Whether you live downtown or miles outside the city, Phoenix is always moving and grooving. Being in a sprawling metropolis can sometimes feel overwhelming with few places to actually sit and hear your own thoughts. Luckily, you don’t have to have to hike to the top of a mountain to find some quiet. Visit these five places to temporarily forget you live in bustling Phoenix.
First Draft Book Bar
Nestled in Changing Hands Bookstore, you can’t miss the bar when you’re browsing the shelves for a world to get lost in. Serving coffee, beer, wine, pastries and light sandwiches, you can easily spend a lazy afternoon sitting in a comfy armchair by the fireplace or typing away on your laptop. The large room behind the bar is COVID-safe with socially distanced tables and mask regulations. 300 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, firstdraftbookbar.com
Heard Museum
Especially as the weather starts to get warmer, finding peace and quiet in air conditioning is a must. Whether you’re a Valley native or desert newbie, this art museum is a must-visit to understand and appreciate “the stories of American Indian people from a first-person perspective.” You can explore traditional and contemporary exhibits, including “All at Once: The Gift of Navajo Weaving” and “Through the Lens of Barry Goldwater.”
2301 N. Central Ave, Phoenix, heard.org
Kadampa Meditation Center Phoenix
Sometimes learning to meditate regularly takes more than turning your phone on do not disturb or downloading an app. Try out guided meditation classes with trained professionals in mediation and modern Buddhism. They offer classes five days a week ranging from midday meditations on Tuesdays and Fridays to Sunday morning concentration practice. Live-stream options are available for all classes.
614 E. Townley Ave, Phoenix, meditationinarizona.org
The Japanese Friendship Garden
In the midst of the pandemic, you don’t have to travel to Japan to experience the beauty and serenity of a traditional Japanese garden. You can take a stroll through the various gardens and admire the intricate stonework and listen to the moving streams and waterfalls. For a more physical peace, check out their workshops and classes, including Tai Chi and Ikebana (the traditional Japanese art of flower arranging).
1125 N. 3rd Ave, Phoenix japanesefriendshipgarden.org
Mitchell Park
Getting outside for an hour can be impossible some days, but with Arizona Yoga Co., it doesn’t have to be! Every Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, you can take yoga in the park for free. All you need to bring is your own mat and a mask. Spots are limited, so you have to register ahead of time due to its popularity. All experience levels are welcome.
Mitchell Dr. & 9th St., Tempe, arizonayogaco.com/yogainthepark
