Rebirth of Phoenix

December 15, 2015

air bnb

air bnb

air bnb

air bnb

air bnb

air bnb

We visited downtown Phoenix over the weekend, staying in the Garfield Historic District.  The neighborhood is undergoing a major revitalization with very impressive results.  It had been few years since I was in that part of town which now is near university campuses for medicine and law.  U of A and ASU now have large  downtown  campuses and hospitals.  The demand for real estate has taken off fast.  Very cool local businesses have sprouted up to serve the community.  We enjoyed eating at two of them, Jobot Coffee and Dining and Mother Bunch Brewery.  They both have distinctive atmosphere, excellent service, and fantastic food.  There are very few chain stores in the district.  Most businesses are local and unique.  The Roosevelt Growhouse  is a wonderful non profit with a mission to promote healthy food and handmade art.  Participants are welcome to work on and pick from the communal garden, and some people rent small individual garden spaces for $10 a month. The folks working in the garden together on Sunday were clearly enjoying each other and the beautiful sunny day.

Mother Bunch Brewery

Mother Bunch Brewery

Mother Bunch Brewery

Mother Bunch Brewery

There are murals everywhere.  The back alleys and walls, utility boxes and entire buildings are decorated with brightly painted art.  Naturally some are better than others, but the total effect is really stunning.  The artsy feeling flows all through the area.  Our home away from home was the best part. We rented a shipping container Air bnb apartment that came with bikes for us to ride around the area.  We felt right at home.  Our local hosts gave us advice and directions and off we went exploring.  I look forward to returning to do some more exploration and watch the Phoenix as it rises up from the ashes of the real estate depression.  It appears to be a very lively rebirth.

Roosevelt Growhouse

Roosevelt Growhouse

mural art

mural art

mural art

The Phoenix