by Jason Keil | photography by Angelina Aragon
It may not be the first Valley neighborhood that you think of for breezy afternoon exploration, but Arizona State University’s West Valley campus is rising fast. Built on 300 acres of undeveloped state land on the Phoenix-Glendale border, the campus was established in 1984 but is currently enjoying a renaissance, as businesses and restaurants spring up around campus to accommodate students and residents.
3 Places To Eat
Casa de Falafel
This spectacular, family-owned Middle Eastern spot specializes in tender and fluffy falafel (a PHOENIX mag Top 100 Dishes in Arizona honoree), but there are plenty of meaty protein bowls and shawarma on the menu, too. Our advice to carnivores is to go vegan for at least one meal and try the falafel wrap with a side of lentil soup.
4920 W. Thunderbird Rd., Glendale 623-230-2920, cdfalafel.com
Angie’s Lobster and Prime Grill
Salad and Go’s Valley-based founders nearly broke the Internet with $10 Maine lobster rolls at Angie’s Lobster. Their latest feat of bargain pricing: $15 steak and ahi tuna salads at Angie’s Prime Grill. Like all their locations, this combination spot is strictly walk-up and drive-thru. The result: delectable and affordable.
4326 W. Thunderbird Rd., Glendale angiesprimegrill.com
Baker Wee Bakery
Whether you’re craving a cup of coffee and a sweet treat or need a whimsical birthday cake or a sophisticated confectionery masterpiece for your wedding, you’ll find everything you need at this artisan bakery.
4263 W. Thunderbird Rd., Phoenix 602-843-0112, baker-wee.com
3 Things To Do
Martin Auto Museum
Founded by car enthusiast Mel Martin, this facility features a curated collection of more than 160 rare and classic cars, an indoor carousel, driving and racing games, and an abundance of auto artifacts.
4320 W. Thunderbird Rd., Glendale 602-298-2377, martinautomuseum.org
Evil Izzy’s Haunted Emporium
For those nostalgic for the now-closed Easley’s Fun Shop, this costume and horror movie memorabilia store is open year-round for your convenience. They even offer makeup tutorials to help you create the perfect Halloween look.
4239 W. Thunderbird Rd., Phoenix 480-306-4888, evilizzys.com
Amazing Discoveries
With role-playing and trading card game-themed events throughout the week, this game store is the place to unleash your nerdy side. The owners of the Arizona chain boast an extensive inventory and knowledgeable staff eager to help newbies.
4340 W. Thunderbird Rd., Glendale 602-761-2035, amazingmtg.com/Glendale
Overnight Option
Arrandale Farms
This 2-acre urban farm with animals offers three lodging concepts that bring the charm of small-town life to the city, including The Cottage, a darling Airbnb; The Art Studio, designed to inspire creativity; and The Airstream, a quaint RV with a private patio and hot tub.
4146 W. Acoma Dr., Phoenix 602-903-8419, arrandalefarms.com
Photo Op!
ASU West’s Desert Oasis
Stroll across the expansive college campus, adorned with desert plants, shrubbery, grass, flower beds and more than 1,000 mesquite trees. It’s a breathtaking natural oasis nestled in the Valley’s urban landscape.
4701 W. Thunderbird Rd., Glendale campus.asu.edu/west-valleyarrandalefarms.com
