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Downtown Staycations

Thursday, May 23rd, 2013

408552_330348373736695_913863974_nYou guys, it’s summer. It’s really, really summer.

And while we can walk around for one more weekend – a long weekend at that – and enjoy cooler temps, there’s no longer any point in pretending it isn’t going to get hot and soon.

But that’s a-ok – it means staycations and pool parties and maybe, if you can swing it, a real vacation too.

So just where to take that overnight bag for a weekend in your own city?

We’ve got the lovely Hotel Palomar rolling out  deeply discounted room rates at $102 a night which includes a round of beers for four at Blue Hound Kitchen & Cocktails (use rate code: BREW).

Or, if the family is in tow, rates start at $124 and include two children’s tickets to the Children’s Museum of Phoenix or the Arizona Science Center (Rate code: PFAM). To reserve, visit www.hotelpalomar-phoenix.com or call 602-253-6633.

If you want to make your staycation last a bit longer, The Westin Phoenix Downtown Hotel has a new Westin Weekends program that gives you a complimentary third night’s stay if you book two weekend nights. To make a reservation, call -800-937-8461 and mention “Complimentary Night,” or visit www.westin.com/weekends.

If you have your plans together already, book at The Sheraton Phoenix Downtown Hotel before May 30 for rates at 30% off starting at $119 a night and kids eat free. Book online or call 866-716-8147 and ask for rate plan CC0APKG.

Finally, if brews and music is more your cup of tea, check out the Notes ‘N Ale package at the Renaissance Phoenix Downtown. The fun includes a tasting at Phoenix Ale Brewery, two tickets to live music at Crescent Ballroom and breakfast for two in Marston’s Cafe. Rates start at $199, visit their website to book.

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Comicon Takes Over

Thursday, May 23rd, 2013

comicon-logoIt is the premier place to get your geek/nerd/comic-loving/costume-wearing fix. It’s Comicon. And it’s back this weekend (May 23-26).

If you haven’t attended Comicon – or observed it – you’ve been missing out. This is, by far, one of the most exciting weekends Downtown.

Eleven years strong, Comicon features a Zombie Walk, Steampunk Ball, an Ultimate Geek Smackdown, Charity Poker Tournament, Brain Eating Contest, Monster Bash, a Party Like  a Time Lord fete and, you know, just visit the site. There are too many cool things.

This year Comicon takes place Memorial Day weekend, so you don’t have an excuse not to go. Stop trying to make one, none of them are good enough to miss out on steampunk enthusiasts, zombies and superheros all hanging out together. Just buy a ticket and go. It’s $60 to attend the full event. If you only want to attend one day, pricing varies.

Plus that awesome badge gets you a whole host of cool deals Downtown all weekend. Click on the image or here to view the image at full size.

2013 Comicon DT Deals - Attendees

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Downtown Revenue Growth Continues

Wednesday, May 22nd, 2013

Palomar-Phx-Guestroom-full-Last week the Downtown Phoenix Partnership received the quarterly tax revenue report from the City of Phoenix Finance Division that shows receipts are up across the board. For the area bounded by Fillmore on the north, Seventh Street on the east, Third Avenue on the west and the Union Pacific railroad tracks on the south, revenues in the first quarter of 2013 for restaurants and bars were up 17.4 percent when compared with the same quarter in 2012. Additionally, spurred by the opening of the Hotel Palomar last summer, hotel and motel revenues were up 40.5 percent when compared with the first quarter of 2012. Occupancy and revenue per room rates have increased for the other existing Downtown hotels.

A recent analysis of tax receipts from 2007 to 2012 highlights the steady growth Downtown has experienced despite the recession. 2012 revenues were 64 percent higher than the totals for 2007 and Downtown businesses increased their sales from under $200 million to over $300 million. Another indicator of Downtown’s business friendly environment is the number of listings in the Downtown Business Directory. There are 35 percent more businesses and services listed in the most recent issue when compared with 2007.

For more information on locating your business in Downtown Phoenix or the continued rise in Downtown revenues please call David Noble at 602-744-6408 or visit the research portion of our website: downtownphoenix.com/business/downtown_research.

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Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough: Dancing in Downtown Phoenix

Wednesday, May 22nd, 2013

Along Washington Street between First and Second streets you will find multiple nightclubs right in the heart of Downtown Phoenix offering a variety of sounds and sights that will keep you yearning to dance till dawn! Here are just two to get you started:

Dancing in Downtown Phoenix - DJ Booth - Bar SmithBar Smith has been an iconic dance haven in Downtown Phoenix for several years now – especially with its weekend DJs and weekday specials. In fact, Bar Smith recently won the Phoenix New Times’ “Best Weekly Dance Night for Hipsters 2012!

