Is Downtown Phoenix a good place to stay in Phoenix?

Downtown is the most convenient place to stay in Phoenix for a convention, a game or a trip without a car. The convention centre, Footprint Center and Chase Field are all within a few blocks, and the light rail runs to the airport, Tempe and the Heard Museum. Roosevelt Row's galleries and restaurants are a short walk north.

The area has grown fast in recent years. New towers and university buildings sit beside historic hotels and the Victorian houses of Heritage Square, and Roosevelt Row's old bungalows now hold cafes, bars and studios. On the first Friday of each month, thousands come for the art walk.

The downside is that downtown can feel quiet outside events. Some streets empty out at night, and homelessness is visible in places. It's also a drive to the desert trails, and summer heat makes walking hard from June to September.

What makes downtown worth it is the light rail. You can ride from the airport to your hotel, walk to a Suns game and take the train to Tempe for dinner, all without renting a car. For a business trip or a sports weekend, it's the practical choice.