Welcome to the Allen Apartment

Welcome

Dear Guest,We're thrilled you've chosen our home for your stay, and we wish you a restful experience. Our prime location places you near delightful local shops, eateries, museums, shopping venues, and entertainment options. We've curated a list of our top recommendations and must-visit spots during your visit.We built this apartment ourselves with a lot of help from loving friends and family. We hope the care and hospitality we put into it serves you well.

Guide Book

House Rules

  • No smoking of any kind - including electronic versions. A $200/night fee will be assessed if you smoke in the room. Please smoke off the property if you need to.

  • Air conditioning - Turn the air conditioning as hot or cold as you want - we just ask that you turn it to a reasonable temperature for the time of year when you leave at the end of your stay.

  • Areas of Access - You may venture anywhere in your fenced area. We kindly ask you respect our privacy in our areas.

  • Parking - Generally parking on the street is preferred. If you need to load/unload in our driveway - feel free.

  • Security - house is monitored externally-only 24/7 with security cameras. This neighborhood is not high in crime but, like a dash cam, it tends to come in handy if something bad happens.

  • Sound - the apartment does share a wall with our home but is heavily insulated for sound - be as loud as you want, with respect to other neighbors of course. We tested it, we won’t hear you.

  • Speaking of sound, it's possible you may hear our chickens. Generally, this is only if you’re outside. However, in return for some possible noise, please feel free to ask if you’d like fresh eggs. If they are available we’re happy to share.

  • Pets - welcome but please refrain from having them on the furniture.

  • Interaction with us - we’ll follow your lead. We’re happy to chat and point you in the right direction where we can or stay totally quiet. Up to you.

Important Information

Medical Emergency:
Emergency - Dial 911, Police/Fire/MedicalNearest Hospital
Banner Desert Medical Center:
1400 S Dobson Rd, Mesa, AZ 85202
Google Maps Link (~ 4 mi)Nearest Urgent Care
HonorHealth | FastMed Urgent Care
835 W University Dr, Mesa, AZ 85201
Google Maps Link (~1.2 mi)Poison Control
1-800-222-1222

Check Out

  • Check out is at 11am.

  • Please leave sheets on the bed. Place any used towels and extra linens in the bin/floor in the closet. (No need to start washer)

  • Please turn off all lights and appliances.

  • The door will lock behind you when you leave the apartment. Please close the door firmly.

  • You are welcome to take out the trash on your way out but we will handle that. Please just make sure trash is in bins in the apartment.

  • Used dishes can be placed in the sink - we will do them.

  • Any food you don’t want can be left in the fridge or freezer - all items will be tossed at the end of your stay.

  • If you need us to store your bags between when you check out and when you leave for your next destination, please ask.

  • Logout of your streaming services before leaving for your next destination.

Breakfast Options

Burrito Express
Get the Breakfast Supreme Burrito with green salsa or Machaca hot with potatoes. Can’t go wrong here.
Google Maps LinkHenhouse Cafe
Casual, traditional diner for breakfast. Basically a nicer version fo Denny’s or IHOP. They got monster pancakes if you’re into that.
Around the corner about 3 minutes drive - could walk or bike easily if the weather is nice
Google Maps LinkFirst Watch
I think technically this is a chain but it’s very good. Generally a little more upscale but good comfortable vibe and the food backs it up. The Chickichanga is always a safe bet but their seasonal menu is generally very good as well.
About a 10 minute drive directly south
Google Maps Link

Sandwiches

Worth Takeaway
Craft sandwiches with a revolving weekly special. Truly, worth takeaway. On the pricier side but they back it up.
2.5 miles in downtown Mesa (7 min car, 15 min bike)
Google Maps LinkIke's Love & Sandwiches
Unique sandwiches with sometimes odd ingredients but always delicious. Get the crunch bread if you know what’s good for you. Sandwiches are somewhat large and can usually be shared.
5.5 miles in downtown Tempe (15 min car, 27 min bike)
Google Maps LinkKrazy Sub
Bit of a sketchy strip mall but these subs are simply delicious. You’ll get the most bang for your buck here.
1.5 miles to the East (4 min car, 10 min bike)
Google Maps LinkCheba Hut
They call these “toasted subs” for a reason. You’ll know what we mean when you go. Very good if you got “the munchies”.
Google Maps Link

