Tempe, Arizona: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Tempe, Arizona, is a lively city in the Phoenix area. It has outdoor adventures, cultural spots, and city life. You can hike, see lakes, visit museums, and try craft beers here. We'll show you the best things to do in Tempe for a great trip.

Key Takeaways

• Tempe is a thriving city located in the Phoenix metropolitan area, offering a diverse range of activities and attractions.
• Visitors can enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and urban amenities in Tempe.
• The city boasts scenic natural landscapes, museums, craft breweries, and more to cater to a variety of interests.
• Tempe is a convenient and accessible destination, making it an ideal spot for a getaway.
• This article will provide a comprehensive guide to the top things to do in Tempe, Arizona.

Are you ready to find the hidden spots and must-sees in Tempe, Arizona? Get set to explore the best of this desert city and make memories that last.

Introduction to Tempe, Arizona

Location and Accessibility

Tempe sits right in the middle of the Phoenix area, just a 5-minute drive from the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. It's a breeze to get to, with lots of flights coming in every day. Once you're here, you can hop in a taxi, use a ride-share, or hop on public transport to get downtown.

Getting Around Tempe

Tempe offers many ways to get around once you're here. You can rent a car for the most freedom, or try Uber, Lyft, or Waymo's self-driving cars. There are also bike paths and trails for cycling. Plus, you can rent electric scooters to cruise around.

Tempe is easy to get around thanks to its central spot, easy airport access, and many transport choices. It's a great place for visitors to explore.

Best Areas to Stay in Tempe

Looking for the perfect place to stay in Tempe? You have many great options. Downtown Tempe, the Arizona State University (ASU) campus area, and hotels near Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport are all great choices. Each offers something different to fit your needs and likes.

Downtown Tempe

Downtown Tempe puts you right in the action. It's full of restaurants, shops, and fun things to do. Mill Avenue is famous for its food, nightlife, and culture, letting you dive into the local scene.

Arizona State University (ASU) Campus

The ASU campus area is another top spot for staying. It has many hotels for all budgets and is close to Tempe Town Lake and Mill Avenue. Being near the campus means you get to feel the college town's energy.

Near Sky Harbor Airport

If you want to be close to the airport, there are hotels near Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Some even offer free shuttle rides, making getting to and from the airport easy. This is great for business trips or flights at odd hours.

Recommended Hotels

We stayed at the Sonesta Select Tempe Downtown and loved it. It was close to Tempe Town Lake and had lots of places to eat and shop nearby. We also checked out the Westin Downtown Tempe with its cool rooftop bar and pool. And the Canopy by Hilton, known for its lively vibe and new food scene.

Best Time to Visit Tempe

The best time to visit Tempe, Arizona depends on what you like and what you want to do. Tempe has a warm, dry climate with lots of sunshine all year. It gets about 300 sunny days a year and only 9 inches of rain, with no snow.

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the best times. The weather is nice, perfect for outdoor fun. You can hike, bike, paddle, kayak, drive ATVs, or ride horses in these seasons.

Summer (June to August) is also good for saving money, even though it's hot. It's close to Phoenix and Scottsdale, so you can easily check out indoor and outdoor spots.

Winters (December to February) are mild and great for those escaping cold weather. It's a good time to try out Tempe's food scene. You'll find vegetarian cafes, Southwestern food, ethnic dishes, and distilleries.

No matter when you come, getting to Tempe is easy from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. The Skytrain and light rail take you straight to downtown. This makes it a great spot for visitors from anywhere in the world.

Top Outdoor Activities in Tempe

Tempe is a city full of outdoor adventures. You can hike the beautiful "A" Mountain trail or paddle on Tempe Town Lake. There are many ways to enjoy the outdoors during your visit.

Hiking at "A" Mountain

For a quick adventure in Downtown Tempe, try the "A" Mountain trail. This 0.6-mile hike has great views of the ASU campus, Tempe Town Lake, the airport, and more. The best times to go are at sunrise or sunset, when the light is warm and golden.