Upon entering Bar Smith, you see a large wood bar, an intimate dance floor, and a DJ booth. A metal staircase separates the dance floor from the large wood bar and it ascends to the second floor where the party continues on the rooftop. This is my favorite part of Bar Smith. Oh, how the music fills the open sky as city lights and stars shed specs of twinkling illuminations all around the rooftop!

Friday nights at Bar Smith are home to a weekly event called Foul Play which includes local and out-of-state DJs spinning and mixing upbeat electronic and progressive beats as hypnotizing visuals are projected above the bar area. Locals flood Friday nights at Bar Smith to marvel in the sweet sounds and to eagerly seek rooftop sights of US Airways Center in the near distance. In the main room on Friday nights, hip hop and trip are the primary sounds penetrating the room. Saturday nights feature an on-going event called Solstice, which also takes place on the rooftop. Here you will find Pete Salaz and Sendbad along with other DJs playing deep house music for loyal enthusiasts.

The weekends aren’t the only time to get down and dance as Bar Smith hosts a wide array of reoccurring specials with a variety of music styles. Be sure to explore Bar Smith on Wednesdays where there is no cover before 10:30 p.m.

Another great dance haven to check out is UK Thursdays, which is now a weekly event that takes place at Monarch Theater in Downtown Phoenix. Monarch Theater features 30,000 watts of sound and state-of-the-art lighting that seems to transport its audiences to other dimensions. This weekly event has featured international headlining acts such as Netsky and Dirtyphonics.

According to ukthursdays.com, “UK Thursdays was a concept created by Jared “J.Paul” Jackson of HavocNdeeD to showcase the UK-born genres of drum and bass, garage, grime and IDM with an extra focus on the ever growing and changing styles of dubstep. This idea came to life in October of 2009 as an experimental monthly event inspired by Las Vegas’ “SMASH!” and LA’s “SMOG.” With such inspiration, you can be sure UK Thursdays in Downtown Phoenix is superb!

Downtown Phoenix has many more dance options that are not included in this post, so put your dancing shoes on and venture out to see where the night takes you. Just remember, don’t stop dancing until you get enough in Downtown Phoenix!

Bar Smith

130 E. Washington Street

Phoenix, AZ 85004

Monarch Theater

122 E. Washington Street

Phoenix, AZ 85004

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Here’s to the Weekend

Wednesday, May 15th, 2013

Los Dias De Las CrescentGiant Slip N’ Slide and pig roast + the second installation of an all local music fest + Third Friday + the start of spring Arizona Restaurant Week = just get Downtown, already!

Listen, we don’t have to tell you that the medium-hot temperatures we call the low hundreds are going to vanish and that, probably by next weekend, we are all likely going to be overheated and clinging to a pool. So, like that guy who always states the obvious in the pre-Apocalypse movie scene, we’re here to say, “This might be it, you guys!”

No, but really, this weekend is going to be great.

Friday brings us the Ren, Wine & Brew summer kickoff block party (FREE, giant Slip N’ Slide and local beer and wine are the highlights), the start of the second Los Dias De La Crescent ($10, all local music festival) and Third Friday.

Saturday includes  the start of Arizona Restaurant Week, the last classical performance of the season at Symphony Hall and day two of the all-local music fest at Crescent Ballroom.

And, if you aren’t all partied out, Sunday has Brittney Griner in her Mercury debut against the Japanese National Team and the final night of Charlie Murphy (of Chappelle’s Show Rick James True Hollywood Story fame – link slightly NSFW) at Stand Up Live.

So, in honor of that Loverboy song Working for the Weekend, let’s wrap this week up and get to the fun stuff.

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Downtown Phoenix News Update

Wednesday, May 15th, 2013

vpn pizzaWhat’s going on in Downtown, you ask?

Let’s start with the exciting news that Pomo Pizzeria is preparing to open in the former Sens space adjacent to The Turf Irish Pub near First and Pierce streets. AZCentral reports the pizzeria will open on Tuesday, May 28 adding to the burgeoning Downtown artisan pizza scene that includes Pizzeria Bianco, Cibo and the soon to open La Piazza Locale near First and Washington streets. Pomo’s opening is more good news for the northern part of Downtown which has welcomed Squash Blossom and the Phoenix Public Market Café in recent months. Breadfruit, the Jamaican themed restaurant around the corner on Pierce Street will celebrate its fifth anniversary on Thursday, May 16 with a special “five” themed party.

It was hard to ignore the masses of people gathered at CityScape and the courthouse as the Jodi Arias trial moved towards the verdict that was delivered last Wednesday. Despite the circumstances, the trial brought news media from all over the country and a throng of people Downtown. The Phoenix Business Journal published an article last week detailing this “Trial Business Boom.”

