Desert Delights: Exploring Phoenix's Retro Chic & Modern Marvels at Rise Uptown Hotel
Greetings, earthlings! I just had an out-of-this world experience visiting my friends from the Beatcast down in sunny Phoenix, Arizona (quite literally - it was during the heatwave so it truly was a wild time!) Let me give you the rundown of my recommended hot spots to check out for a long weekend you’ll never forget.
WHERE TO STAY
Located conveniently in Uptown Phoenix is the iconic RISE UPTOWN HOTEL. Located just 9km from the airport and close to downtown the convenience isn’t even close to the best part. This wasn’t your average hotel - it was once two mid-century modern office towers and was thoughtfully restored when it reopened in 2020. It has that fun retro feel with the modern amenities that I need while traveling for work (and for fun) - like great wifi, and of course cute, aesthetic rooms (how cute is this wallpaper?)
THE ROOM
The rooms even have Marshall bluetooth speakers so I can listen to my favourite beats while chilling in my room, and LATHER bath amenities so I can feel a little luxuries while on vacay. When I wasn’t out seeing the sights, I enjoyed the comfiest king size bed and sipped my morning coffee from a coffee shop Cartel Roasting Co., on my own beautiful terrace. What an experience - and I haven’t even gotten to the best part yet…
A COOL TREAT
The heat didn’t stop me from taking in as much as possible while I was in Phoenix but imagine my surprise when my first stop upon entering Rise Uptown Hotel was the POP STAND where I happily received a complimentary popsicle while checking in. What a unique experience and it truly sets them apart. The popsicle stand features an ever-changing menu of paleta-style treats made with fresh fruit, luxurious cream, and even your favorite booze (!!) Some of the stand-out flavours for me were chile mango and the frozen margarita.
LYLO SWIM CLUB
Due to the skyrocketing temperatures a lot of the cute local shops were closed, so I was extra happy that my hotel offered so much in-house! Once I recovered from the popsicles, I was able to take in the epic hotel bar. LYLO SWIM CLUB had such great cocktails and delicious food. You know I love avocados so I had to order the avocado tacos and I was not disappointed. The Star Martini was a perfect mix of that signature martini “kick” with a sweeter side thanks to their house-infused vanilla Sobieski vodka and passionfruit liqueur. A poolside bar with great drinks and tacos? I felt I had died and went to heaven.
As I was staying the weekend, I was sure to take advantage of as much pooltime as possible. Lucky for me, they had a DJ at the pool from Friday to Sunday! There was great poolside service, great music, super comfy sun loungers and the vibes were immaculate.
DON WOODS’ SAY WHEN
When I wasn’t lounging poolside I ventured up to the rooftop bar (yes, all of this is in the same hotel!) to DON WOODS’ SAY WHEN Rooftop Bar. I was immediately transported back to the 70s with these sweet penthouse vibes. With comfy seating and a beautiful panoramic view of the Phoenix skyline and Camelback Mountain, I was on top of the world as I enjoyed the Marinated Boquerones - a delicious dish with anchovies atop toasted country levain bread complete with tomato marmalade, lemon and chives.
Such a great selection of tapas, wine, hand crafted cocktails and more - it’s easy to get transported away to a different time and leave your worries at the door.
I had such a great experience in Phoenix. The temperatures may have been soaring but the people were so warm (not just physically) and welcoming, and my stay at Rise made it feel like an all inclusive resort, except with the unique character and flair that makes it stand out. So when will you go visit?
