North Central Corridor Lifestyle

North Central Phoenix Guide: All the Best Places to Visit

September 13, 2021 by Steve Caniglia

Tram and mid-rise building in North Central Phoenix Arizona — Phoenix Metro Light Rail Train with Midtown Phoenix buildings in the background.

Live, Work & Play in the North Central Corridor

North Central Phoenix is a beautiful neighborhood known for its historic Arizona charm. With sprawling ranch houses and excellently rated public schools, this family-friendly neighborhood is a great place to settle down and enjoy the energy of Phoenix from the safety of beautiful tree-lined streets. Of course, we don’t just have great schools. The North Central Corridor is also known for some incredible shopping and restaurant destinations along the corridor itself (plus a few hidden gems).

We’d like to give a friendly spotlight to some of the best places to go, things to do, and sights to see in North Central Phoenix. Whether you’re moving here for the first time or experiencing a Renaissance exploration of your own hometown, check out some of our favorite locations in the North Central Corridor.

Best Places to Go for Brunch

Want to stop for brunch between errands or on a leisurely weekend? We know some great brunch spots for the best late breakfast you’ve ever had. Check out the retro backyard patio at the Windsor or a warm and deliciously light Italian lunch at the Postino Central or the LGO Pizzeria.

Best Happy Hour Stops

Looking for a place to let your hair down after hours? North Central Phoenix has some great little spots whether you’re looking for a party or a relaxing drink with a few close friends. Bitter & Twisted has an extensive mix of craft cocktails while The Vig Fillmore has some unbeatable outdoor seating and regular live music. Want dinner and a drink? Head over to Federal Pizza where we always grab a seat by the wood fires and snag a slice of pie with our happy hour.

Best Outdoor Patios and Locally Owned Coffee Shops

When you want a deliciously rich latte or need to meet someone for coffee, head over to the North Central Corridor for one of our craft coffee houses that aren’t just another Starbucks. Luci’s at the Orchard is a breathtaking patio marketplace and espresso cafe while Luci’s Marketplace (not to be confused) is a cozy cafe just down the road. Lux Central has a cool contemporary vibe with an incredible bakery.

Our Local Farmers Market

Uptown Farmer’s Market

Our lively Wednesday and Saturday farmer’s market with both indoor and outdoor facilities. This permanent fixture is one of our proudest North Central Phoenix marketplaces where we trade fresh foods and homemade goods, listen to live music, and try foods we’ve never seen before every week.

Best Local Parks

Granada Park
Brentwood Park
Arizona Canal Central
Margaret T Hance Park
Japanese Friendship Garden

Arizona has a reputation for being dry but those who live here know just how vibrant and beautiful nature can be. That’s why parks are such an important part of the Phoenix experience. Feast your eyes on the natural beauty and enjoyable planning of each of our incredible local parks. From the curated paths of the Japanese Friendship Garden to the miniature lakeside of Granada park, embrace outdoor living in the North Central Corridor.

Best Dog Parks

Hance Park Dog Park
Thelda Williams Paw-Pup Park
Steele Indian School Dog Park

Have a beloved family pet who needs plenty of exercise and outside time? North Central Phoenix has a great selection of dog parks that are both fun and welcoming for your pooch. The Thelda Williams Paw-Pup park is our favorite with bright, decorative fixtures and built-in doggy water fountains for those extra hot play days.

Best Dining Restaurants

Ready to head out for a night on the town? We’ve got a little bit of everything, whether you’re treating yourself to a delicious dinner, planning to wow a date, or bringing the whole family for a shared diner experience. Here are our favorite picks for truly delicious dining in sometimes surprising packages. Try North Italia for an exquisite modern take on Italian classics or Centrico for that delicious late-night diner feel. The Blue Fin is an incredible teriyaki seafood find and one of Phoenix’s best-kept secrets while the Joyride Taco House is the ideal family dinner experience — right down to the candy-covered churros. Want an unforgettable dining experience? Try the Clever Koi for inspired Asian Fusion and breathtaking venue design.

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The Caniglia Group is a seasoned team of luxury real estate professionals that live, work, play and specialize in North Central Phoenix or the North Central Corridor (as it is also affectionately called). If you’re interested in exploring more of the North Central Phoenix Corridor and would like to see houses available in this area, feel free to contact us today at 602-903-7220.

Add These 4 Kid-Friendly Phoenix Events to Your Spring Calendar

April 10, 2018 by Steve Caniglia

As Phoenix lifestyle experts who just so happen to be busy parents, we’re always on the lookout for fresh ways to entertain the family. After a bit of internet recon, we came up with a new list of kid-friendly happenings we can’t wait to experience. Will we see you there?

Live at Lunch Series
Where: CityScape Phoenix
When: April 2-27, 2018

April is National Jazz Appreciation Month and CityScape Phoenix is celebrating with a free weekday concert series. Stop by on your break or – better yet – play hooky with the family and checkout the lineup of local jazz and blues performers.

