Since its debut in 1955, Uptown Plaza has been a cornerstone of Phoenix’s growth and charm, forever changing how the Valley shopped, dined, and connected. Now, as this mid-century modern center celebrates its 70th anniversary, it stands not only as a beloved landmark but as a vibrant community hub bridging the past to the future.
MORE NEWS: The Henry will expand with 2nd Phoenix location in 2024
In the lead-up to its September milestone celebration, with details to be revealed this summer, Uptown Plaza will host an exciting array of events and activations that highlight its enduring legacy. From the opening of a stunning 6,000-square-foot location of The Henry this spring, to beloved community gatherings like the annual Easter Extravaganza, and Yoga in the Courtyard, every event celebrates connection and the community that Uptown Plaza embodies.
This milestone year will feature a commemorative 70th-anniversary logo, serving as a proud emblem of seven decades of history and style. In addition, the anniversary campaign will introduce an outdoor visibility campaign, sponsorships of local school events in honor of this remarkable occasion, and a heartfelt, visual storytelling campaign featuring shared memories and stories from community members both past and present.
Originally designed by the legendary Phoenix developer Del Webb, Uptown Plaza broke ground as the city’s first suburban shopping center. Heralded in 1955 as a “wonderful new world of shopping pleasure,” it offered a modern oasis with free parking, sleek mid-century design, and an eclectic mix of stores that became household names—Helsing’s Coffee Shop, Jerand’s of Arizona, and the iconic Piggly Wiggly. For generations, Uptown Plaza has remained a touchstone of Phoenix’s history, adapting and evolving while staying true to its roots.
“Uptown Plaza is a generational asset that will be cherished for years to come,” says Andrew Cohn, principal at Levine Investments. “We are proud to serve as the stewards of this beloved neighborhood hub. Along with bringing new tenants to the Uptown Plaza family, redevelopment will render a highly curated neighborhood shopping center. “We look forward to honoring and celebrating the past while creating new memories for future generations.”
While Phoenix has grown and changed over the decades, Uptown Plaza adapted, preserving its iconic mid-century design while welcoming fresh, exciting businesses to its lineup. The eclectic mix of tenants in this vibrant community is anchored by AJ’s Fine Foods, and beloved local businesses like Sweatshop, Manor, Local Nomad, Chula Seafood, and Muse Apparel, as well as renowned national brands such as West Elm, Shake Shack, Flower Child, and more. This year’s festivities will shine a spotlight on Uptown Plaza’s unique role as both a treasured historical landmark and a dynamic modern destination.
For the latest updates on Uptown Plaza and the 70th anniversary celebration in September, visit www.uptownplaza.com and follow along at @uptownplazaphx on Instagram.
Uptown Plaza is located on the northeast corner of Central Avenue and Camelback Road, in the heart of Phoenix’s historic north-central neighborhood. The newly restored mid-century modern shopping center is a lively urban hotspot, boasting a wide selection of over 20 health, shopping and restaurant retailers.
