The Roosevelt Action Association hosts an informative self-guided tour where guests can explore turn-of-the-century architecture and stroll the finest early streetscape in the city. Roosevelt’s tree-lined streets, sidewalks, historic street lights and expansive yards are a destination year round.
The “Roosevelt Neighborhood” is a modern name for a group of six smaller neighborhoods that developed North of the city after the Salt River floods of 1890 and 1891. Now encompassing the area from from McDowell Road to Van Buren Street and from Central Ave to 7th Avenue, the Roosevelt Neighborhood was the first neighborhood in Phoenix to receive historic designation.
As one of the first streetcar suburbs, the neighborhoods in Roosevelt were home to the most prominent early Phoenicians and active city promoters. Politicians , engineers, developers, and physicians made their home in Roosevelt. While the neighborhood has fine examples of many architecture styles- Tudor, Period Revival and Southwest Vernacular – the classic form is the bungalow, found in countless designs and variations. Although they appear modest today, the homes were high-end for the time with upgraded details such as raised porches, decorative windows, deep overhangs and architectural elements that are unique to each home.
The 1925 Gold Spot Market (which now houses Pita Jungle and Lola Coffee) was the first supermarket built to serve a neighborhood, and helped spur the development of an elite apartment district along West Roosevelt St between 3rd and 5th Avenues. Most of these gracious brownstones and walk-up buildings remain; some are offices, and others residential.
Access to Roosevelt Neighborhood is easy, once you understand the lay of the land. Margaret T. Hance Park sits on top of the I-10 tunnel- the 7th Ave exit from I-10 is the most direct freeway access.
LIGHT RAIL AND BICYCLING IS ALWAYS ENCOURAGED. There is outstanding public transit in the area. Third and 5th Avenues have dedicated bike lanes, and there will be secure bike parking. Several GRID bike stations are adjacent to the neighborhood.
There are 3 light rail stops on Central, bordering the east side of the neighborhood, and numerous bus routes pass the major streets. Visit Valley Metro for details.
Take note that 3rd Avenue is one-way North and 5th Ave is one-way south. Access to Central Avenue is limited between McDowell Road and Roosevelt Street. A few times around the block and you’ll have it down!
There is parking at Hance Park and along the streets. Street parking may be more readily available north of the freeway overpass, along Lynwood, Culver & Willetta Streets. Always watch for no-parking signs.
The number of homes varies year to year; typically between 8 and 12 homes will be open. Given the mixed-use nature of the Historic Roosevelt Neighborhood, a contemporary home or building often makes a surprise appearance!
Ticket prices are determined annually, with pre-sale online discounts. Purchase tickets here.
You’ll typically be able to purchase tickets for cash or charge at the event.
You’ll receive a pass and a printed tour guide that will include a map and a description of each stop on the tour. The stops are numbered in the recommend order, but you’re free to visit each as you wish.
Roosevelt is home to some of the best restaurants in Phoenix! Stay tuned for special offers just for ticket buyers.
Children may be welcome at each property owner’s discretion.
Since most of Roosevelt’s historic homes were built in the 1910’s, 1920’s and 1930’s, hallways are narrow and rooms are smaller than homes being built today. They nearly all feature raised porches so many are accessed only by steps. Wheelchairs may not be able to maneuver in all homes. The sidewalks have been constructed to ADA specifications.
There are many great restaurants in and adjacent to Roosevelt. There will be a map available at the tour, but a stroll in any direction should land you somewhere to eat or drink.
Margaret T. Hance Park (north of the freeway along Culver Street, between Central and 5th Ave) features a playground, large green lawn, wide sidewalks, and picnic areas. The Japanese Friendship Garden is at 3rd Ave and Portland Street. Arts and culture destinations like Roosevelt Row, Phoenix Art Museum and more are nearby.