Historic Grand Avenue is an underrated hotbed of culture in downtown Phoenix

PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5) -- Ain’t life grand? It definitely is here on Grand Avenue! We’re checking out bars, restaurants, galleries and so much more in this historic neighborhood in downtown Phoenix. We sent out Gibby Parra and Ian Schwartz to look at the charm of this road that once was the gateway to Los Angeles before In Interstate 10 came along to change the game. To start off, we visited Five15arts Gallery.

What’s the story behind Grand Avenue?

The birth of Grand began in the late 1880s to connect surrounding settlements to the Arizona Canal. Businesses popped up in the 1920s catering to a rise of tourists and motorists. A mixture of auto repair, gas stations, restaurants, groceries, barbers, hardware stores, and second-hand shops. While both world wars and the creation of the interstate led to a decline, in recent decades, it has continued to mature. By 2007, Grand Ave turned into an eclectic neighborhood formed of passionate creatives who embrace the past and worked toward an artistic future for the area.

Connecting local artists

While Vegas might be the neon capital of the world; this shop in the Valley of the Sun is helping create iconic signs for businesses.

Grand Avenue started its revitalization thanks to local artists and creatives who joined together to share their art and collaborate. We were joined by two local artists whose neon signs and installations are used by businesses all over the Valley!

Meet the Haifley Brothers

Just spend an afternoon around the city and you’re bound to see some classic cars cruising around. These bros are helping keep classics running in the Valley

Old cars and Downtown Phoenix go hand-in-hand. Just spend an afternoon around the city and you’re bound to see some classic cars cruising around. Like one of these hot rods here at Haifley Brothers.. who happen to specialize in Fords from the 30s!

Pizza & Beer: How more American can you get?

Grab a slice of pizza at Snapback and a pint of beer at Wayward.

SnapBack Pizza describes its shop as a cross between Neapolitan and New York-style pizza. We talked to the founders about why Grand means so much to them and about how their pizza is unlike other shops in the area. Meanwhile, at nearby Wayward Brewery, they’re serving up all the typical craft beers, wine, and seltzers with some weekly fun.

Get that old-timey, whimsical feeling at HawkSalvage

Greg Hawk, a retired captain for the Phoenix Fire Department, started collecting antiques and oddities 15 years ago.

Greg Hawk, a retired captain for the Phoenix Fire Department, started collecting antiques and oddities 15 years ago. After years of traveling the flea market road, Hawk decided to open his own shop. HawkSalvage opened its doors on Grand Avenue in Phoenix in March of 2019 and Hawk continues to add items of all varieties to his store collected from around the world.

Coffee, cocktails, and more with a southwestern twist

El Charro Hipster has more than just coffee drinks and cocktails. Enjoy paella, live jazz and mucho mas.

Located in the vibrant, pedestrianized art district at downtown Phoenix, El Charro Hipster is a bright and airy space with glazed frontage on two sides, an outside terrace, and the unique plus of a big parking lot. El Charro Hipster appeals to all in a relaxed, refreshing and very personable vibe

Directory of Businesses:

Copyright 2023 KTVK/KPHO. All rights reserved.