Arizona State University is definitely intimidating when you don’t know what to expect, and Downtown can be especially frustrating because everything may seem less convenient than it is in Tempe. But the Downtown Devil has compiled a survival guide of top businesses, places and events to help make that adjustment just a little bit easier.
Barber shop: Downtown Barber Shop
A good price, a student discount and a good cut? The Downtown Barber Shop is definitely a great place for students. The small shop has an old-world feel with walls coated in war memorabilia but still manages to maintain a comfortable air with the friendly staff. A cut will run you about $18, but show your school ID and you can take off two bucks. Noteworthy: If you want to pay by card, the shop adds $2.
Salon: Swank Salon
A bit out of the way but totally worth the experience; Swank offers options for girls of all hair types. Unlike the Downtown Barber Shop, Swank unfortunately doesn’t offer student discounts, so that might put a damper on your day. Good hair is good hair, though.
Car repair place: AAA
Technically this one only applies to AAA members, but if your car is constantly on the fritz, AAA just might be your savior.
View of the city: The Compass Arizona Grill
The oddly-shaped tower atop the Hyatt isn’t just for show; it houses one of the most unique eateries in Phoenix. The restaurant has 360-degrees of windows—but why settle for one angle when you can have them all? The main floor is built on top of a rotating platform, giving diners the chance to see some amazing views, especially at night when the city lights are aglow.
Breakfast eatery: Matt’s Big Breakfast
Good things come in small packages. The tiny breakfast place is situated just a couple blocks from the Downtown campus and is the perfect place for those seeking something more than Taylor Place’s cold eggs and pancakes. Noteworthy: Get there early, because Matt’s always has a wait.
Place for early risers: The Phoenix Public Market
Long before it became the Phoenix Public Market Urban Grocery and Wine Bar, it was just the Phoenix Public Market. Local producers bring their finest natural fruits, veggies and other products to the streets of Phoenix. The weekly event is held on Saturday mornings (and Wednesday nights) and is the most convenient way to stock up on the freshest pesticide-free, all-natural food for the week.
Place for night owls: Hanny’s
Open until 1 a.m. every day of the week, Hanny’s is one of the best spots for a late-night pizza. While there, don’t forget to check out the mod-minimalist-inspired digs. The old elevator shaft from the original department store now houses a clear platform for diners to feel like they’re defying gravity. Also, restaurant-goers can’t pass up the chance to attempt to navigate the tripped-out restrooms. All around, Hanny’s is a good time.
Local art venue: Modified Arts
Although the venue has undergone some recent renovations (and an owner-switch), Modified Arts still remains the “it” place to check out Phoenix’s best local artistic, and occasionally musical, offerings.
Place to study: Downtown Phoenix campus Library
It’s by no means a new idea to pull up a chair and hit the books among stacks of, well, books. At the Downtown Phoenix campus Library, the converted bank vault offers study rooms for students to rent out. The rooms definitely make studying easier when you can’t hear your neighbor pecking away at the keys. To reserve a room (completely free of charge, which is always a plus), students can either call ahead, or simply show up on a whim.
Weekend entertainment deal: Phoenix Symphony
Always wanted to try the Phoenix Symphony, but can’t afford the tickets? Try going the day of a performance and buying tickets there an hour before it starts. Show them your student ID and any unsold seats magically drop to 10 bucks a pop. These aren’t the nosebleeds either; no matter where you sit, the rate is still the same.
Got any insider tips of your own? Contact the reporter at leeann.disanti@asu.edu
