Tempe is the jewel of Arizona, USA. If you are searching for fun things to do in Tempe, we have got you covered! Tempe, AZ has retained its pristine natural beauty, as well as blending the urban convenience and vitality. Whether it’s vast desert landscapes, stunning lakes, various arts and cultural activities, or recreational facilities and food options, Tempe has something to every visitor. For students or visitors planning a long-term stay here, Tempe has just as much to offer, from student apartments to comfortable hotels. Follow our steps to explore the unique things to do in Tempe Arizona and feel this vibrant and charming city together.
Why Is Tempe Arizona So Popular?
Located in the east of the Phoenix metro area in Arizona, Tempe offers both urban convenience and natural tranquility. The pace of urban life in Tempe is fast, but there is no loss of natural beauty. Lakes, parks, and the surrounding desert landscape offer a wealth of outdoor activities for residents and visitors alike, making Tempe an ideal place to study, work, and relax. Tempe is also home to Arizona State University (ASU). The university is not only one of the largest public research universities in the United States, but also is known for its world-class academic research and innovative programs. Therefore, Tempe attracts students, scholars and scientific and technological innovation talents from all over the world, forming a strong academic atmosphere. Whether it’s natural landscape, urban convenience, academic research, career development, or relaxation, Tempe offers an ideal environment for people to live and become a city of academic, cultural and natural beauty.
Things to Do in Tempe AZ
Take a Scenic Hike Up "A" Mountain
Hiking “A” Mountain is one of the fascinating things to do in Tempe. Located southwest of downtown Tempe, ”A” Mountain is a well-known local landmark known for the “ASU” letter sign at its top and its spectacular panoramic views.
Along the hiking way, the landscape gradually changes, with desert vegetation and rocky landforms complementing cityscape of Tempe. The trail is steep, but wide trails and simple markers make the process both safe and challenging. Once you reach the top of the “A” mountain, you will get a spectacular view of the entire city of Tempe and the surrounding mountains. Especially at sunrise or sunset, the scenery on the top of the mountain is even more beautiful, and the color of the sky and the horizon make people intoxicated. “A” Mountain is not only an ideal place for sports lovers but also a paradise for photography and nature lovers.
Hiking “A” Mountain offers the serenity and beauty of being in close contact with nature, making it an outdoor activity choice not to be missed in Tempe.
Address: Tempe Butte, Tempe, AZ 85281
Visit the ASU Art Museum: A Hub for Contemporary Art
It is one of the free things to do in Tempe AZ! ASU Art Museum is located in the campus of Arizona State University in Tempe. The exhibition content in this art museum is very rich, covering a wide range of fields from visual art, sculpture, photography to new media art. Also, there are temporary exhibitions held regularly, showcasing art works from all over the world. These exhibitions not only focus on artistic diversity, but also emphasize interaction with contemporary social issues, encouraging the audience to think and reflect. The permanent collection is equally impressive, encompassing a large number of works by local and international artists, particularly in the Southwestern United States and Latin America. In addition, some of the interactive art exhibitions and digital art projects in the ASU Art Museum have attracted a large number of young people and family visitors to participate, providing a more immersive experience.
For art-loving visitors and students, the ASU Art Museum is an ideal cultural destination. It not only showcases a wealth of art, but also provides a platform for people to interact with creativity and culture, and is a window into the art culture of Arizona and the world.
Address: 51 E 10th St, Tempe, AZ 85281
Hike Papago Park: Trails and Scenic Views Await
Papago Park, located next to Arizona State University, is a valuable natural resource for the city of Tempe, and it is also one of the unique Tempe Arizona attractions. The park is famous for the “Papago Buttes” trail, which is the stunning Hole-in-the-Rock Trail, taking visitors through the unique rock formations which is the attractive things to see in Tempe to an excellent vantage point overlooking the city and the surrounding desert. The view from here is intoxicating with magnificent views of red rock and desert vegetation, as well as mountain lines in the distance.
