You’ve packed your “impress the boss” outfits, booked a stay at one of the fabulous vacation rentals in Phoenix, and now you’re ready to hit the conference, tradeshow, or boardroom. But nothing goes better with work than play. And when you play in Phoenix, it’s serious business.
Here are three things you absolutely cannot forego when visiting Phoenix for work.
Tacos
You probably can’t throw a rock without hitting a restaurant serving tacos in Phoenix. But not all tacos are created equal. Make it a point to stop by Barrio Cafe in Central Phoenix, best known for Chef Silvana Salcido Esparza’s renowned pork taco (the trick is the banana leaves). If you’re in the Camelback Vista, swing by Pepe’s Taco Villa for a casual atmosphere and a taco called “The Siberia.” Mi Patio, also in Central Phoenix, is much loved for its sour cream beef taco (and having been around for the past 30 years, they know a thing or two). And if you’re vegetarian or vegan? Don’t worry, there’s a taco shop just for you—the Coronado, in the district of the same name. They make a thing called “fried guacamole” and are reputed for their potato taco.
Hikes
Phoenix may be a metropolis, but it also has some truly lovely outdoor attractions. Entrepreneurs in Phoenix will appreciate beautiful scenery. Start out easy with a light loop around Papago Park, which is less than three miles. And while you’re there, be sure to stop by the Hole-in-the-Rock, which is exactly what it sounds like (and was once used as a solstice tracking tool). If you’d like to eyeball suegros and petroglyphs, an out-and-back trek on the Waterfall Trail in White Tank Mountain Regional Park may be just your speed. For a highly accessible trail, South Mountain Park and Preserve has two paved trails perfect for wheelchairs. And if you’re a die-hard trekker looking to rough and tumble, hit Echo Canyon Trail on Camelback Hill (the distance is short, but the grade is quite steep) or Tom’s Thumb in McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
Games (With Drinks)
For casual nights out with your coworkers or easygoing networking events, a stop by one of these “playgrounds for grownups” may be just up your alley. The Yard is a popular first stop, combining bar games like sandbag toss, Ping-Pong, and foosball with brilliant cocktails and pub food provided by Culinary Dropout. Then there’s The Duce: live music and interesting acts (aerialists! Flame jugglers!), plus Ping-Pong and a different kind of dance party every night of the week (except Mondays. Because boo). And if you’re staying over a weekend, hit them up for Punch! Crunch! Brunch! on Sundays. Feel like nerding out? Cobra Arcade Bar is the place to be—owner Ariel Bracamonte has lovingly collected and restored some of the most popular console games, from Asteroids Deluxe to Frogger. Grab a cocktail and get your bowl on at Lucky Strike + Gypsy Bar in Phoenix’s CityScape. Nothing like a night of racking up pins and greasy bar food to top off a successful day of doing business.
