Working downtown and getting some hands on experience with the Shift Arizona campaign definitely helped put local events like First Friday on the grand to-do list for a weekend out. First Friday in downtown Phoenix is put together by Artlink Phoenix, and has grown to epic proportions in the past few years. I’ve seen it grow from a small art walk with pop up stands on corners to a block party causing massive street closures and a well organized street fair.
For a first timer, a visit to the First Friday can be a bit overwhelming. I enlisted my photog friend Scotty Kirby for a sneak peak of visuals to accompany some pointers from me for the newbie art walker and some that even the experienced fans can appreciate.
Recommendation #1
Get there early because parking is a nightmare or take the lightrail.
Most of the action goes down on Roosevelt Row, which is on Roosevelt between Central and 7th Street. Here, you’ll find art galleries, shops, restaurants and coffee shops that are all local and easy to get to because they are all in walking distance from one another. My favorite gallery is Modified Arts. Every time I visit there is something different and sometimes there is a band playing. Don’t mind the cluster of people – take your time and enjoy the urban feel. The galleries are always changing so visit them even if you went to First Friday last month; chances are you haven’t seen it all.
Recommendation #2 and #3
Step off Roosevelt, walk into the 5th street ‘hood, and RELAX for a bit.
So much goes on south of Roosevelt that newcomers usually don’t take note. The artsy homes on 5th street heading towards Garfield include Made, Eye Lounge, The Lost Leaf and Conspire. The latter two are great places to sit back and relax. The Lost Leaf serves up more than 100 beers, wines and beverages. It’s fun to kind of check out what they have on special for happy hour or try something new. Conspire serves up vegan confectionaries, sweets drinks and coffees. This is another great place to lounge around and visit their backroom library where you simply sign out one of their books and return it on good faith.
Recommendation #4
Not everything is centralized on Roosevelt – so explore!
Holgas is a little artist community within a tiny apartment complex south of Roosevelt located at 821 N 3rd St. Phoenix, AZ 85004. There is always a band playing in the parking lot and tiny little galleries showcasing the art of the inhabitants. First Friday has so much more that you can explore so if you have the time and you’re feeling brave, take a step away from the crowds and see what else you can find.
Recommendation #5
Eat, Drink and be Merry.
Finally, just enjoy the end of the night with food and drinks. Carly’s Bistro is a personal favorite that is on Roosevelt and 2nd Street. Bliss/ReBar is a new favorite on Garfield and 4th Street for food and drinks. For some places away from the crowds but with a great atmosphere I recommend Hanny’s which is a late night eatery with delicious pizzas and drinks located at 1st Street and Adams or Sidebar which is located at McDowell and 7th Avenue.
You can’t go wrong with a night on the town and walking from place to place. Everything I mentioned is local and if nothing else, you’re supporting the Phoenix community. Get out there and let us know what some of your favorite places to visit are.
These are some my faves. Share yours – with links – below.
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