A Perfect October Weekend in Phoenix: Food, Sunshine & Design Inspiration
Desert Magic: A Birthday Weekend in the Valley
There’s something about Phoenix in October — the light is softer, the bougainvillea is still in bloom, and the days hover around a perfect 85°. For my birthday weekend, we traded the Rockies for the desert and headed to Phoenix for a little food, sun, and design inspiration.
Our home base? The effortlessly cool Rise Uptown Hotel, a mid-century dream with colorful terrazzo, a rooftop bar, and a pool that practically demands you order another cocktail.
Weekend Itinerary: The House of Bennetts Phoenix Guide
Friday
Check-In: Rise Uptown Hotel
The perfect mix of vintage vibes and modern comfort — think record players, concrete accents, and a lush pool courtyard.
Dinner: Tacos Chiwas
This little local gem serves some of the best gorditas in the Southwest. The papas con chorizo and barbacoa tacos were standouts — the kind of food that makes you rethink every fast-casual taco you’ve ever had. I’m obsessed with this place so much that I waved goodbye to it as we ventured to the airport.
Nightcap: Rooftop drinks at Don Woods’ Say When, the bar atop Rise Uptown. Try the “Desert Paloma” — bright, citrusy, and perfect for those balmy desert nights. The Lychee Yuzu Gimlet is refreshing and delicious, and their take on the Espresso Martini is out of this world. Plus the commute back to the room is perfection: down some stairs.
Saturday
Morning: Toasted Owl Café
A funky, eclectic breakfast spot with mismatched chairs and great energy. The green chile eggs benedict was the right kind of spicy wake-up call.
Late Morning Facial: Hello Skin
The Hydrafacial here was pure magic — my skin was glowing and hydrated for days. The studio has that light, airy, desert-modern feel that makes self-care feel like art.
Afternoon Shopping: The Merchantile
If you love discovering local makers and curated finds, this is your spot. Handmade ceramics, small-batch skincare, and modern desert decor — basically, a House of Bennetts shopping dream.
Coffee Break: Cartel Coffee Lab and Lux Central
Two Phoenix institutions with completely different vibes. Cartel is bright and minimalist, while Lux feels cozy and creative. Both roast their own beans and serve a mean iced latte.
Evening Show: Suffs: The Musical at ASU Gammage
This was one of the most powerful musicals I’ve seen in a long time. The Washington Post called it “a rousing tribute to the women who changed history,” and The New York Times praised its “brilliant, heartfelt performances and lyrical power.” They were right — the storytelling, music, and staging were electric.
Dinner: Global Ambassador
If you’ve ever spent time in and around Phoenix you know about what a freaking scene Scottsdale is. My bestie and I headed her for dinner and cocktails and, let’s face it, incredible people watching. Folks from every walk of life come here to flirt and drink and wear interesting clothes whilst flirting and drinking. It was, in a word, hilarious.
Sunday
Morning: Brunch at Richardson’s- the legit best hashbrowns I’ve ever had. Their green chile stew and breakfast enchiladas are Phoenix staples — spicy, smoky, and unforgettable.
Midday: Pool time and cocktails at Rise Uptown.
Perfect weather, palm trees, and frozen margaritas by the pool — this is the desert life. The Tequila Funshine (100% agave tequila is shaken with savory lemon basil cordial. Topped with Big Marble local organic ginger beer and served over cubed ice) was perfection.
Afternoon: House Peeping in Uptown & Downtown Phoenix
We spent the afternoon driving through neighborhoods filled with mid-century modern homes and lush desert landscaping. If you love architecture and design, Phoenix is a treasure chest — especially around Encanto-Palmcroft and Windsor Square. Psssst: I posted aTikTok video showing some awesome houses.
Dinner: Spinato’s Pizzeria
Our final meal of the trip: thin-crust pizza with sweet tomato sauce and fresh toppings. The super six and margherita were both perfection.
The Vibe
Phoenix feels like the kind of place where you can recharge and get inspired — a mix of soulful food, bold design, and sunshine that makes you want to rearrange your living room when you get home. Between the mid-century hotels, vibrant restaurants, and a cultural scene that’s more alive than ever, it’s the kind of weekend getaway that feels both indulgent and grounding.