Arizona Arts, Crafts and Local Shopping

Arizona is known as the Grand Canyon State. Considering it is one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World and more than five million people visit it every year, it's understandable.

Formerly known as Copper Square, the 90 block area of Downtown Phoenix is the hub of both Phoenix and the state of Arizona. It houses the State Capitol, is responsible for the highest concentration of employment in the state and is laden with sport and cultural events. There is and abundance of restaurants, theatres and shops.

There are 22 tribes of Native Americans in Arizona.

Arizona was the 48th state to join the United States on February 14th, 1912.

In the Northeast corner of Arizona, it borders 3 other states. They are called Four Corners. When you are there, you can be in all four states at once!

The Bola Tie is the state's official neckwear!

Arizona Copper Mines produce around 65% of the country's copper.

Phoenix and it's surrounding suburbs are home to many museums, including The Heard Museum. The Heard Museum Phoenix features and extensive collection of American Indian art. There are six to eight new exhibitions per year. The Heard Museum North Scottsdale has a long-term gallery and a changing gallery. They have two exhibitions per year. The Heard Museum hosts many festivals and evwnts featuring Native American, music, dance and food. It is a "must see" if you are in the Phoenix area.

On the first friday of every month, The city of Phoenix has an Artwalk. The Art Walk is way more than a simple art display. It is a Street Fair, Art Fair and Market. It is a diverse event that spans all cultures. The Art Walk includes all of the Phoenix art Galleries and studios, as well another 100 spaces added on that evening. It begins at the Phoenix Art Museum (free admission and parking on First Friday!) and continues through the city. It is impossible to walk the entire event but there is a free Shuttle-Link Service that will bring you to most of the spaces. Once you are there, you will have the opportunity to meet the artists, purchase their work or simply feast your eyes and senses!

My first time going to First Friday was intoxicating. It was a very hot July evening in 2008. The atmosphere was exciting. My memory of that evening is mostly impressions. I remember the colors, sounds and smell. It was not just First Friday for me. It was pretty much the first time I walked around the city of Phoenix. I was taken in by the celebratory atmosphere. Everyone was happy to be here from the artists to the the vendors to the visitors.We saw everything from artists selling "statement buttons" t austere art galleries that I probably would not enter on a typical day. There were vendors selling Indian Fry Bread and lemonade. There were groups jamming and street dancers. I entered a large area that was filled with crayoned pictures made by children in a center for domestic abuse. What a beautiful way to bring awareness and support to a worthy cause! I could have walked all night and still not had enough. Alas 110 degrees got to us. I realized that there is a First Friday every month!

If you are looking for a tamer, more intimate Art Walk experience, you will enjoy the Chandler Art Walk on the the third Friday of every month. It is held in beautiful, historic DC (Downtown Chandler) The Juried Art Walk is housed in the Chandler Historic District and is only a half an hour away from Phoenix.There is an abundance of restaurants and shops. One of the highlights there is the San Tan Brewery. You can stop in and have a beer or a meal and take advantage of their happy hour specials during your Art Walk. Walking around Downtown Chandler on Third Fridays is a fun and unique experience. The artists and shopkeepers are friendly and engaging and the art is amazing! Once you get your fill, don't forget to stop by Paletas Betty and enjoy her handmade Mexican Fruit and Cream Pops! They are worth the trip!

Shopping Malls in Arizona are truly a fun experience. More than just the great selection of retail stores and restaurants, the centers are designed for entertainment.Outdoor Malls such as San Tan Village in Gilbert, even include a small splash pad for children. Kids don't mind coming along when they know they can wade and splash in the fountain, conveniently next to an ice ream ho, pet shop and children's stores! Tempe Marketplace is another great mall for walking around. There are outdoor seating areas, complete with fire-pits, live music and holographic art. ASU even has an Art gallery designed, filled and guided by their Art Department. There are several Outlet Malls in the Phoenix area. The newest one, Premium Outlets, just opened in Chandler. It is located next to the Wild Horse Pass Casino and will be partnering with them for entertainment coupons.There are currently more than 30 stores and a food court and this is just hase One! Two other great malls are Chandler Fashion Square and Scottsdale Fashion Square. If you shop in Scottsdale, don't miss Old Town Scottsdale. Besides having an assortment of great eateries and entertainment, you can enjoy the authentic old southwest ambience. This is also a great place to buy souveniers and gifts and most of the shops will be happy to mail your gifts home! Another fun shopping experience can be had at Mesa River View.

Arizona is a state steeped in culture. You can see the Hispanic influence in the brightly painted murals throughout the cities and partake in Historic Neighborhoods tours, one of which includes a home by Frank Lloyd Wright. You can visit any one of several museum or one of the various nature museums including the Rio Salado Audabon Center. There is so much more to see and do in beautiful, sunny Arizona than golf or lay in the sun. You can visit one of our Zoos, check out an Ostrich Farm or learn how to make wine! There is definitely something for everyone! Come on out and see for yourself!