In addition to hiking, Papago Park offers family-friendly activities such as picnics, photography and bird watching. Especially in the morning and at dusk, the views of the park are most enchanting, and hikers can enjoy the peace and beauty of nature under the warm sun.
Address: 1000 N College Ave, Tempe, AZ 85288
Explore the Desert Botanical Garden: A Natural Oasis
Desert Botanical Garden is a gem of Tempe. Taking an exploration of Desert Botanical Garden is one of the memorable things to do in your Tempe AZ travel. This Botanical Garden showcases various desert plants such as cacti, desert shrubs, and rare drought tolerant plants. Moreover, the Botanical Garden also provide visitors with a space to get close to nature and relax through multiple themed areas and walks. Visitors can walk through the winding trails and experience the peace and beauty of the desert while learning how desert plants adapt to extreme climates. In addition, interactive exhibitions and educational programs in the park provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the operation of the desert ecosystem and its biodiversity conservation.
Each year, the Tempe Desert Botanical Garden also hosts a series of special events, such as desert plant exhibits, festivals and night light shows, which attract a large number of visitors. For those who love nature and ecology, it is an unmissable destination, offering an opportunity to get up close and personal with desert plants.
Address: 1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Experience Tempe Town Lake: Rent a Kayak or Paddleboard
Experiencing the Tempe Town Lake is another fun activities in Tempe. Tempe Town Lake is an artificial lake in Tempe that is one of the most popular recreational and water activity centers in the area.
There are spacious walking and cycling trails around the lake for jogging, walking and cycling. Along the walk along the lake, you can enjoy the beautiful view of the lake reflecting the city skyline, especially at sunrise and sunset, the lake presents a golden glow, is a photographer’s paradise. There are also small islands in the lake, which can be taken by boat or rented canoe for a peaceful time on the water.
Kayaking, rowing or sailing are also the cool things to do in Tempe’s water activities. In addition, the park area around the lake often hosts outdoor concerts, festivals and weekend markets, adding a lot of energy and social atmosphere.
Tempe Town Lake is also a venue for major events, attracting thousands of visitors each year for events as diverse as triathlons, sailing races and marathons. For family visitors, the park green spaces around the Lake District are also a great place to relax, where children can play on the lawn and families can have picnics together and enjoy the warm sun and breeze.
Address: 72 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, AZ 85282
Visit the Tempe History Museum: Learn About Local Heritage
Visiting Tempe History Museum is one of the best things to do in Tempe, as the Tempe History Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Tempe and the surrounding area. Located in downtown Tempe, the museum showcases the rich history between ancient Indian culture and modern urban development. Inside the Tempe History Museum, there are tools and the way of life of the area’s indigenous people, the history of agriculture, railroads, and technological development of Tempe and the surrounding area, providing many valuable historical photographs, documents, and relics.
Moreover, The Tempe History Museum is highly interactive and suitable for visitors of all ages. Visitors can learn about history through interactive exhibits and participate in related activities. If you’re interested in local history, culture, and community, a visit to Tempe History Museum is an meaningful things to do in Tempe that you can not miss, which will provide you with a deep historical perspective and take you inside the past and present of the city.
Address: 809 E Southern Ave, Tempe, AZ 85282
Mill Avenue: Indulge in Tempe's Nightlife
Downtown Tempe is the heart of nightlife, especially Mill Avenue, which is full of bars, nightclubs, restaurants and cafes, and it is the best places to visit in Tempe to deeply enjoy the nightlife of Tempe. The nightlife in Tempe is vibrant and diverse, from lively bars to fine dining to charming live music venues, offering a variety of options for everyone to find something for their night out. Whether you like to enjoy a cocktail on the outdoor terrace or are passionate about dancing in the hot nightclubs, Tempe’s nights have everything you need. Many bars and restaurants offer live music, and every style of music, from jazz and blues to rock, has its fans. Especially on weekends, the streets of the city center often see buskers and open-air performances, creating a lively and charming atmosphere. For a more unique experience, head to one of the rooftop bars to enjoy stunning skyline views, or sample local specialties at a local restaurant for a relaxing evening with a hand-made cocktail.