Papago Park and Hole-in-the-Rock Trail

Papago Park is a big oasis in the city with many trails, like the Hole-in-the-Rock Trail. This 0.3-mile hike takes you to a spot with amazing desert views. The park also has golf courses and the Desert Botanical Garden for more fun.

Tempe Town Lake Activities

Tempe Town Lake is great for water fun. You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, pedal boats, and more to see the lake and its beauty. There are trails for walking, running, and biking too, offering lots of ways to have fun outside.

Top Indoor Activities in Tempe

Tempe, Arizona, is a city full of life with many indoor activities. The ASU Art Museum and the Desert Botanical Garden are two top spots that draw in visitors.

ASU Art Museum

The ASU Art Museum sits on the Arizona State University campus. It's free and offers a peek into contemporary art. You'll see exhibits on architecture and activism too. Plus, there are great spots for photos and a crafting room.

Desert Botanical Garden

The Desert Botanical Garden is a key spot in Tempe. It shows off the world's best arid plants from deserts everywhere. The garden spans 140 acres, offering a calm and learning-filled visit. There's also Gertrude's restaurant, adding to the experience.

Tempe's indoor attractions offer something for everyone. Whether you love art, plants, or just want a quiet place to visit, you'll find it here.

Unique and Offbeat Experiences in Tempe

Tempe, Arizona, is a city full of diverse experiences for everyone. It has unique attractions that are a must-see for those who love to explore. Three places stand out as top spots for curious travelers.

Air Apparent Skyspace Installation

The Air Apparent Skyspace is an interactive art piece that combines architecture, art, and nature. It lets visitors relax and watch the sky change through a special opening. This place is perfect for those who want to reflect and meditate.

Tempe Crepe Bar

For a special food experience, visit the Tempe Crepe Bar. It's a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. They serve both sweet and savory crepes, offering a variety of flavors and textures.

Whether you want a Nutella crepe or a ham and cheese one, you'll love it here.

Axe Throwing

Try axe throwing for an exciting new adventure in Tempe. It's popular across the U.S. and is fun for everyone, whether you're new or experienced. It's a great way to test your skills and have fun.

Tempe offers a mix of experiences from the peaceful Air Apparent Skyspace to tasty crepes at the Tempe Crepe Bar and thrilling axe throwing. These activities are sure to make your visit memorable. Whether you're looking for reflection, food, or adventure, Tempe has it all.

Tempe's Culinary Scene

Tempe's food scene is lively and varied, offering many dining choices for any taste. You can find everything from craft breweries and top restaurants to unique spots like the Tempe Crepe Bar. Visitors can enjoy a mix of local and international flavors in the city.

For a taste of Tempe's "Spice Trail," check out the must-try spots along this flavorful stretch. Don't miss Chuckbox for its mesquite-grilled burgers and chicken sandwiches. Phoenicia Café, open since 1996, serves delicious Mediterranean food.

Tempe also has unique spots like the Tempe Crepe Bar for sweet and savory crepes. The city's craft brewery scene is perfect for those who love craft drinks.

Looking for a classic burger or international flavors? Tempe has it all. It's close to the Arizona State University Tempe Campus, making dining easy and memorable for visitors.

Best Spots for Sunrise and Sunset in Tempe

Tempe is famous for its beautiful sunrises and sunsets. It has many places to enjoy the desert's beauty. Whether you like city views or nature, Tempe has great spots to see the sun rise and set.

Some top places to see Tempe's amazing sunrises and sunsets are:

• "A" Mountain Trail - This 1.1km (0.7 mile) trail is a bit of a climb but offers great city views. It takes about 30 minutes to finish and is a moderate hike.
• Tempe Town Lake - This 25-acre lake is peaceful, with water that mirrors the sky's colors at dawn and dusk. You can watch the sunset from boats, kayaks, or paddleboards.
• Rooftop Bars and Restaurants - Places like Skysill at the Westin Tempe have amazing city views at sunrise and sunset from their rooftop.

