Whether it’s happy hour, golden hour, or after hours, there’s something about sipping from an elevated perspective that makes the cocktails even sweeter — not to mention the benefits of the open-air environment. To that end, we’ve rounded up the best rooftop bars in Phoenix, most of which are new or recent additions to the city’s selection of watering holes. Located just north of the Melrose District, Rise Uptown’s 1,100 square-foot penthouse cocktail lounge serves up retro-modern cocktails, throwback bar bites and 270-degree city views from the 2,000 square-foot terrace. Choose from a small but expert selection of spritzers and highballs — brought to you by one of Phoenix’s great cocktail artisans, Ross Simon — at this hip, uptown Phoenix rooftop. Hidden inside the historic Phoenix landmark that appeared in the opening scenes of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic movie “Psycho,” is Floor 13 Rooftop Bar. Experience the heart of downtown from this ultra-chic spot known for its spacious sundeck area with breathtaking views from within the Phoenix skyline. Recline in plush chaise lounges by day and settle into one of the modern terrace setups and comfortable furnishings by night. One of the newest rooftop experiences in downtown Phoenix can be found seven floors above the Roosevelt Row Arts District. An open-air space from the Rooftop invites you to soak in the urban ambience of downtown — especially at sunset —with nearly 360-degree views, inventive cocktails and light bites. Be sure to check out the hotel’s wide variety of art and the vents calendar for special events, live DJs and more.
Children’s Museum of Phoenix: Brandon Sullivan
Phoenicians love their ice cream, whether it’s a classic one-scoop cone or an epic sundae experience, complete with hot fudge, bananas, nuts, fruit, whipped cream and sprinkles. No matter where you’re, a local-approved sweet treat is just around the corner, thanks to these ice cream shops and parlours scooping up some of the best-frozen desserts in town. Named among the country’s top 10 ice cream shops by Bon Appetit, Sweet Republic elevates ice cream to a culinary art — precisely how co-owner Jan Wichayanuparp landed a fellowship sponsored by the James Beard Foundation. Located in the Roosevelt Row Arts District, Melt is the result of Jobot Coffee and Superstition Farms’ Udder Delights joining forces to craft some of the best ice creams in town. Open from noon to midnight — prime cool treat time in Phoenix — Melt offers artisan ice cream flavours ranging from chocolate and vanilla bean to fresas con crema and cookie monster. Deep in the heart of the Grand Avenue Arts District, Novel Ice Cream brings a novel twist to the delicious yet run-of-the-mill serving of ice cream. Rather than having it in a cone, why not serve it in a doughnut?
OdySea Aquarium – OdySea Aquarium
Keeping the kids happy and entertained is the key to a successful vacation. But parents won’t suffer dull moments following this fun-centric family plan. The four floors of interactive exhibits at the Arizona Science Center are engaging for all ages. Once you’ve walked through a giant stomach and engineered your aeroplane, you can kick back for a planetarium show or big-screen IMAX Theater adventure. Little ones up to age ten can crawl, build and pedal their way through exhibits at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix, designed to stimulate the senses and launch the imagination. Slather on the sunscreen and make a splash at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor or Golfland Sunsplash. If the weather’s too cool for slides and lazy rivers, submerge yourself in an ocean world at SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium and OdySea Aquarium.
Edited by: Matthew Thomas
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