Four Fun Things: Phoenix/Scottsdale Edition

I have good news and bad news. The good news is Phoenix and Scottsdale is a prime tourist destination due to its good weather. Okay, maybe that becomes an inconvenience to everyone trying to get around town in a timely fashion. But the bad news is, this weekend it's going to about 95 degrees. Hopefully, we can push the days of 100+ days off just a little longer so we can spend more time outdoors. With this in mind, I put together a little list of my four favorite places to hang out. Some of them will let you beat the heat and one will let you enjoy a little time outdoors.

FederalPizza

Federal Pizza

5210 N. Central Ave, Phoenix 85012

I like to consider myself a bit of a pizza connoisseur, and Federal Pizza has some of the best. Their food and atmosphere is never disappoiting. Federal Pizza has a great happy hour and is a good place to meet your friends for a late lunch/early dinner. The food is fresh and the vibe is very hip (but not intimidating). You can even get your pizza to-go through their handy drive-thru! I suggest the fig, arugula, and prosciutto pizza. It's my current go-to although I'm desperately wanting to try their Italian sandwich (my guilty pleasure). Oh, and don't forget the dessert donuts!

ScottsdaleCivicCenterMall

Scottsdale Civic Center Mall

3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd, Scottsdale 85251

The Scottsdale Civic Center Mall is a wonderful outdoor space close to nearly everything in Old Town Scottsdale. I have hung out here since I was a kid because it's a free place to enjoy the sunshine, flowers, and art. There are tons of water features, sculptures, and it's the main plaza in town. In other words, home to the Scottsdale Government, the library, and historical museum (the Little Red Schoolhouse). It's close to shops, hotels, restaurants, and the Performing Arts Center. There's no shortage of entertainment because this is where many arts, culture, and food festivals take place. It's fun to visit SMOCA and take a relaxing walk around the grounds (or a beach cruiser if you feel so inclined).

PhoenixArtMuseum

Phoenix Art Museum

1625 N. Central Ave, Phoenix 85004

The Phoenix Art Museum is a great place to get lost on a warm afternoon. There are always tons of new exhibits in a variety of art styles to check out. It even features one of my all-time favorite art installations by Yayoi Kusama. They have an incredibly friendly staff and tours if you're not ready to walk aimlessly around (it's a fairly big place!) The Phoenix Art Museum is well curated and frequently changing their exhibits. Their selection isn't as expansive as other art museums, but I think that adds to its appeal. They have everything from contemporary art to Asian and European wings. Another perk of the Phoenix Art Museum is their monthly free weekend. But beware, there is often a plethora of children running wild taking part in various activities during this time. I, personally, can't wait to check out their latest fashion exhibit from Iris van Herpen.

ThelittleWoody

The Little Woody

4228 E. Indian School Rd, Phoenix 85018

If you're looking for chilled out nightlight look no further than The Little Woody...if you can find it that is. Located in a nondescript strip mall-ish area, The Little Woody features a few rooms depending on your mood. There's one with a bar and tables for entertaining and eating. The other two feature a variety of games like pool, darts, and ski ball. There are great drinks and a laid-back atmosphere. It's just a really nice place to hang out and socialize with your friends. It's a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life in the middle of the city. Who doesn't love ski ball and drink specials? You may have heard of this place before. The most hated Bachelor in history, Arie, claims he hangs out there a bit (but I've never seen him).