First Friday has become a great way for those of all ages to get out and about on the monthly. Thanks to the light rail it is easier than ever to make it to the Friday night event. After perusing the trinket tents and the impromptu art galleries, those of us 21 and over are left wondering where to spend the rest of the evening downtown once First Friday winds down. If you’re not quite ready to stray far from the Roosevelt station, here are three of my favorite spots within a short walk:
The laidback Leaf is a mainstay on the First Friday circuit. On 5th and Roosevelt, it’s in a historic Roosevelt district home. They don’t believe in cover charges, the bar is stocked with precisely 157 beers, and there is live music. This is a beer and wine only establishment. So stay classy.
The Roosevelt is also a repurposed historic home that has been crafted into an ideal date spot. Look for the large security man guarding the front door of a beautiful home on 3rd Street and Roosevelt. The dark antique wood floors creek as you walk through the various rooms in the old house. If you could use a small bite after wandering First Friday, try the giant soft pretzel along with a hoppy beer, or their tomato soup and grilled cheese pairings.
For some seriously delicious dining and hard alcohol, head to Bliss on Fourth. This is one of the few spots in the area offering adult beverages other than beer or wine. Bliss has a trendier atmosphere and creative chefs have expertly crafted the menu. Give the ‘the basil q’, a low calorie cucumber infused vodka martini, a try.
Whether you’re headed back home or want to continue the adventure, hop the light rail in the northern direction and be sure to stop at Bliss on Fourth:
(Take the Indian School stop and you’re there!)
Ever wondered what an authentic English pub is like? At George & Dragon you can find out without using all of your air miles.. The craggy stonewalls and over-the-top British décor set the mood. There are a few pool tables, darts and usually some interesting characters hanging out. A great place to chow on some authentic fish ‘n’ chips.
(Take the Camelback Stop and head south on Central for two blocks to Pierson St.)
Maizie’s is known for their phenomenal food. If you have a place with a retro 60’s vibe and relaxed atmosphere in mind, then head to Maizie’s. Be sure to note that they’re only open until midnight (they are primarily a restaurant, not a bar) so be sure to make this one of your first stops after First Friday winds down.
If you’re considering heading out toward Tempe or Mesa, I’d hop the light rail south and be sure to stop at:
(Take the Jefferson/1st Ave stop and head north two blocks to Adams, and from there, head east to 5th St)
The Rose and Crown has the magical ability to go from feeling like a chill kickback to a full-swing house party; this staff and venue can handle it all! Home to a very diverse crowd of bar goers, as well as friendly staff.
(Ride the rails for about 15 minutes out to Tempe and get off at the Mill station. Take about 17 steps south on Mill and you’re there!)
Equipped with a cozy bar, sparkling dining room and a garden encompassed patio, Caffe Boa is known for their wine selection. Don’t miss the authentic white and red sangria.
Celebrating a First Friday doesn’t have to end when the galleries close and the vendors pack up; utilize the rails and make the night an adventure all your own. Who knows where you’ll end up?
View Light Rail Drinks in a larger map
All of the places listed above can be found on our Light Rail Drinks page and map. Take a look. Zoom in and out of the areas to find a TON of Friday ( or any day ) fun.
Big thanks to our friends at RENTCafé for submitting this article. At RailLife, we do not currently have enough staff to handle all of the rental calls we get as we try to focus on homes for sale along the line. They can be very helpful to those of you looking to lease a property. Check out their site for details.
Alesha Busard is a writer for the RENTCafé Blog. Whether you are trying to design on a budget, solve a problem with a roommate, or find the next exciting event in your city, the RENTCafé blog covers the topics most important to renters. The blog is a part of RENTCafé, a national apartment listing site. RENTCafé showcases a wide selection of communities spanning all price points from the luxurious to economical. View high resolution photos, floor plans and available units. You can even apply online! RENTCafé has over 50 apartment communities in the Phoenix area; check us out for your next apartment search.
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