Arizona has a way of surprising you when you slow down and notice its details. These are my favorite moody, creative, and grounding places; it is perfect for when you need inspiration or just want to escape the obvious. As someone born and raised her...
Map
Sections
3
Morning Vibes
Daytime
PM
Morning Vibes
Start the most important part of your day at these gems
A natural red rock window. Immaculate.
Hole in the Rock
Bring your best ideas and work here, enjoy the atmosphere, and get creative
Songbird Coffee & Tea House - Phoenix, AZ
I could spend all day here
Desert Sage Library
A dream morning, this store and a coffee
Barnes & Noble
Stunning desert views out the windows, tucked away and peaceful for journaling or reading.
Desert Foothills Library
crumbling stone buildings against desert backdrop; feels cinematic for photos or quiet wandering.
Scorpion Gulch in Phoenix
vibes
Alwun House Foundation
Daytime
A lot of us burn out midday - here's ideas to keep it going!
Historic home turned art space with gorgeous views. Book ahead of time
Shemer Art Center
Inner child work!
Creative Color Art Studios
Quiet hikes and the desert smells so good. Stunning visuals all throughout
Cave Creek Regional Park
Been gatekeeping this - very quiet hike with a gorgeous lookout at the top.
Lost Dog Wash Trailhead
moody desert + forest gardens, winding trails, and quiet corners to think or sketch.
Boyce Thompson Arboretum
Not just the exhibits, but the moody lounge space that often hosts small events, poetry readings, or just a quiet vibe.
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
Hidden hydroelectric waterfall in the middle of the city with platforms and art installations, surprisingly inspiring at golden hour.
Arizona Falls
Plants!
Pueblo
Feel so at home and cozy here
Changing Hands Bookstore
PM
Helps wind the mind down
First Studio
I like to just drive by these homes are so charming and quaint, make sure to be respectful!
Coronado Historic District History in Phoenix, Arizona
Such a vibe, great martinis
The Goose
Lit softly in the evenings, historic and grounding.