Welcome to the Newto News for January of 2026. My name is Zack Cockfield, and my team and I created Newtomedia as a way for visitors or new residents to get information about a city. Each month we bring together resources that will update you on the history, amenities, culture, future opportunities and all other things inside a city that make it unique. We also hope to be a resource for connecting you with people and businesses that can help you live a better life. If you find our efforts useful, please click on the links to get more information!

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Phoenix, Arizona was founded in 1867 by a group of settlers who saw the potential for a thriving agricultural community in the Salt River Valley. Originally called Swilling’s Mill after its founder, Jack Swilling, the town quickly grew and was officially incorporated as Phoenix in 1881. The city experienced rapid growth in the early 20th century, thanks in part to the arrival of the railroad and the completion of the Roosevelt Dam, which provided a reliable water supply for the region. Phoenix became known as the “Valley of the Sun” due to its sunny climate and warm temperatures. In the mid-20th century, Phoenix emerged as a major center for industry and technology, attracting companies like Motorola and Intel. The city also became a popular destination for retirees and snowbirds seeking warm weather during the winter months. Today, Phoenix is the capital and largest city in Arizona, known for its vibrant cultural scene, outdoor recreational opportunities, and booming economy.

The top 10 industries that are hiring locally:

  1. Healthcare
  2. Technology
  3. Education
  4. Hospitality
  5. Finance
  6. Retail
  7. Manufacturing
  8. Construction
  9. Transportation
  10. Real Estate

The top 10 recreational activities the area is known for:

  1. Hiking
  2. Biking
  3. Skiing
  4. Fishing
  5. Camping
  6. Boating
  7. Golfing
  8. Snowboarding
  9. Rafting
  10. Rock Climbing

Average low and high temperature for the month:

Low: 60°F, High: 85°F

Average precipitation for the month:

3 inches

Elevation:

2500 feet

Average home price:

$300,000

Average household income:

$70,000

The top 10 tourist points of interest:

  1. National Park
  2. Historic Downtown Area
  3. Museum/Art Gallery
  4. Zoo
  5. Botanical Gardens
  6. Waterfront/Beach
  7. Amusement Park
  8. Local Wineries/Breweries
  9. Science Center
  10. Hiking Trails

The top 10 restaurants:

Pizzeria Bianco

Downtown Phoenix

Pizzeria Bianco is renowned for its expertly crafted wood-fired pizzas utilizing locally sourced ingredients. Owned by the acclaimed chef Chris Bianco, this establishment offers an intimate atmosphere combined with a rich culinary experience.

Cafe Monarch

Old Town Scottsdale

Known for its elegant ambiance and exceptional service, Cafe Monarch offers a fine dining experience with a frequently changing four-course prix fixe menu, emphasizing creative and seasonal ingredients.

The Breadfruit & Rum Bar

Downtown Phoenix

This vibrant spot specializes in modern Jamaican cuisine and boasts an extensive collection of premium and vintage rums. The Breadfruit & Rum Bar serves innovative dishes with rich flavors reflecting the essence of the Caribbean.

Taco Guild

Central Phoenix

Set in a beautifully restored historic church, Taco Guild offers a unique and varied selection of craft tacos, blending traditional ingredients with contemporary twists alongside a wide range of tequilas.

Binkley’s Restaurant

Cave Creek

Binkley’s Restaurant is an upscale dining destination where Chef Kevin Binkley presents an extraordinary multi-course tasting menu focusing on inventive modern American cuisine in an intimate setting.

Little Miss BBQ

Sunnyslope

Little Miss BBQ is famous for its mouth-watering Central Texas-style barbecue, including brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, all slow-cooked to perfection with smoky flavors that keep patrons coming back.

Beckett’s Table

Arcadia

With a focus on comfort food made from scratch, Beckett’s Table delivers a warm, inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy dishes that highlight fresh, high-quality ingredients complemented by a robust wine list.

Nobuo at Teeter House

Downtown Phoenix

Located in a historic bungalow, Nobuo at Teeter House offers an exquisite blend of traditional Japanese flavors with contemporary techniques in a tapas-style dining experience curated by Chef Nobuo Fukuda.

Postino WineCafe

Arcadia

Postino WineCafe is celebrated for its warm, welcoming environment and diverse selection of wines. It features a menu of simple yet flavorful bruschetta, salads, and paninis perfect for sharing.

Durant’s

Midtown Phoenix

A legendary steakhouse with old-school charm, Durant’s serves up classic American dishes alongside succulent steaks in a nostalgic setting that captures the essence of traditional fine dining.

Current Events:

Zachariah Porter: The Big Back Behavior Tour
Jan 20
Thu • 7:30pm

Zachariah Porter: The Big Back Behavior Tour

The Van Buren

The Runarounds
Jan 19
Thu • 8:00pm

The Runarounds

The Van Buren

MC DAVO & SABINO
Jan 20
Thu • 8:00pm

MC DAVO & SABINO

Crescent Ballroom

United We Dance: The Ultimate Rave Experience (18+)
Jan 22
Thu • 9:00pm

United We Dance: The Ultimate Rave Experience (18+)

The Van Buren

GIRLY POP PARTY WITH LAS LLORONAS!
Jan 22
Thu • 9:00pm

GIRLY POP PARTY WITH LAS LLORONAS!

Crescent Ballroom

Zeppelin USA
Jan 23
Thu • 8:00pm

Zeppelin USA

The Van Buren

PHOENIX ROCK LOTTERY
Jan 23
Thu • 8:00pm

PHOENIX ROCK LOTTERY

Crescent Ballroom

On A Sunday Afternoon (21+)
Jan 24
Thu • 1:00pm

On A Sunday Afternoon (21+)

The Van Buren

ANDY FRASCO & THE U.N. - GROWING PAINS TOUR
Jan 27
Thu • 7:30pm

ANDY FRASCO & THE U.N. – GROWING PAINS TOUR

Crescent Ballroom