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Photo courtesy Jenna M. McKnight

Agave Library / Photo © Jenna M. McKnight (top); Carolina’s / Photo © Jenna M. McKnight (bottom)

McKnight, a Phoenix native, is the news editor at Architectural Record Magazine.

Best New Architecture
Phoenix Public Libraries
“Phoenix has a tradition of architecturally interesting libraries, many of which have been featured in design publications: The Agave Library, by Will Bruder + Partners, just opened this June. Located on the fringe of Phoenix, in a developing area, its corrugated metal façade makes a statement!”

Best Restaurant
Carolina’s
“For die-hard Mexican food fans, Carolina’s is not to be missed. It’s consistently rated one of the Valley’s best eateries. The authentic fare—burros, tacos, tamales, etc.—is cheap and always divine. Be sure to save room in your suitcase for a dozen of Carolina’s fresh, handmade tortillas.”

Best Shopping
Kierland Commons
“An upscale shopping area of about 70 stores and restaurants. It’s a mall turned inside out, with stores lining small streets, meant to mimic a traditional Main Street.”

Scottsdale
“Scottsdale offers some of the best shopping opportunities: Old Town Scottsdale is a bustling little downtown district with scores of shops, galleries, and eateries; a good place to pick up touristy stuff.”

Other Shopping Areas
“The Biltmore Fashion Park is an upmarket shopping district opened in 1963 that recently was renovated and expanded. The Borgata, an open-air mall meant to resemble a 14th century Italian village, houses about 50 boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. And Scottsdale Fashion Square is a 2-million-square-foot mall!”

Bargain Hunting
“For bargain hunters, the Valley offers several ‘swap meets,’ which are outdoor markets that offer new and used merchandise. All are good places to wheel and deal. There’s a lot of junk, but there are some gems, too. The 55-acre Mesa Market Place features 1,600 vendors, hawking a wide variety of goods, including Native-American jewelry, sports memorabilia, clothing, and souvenirs from the Southwest. You can buy anything at the Phoenix Park ’N Swap: hats, sunglasses, jewelry, scooters, birds, cars, even cable service.”