Phoenix blends urban energy, history, art, and nature in a place where you can stroll downtown in the morning and be among gardens or quiet architectural gems by afternoon. Living at 44 W Monroe puts you in the heart of it all. Whether you’re exploring or just looking for someplace new to enjoy, here are top picks nearby you’ll want to check out.

 Attractions Near Tempe

1. Chase Field
   • Home of the Arizona Diamondbacks, this stadium is an icon of downtown Phoenix. It features a retractable roof and hosts baseball games, concerts, and other major events. Even if you’re not catching a game, walking by or grabbing a bite nearby gives you that energetic downtown vibe.
2. Footprint Center

   • A multi-purpose arena that hosts basketball games (Phoenix Suns), concerts, shows, and special events. It’s a major entertainment hub just a short walk away. Perfect if you want show nights or big events without going far.

3. Arizona Federal Theatre
   • A mid-size theatre for concerts, comedy shows, and performances. It’s close by, so easy to get to for a night out — less travel, more fun.
4. Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix (RoHo-en)
   • A bit more tranquil, this Japanese stroll garden features waterfalls, koi ponds, elegant paths, stone lanterns, and lush plants. It feels like a calm escape in the city — a place for quiet walks, meditation, or photography.
5. St. Mary’s Basilica
   • This historic basilica, known as the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception, offers beautiful architecture and a quiet place to reflect, with stained-glass windows and intricate interior details. A peaceful counterpoint to the busy streets around it.

Top Restaurants Nearby

1. Wren & Wolf
   • Style: Modern American restaurant with a sleek, contemporary design.
   • Offerings: Elevated comfort food with creative plating, signature cocktails, and an energetic dining atmosphere.
   • Good for: Date nights, stylish dinners, or social evenings in the heart of downtown.
2. Pizzeria Bianco
   • Style: Rustic Italian eatery known nationwide for artisanal wood-fired pizzas.
   • Offerings: Hand-crafted pizzas, fresh pastas, antipasti, and seasonal ingredients. Often praised as one of the best pizzerias in the U.S.
   • Good for: Casual dinners, food lovers seeking authentic flavors, or sharing plates with friends.
3. Blanco Cocina + Cantina
   • Style: Lively Mexican restaurant with a bright, festive vibe.
   • Offerings: Tacos, enchiladas, burritos, margaritas, and flavorful sides with a modern twist. Fun, upbeat setting with bold décor.
   • Good for: Group outings, happy hours, or anyone craving fresh Mexican food and drinks.
4. The Arrogant Butcher
   • Style: Upscale-casual American dining spot with polished yet welcoming energy.
   • Offerings: Steaks, seafood, sandwiches, charcuterie boards, and a strong craft cocktail menu. Blends classic American fare with modern touches.
   • Good for: Business lunches, special dinners, or casual upscale dining before a show or game.
5. Chico Malo
   • Style: Trendy Latin-inspired restaurant blending modern design with bold flavors.
   • Offerings: Dishes like ceviche, street corn, tacos, and Latin fusion entrées alongside tequila and mezcal cocktails.
   • Good for: Nights out with friends, adventurous eaters, or anyone wanting vibrant atmosphere and flavors.

 Bars & Nightlife Recommendations

1. Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour
   • Style: Stylish, modern cocktail lounge with retro touches.
   • Offerings: Signature cocktails, craft beers, and a curated wine list in a chic atmosphere. Often hosts DJs or themed nights.
   • Good for: Trendy nights out, social gatherings, or starting the evening before heading downtown.
2. Valley Bar
   • Style: Underground speakeasy-style bar with live music and games.
   • Offerings: Specialty cocktails, casual bites, and entertainment like darts, Skee-Ball, and rotating live acts.
   • Good for: A fun night with friends, live shows, and a laid-back but energetic atmosphere.
3. Seamus McCaffrey’s Irish Pub
   • Style: Traditional Irish pub right in downtown Phoenix.
   • Offerings: Guinness on tap, Irish whiskey, hearty pub fare, and occasional live Irish music.
   • Good for: Casual drinks, pub nights, or anyone looking for authentic Irish hospitality.
4. Highball Cocktail Bar
   • Style: Stylish, modern cocktail lounge with retro touches.
   • Offerings: Signature cocktails, craft beers, and a curated wine list in a chic atmosphere. Often hosts DJs or themed nights.
   • Good for: Trendy nights out, social gatherings, or starting the evening before heading downtown.
5. Floor 13 Rooftop Bar
   • Style: Rooftop lounge atop the Hilton Garden Inn with skyline views.
   • Offerings: Cocktails, local beers, and light bites served with panoramic views of downtown Phoenix.
   • Good for: Sunset cocktails, relaxed evenings, or a scenic end to the night.