Tucson hot, hip

Back in the ‘70s, Tucson, Arizona’s Fourth Avenue neighborhood was a hippie haven, where longhair types peddled novelty “tobacco pipes” (no doubt contributing to the town’s nickname, “Tu-stoned”).

But when downtown artists discovered this affordable artery west of the city’s hub, the area began attracting a more cosmopolitan crowd. Now boasting 100-plus eclectic boutiques, restaurants and bars along its six-block stretch, Fourth Avenue’s scene is as hot as the Arizona weather – and it’s anything but Birkenstock. Legions of SoCal expats, priced out of their state, are driving property values northward, so give it a look soon – before the desert deals dry up.

Where to live

A Spanish revival adobe-and-tile two-bedroom house along the neighborhood’s northern edge can run you as little as $225,000. Renting? Two-bedroom adobe homes go for $700 a month and up.

Where to eat

Locals rave about the authentic flavors at Maya Quetzal, a traditional Guatemalan restaurant. (520-622-8207)

Where to drink

Enjoy the tunes while sipping a potent Sexy Blue Jesus cocktail ($6) in the lavish Gold Room at Plush, a posh lounge ($3-12 cover). (plushtucson.com)

Where to shop

Tucson Thrift Shop is a tidy store stacked to its vaulted ceilings with vintage treasures, such as beaded Egyptian caftans ($35), hand-painted silk kimonos ($50) and, for the lads, faux fur–trimmed vintage tuxes ($95). (tucsonthriftshop.com)

What else

Come March 24 to 26, the Fourth Avenue Street Fair will feature 400 vending booths, manned by artisans and chefs from around the country. (fourthavenue.org)