North Central Phoenix

As you drive north on Central Avenue between Camelback Road and Dunlap Avenue, you’ll see lush vegetation, mature trees and luxury homes unique to this area.  Some of the city’s most expansive estates line the lightly wooded, curb less streets of North Central Avenue.  The North Central area of Phoenix (“North Central”) also boasts many amenities: excellent public and private schools, convenient shopping, friendly and charming neighborhoods and stately historic homes.  North Central is a place where parents remain and grown children return, with their own families, to their childhood neighborhoods.  Residents of North Central enjoy the urban conveniences of easy access to local freeways and close proximity to cultural and sporting activities in downtown Phoenix.

Phoenix Historic Districts

Phoenix claims 25 historical districts composed of hundreds of unique and well-preserved homes.  Many of these neighborhoods were built at the height of Phoenix’s development, at the turn of the 20^th century, and reflect the architecture of that time.  Rather than lose the homes to custom homes or in-fill home development, concerned citizens and the Phoenix Historic Preservation Commission have joined efforts to maintain this important and beautiful part of Phoenix’s history. 

The Arizona Biltmore

A country club lifestyle encircles the famed Arizona Biltmore Hotel at 24^th Street and Missouri Avenue.  The area south of Squaw Peak Mountain and west of Camelback Mountain is named after the Arizona Biltmore; a Frank Lloyd Wright-influenced resort and spa, built in 1929.  The neighborhood is composed of manageable second homes to magnificent estates on large lots.  This area is also the site of the famous Wrigley Mansion, built by the chewing gum magnate, William Wrigley, Jr.  Residents of this area can enjoy activities in the ruggedness of the nearby mountains, a spectacular golfing experience or an indulgence in fine food and fashion.

Schools

A variety of educational institutions are available to residents of Central Phoenix.  Choices include exceptional public, private and charter schools.  The Madison School District in North Central and the Biltmore area boasts one of the highest achievement scores among Metro Phoenix schools. 

Amenities

You don’t have to go far to enjoy many of the wonderful amenities Phoenix has to offer.  Nearby are golf courses, restaurants, cultural events and sporting events.  In addition, many of the Phoenix Points of Pride can be found in Downtown Phoenix. 

Hikers and walkers can enjoy the urban conveniences but still find a bit of wilderness on nearby trailheads.  Squaw Peak, a popular trail for hiking and fitness enthusiasts, is just east of Highway 51.  Several other trailheads in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve are a short distance from Central Phoenix.

For those fitness enthusiasts lucky enough to live in North Central, there is a tree-lined 2.5-mile path on Central Avenue between Butler Avenue and Bethany Home Road.  The Murphy Bridal Path, established in 1895, is enjoyed daily by many residents of North Central.

Transportation

All major freeways are easily accessible to residents of Central Phoenix: the I-10, I-17 and US 51.  Sky Harbor International Airport is only minutes away along US 51.  Residents of Central Phoenix will be one of the first groups of passengers to benefit from the Phoenix Light Rail System.

Restaurants

There are dozens of truly great dining establishments in Central Phoenix offering delicious food and a pleasant dining experience.  Durant’s, a Valley favorite since 1950, is located right at the edge of Downtown Phoenix on Central Avenue.

There are several small dining spots (host less than 20 tables) that have become local favorites:  Richardson’s, Coronado Café, Coups Des Tartes and Pizzeria Bianco.  In addition, within a 1.1-mile radius, there are five different fine steakhouses including Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Morton’s and McCormick & Schmick’s.