Mediterranean

Green Corner
Phenomenal food all around. Solid gyros, great lamb, and authentically made.
If you get a plate, they’re huge - we usually share.
For lunch we recommend the gyro combo (fries don’t store well, generally better on site), for dinner we’ll usually split a gyro plate.
Google Maps LinkGeorge’s Gyros
Again solid gyros and fries here, can’t go wrong. A little less nice than Green Corner and slightly cheaper but not much.
Google Maps Link

Thai

Nunthaporn Thai Cuisine
Located in downtown Mesa, this is a nice sit down place.
Traditional Thai Food that you can't go wrong with some fun twists like the evil jungle princess (yes that’s the real name).
Google Maps LinkThai Spices
Their yellow curry is fantastic.
Really haven't been disappointed here except the apps are just ok
Google Maps Link

Latin American

Rito’s Mexican Food
Upscale and a touch pricier than other options but it’s a solid, close sit down option.
Just around the corner from us, this is a relatively new place
Google Maps LinkBarrio Queen
Upscale southern Mexican food from scratch. Great drinks and better food.
Located at Tempe Marketplace about a 10 minute drive to our West. Could get there via bike path
Google Maps LinkBackyard Taco
This place sprung up from a literal taco stand the owner used to run out of his backyard. Eventually forced to make a legitimate restaurant, they kept the same “backyard feel”. Tacos here are great.
Google Maps LinkTacos Chiwas
This is on the list because it’s convenient if you’re going to downtown Mesa. Great drinks and food - get the Al Pastor tacos.
Google Maps LinkRepublica Empanada
Kind of a different experience, they really only serve one thing…if you can guess it. They’re a touch pricey but very delicious.
Google Maps Link

Salads

Salad n Go
This has technically many locations here locally but if you’re needing a (shockingly cheap) filling salad or breakfast burrito this place is fast, cheap, and delicious.
Google Maps Link

Asian

Really anywhere on Dobson and Main, a few minute drive south of us - the whole Asian district is neat.
Google Maps LinkAsian Cafe Express
No nonsense authentic Chinese food. We really like the Mongolian beef bowl or black pepper chicken. They have an extensive menu if you know how to read it.
Google Maps LinkRestaurants Inside H Mart
H Mart is an Asian grocery store. They have a large food court with several authentic options for a different experience.
Google Maps LinkHappy Bao's
This location is inside the Mekong Market grocery store. Highly recommend. Small place and may be a wait but man is it good.
Google Maps Link

BBQ/Fried Chicken

Jalapeno Bucks
Nestled in an orange grove, this “shack” puts out some serious meat. They call it “Arizona-style” barbecue.
Can't go wrong with anything on the menu but I love their brisket sandwich with mac salad on the side or the Wicked Sister.
If it’s between October-March, the B&B Farms store is usually open and you can ship Arizona citrus to yourself.
About a 15 minute drive down the freeway but worth it.
Google Maps LinkRaising Cane’s/Chick Fil A
Both are technically chains but sometimes you need that soul warming food
Both are just around the corner from us about a 3 minute drive or walk/bike if the weather is nice.
Google Maps Link

Burgers

Matty G’s Steakburgers
Burger joint worth the drive.
They’re just good - they use quality meat and ingredients and it shows. I like the Field of Dreams.
Google Maps LinkHaven Burger
Their claim to fame is Pastrami burgers and they’re pretty solid
This is very much a casual diner so don’t expect much in the way of atmosphere and service.
Google Maps LinkIl Vinaio
Nice, unassuming sit down place. If you want something unique, we recommend the Antelope burger (but their other burgers are great too)
Located in downtime Mesa - we’re told the wine paired with the food is phenomenal.
Google Maps Link

Italian (Pizza, Pasta, etc)

