The Orpheum Theatre. Burgers. Free Wi-Fi. These are a few of my favorite things, as Maria Von Trapp and Oprah might say.*
And since it’s the time of year to give thanks, here’s a short list of things I’m thankful for Downtown, including suggestions for things to see and do:
Burger-palooza
Five Guys Burgers has already made a big splash at CityScape. I’ve sampled their not-so-small “little cheeseburger” and it’s messy, juicy and fabulous. If that’s not enough burger for you – and what is? – Blu Burger Grille is joining the restaurant roster at CityScape in 2011. Their burgers are seriously hefty half-pound bites of Angus beef, Kobe beef, salmon, Portobello mushroom or bison.
A Showcase for Local Artists
In an effort spearheaded by Phoenician Joey Robert Parks, 26 local writers were paired with 26 local photographers to create the 26 Blocks Exhibit.  The idea was to capture the past, present or future of 26 city blocks in downtown Phoenix. You can see the results of all this artistic effort through next Monday, Nov 29, in the lobby of CityScape’s Main Tower.
The Orpheum Theatre
On Nov. 23 and Dec. 14, the Orpheum is offering a free, guided tour of this gorgeous, historical site. The one-hour tour, offered at noon and 1 p.m., will provide all kinds of history and a look backstage. Theater buffs should check this out.
The Ever-Changing Science Center
Even if you’ve been to the Arizona Science Center several times, you’ll always find something new to do or see.  Thrill-seekers will love the Evans Family SkyCycle, which gives you the chance to be strapped into a harness and ride across a cable nearly 14 feet in the air.
Free Wi-Fi
I’m almost sorry I discovered the fun of working on my laptop and drinking some kind of mocha latte. It hurts my diet. Ouch. On the bright side, we can all take advantage of free wi-fi Downtown at Duck and Decanter, Fair Trade Café and the Arizona Science Center café, to name a few.
* Apologies if you were hoping some of these things would include raindrops on roses, whiskers on kittens, a free car, or Dr. Phil.