10 Best Farmers Markets in Arizona!
Every weekend, Arizonans flock to their local farmers markets in search of the healthy, locally grown foods that stem from these communities. Though there are many markets to choose from, a few have separated themselves from the rest. Whether it’s through affordable produce, a wide range of foods, or idyllic settings, the following farmers markets have proven that they are some of the best in Arizona.
Ahwatukee Farmers Market, Phoenix, AZ
Every Sunday, local vendors bring their mix of food and goods to the Tuke. The market attracts a rotating crew of vendors offering a variety of fresh produce and ready to eat food. Some of the best include Horny Toad's pesticide free fruits and vegetables, Crow’s Dairy's goat cheese, Red Mountain Cattle's grass-fed beef, and Pork on a Fork’s pulled pork. Then there’s crowd favorite Dr. Hummus—an expert on Greek food including hummus, pestos, and pita chips.
Super Farm Market at Superstition Farms, Mesa, AZ
This market, which happens every Thursday, is a blessing for anyone seeking delicious, organic food that is cost effective. Located at Superstition Farms, this market has some of the freshest fruits, vegetables and dairy products available in the East Valley. Once you're finished shopping, check out the rest of the farm with a hayride or head to the family friendly petting zoo. One more tip: A local food truck is on site every week in case you skipped dinner.
Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market, Scottsdale, AZ
Located in the heart of Old Town's shopping district, this is an upscale market catered towards the Scottsdale community that is held on Saturdays. This lively market has an eclectic mix of fresh produce, local foods, and seasonal specialties. Peruse the market and you'll find fish, pork, jams, tamales, salsas, and Artisan breads. This is a dog-friendly market so expect to see many four-legged friends.
Roadrunners Park Farmers Market, Phoenix, AZ
Roadrunners Park Farmers Market has been a north Phoenix staple for over three decades. This longevity can be attributed to a focus on quality food. Though you won't find a long list of vendors or craft items, this market regularly draws vendors with high accolades. Regulars and newcomers alike come from all over the valley to try the fruit, vegetables, baked goods and dairy products. The park location also makes this an ideal spot for families with children and pets. Happens every Saturday!
Downtown Phoenix Open Air Market, Phoenix, AZ
It's easy to appreciate the Open Air Market. This market, which is held on Saturdays, is powered by the Community Food Connections, a non-profit organization committed to supporting healthy, local food and strengthening sustainable food systems. If you take a trip to this downtown market, you'll quickly realize they've honored that commitment. This market has over 100 vendors that represent local agriculture, artisans, prepared food, food trucks and household and skin products. It's also open year-round, rain or shine.
Carefree Farmers Market, Carefree Sundial Gardens, Carefree, AZ
Held on Fridays, Carefree Farmers Market is a welcome respite for those looking to escape the crowded markets in and around Phoenix. This market rivals its more popular counterparts with a strong mix of fresh produce, breads, jams, jellies, and salsas. As far as the setting, the sundial gardens are tough to beat. As you walk through the market, it's impossible not to notice the carefully crafted desert gardens that display the beauty of the desert.
Tempe Farmers Market, Tempe, AZ
Every summer, Arizonans suffer through sweltering heat. This might deter you from your weekly farmer market trip, but fortunately, Tempe Farmers Market has you covered. They specialize in local healthy food and have over 100 local items, including produce, ice cream, sauces, herbs, vegan, gluten-free, and even a coffee bar.
Prescott Farmers Market, Prescott, AZ
For a small town, Prescott's Farmers Market has a lot to offer. What started as a market of just a few farmers has become a large-scale event. Thousands now attend the weekly market to snag some of Arizona's freshest fruit, vegetables, meats, and artisan foods. In contrast to other Arizona markets, this is best attended in the summer when the fruits and vegetables are most ripe.
Sedona Farmers Community Market, Sedona, AZ
Sedona is one of the more inviting locations for a farmers market in the entire state. This northern Arizona gem attracts visitors with its scenic backdrops and relaxed atmosphere. Take a break from the tourist traps and head to the Sedona Farmers Community Market on a Sunday. There you'll enjoy freshly farmed vegetables and a coalition of vendors representing local agriculture.
St. Philip's Plaza Market, Tucson, AZ
St. Philip's Plaza Market is hosted by FoodInRoot, a group committed to making it easy to access information about food. They put an emphasis on buying local and organic food. To support their mission, they sponsor various farmers’ markets around Tucson. The St. Philip's Market was recently voted the best of the bunch and got the distinction of "Best Farmers Market" by Tucson Weekly. St. Philip's has three weekly markets including a twilight market, artisan market, and classic farmers market. Each one has a healthy mix of vendors and live music that prove it worthy of its ‘best market’ distinction.
The 9 Best Places for Pancakes in Arizona!
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. There’s no shortage of breakfast items that can help you start the day off right. But there’s one breakfast dish that that trumps them all: pancakes. A good pancake is a crucial part of any breakfast spot’s menu. Thankfully, the following restaurants serve up some of the best short stacks, toppings, and syrups in the state. Take a bite of syrupy goodness at these awesome breakfast places in Arizona.
