Local Color

July 10, 2012 — hotel, markets, Tucson

On Saturday we checked into the Windmill Inn at St. Philip’s Plaza in Tucson for a one night staycation.  I have recently made an arrangement to offer exotic aquatic packages, mermaid makeovers, and  Floatli training to the guests of the hotel.  We will be able to offer guests a very good price to stay at this great location.  Since it is impossible to know how well a hotel operates without checking in, we did.  I am more than pleased with every aspect of the property.  They do allow dogs, & ours loves hotels.  She was impressed right from the start when she received a welcome bag of dog treats at check in.

The staff at the hotel is well trained and helpful at every turn .  They have a few services we did not try, such as room service delivery of breakfast and a paper at the requested hour.  There was also an in room dining menu from a local provider that we did not use, since we decided to try a local hot spot for dinner.  Union is the latest cool bar with urban post industrial decor, hip cocktails, and some pretty good food.  It is popular with all ages, and gets crowded in the evening.  We went at about 4:30 to avoid the rush.  The decor and atmosphere was pleasing, food and drinks good, but the service at the table, disappointing. We decided we might return, but will sit at the bar to try for better service next time.

hotel hound does a site inspection

sunflowers bloom in St Philip’s Plaza

trendy cool pub

beer and cocktail

On Sunday morning at St Philips’s Plaza the farmers’ market sets up early.  We are happy to have many farmers as well as  artisan cheese, bread, salsa, jelly, and butter makers attending the market as vendors each week.  There are prepared treats from food trucks like Planet of the Crepes, and organic produce of all kinds available for shoppers.  Live music usually serenades the customers, many of who bring dogs to the plaza with them. Everything from prickly pear syrup, to squash blossoms, to herb plants is on sale.  For me, this is as close as I get in regular daily life to a European street market.  For a foodie in Tucson this market is the best place to discover the tastiest of any season. This week we are savoring some local melons, cucumbers, tomatoes and greens.

local farmers

Fresh eggplant

herb plants for sale

purple asparagus and beans

The reason I am so crazy about the location is not just the farmer’s market.  The river walk is right outside the door, and several excellent restaurants surround the property.  Right across the street is Trader Joe’s in case you need to pick up some specialty groceries, wine or beer.  Body Works Studio offers classes and private lessons in Fletcher Pilates method. I had a great time having my make up air brushed on for our video shoot right across the street at Heat, a new concept for looking good. The high quality, locally owned businesses, the convenience of walking to experience them, and the recreation available by walking, running or riding the river walk make St. Philip’s Plaza Tucson’s best location for discovering local art and culture. Why travel if not to discover?