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6 Spots to Take Holiday Photos in Downtown Phoenix

by Taylor Bishop
Arts & Culture Food, Restaurants & Dining Taylor Bishop December 17, 2020

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but is it really the holiday season if you don’t have a festive photo to prove it? From dazzling décor to twinkling trees, get your quintessential holiday photos at one of these jolly spots in Downtown Phoenix.

Hanny’s

Hanny’s holiday tree always dresses to impress — and this year is no different. Fitting for 2020, the tree is made from real coal.

Whether you’re on the naughty or nice list, stop by for a pic and martini at the downtown dining destination. And, visit on Tuesday, Dec. 22 from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. for holiday hits remixed by DJ Melo and DJ Slick 76.

Hours: Mon-Sun 5 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Address: 40 N. First Street

Miracle at Floor 13 / Hilton Garden Inn

Photo: Instagram/@emilyjglen

Over-the-top Christmas décor and holiday cocktails — what’s not to love? If you need help getting into the holiday spirit (no pun intended), the Miracle pop-up cocktail bar at Floor 13 will do the trick. There’s a special holiday-themed cocktail and food menu accompanied by dazzling, jaw-dropping views of the Downtown Phoenix skyline. Socially-distanced tables are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Hours: Mon-Thurs 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. / Fri-Sat 5 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Address: 15 E. Monroe Street

Remember to keep your receipts from downtown businesses you spend at — they could get you free DTPHX merch through our Buy & Fly Program. There are more than 150 businesses participating including The Churchill, Bitter & Twisted, Herberger Theater, Japanese Friendship Garden, and more.

Illumination 2020 / The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix

Find yourself surrounded by the Japanese Friendship Garden’s enchanting night views. The peaceful glow of the garden makes for holiday photos that stand out from the rest.
After a nice walk, finish your holiday shopping in the garden’s gift shop filled with an array of authentic Japanese goods.
Hours: 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Address: 1125 N. Third Avenue

Merry Moments at Candy Cane Corner / Arizona Center


Between the larger-than-life holiday décor, massive decked-out Christmas tree, and Santa’s sleigh (perfect for photo-ops), Arizona Center has transformed into an urban winter wonderland this December. “Merry Moments at Candy Cane Corner” also has a very special mailbox with direct service to the North Pole for the little ones to drop off requests to Santa (letters and envelopes provided).

Address: 455 N. Third Street

Sippin’ Santa / Bitter & Twisted

DTPHX is truly a holiday cocktail destination worth sipping your way through. Bitter & Twisted’s tiki-themed holiday pop-up features tropical décor, a custom menu of colorful concoctions, and a full offering of chef-crafted bar bites. Bring a few friends wearing your best island-themed wear for a fun photo op.

Hours: Tue-Thurs 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. / Fri-Sat 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Address: 1 W. Jefferson Street

Frosty’s Pop-Up Bar / Blue Hound

Blue Hound is making spirits bright this year with the addition of Frosty’s — a Christmas-themed pop-up cocktail bar complete with festive décor, holiday cocktails, and a special holiday menu through Dec. 25. All cocktails are $16, and Thursday-Saturday, there will be a DJ spinning vinyl holiday hits.

On Christmas Day, Blue Hound is offering a five-course feast in addition to the regular holiday menu. Reservations are recommended and can be made through Open Table.

Hours: Tue-Sat 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. / Brunch Sat-Sun 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Address: 2 E. Jefferson Street