Hayden Flour Mill

Did you ever wonder how Mill Avenue got its name? This thriving thoroughfare is named after its once functioning flour mill. Located on the corner of Mill Avenue and Rio Salado Parkway, the original 1874 flour mill burned down during the summer of 1917. This symbolic structure was rebuilt but soon abandoned. Avenue Communities has obtained city approval to restore Tempe’s landmark into a mixed-use development of chic residential, retail and office space joined by gourmet eateries and high-end boutiques. The Hayden Flour Mill development will complete phase one by the summer of ’09 with a restored mill building and the addition of two retail buildings and office space. By 2010, its final phases two and three will be nearing completion, providing Downtown Tempe with a 120-room boutique hotel and urban-style housing. Once the development is completed, this intersection, recently named “the third hottest intersection in the Valley for real estate” by the Urban Land Institute, will provided a picturesque—and coveted—portal to Tempe Town Lake.

Bonus: With the Metro Light Rail system debuting by year’s end, residents will have an easy time getting around town. 480.294.6333, www.reallifestyle.com.