Saturday Family Yoga
Where: The Farm at South Mountain
When: April 7, 2018

Get out and get active with the whole crew in one of Phoenix’s most beautiful spots. The only requirement besides a yoga mat and water? Good vibes…and a willingness to surrender to the fact that your kid can hold a downward dog longer than you can.

The Sandlot Presented by Street Food Cinema *Our top pick!
Where: Margaret T. Hance Park
When: April 21, 2018

Seriously, is there anything better than introducing your kids to the classics? As if watching The Sandlot with your kiddos wasn’t enough, expect to find picnic-ready food trucks, live music from local and emerging artists, interactive games and much more.

Spring Butterfly Exhibit
Where: Desert Botanical Garden
When: Now thru May 13, 2018

If you’re looking to score some serious brownie points with your kids, add this event to your calendar! Get an up-close look at hundreds of North American butterflies – including ladies, zebra longwings and giant swallowtails. Your kids will never forget it.

Featured Home: 501 E. Stella Lane, Phoenix, AZ 85012

February 22, 2018 by Steve Caniglia

We are head over heels for 501 E. Stella Lane in Phoenix’s North Central Corridor! This charming, two-story is a Tudor-style home with so many interesting architectural details. It’s the perfect house for an owner with real vision. Full of unique character, the home is located on a quiet cul-de-sac and features vaulted ceilings, a pool and corner lot. It’s also close to the North Central Corridor’s best schools, restaurants and entertainment hotspots.

For more information on 501 E. Stella Lane, call 602-749-2338 or fill out the form below.

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3 Spook-Tacular Phoenix Halloween Events For Families

October 19, 2017 by Steve Caniglia

Have you made your Halloween plans yet? It’s not too late! From puppet performances to cultural celebrations, there are plenty of fun and festive frights in store for Phoenix families this season.

Old MacDonald’s Pumpkin Patch
Dates: Oct. 4-29, 2017
Location: Great Arizona Puppet Theater, 302 W. Latham St.

Your kids’ favorite farmer and his animal friends are on the hunt for the perfect Halloween costumes in this new show from the Great Arizona Puppet Theater. The story is told with hand and rod puppets, and there are plenty of singalong opportunities. It’s perfect for kids ages 2 to 8.

Dia de Los Muertos PHX
Date: Oct. 29, 2017
Location: Steele Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Rd.

Presented by Phoenix’s Cultural Coalition, this free event draws spectators of all ages with its interactive and participatory song and dance performances. Don’t miss the modern and creative adaptations of ancient traditions like La Mascarada, La Visit, The Flight of Quetzalcoatl and Las Coronas.

Howl-O-Ween
Dates: Oct. 27-28, 2017
Location: Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Pkwy.

This spooky event is a treat for all kids, but you’ll want to double-check the activities ahead of time to make sure they’re a fit for your children’s ages. There’s a video arcade adventure, meet-n-greets with characters from Star Wars and Ghostbusters, a Mad Science laboratory and so much more.

5 Ways To Keep Your Kids Cool (And Busy) This Summer

May 23, 2017 by Steve Caniglia

Photo Courtesy of Desert Botanical Garden

School is over or winding down for many families in Phoenix. Wondering how to keep them engaged and entertained during the summer months? We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite events, ideas and activities. Add them to your calendar:

Uptown Farmer’s Market
The Uptown Farmer’s Market moves all of its 100+ vendors indoors during the months of June – September. That means you can still get your local veggie fix (and keep the kiddos plenty busy) every Wednesday and Saturday morning, even when temps are sky-high. This market brings in some of the best chefs and vendors from all across the Valley.

Starlight Movies Series at Crown on 7th
We know what you’re thinking, “Aren’t there, like, hundreds of these outdoor movie events around Phoenix?” Yes, there are quite a few in the area, but how many of them allow you to throw back a cold one while your kids are entertained for 2 hours straight? Crown on 7th does! They’ve got free movies showing on the third Saturday of May, June and July.

Flashlight Tours at Desert Botanical Garden
On Thursdays and Saturdays from May 27-Sept. 27, the Desert Botanical Garden hosts nighttime tours of its shimmering desert grounds. Kids love using the flashlights to spot night-blooming plants and nocturnal animals on this self-guided walk. The DBG also adds on various special activities and adventures throughout the summer.

Children’s Museum of Phoenix
Designed for infants up to kids 10 years of age, the Children’s Museum in downtown Phoenix is 48,000 square feet of imagination, inspiration and creativity. Here, you’ll find 300 different play experiences spread throughout three floors in the historic Monroe School Building. There’s also a wide range of classes – music, yoga, math and art included!

Phoenix Zoo
If you’re a Phoenix Zoo member, you get early entrance year-round, which comes in extra handy during the summertime. But the zoo also hosts plenty of seasonal kid-friendly events that are open to the public: Kid’s Street Fest (June 10), 4th of Zooly (July 4) and Winter in July (July 10), where the zoo transforms into a snowy (cool!) wonderland.

