Encanto Village is one of the oldest recognized villages in the Valley. At the center of this vibrant neighborhood is the Arizona State Fairground, where along with the annual state fair, it hosts several concerts and family events. Encanto Park, Heard Museum, and The Phoenix Theater are also located in Encanto Village.
Location
Encanto Village is situated just north of downtown Phoenix and encompasses midtown and uptown Phoenix. Surrounded by Alhambra to the north, Camelback East to the east, and the city of Glendale to the west, Encanto is home to many entertainment venues and upscale, as well as casual, eateries.
History of Encanto
The North Encanto Historic District has a rich history. Many native residents of Encanto were prominent figures in Arizona. This historic neighborhood is also reflective of residential trends from the late 1930s to the early 1960s. It also has one of the largest concentrations of early 1900s ranch-style homes in Arizona. Several impressive architects and builders such as David Murdock, John H Lester, and A.B.Campbell contributed to this renowned area of Encanto.
Lifestyle
Living in Encanto fuses urban living, the glamour of city life, and the rich Phoenix history. It is an ideal neighborhood for Phoenicians working in the downtown district.
What to do in Encanto
Encanto is full of museums, theaters, and parks. There is no shortage of outdoor activities, culture, or history in this lively Valley neighborhood.
Encanto Park
This 200-acre park has much to offer. With several picnic areas and grills, a pond with fishing, a swimming pool, a nature trail, two golf courses, and Enchanted Island Amusement Park, Encanto Park has grown to become the most popular park in south-central Valley.
Phoenix Theater Company
Over the last 100 years, The Phoenix Theatre Company has produced more than 50,000 performances. As the largest regional producing theatre company in Arizona, the theatre offers something for everyone. It recently opened a socially-distanced outdoor venue to provide Phoenix with live entertainment in an environment safe for all. The Phoenix Theatre Company continues to adapt its programming to meet the needs of its community.
Phoenix Art Museum
The largest art museum in the Southwest, Phoenix Art Museum is situated near Encanto Village. Since opening in 1959, the museum has hosted hundreds of art exhibits, live events, and festivals. Image courtesy of Phoenix Art Museum.
Where to Eat & Drink in Encanto
Encanto offers a diverse selection of restaurants and bars. Whether it’s an upscale ambiance or a casual dive bar, Encanto has you covered.
Durant’s
The 1960s pink stucco building with a bright yellow and red sign, Durant’s looks like a common dive bar. However, step into this high-priced steakhouse, and you may find yourself feeling like you just walked out of a time machine. The 1960s ambiance of this phenomenal restaurant is enough for Phoenicians to come back over and over again. Add in the mouthwatering steak and potatoes on deck, along with the best Martini in town, and you have yourself a perfect night out.
PA’LA
Living in Phoenix, it can be a struggle to find a good seafood spot. PA’LA partners with organic farmers and fly in fresh seafood daily, serving only the freshest ingredients. This eatery changes its menu daily based on which fresh ingredients are available. The Navarro bowl offers lucky diners an opportunity to dine on wild shrimp, octopus, and Peekytoe crab. Various fresh tapas are available such as Roasted Polenta & Sicily Sausage or Wild Shrimp Salad & Fennels.
The Rhythm Room
In the mood for R&B, jazz, and blues with a wild, eccentric crowd? Rhythm Room is where you want to be. This upbeat jazz club features local artists most nights of the week. From ages 21 to 91, the dance floor is packed, and the drinks are flowing. After the show is over, head out to one of the many food trucks that are parked outside the bar.
George & Dragon English Pub
George & Dragon, or GnD, as the locals refer to it, has been serving up traditional British food, like their award-winning Fish and Chips, for over two decades. The novel pub has the largest selection of imported draught beer in the Valley. Walking into GnD, you will feel like you have been transported to the UK. Soccer games blasting on the televisions and many thick accented English and Scottish patrons to welcome you in.
Real Estate Snapshot
Encanto falls in the middle of Phoenix neighborhoods when it comes to the cost of rent. The urban village is very diverse, with older apartment complexes and condominiums, along with more upscale, luxury communities found closer to uptown Phoenix.
Transportation
Encanto has four Valley Metro Rail stops on Thomas and Central, Osborn and Central, Indian School and Central, and Campbell and Central. Along with the many Valley Metro bus stops, Encanto is a very city metro-friendly neighborhood.
Schools
Encanto is served by the Phoenix Elementary School District, Osborne School District, and Phoenix Union High School District. Phoenix College and The West Coast Ultrasound Institute (WCUI) are also located in Encanto.
If you are searching for a neighborhood with flare, culture, history, and a large emphasis on outside activities, Encanto could be the place for you. In addition to living in this cultural mecca of the Valley, you will be treated to some of the best restaurants in the city. So, make sure to check out apartments for rent in Encanto Village if you are considering moving to the area.
