba stores, like Glendale’s Aloha Tea and Coffee and Mochi Fresh in Tempe. There are a few hotly anticipated international bubble tea companies serving delicious drinks have made their way to the Valley also. Within the East Valley, there’s Xing Fu Tang which is where tapioca pearls cook in brown sugar in front of your eyes and there’s Meet Fresh My go-to is black sugar milk tea boba. It’s an absolute pleasure to have an abundance of choices. -KiMi Robinson KiMi Robinson
Nash celebrates 10 years of Nash. Nash is 10 years old.
The Nash celebrated its 10th anniversary in downtown Phoenix as the Valley’s most prestigious location for jazz. However, rather than sitting back and taking their time such as when it opened with an opening Wynton Marsalis performance and was deemed a top jazz spot by Downbeat magazine The Nash’s staff concentrated their efforts in the direction of its future by with the launch of new initiatives to promote diversity and expanding its reach across the Valley. — Ed Masley
It’s a tennis lover’s dream
It was a sport that I had didn’t think about until I saw public courts all over. It made me think; using just an old racket, and a dose of self-confidence, I could have a go! From the bottom of North Mountain, I discovered the joy of hitting the ball on the floor of The Gold Key Racket Club. It’s enjoyable, but I doubt I could have made it past the first class had it not been for the friendly atmosphere. This casual tennis culture ensures that every week I am able to have fun laughing at myself, and improve. — Felicia Campbell
Al McCoy is a Phoenix Suns iconic player
Al McCoy has been calling Phoenix Suns games for 51 years. It’s time to take that into. The Suns are playing for 54 years. He’s recalled 3 trips to NBA Finals and described the accomplishments of players ranging that range from Dick Van Arsdale to Charles Barkley to Devin Booker. He’s not lost one step. This one is in the old deep freeze. McCoy is an icon. – Bill Goodykoontz
Our farmer’s markets are everything
Farmers markets are my go-to places. They’re not just places where I shop for produce. It’s also where I be in touch with people and hear their stories. I’m always amazed at the way some vendors started their business. Marvin Williamson built an entire food service to prevent the waste of the brisket. Arepa Babe helped Angelica Urrego reconnect to her cultural roots. Stone Grindz Chocolate was founded by two friends in an apartment, and grew to gain international recognition. — Bahar Anooshahr
Arizona sunsets and sunrises the age of smartphones.
It’s not a surprise to find that Phoenix Suns’ colors are purple and orange. Sunsets and sunrises in Arizona are a riot of color, usually these two. Although they’re unlikely to transform the viewer to Ansel Adams in the same way, they are impossible to not capture the beauty of these scenes with a basic smartphone. I’ve snapped hundreds of such pictures. None of them stinks. You must love everything that can make your an artist. Bill Goodykoontz
Sunnyslope is an absolute gem
I’ve come to love the Phoenix’s Sunnyslope neighborhood. It’s a place where there’s the latest in technology and establishments that make you feel like home , even if you’ve only been there previously. Tony’s Italian Delicatessen has been operating for more than 55 years and its old-fashioned charm is magical as is the price of $4 Italian subs. I was enthralled by Cultivate Coffee also it is a place which does more for its customers than just serving lattes with chai. Similar to Sunnyslope It’s unique. -Sofia Krusmark – Sofia Krusmark
Ingredients that are difficult to locate.