Courtyard Concert Series at Crown on 7th

March 27, 2017 by Steve Caniglia

There really is no shortage of things to do in the North Central Corridor and now we’ve got one more thing to add to your list! Crown on 7th is launching its free monthly Courtyard Concert Series this Wednesday, March 29 with a live performance from local singer/songwriter Taylor Upsahl.

The family-friendly events run from 6 to 9 p.m. and include extended food and drink specials from The Phoenix Ale Brewery Central Kitchen. Plus, many of The Crown’s other tenants are offering deals and discounts to concert-goers. The Root Salon is giving 20% off on future services booked the night of the show, while Village Eye Works is extending $50 off a complete pair of eyeglasses or sunglasses.

Crown on 7th’s Courtyard Concert Series takes place on the last Wednesday of every month and the current line-up includes:

Wednesday, March 29: Taylor Upsahl
Wednesday, April 26: Vinyl Station
Wednesday, May 31: Korbe Canida
Wednesday, June 28: Michael Land
Wednesday, July 26: Brea & The Boleros

Bring the whole crew and a picnic blanket, and enjoy some local tunes and eats under the stars. (No outside food or drink permitted.)

Visit the Crown on 7th events calendar for full details on the Wednesday, March 29 event with Taylor Upsahl.

North Central Phoenix Mom & Parenting Groups

February 23, 2017 by Steve Caniglia

The North Central Corridor is one of Phoenix’s most family-friendly districts. Whether you just moved to the area or are looking to make new connections, you’ll want to check out some of the mom and parenting groups in the ‘hood.

Stroller Moms Central Phoenix: A great group for women who want to get out and meet other moms in Central Phoenix. The crew connects for regular Monday stroller walks, play dates, moms-only activities, lunch and coffee outings, hikes…you name it! It’s perfect for casual, let’s-get-out-of-the-house meet-ups.

North Central Parenting Group (NCPG): This is more of an “official” group for parents. Established in 1985, NCPG’s bi-weekly classes and regular social events provide a supportive environment for parents of infants and young kids to share ideas and parenting challenges, making lifelong friendships along the way.

North Phoenix Moms Central Phoenix Neighborhood Group: A private Facebook group, this is the place to connect, ask questions, discuss local happenings and find fun events in the area. “Neighborhood Coordinators” plan regular (FREE!) play dates and mom’s night out events at some of the neighborhood’s best spots.

5 Family-Friendly Activities in Phoenix’s North Central Corridor

January 31, 2017 by Steve Caniglia

Looking for something to do with the whole crew in North Central? Here are just a few of our favorite family-friendly spots:

Uptown Farmer’s Market: Taking place on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, the farmer’s market is a local favorite, especially with families who love the seasonal fairs, live chef demonstrations, face-painting stations and more. (And of course the farm-fresh local goods; some of the top vendors in the Valley!)

Mary Coyle Ol’ Fashion Ice Cream: Pineapple sherbet, maple-walnut ice cream and thick marshmallow milkshakes – just some of the delicious treats you’ll find at this old-timey Phoenix landmark. It’s a great place to take the kiddos…or the parents, let’s be honest…for a tasty and indulgent bite.

Bridle Path on Central Ave.: By far one of the best places to go when you need to get the kids out of the house from some fresh air! The city trail weaves through many of the area’s most-coveted neighborhoods and provides a shaded path for biking, walking or skating.

Granada Park: You could spend a whole day at this park, fishing at the lake, running wild on the playground or serving up a round of tennis on the open court. It’s definitely kid- and dog-friendly, but the park also occasionally hosts public group exercise classes for adults including live P90X sessions.

Luci’s at The Orchard: What’s not to love about a gourmet market and café inside a historic Phoenix ranch home? Stop by for salads, sandwiches and all-day breakfast, plus a collection of artisan goods, and toys and games for the tykes. Pomelo has a delicious American-with-an-Arizona-twist menu and kids get a kick out of the outdoor splash pad.

There are also plenty of seasonal family-friendly events in the North Central Corridor. The APS Light Parade, Fiesta Bowl Parade and Veteran’s Day Parade all travel down Central Avenue.

North Central Corridor Lifestyle

North Central Phoenix Guide: All the Best Places to Visit

Live, Work & Play in the North Central Corridor

Best Places to Go for Brunch

Best Outdoor Patios and Locally Owned Coffee Shops

Best Local Parks

Best Dog Parks

Best Dining Restaurants

Add These 4 Kid-Friendly Phoenix Events to Your Spring Calendar

Featured Home: 501 E. Stella Lane, Phoenix, AZ 85012

Schedule to see this house

3 Spook-Tacular Phoenix Halloween Events For Families

5 Ways To Keep Your Kids Cool (And Busy) This Summer

Courtyard Concert Series at Crown on 7th

North Central Phoenix Mom & Parenting Groups

5 Family-Friendly Activities in Phoenix’s North Central Corridor

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North Central Corridor Lifestyle

Live, Work & Play in the North Central Corridor

Best Places to Go for Brunch

Best Outdoor Patios and Locally Owned Coffee Shops

Best Local Parks

Best Dog Parks

Best Dining Restaurants

Schedule to see this house

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