The Phoenix Business Journal reports the Herberger Theater Center is partnering with Mesa-based Ticket Force to offer patrons a wider variety of services. Theater goers will soon be able to purchase tickets through social media and take advantage of other conveniences such as selecting a lunch option when you purchase tickets for the Lunch Time Theater series.

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Make Mom’s Day Special Downtown

Thursday, May 9th, 2013

You know what mom wants for Mother’s Day? She just wants to spend some time with you. Then, depending on the age of the children involved, she wants either a two hour nap without interruptions or to spend more time with you. Seriously, we took a scientific poll and everything.

So, in no particular order, a sampling of ways to spend some time with mom. Because that’s all she wants and, really, is that so much to ask for?

DPP_FINAL_2327-smallSpend time with mom while eating:

Pancake Play Date at Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel

Make pancakes for mom with real chefs! This is just like making mom breakfast at home except – BONUS! – someone else will clean up the pancake splatter. Join the Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel this Mother’’s Day for pancake making and their breakfast buffet featuring local Hickman’s scrambled eggs, house baked selections of pastries, fresh fruit and more. Good news – this comes in at only $20 per person. Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel, for reservations contact Marty Rider at 602-333-5103, renaissancephoenixdowntown.com.

Province Mother’’s Day Brunch

Eggs Benedict action station + build-your-own waffle station + delightful outdoor patio = Mother’s Day at Province. There will also be a make your own mimosa or Bloody Mary bar.  The brunch menu will be available from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. $29 per person and $12 for children ages 5-12. 602-429-3900, provincerestaurant.com.

Brunch At District American Kitchen

Enjoy endless champagne along with traditional favorites inspired by mom’’s homemade recipes at District. And, each mom will be presented with a beautiful rose. District American Kitchen & Wine Bar from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mother’’s Day brunch prices are $32 for adults and $16 for kids 12 years old and younger. Kids 3 years old and younger eat free. Complimentary three-hour self-parking validation is available. Restaurant reservations are required. Please call 602-817-5400 or visit districtrestaurant.com.

Champagne Buffet at the Compass Arizona Grill

The champagne buffet includes, well, champagne and eggs, artisan bread, cheese and fruit, salads, seafood, and entrees including pan seared salmon, roasted game hens or pumpkin seed mole. There will be music from Devon Bridgewater and a card making station in case you forgot to pick one up (it’s meant for kids but all moms love a crayon card, right?). The Compass Arizona Grill from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. $69 for adults (includes champagne), $30 for kids 5-12. Reservations are required, please call 602-440-3166, or go online for reservations and a complete menu at compassarizona.com.

Spend time with mom at an event:

clybourneArizona Diamondbacks vs. Philadelphia Phillies

Nothing says quality time with mom like enjoying America’s pastime. Chase Field at 1:10 p.m. Tickets starting at $15. 800-745-3000, ticketmaster.com.

Arizona Theatre Company Presents: Clybourne Park

This rich and lightning-quick 2011 Pulitzer Prize-winning comedy is every bit as provocative as it is entertaining. A modern take on A Raisin In The Sun, Clybourne Park is filled with humor and social politics. Herberger Theatre Center, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets start at $33.50. 602-256-6899, arizonatheatre.org.

Mother’’s Day at Arizona Science Center

The ever-cool Science Center is offering free general admission for all moms and grandmom’s on Sunday. Arizona Science Center from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Free. 602-716-2000, azscience.org.

Spend time with mom on Saturday:

Mother’s Day Wine Tasting at Chloe’s Corner

Get a jump on Mother’s Day at Chloe’’s Corner’s wine tasting. Sample environmentally friendly wines, including Benziger Chardonnay, Torres Las Mulas Rose, El Portillo Malbec and Corralillo Red Blend. Chloe’’s Corner at 1 p.m. May 11. $10 per person, 30% off the purchase of a featured wine. RSVP preferred but not required. 602-252-7600, chloescorneraz.com.

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Make May Musical: No Matter What Your Taste in Tunes Downtown Phoenix Has Something for Everyone

Wednesday, May 8th, 2013

Crescent Ballroom (4)smallWhen music is the topic of conversation, Downtown Phoenix has something for everyone throughout the year. Styles range from eclectic DJ beats, indie rock, and live jazz to acoustic guitars, twang and country! No matter what your taste in tunes, Downtown Phoenix has a music venue for you.

The newest addition to the local music scene is Last Exit Live, a live music venue that recently opened in the historic warehouse district of Downtown Phoenix. This music venue concept was resurrected in a new location by new owners from its former spot in Tempe. The venue can hold 200 people making any concert or performance an intimate occasion. The majority of the acts perform original music with genres that include rock, alternative, indie, jazz and countless others. For more information see www.lastexitlive.com.