For more sunset spots, the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix is great. It has beautiful views with cacti and red mountains. The Rio Salado Pathway is also good for biking, walking, or running by the Salt River in Tempe.

Tempe is perfect for those who love the morning or evening sky. It has many beautiful places to see the desert sky. Find the best spot to start or end your day in this lively Arizona city.

Sample 3-Day Itinerary in Tempe

To help you make the most of your visit, here is a suggested 3-day itinerary for Tempe:

Day 1

Start your day with a sunrise hike at the iconic "A" Mountain. Enjoy the stunning views of the city as the sun rises. Then, treat yourself to a delicious breakfast at Daily Jam, a local favorite.

Later, head to Tempe Town Lake for fun activities like stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking. Or, take a stroll along the scenic lakefront. End the day with afternoon tea at the Drink Me! Tea Room. Enjoy delicate pastries and fragrant teas.

Day 2

Begin the day by tufting a custom rug at Tutugether studio. Then, check out the Skysill rooftop bar for dinner and sunset views. The dining scene in Tempe is vibrant and exciting.

Day 3

On your final day, explore Tempe's culture. Visit the ASU Art Museum to see contemporary art. Then, head to the Desert Botanical Garden to see desert plants.

Finish your Tempe adventure at the Mill Avenue District. This area has bars, restaurants, and live music. It's the perfect way to experience the local nightlife.

This 3-day itinerary lets you see the best of Tempe. From outdoor adventures to great food and nightlife, you'll have a blast. Enjoy your time in this sunny and welcoming city!

Tempe, Arizona: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Tempe, Arizona, is full of activities for visitors. You can enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural spots, and unique experiences. It's perfect for an active trip, food lovers, or those into arts and entertainment. Tempe is easy to get to and has lots to do, making it great for a weekend trip or exploring Phoenix.

At Papago Park, you can check out the Desert Botanical Garden and the famous Hole-in-the-Rock Trail. For water fun, head to Tempe Town Lake. Or, test your fitness with a hike up "A" Mountain.

For indoor fun, the ASU Art Museum has modern art. Or see a show at the historic ASU Gammage theater, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Tempe's food scene is exciting, with everything from creative drinks at the Tempe Crepe Bar to many dining choices on Mill Avenue. Watch the sunset at great spots like the Lunar Exploration Museum at Arizona State University.

For something different, see the Air Apparent Skyspace Installation or try axe throwing at a local venue. Tempe has so much to offer, promising an adventure you won't forget.

Tempe has something for everyone, from nature lovers to culture enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. Plan your trip to Tempe and see why it's a city you'll want to visit again.

Nightlife in Tempe

Tempe is a city that comes alive at night. It's known for its exciting nightlife. The best places to go are the Tempe Marketplace and the Mill Avenue District.

Tempe Marketplace

Tempe Marketplace is a hotspot for night fun. It has shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment. You can shop, eat, and enjoy the lively plazas.

There are live music, outdoor movies, and events for everyone. Whether you want a chill dinner, a fun bar, or a night out, you'll find it here.

Mill Avenue District

The Mill Avenue District in Downtown Tempe is buzzing with nightlife. It has bars, clubs, and live music for all tastes. Walking down Mill Avenue lets you see all the fun spots.

You can find everything from cozy pubs to big nightclubs here. It's perfect for dancing, enjoying live music, or just being out. This area of Tempe is great for a night out.

Tempe is easy to get to, full of energy, and has lots to do at night. It's the perfect place for a memorable night out.

Conclusion

Tempe, Arizona, is a city full of life and variety. It has outdoor adventures, cultural spots, unique food, and lively nightlife. No matter what you like, Tempe has something for you.

It's easy to get around and has lots to do, making it perfect for a weekend getaway or a start to exploring Phoenix. You can visit the stunning Grand Canyon in just 3.5 hours or enjoy Tempe's local events and festivals.

Tempe is great for art lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and foodies. Its vibrant energy, friendly vibe, and many activities make it a top spot in Arizona. So, plan your visit and see everything Tempe has to offer.