Amphi Tucson, AZ

Hugh O’Conor founded Tucson in 1775, establishing a military fort near modern-day downtown Tucson. The Amphi neighborhood, located relatively far from Tucson’s downtown core as well as the University of Arizona, grew slowly but steadily along with Tucson’s growth in the 19th century. Amphitheater High School opened in the center of Amphi in 1939, giving the neighborhood its name.

Amphi lacks museums or an art scene, though you can enjoy student art, theater and dance at Amphitheater High School. The active Amphi Neighborhood Association hosts frequent gatherings for residents.

Amphi offers a variety of restaurants, but some of the favorites serve Mexican food. The best, according to many Amphi residents? Rosa's Mexican Food. Famous musicians seem to agree, since Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and ZZ-Top have visited this colorful cafe and their photos on the dining room's wall stand as proof. Head here for savory house specialties like crunchy flautas and smoky carne asada.

For epic sandwiches piled high with creative ingredients, hit up Beyond Bread. Locals love the Bart's Bag sandwich, featuring turkey, brie, lettuce, tomato, red onion, honey mustard, and mayonnaise on a baguette. Dine in or take your creation to go, and don't forget to pick up some fresh bakery items like breads, cookies, and cakes. Amphi houses a handful of nightlife options. Neighborhood standby the Boondocks Lounge entertains patrons with arcade games, pool tables, and Texas Hold'em poker. Local and national acts take the stage regularly.

Elbow Room lacks a swanky atmosphere, but its rock-bottom prices and popular all-you-can-eat spaghetti night keep seats packed. Or, catch a game at Rockabilly Grill while enjoying their menu of classic bar fare.

Amphi is most easily navigated by car. Free parking abounds so you will not need to pay for a spot, and most businesses in the neighborhood have expansive parking lots. Amphi enjoys easy access to Interstate 10, the city’s most frequently used freeway, which sits a quick five-minute drive from Amphi’s center. If you are trying to reach downtown Tucson or head to Phoenix, hop on Interstate 10 for direct access.

If you prefer to use public transit, hop on a bus. Tucson’s Sun Tran offers four routes through Amphi. Or, let someone else drive. Several local taxi companies serve the Tucson area, including Amphi. You will not see cabs cruising the streets, but they are a quick phone call away. You can also whip out your smartphone and summon an Uber.

For eco-friendly, affordable transit, grab your bike and helmet. Tucson loves cycling, and while Amphi does not offer bike-only lanes or bike paths, roads here have broad shoulders that are excellent for safely biking. Signs admonishing drivers to watch for cyclists adorn most roads. However, inexperienced cyclists will want to stick to Amphi’s quieter streets, as traffic on the main roads can be heavy.

Amphi encompasses several friendly, free parks, which welcome leashed dogs. In fact, Jacobs Park users and their four-legged friends can enjoy a fenced dog area. Jacobs Park also houses a YMCA, which offers some sports and recreation programs for children that include flag football and summer camps. The park’s soccer field complex frequently hosts games and tournaments.

Residents walk to hidden gem Don Hummel Park to enjoy its basketball hoop and shaded play structure. Local youth teams practice on the park’s baseball field. In a more mellow mood? Tiny Navajo Park’s grassy area and benches provide a resting spot for neighborhood adults. Perfect for the quintessential nice family picnic.

Amphi residents enjoy Tucson’s great weather, fantastic cultural offerings and authentic Mexican food for less money than residents of other Tucson neighborhoods. Rent here will run you about $500 for a one-bedroom apartment.

Amphi’s lower costs extend to areas other than rent. A beer in an Amphi bar will set you back about $2.50. Tucsonans enjoy gas prices about 10 percent below the national average. Expect to pay $1.50 to travel to Tucson’s city center from Amphi via public transit on the Sun Tran.

Several shopping centers hosting mostly national retail chains serve Amphi residents, and smaller strips of retail pop up through the neighborhood. For a unique shopping experience, check out one of Amphi’s locally owned shops.

Peruse the aisles at Casa De Los Ninos Thrift Store on East Prince for clothing, shoes, accessories and household items. A fantastic stop for any costume needs come Halloween, this store offers a gigantic inventory. As a bonus, purchases benefit a local children’s charity.

Does a formal occasion loom on your horizon? For wedding gowns, tuxedos or bridesmaid dresses employ the assistance of a helpful associate at Katrina’s Bridal and Tuxedo. You can also find prom wear, baptism gowns and a wide variety of accessories here. Teenage girls celebrating their quincenera, the traditional Mexican coming of age celebration, adore this shop for gowns.

Music fans must stop by Amphi’s Zia Record Exchange. Zia boasts a giant selection of new and used music, movies and video games. The store carries vinyl for die-hard collectors. Enjoy an in-store performance or signing, and pick up a T-shirt featuring your favorite band.

Several grocery stores feed Amphi residents, including Food City and Fry’s. For cheap produce, Mexican grocery items and fresh tamales, roll a cart through the El Herradero Supermarket. If you prefer organic fare, Amphi houses a Sprouts Farmers Market.