Spinato’s
This a flat bread style pizza and they have a sauce on 'em that's really unique and tasty. We recommend the pesto chicken or Super 6 pizza. Their wings are also not bad.
Google Maps LinkVito's Pizza & Italian Ristorante
This is true Italian food with several pasta and bread options. A little farther away from our home though.
Google Maps LinkOrgan Stop Pizza
I wouldn’t call this Italian per se, but it is pizza so do with that what you will.
Main attraction here is a big grand organ - fun for the kids. Make a song request while you’re there.
Google Maps LinkFired Pie
These are technically franchises but if you need a quick bite and are tired of fried food, this is a good option.
Get as many toppings as you want - no extra cost.
We have one just around the corner from us, next to Starbucks
Google Maps LinkPizzeria Bianco
Not necessarily nearby but worth the drive
Ranked 24th best pizza place in the world, we agree.
Warning - there will be a significant wait on weekends. They don't do reservations. You show up and put your phone number in.
Google Maps Link

Dessert and Baked Goods

Proof Bakery
We love Proof. From the moment you walk in it smells fantastic and it’s everything sourdough.
Located in downtown Mesa
Google Maps LinkAZ Chimney Cakes
These are a fun, Hungarian dessert. Essentially its a cone made of a kind of cinnamon bread with ice cream or cream in the middle.
Around the corner from us near Cinemark
Google Maps LinkNovel Ice Cream
In an alley in downtown Mesa. They got a donut ice cream sandwich if that suits your fancy. Nothing crazy but it’s good.
Google Maps LinkBruster’s Ice Cream
For the non-dairy lovers among us, this is the best non-grocery store option available. It’s a bit of a drive from us but if you find yourself going that way it’s worth stopping by
Google Maps Link

Coffee and Drinks

Nile Coffee Shop
Close by the Proof Bakery, a nice place to go if you want to check out downtown Mesa.
Google Maps LinkStarbucks
Just around the corner from us if you need something tried and tested but maybe not-so-special pick me up.
Google Maps LinkBar Louie
Apparently this is pretty solid bar food with a sports atmosphere located just down the road at Tempe Marketplace
Google Maps Link

Grocery Shopping

General
Most everything is 15-20 minutes away, just search for them.
- Closest - Walmart - literally around the corner.
- Sprouts
- Trader Joe’s
- Whole Foods
- Target

General Activities

The Nemesis Club Escape Rooms
This is a bit of a drive to North Phoenix (30 min) but totally worth it. Reservations are online and you can choose the room. None disappoint. Also, you enter like a speakeasy if that doesn't tell you how cool it is.
I can’t find the official resource but I believe at one point these were the 4th and 27th best escape rooms in the country. Owner used to work for Disney Imagineers. Make sure to get a milkshake while you’re there.
WebsiteTop Golf - Scottsdale
Not local per se but just up the road
Google Maps LinkDriving Range or Round of Golf at Dobson Ranch
There’s other courses nearby but this is about the best municipal course around. If they’re not available, use GolfNow app to find something that is. Their driving range also has Top Tracer technology.
Google Maps LinkMesa Farmer’s Market
Located in downtown Mesa, won’t be as large as Gilbert Farmer’s Market (that one is worth seeing when the weather is good) but they still have a decent selection
LinkTempe Town Lake
Bike along the lake or take a boat out - we especially like the night lights with the city backdrop.
Take the bike path or drive West. It's really the only nearby body of water, you can't miss it.Saquaro Lake or Salt River Stand Up Paddle Boarding
(Note - don’t do this at Tempe Town Lake)
If you want to do this one, ask us about it. There's some nuances that can help you have a great experience. Pretty cheap couple hours of fun, usually $40/person for the rental.
This is a really cool way to experience the desert amidst wild horses and neat terrain.
LinkSalt River Tubing
Just as it sounds, tubing down the Salt River. Takes about 2-3 hours and FULL of sun. Take sun protection, water, and a snack.
LinkBike Path - Stadium Connector
Just down the sidewalk from us is a bike path that connects the Spring training baseball stadiums. It’s well lit and a great way to get around if you don’t want to use a car.
Link to Closest Access to PathArcher’s Bikes - Bike Rental(ebikes too)
I think day rental is like $120, $80 half day
Got mountain bikes (go to Hawes or South Mountain) and ebikes of all kinds to rent.
Their location is about 2 miles from our home.
Google Maps Link

