Phoenix, Arizona is the 5th largest city in the United States, but when we think about cities like Los Angeles or New York City, we think about a city filled with people and awful driving. However, Phoenix is very different to the other large cities, since it's a high density one, since there are other places within Phoenix like Glendale, Chandler, and even Scottsdale. However, let's focus on what it was like growing up in the Phoenix metropolitan area, the actual city itself. Whenever I communicate with peers that have grew up within the same area I lived in, there's been some familiar patterns like where everyone wanted to be on the weekends, and iconic landmarks in this metropolitan area. There are just some things that people who grew up in metropolitan Phoenix know about and remember.
1. Metrocenter Mall was the place to be
Metrocenter Mall was once a favorite hangout for most Phoenicians nearly 20 years ago when there was so much life to the shops. I will never forget the amazing Mrs. Fields cookies being baked I smelled when I was at the nearby arcade.
2. You've passed by the "Cupcake Church" at least 10 times
Phoenix is home to an array of unique displays of architecture throughout the valley, this church that is looks too much of a tasty dessert is no exception!
3. Your birthday was in Enchanted Island at least once
It's a relief that the amusement park remains to be open! Enchanted Island provided a nice island-like atmosphere in the middle of Phoenix with boat rides and ducks everywhere!
4. You've had Filiberto's more than McDonald's
If the West Coast had a Starbucks in every corner, then there is a Filiberto's in every corner of Phoenix. To this day, I would have strong cravings for carne asada fries over McNuggets.
5. Going to Scottsdale Fashion Square made you feel fancy
When you feel like treating yo' self, a shopping spree at Scottsdale Fashion Square is the usual answer among Phoenicians- whether they have a college budget or not.
6. Seeing this logo somewhat scared you
I just don't know what's with the old Phoenix Coyote's logo that used to intimidate me? It doesn't really look much of a coyote- more like a monster out to get you if you were bad. Either that or a fox that is half asleep
7. Going ice-skating to beat the heat in Arcadia Ice Arena
As a good way to escape from the Arizona heat, people would often spend hours doing some indoor ice-skating. Whether you know how to skate or not, Arcadia Ice Arena is a nice hideaway from those harsh summers.
8. Christown Harkins is a little sketch, but you still watched movies there
Now it may be a little sketch at night, but Harkins at Christown was not just the closet theater inthe area, but also one of the newer movie places in Phoenix. Pro-tip: watch movies on the weekday mornings where there isn't much of a crowd.
9.There's no place better see the sunset than in Phoenix
The skyline of downtown Phoenix is unique compared to other cities, mostly since the buildings are spaced out- to make way to a visual beauty every evening. Sunset viewings have been a hobby for out-of-state people who call Phoenix their home, and as a local, I can see why.