I’m not able to describe the scent the taste or smell of fenugreek other than to say it’s distinct. It’s the secret ingredient in numerous Indian and Persian food items, the sour flavor that you can’t find. The problem is that fresh ingredients can be difficult to come across. In Phoenix is where we have an amazing variety of international markets, including Turmeric Indian Cash and Carry. This is where I buy paratha, channa masala, and, yes fresh Fenugreek. There’s practically no ingredient inaccessible and I feel so blessed. — Felicia Campbell
The wine tasting experience in the southern part of Arizona is an experience worth taking
It is a must to visit the Verde Valley has rightly become an enclave for those who are interested with Arizona wine. There are many options within close to each other as well. Old Town Cottonwood is walkable. However, if you’ve not yet been wine tasting in the southern part of Arizona You’re missing out on a totally different experience. Wineries such as Flying Leap (try Trio, an sassy blend of white wine), Rune and Los Milics have come up with awe-inspiring and enjoyable outdoor tasting rooms that offer views of mountains as well as rolling grasslands are a part of your experience. Don’t overlook the Pronghorn Pizza wagon at Dos Cabezas WineWorks. -Jill Cassidy – Jill Cassidy
The KWSS-FM station is growing
After years of slowly disappearing as you travelled towards the east across the Valley Indie radio station KWSS-FM amplified its signal with a 2nd channel on 99.5 FM. The new channel broadcasts signals to Mesa, Tempe and Old Town Scottsdale. People who live in Phoenix are still able to tune in to 93.9 FM, home of the popular radio station, known for playing a diverse mix of local and national artists since 2005. — Ed Masley
Women are influencing the scene of beverages and even beyond
Women who work in the beverage sector are a source of inspiration in ways that extend past the bar. It’s not just about creativity. It’s also how they help others. For instance, there’s Aspen Bingham, the bartender who is the leader in the Garden Bar. Garden Bar, who’s pushing discussions about sustainability. Amanda Gunderson founded an organization that provides cash-for-emergency for workers in the hospitality industry and assists in the advancement of careers of women, females and nonbinary persons. Her work was recognized with an award called the Tales of the Cocktail award, a.k.a. an Oscar of the industry of drinks. — Bahar Anooshahr
Zona The music festival downtown Phoenix was in need of
Twelve years after the founding of Psyko Steve Presents Stephen Chilton is launching his first major music festival in Margaret T. Hance Park in December. The Zona Music Festival will be off to an incredibly positive beginning with performances by Beach House, Portugal. The Man, Bleachers, Tegan and Sara and Japanese Breakfast alongside a truly huge dedication to the local scene including Playboy Manbaby to PAO. There is no other festival that comes even close to matching Phoenix on this size. — Ed Masley
We are able to answer our call to the wild on the Mogollon Rim Road
Overlooking Payson, Mogollon Rim Road is a swath of pines that runs along the cliffs’ edge. There are trails that run like veins on the narrow dirt trail which invites adventurous drivers with four-wheel-drive vehicles to take a trip. The benefits of these bumpy drives are basic campsites, where you’re guaranteed to have uninterrupted view of rock formations which stand like steeples in the forests that stretch across the edge. The price of this million-dollar view is not much. It is all that we need other than the desire to discover. — Felicia Campbell
Day excursion
Arizona is a goldmine for refreshing escapes. Within a matter of minutes, I can be sipping Chai in The Chai Spot at Sedona or walking among the pines at 60 degrees in Flagstaff and dancing among the saguaro the cacti in Tucson. The best part is that you’re able to return at the comforts of your home after a long day of exploration. -Sofia Krusmark Sofia Krusmark
Nanay’s is a small piece of home
One of the main reasons I’m grateful for Phoenix is the fact that I can have this authentic taste of home – the Philippines located in the Valley. My most favorite Filipino place to eat is at Nanay’s located in Chandler in which you can enjoy a cafeteria-style selection of various dishes served in one dish. My personal favorite is a dish of vegetables called pinakbet, chicken adoboand lechon kawali, all served with the most generous portion of rice. — Shanti Lerner
All sweet tooth fix
Arizona is the home of amazing dessert makers including Arizona’s Raging Sage Coffee Roaster’s desserts as well as Phoenix’s J.L. Patisserie Geordie’s, Weft +Warp Art Bar and Kitchen. And then there’s novel Ice Cream. The Zoe dough melt is a lavender ice cream-stuffed donut loaded with cereal with crunch cinnamon keeps me returning. — Bahar Anooshahr
Arizona musicians perform on the stage in the main area.
It’s always pleasant to see familiar faces from the Valley creating waves outside the Valley. Jimmy Eat World and the Maine performed at one of the most popular music festivals of the year, Where We Were Young in Las Vegas. Mega Ran performed a song named “Tractor Beam” in the soundtrack of Kevin Smith’s “Clerks III.” Also, part-time Valley residents Rob Halford was honored for musical excellence with the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame along with Judas Priest. — Ed Masley
There’s more than one method to get outdoors
Arizona offers a stunning view for all, regardless of whether you prefer the landscapes of saguaro, the Sonoran scenic landscapes in Phoenix as well as Tucson or the sprawling forest of pines in Flagstaff. There are plenty of thrilling ways to enjoy Arizona’s stunning natural beauty. riding horses in the desert hot-air balloon flights for breathtaking views of the desert and mountains and treks through the Sedona red rocks on Pink Jeeps, and tour helicopters of The Grand Canyon, to mention just a few. — Michael Salerno
Halloween holds promise of many good things to be
The people who love Halloween are drawn to costumes, terrifying films as well as costumes, candy and the creepy atmosphere. The creepy vibe is a big part of the experience in Arizona we also love Halloween since it’s the classic divide between the seasons of summer and autumn Better later than never. This means that the temperature ranges between the sun’s surface and a touch warm. Temperatures drop, moods rise. This is a great time to celebrate the holidays. – Bill Goodykoontz
