Located between the Roosevelt / Central Ave and the Van Buren / Central Ave light rail stations you will find the Downtown Phoenix Public Market. This past Saturday, I took my first trip to the Market to see what all of the fuss was about. You see, a couple of friends had mentioned it to me, but living in Tempe, I hadn’t taken the time to visit the Downtown Market. Man, was I pleasantly surprised! The area is really beginning to come alive and it is things like this that spark a desire for people to live, work and play downtown. The market has a huge and diverse range of offerings for most any kind of person. Of course, you will find locally grown produce but I compiled a “short” list of some of the other things I experienced at the Market. Things like: Handmade pastas, fresh jams, oils, coffee, teas, seasonings, great BBQ, crafts from some amazing artists, dog treats, homemade baked goods, wonderful cheeses, flowers, fish/tuna, yoga teachers, music, wine, some amazing chocolates, nuts, catering services, tortillas and some of the nicest people you will meet! There are a lot of organic, Vegan and Free Trade products to try, but even if you are not a “bark biter,” you will really have a great time.
The Downtown Phoenix Market is located at 721 North Central Avenue (2 blocks south of Roosevelt). Parking is available and the Market is currently open Wednesdays from 4-8 PM and on Saturday from 8 AM to 1:00 PM. From their web site I saw; “Meet the folks who, with their own hands and heart, add the shapes, colors and “style” to urban lifestyle. The Downtown Phoenix Public Market celebrates local artists – they’re always in season.” I noticed that statement on their web site after I had the pleasure of meeting Cindy Gentry, Executive Director of the Market. Cindy shared with me some of her passion for the project: it was clear that there is a focus on creating jobs, providing quality products and helping to create a great “vibe” for the people. Cindy cares deeply for the visitors and for the vendors that participate in the Market. (Feel free to see some of these pics from the Downtown Market.)
Once December rolls around, the light rail trains will drive right by the market. If you do not live or work nearby, I highly recommend taking a ride down there to check it out. There really is something for most people. These are the kinds of things that Rail Life is all about. Remember, “Your Life Is On The Line!”
Leave a Reply