Crescent Ballroom is another venue that recently debuted in Downtown Phoenix. This venue can accommodate a larger crowd, however you still find a level of intimacy you would not feel at a large arena-sized venue. I had the opportunity of seeing Grimes perform at Crescent Ballroom and one thing I loved about the venue was its bleacher-style seating and its open floor. Oh, that open floor is perfect for those who want to stand up close to the stage and truly feel the energy of a performance! Shows at Crescent Ballroom include popular artists such as: Modest Mouse, Wooden Indian, and Dry River Yacht Club. This venue also features a lounge and kitchen. The lounge provides music every night of the week, while the kitchen, Cocina 10, provides a locally sourced menu curated by famed Chris Bianco of Pizzeria Bianco. I hear the burritos are amazing. Two highly recommended cocktails are The Rest Stop and The Honey Badger.

Another hidden gem and great local music spot in Downtown Phoenix is The Lost Leaf, which is located on Fifth Street and Roosevelt in the heart of Roosevelt Row. Known as a leading local art gallery, here you will also find nightly music from local DJs or even a live jazz band. The Lost Leaf is actually a house that was built in the 1920s and offers dimly lit interior spaces with an inviting ambiance. In fact, the house was recently restored keeping its original flooring and handmade, exposed brick. The Lost Leaf is a must-see for someone seeking a hidden bar that exudes character. This bar is a favorite among locals in the Downtown Phoenix neighborhoods.

If classical music is more your style, enjoy a performance by The Phoenix Symphony, Arizona’s only full-time, professional orchestra, at Symphony Hall. Located in the heart of Downtown Phoenix, Symphony Hall is a beautiful venue that offers an array of performances that include full-length classical and pop concerts featuring popular music from television and film. The Phoenix Symphony often features guest conductors, while Symphony Hall holds special events and provides youth programs that introduce children to the sounds and appreciation of music.

There are several other venues Downtown Phoenix that offer live music, concerts, and DJs, so take time to explore the many tunes and venues Downtown Phoenix has to offer.

Last Exit Live

717 S. Central Avenue

Phoenix, AZ 85004

Crescent Ballroom

308 N 2nd Avenue

Phoenix, AZ 85003

The Lost Leaf

914 N. 5th Street

Phoenix, AZ 85004

Symphony Hall

75 N. 2nd Street

Phoenix, AZ 85004

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Transform a Vacant Lot into The Space Between

Thursday, May 2nd, 2013

Logo_frameWith the brand new #WaterWrites mural in place, it’s time for the vacant lot next to the Valley Youth Theatre to come alive. No longer an empty, dusty void. Instead an active, thriving and dynamic space created by you – our Downtown community.

Welcome to The Space Between.

What is The Space Between? Well, you tell us. We’re looking to you – Downtowners – to create the space.

Want to see a playground, park or an outdoor gallery? Then let’s make it happen!

Creating The Space Between will take community members like you to submit ideas, help develop a plan and work with us, the Downtown Phoenix Partnership, to turn that vision a reality.

Together we can create a temporary site to facilitate spontaneous community interaction to make Downtown Phoenix the healthy, vibrant place we all believe it to be.

But this process starts with you. It’s up to community members like you to:
LEAD the conversation on community engagement
TRANSFORM those conversations into actions
FILL The Space Between

So let’s get started!

Submit your idea below or share it with us on social media using #SpaceBetweenPHX.

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VYT Mural Reveal Set for First Friday

Thursday, May 2nd, 2013

What’s all the colorful commotion over at Valley Youth Theatre?

Photo Courtesy of Estria Foundation

A team of local artists have been working feverishly for the past week to complete one of 12 water-themed murals sponsored by public art purveyor the Estria Foundation.

Each city selected to host a #WaterWrites mural–from Palawan, Philippines to Phoenix–were identified as communities most impacted by water issues.

Downtown Phoenix’s mural, “Water Is Life,” will incorporate an array of imagery designed to inspire and educate–on the way in which water is delivered from from Northern Arizona into Phoenix, the impacts of wasteful water policies and sustainable energy alternatives.

Somehow, some way, the team of artists will complete the mural in one week’s time and just in time for a First Friday unveiling that begins at 4 p.m. The community celebration will include DJs, public art demos, screenings of #WaterWrites videos from other host cities, arts and crafts (water jar decorating), artists Q&As and more.

Note: This event is BYOWB [Bring Your Own Water Bottle].

Come check out Downtown’s newest piece of public art during your First Friday frolicking!

If you go: #WaterWrites Mural Unveiling

When: Friday, May 3 at 4 p.m.

Where: Valley Youth Theatre 525 N. 1st Street

Tickets: FREE PARTY YO!

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