Phoenix is known for its ultra-modern shopping centers and sprawling strip malls. But a new wave of locally owned boutiques and specialty shops is helping shake up the local shopping scene this holiday season.
Case in point: Bunky Boutique, a fashion boutique that's bringing new life to downtown Phoenix. The shop, located in a hip industrial space near the Burton Barr Central Library and Phoenix Art Museum, is making a name for itself with its emphasis on fashion-forward apparel and accessories for men and women.
Check out their extensive "Arizona Love" collection, featuring Phoenix-inspired screen-printed tees, hats and even baby clothes.
Union at Biltmore Fashion Park is home to dozens of independently owned specialty shops, including the Queen Creek Olive Mill store — Photo courtesy of Queen Creek Olive Mill
Another great spot to find locally made goods is Union at the Biltmore Fashion Park, home to more than a dozen distinctive and independently owned boutiques.
One local business that has set up shop at Union is Queen Creek Olive Mill, Arizona's only working olive oil mill. The working mill produces a number of distinctive varieties, including chile- and chocolate-infused extra virgin olive oils.
Along with gourmet olive oil, the shop also carries tapenades, Arizona wine, gift baskets, cookbooks and other gourmet treats.
Downtown Glendale is home to dozens of specialty boutiques and antique shops — Photo courtesy of Glendale CVB
If antique treasures are more your thing, then head over to historic downtown Glendale, which calls itself the "Antique Capital of Arizona." This pedestrian-friendly district is home to more than 10 blocks of antique stores, specialty boutiques and a handful of restaurants and cafes.
Finally, if you're looking for gifts with a strong sense of place, then make a stop at the Desert Botanical Garden gift shop. The recently expanded shop carries a huge selection of items made in the Sonoran Desert. Native American jewelry, homemade salsas, pottery and live cacti are just some of the treasures you'll find.
Guests can visit the shop without having to pay garden admission. But if you have time, a leisurely tour of the gardens makes for a perfect cap to a full day of shopping.
Paris Envy is part of Union, a collection of small, independently owned boutiques located at the Biltmore Fashion Park — Photo courtesy of Union at Biltmore Fashion Park
