R.J. P.

1. Heritage & Science Park
   When the monsoon kicks-in, there's something magical about being in Heritage Square. Perhaps it's the contrast of the red-bricked historical buildings set against the ominous sky, or maybe it's the smell of the rain as it settles into the grass.
2. Seamus McCaffrey's Irish Pub & Restaurant
   A bit further up Monroe is Seamus McCaffrey's, where the fresh taste of a Guiness complements the rainstorm outside.
3. Orpheum Theatre
   As the rain drops from the sky and the lightning crackles off in the distance, nothing says "big city" like the Orpheum. Its ornate 1920s facade implies something much more rooted in history than what is commonly expected from Phoenix. Yet here it is, right in our own downtown.
4. Fair Trade Kitchen
   The baristas at Fair Trade are both genuinely friendly and highly skilled. They kick their pumpkin spice lattes up a notch by adding a pump of vanilla and generous amounts of whipped cream. Boom goes the dynamite!
5. A Touch of Yogurt
   For $7 you can pick up A Touch of Yogurt's take on a Thanksgiving staple--the pumpkin frozen yogurt pie. These bad boys are extremely popular so order ahead by calling 602-495-9226.
6. Einstein Bros. Café
   If you crave something sweet to go along with your morning cup of joe, head over to Einstein Bros. and tackle one of their scrumptious pumpkin muffins. You won't be sorry.