Family Activities

Family Activities
Note - not necessarily family exclusive but easier than other activities. The items above can certainly be done as a family.Cinemark Movie Theater
Good clean theater with plush recliner seats and A/C.
Google Maps LinkMesa Arizona Temple
Religious temple in downtime Mesa with beautiful gardens on the grounds to walk and enjoy.
If you’re interested in family history, there’s also an impressive resource at the facility’s visitor’s center. Have a picnic at Pioneer Park across the street.
Google Maps LinkRiverview Park
You do have to cross the street but this has a great park with tons of options for different aged children.
There’s also grill areas and covered benches to accommodate a picnic.
Google Maps LinkKrazy Air Trampoline Park
This is the closest one to our location and is a great activity for the family.
Google Maps LinkGolfland Sunsplash
Decent local water park but it’s not going to be world class. They’ve got tons of slide options as well as goofy golfing, go carts, and arcade, and bumper boats.
Google Maps LinkPhoenix Zoo
This isn’t going to be the San Diego zoo by any means but still a really great zoo. We particularly enjoy the monkey habitat you can walk in and you can even take swimsuits and go to a splash pad inside the park when it's hot. You will be walking and in the sun so prepare accordingly.
LinkMcCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
Better with nice weather but doable when hot
Has a whole room dedicated to miniatures which is super cool
Can ride a scale size train for a couple bucks.
Website

Hiking

Hiking
Note - while there’s significantly more/better hiking in AZ, these are the closest within 30-45 min drivePiestawa Peak
Camelback is the famous hike but Piestawa is better in our opinion. Less crowded, better view, easier parking. Fairly difficult - basically a mile and a half stair climber.
Google Maps LinkCamelback
Worth doing but hard - see above
Google Maps LinkPeralta Trail - Superstition Mountains
About 2.5 miles gradually up hill but you’re rewarded with a phenomenal view that includes a close up of Weaver's needle at the top. Start early as you’re in the sun for most of it.
Google Maps Link

Historic/Art

Downtown Mesa or Phoenix historic tour
Great historic and street art tours of Mesa and Phoenix.
LinkPhoenix Art Museum
First Friday of the month is free admission
Link

Spring Training Venues

Salt River Fields at Talking Stick - Cubs
We live literally across the street - way easier just to walk or take a scooter or something instead of driving and paying for parking. Maybe 2 mile walk to your seat.Others
Don’t really have the inside scoop for the other venues but 3 of the 4 closest ones (excl. Hohokam) are all accessible via Waymo if you don’t want to deal with parking…or driving.

Museums

Idea Museum
Fun, kid friendly museum that is very interactive. Exhibits rotate often, worth a trip but nothing too crazy here.
LinkMuseum of Natural History
Our kids love coming here. They can learn all about dinosaurs and other natural history. There’s multiple levels and several interactive stations. Beat the heat here located in downtown Mesa.
LinkMusical Instrument Museum
A bit of a drive to north Phoenix (about 30 min) but a very cool place. Tons of interactive stations and neat for kids and adults alike.
Link

Transportation

Waymo - Driverless Taxi
Phoenix is one of a few cities in the US with widespread access to driverless vehicles. (The first fully public version. It's now available in cities like SF/Austin)Waymo’s service area includes our home. Get the app and summon a driverless vehicle to take you. We ride it at least twice a month and every time we go to/from the airport. Way better than an Uber in our opinion. It’s very safe (almost annoyingly safe) and definitely worth the experience.This code, GRAYSO59JK , gets you $10 off your ride (typical cost from airport to our house)
Link to Learn MoreLight Rail
Our valley’s light rail goes from Mesa to West Phoenix. It’s a little slow but if you’re looking to go to a concert or ball game, it’s a great transportation option as you don’t have to deal with parking. It drops off at the front door of most venues.
Closest Light Rail StationBike Path/Canal Path
Use Google maps for suggested bike routes
Start of Bike PathSky Harbor
About 10 minutes away. PSA - Waymo will take you to the airport.
Link

Pets

Dog Friendly Park
This is the closest park if you need to just throw a ball or go for a walk and let your animals get some energy out. It's just across a major road for us at Riverview Park.
Google Map to Parking LotFormal Fenced In Dog Park
This is a space that is fenced in and formally known as an outdoor dog park. This would be the closest of this kind to our home
Google Maps LinkAnimal Hospital
Closest one to our home
Google Maps LinkPet Groomers
If you are in need of some grooming during your stay, there's a Petco nearby or the link below is for a local business.
Google Maps Link

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