Address: S Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281-2867
Tempe Marketplace: Shopping, Dinning and Feeling the Local Culture
Shopping in Tempe Marketplace is also one of the fun activities in Tempe, which we can not miss. Tempe Marketplace is a popular and modern outdoor shopping center located in downtown Tempe offering a wealth of shopping options, as well as a mix of dining, entertainment and community activities, making it a popular destination for local residents and tourists alike. There are a large number of retail stores in the market, from big-name fashion stores to independent designer stores, able to cater to a variety of consumer needs. Moreover, dining options here range from quick street food to upscale restaurants. In addition, Tempe Marketplace is also friendly to children setting with many play areas and a variety of recreational activities.
Another great feature of the market is its cultural atmosphere and regular events, like local art exhibitions, festivals and concerts, which provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about the local culture and community.
Address: 2000 E Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85288
Relax and have fun at Tempe Beach Park
Tempe Beach Park, located along the picturesque Salt River, is one of the most popular outdoor recreation areas, providing many things to do in Tempe AZ. The biggest feature of Tempe Beach Park is its extensive lawn and sand area, where visitors can relax, sunbathe, or participate in a variety of water activities. There is an artificial lake in the park, where people can canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) in the summer to enjoy the cool water sports.
In addition, there are many facilities in the park, such as a children’s playground, picnic area and barbeque grills, which are convenient for families and friends to spend a fun day outdoors.
Whether it’s water sports, or simple picnics and walks, Tempe Beach Park offers visitors a fun and vibrant experience.
Address: 80 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281
Riding and Walking Along the Rio Salado Pathway
Rio Salado Path is a charming trail that winds along the Salt River. There is no car on the Rio Salado Path! So it is one of the ideal places to visit in Tempe to cycling, walking and relaxing.
It is also the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of the fusion of city and nature. The path boasts lush vegetation and stunning open river views on both sides, and occasionally wildlife can be seen, giving people a sense of peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the city. There are also several rest stops and viewing spots along the way for visitors to stop and enjoy the scenery or take photos.
Rio Salado Path is this part of Tempe, it’s also the best place to explore the city’s natural beauty and enjoy the outdoors.
Address: Multiple access spots along the Rio Salado Pathway.
Where to Eat in Tempe AZ?
Daily Jam
Daily Jam is a popular Tempe breakfast and brunch restaurant and it is one of the best places to eat in Tempe Arizona. The decoration in the restaurant is simple, modern and vibrant, creating a warm and comfortable dining experience. The menu features various creative brunch options, such as deluxe pancakes, marinated meat and egg sandwiches, and a variety of egg dishes. Besides, the restaurant also offers a variety of healthy options, such as avocado toast and salad, to meet the needs of different diners. In addition to its delicious dishes, Daily Jam is also known for its excellent drinks. Whether it’s iced drip coffee, hand-made mocha, or fresh juices and smoothies, the drinks at the restaurant are known for their high quality and innovation.
Gertrude's
Gertrude’s is a beloved Tempe restaurant located in the beautiful Desert Botanical Garden, offering modern American cuisine and creative dining experiences. The setting of the restaurant is elegant, natural and full of the unique charm of the desert landscape, making it another best places to eat Tempe AZ. Gertrude’s offers a wide range of dishes. From a rich beetroot salad to traditional American dishes such as beef stew, Gertrude’s has something for every taste. In addition, the restaurant offers a range of creative cocktails and a selection of wines to add more options to the dining experience.
Where to Stay in Tempe AZ?
Housing options in Tempe are very diverse, from student dormitories to upscale hotels, catering to different needs. Especially for students, there are many affordable and comfortable options.
Student Housing
Tempe is home to Arizona State University, so student housing is very common. Through uhomes.com, students can find many types of accommodation, including single rooms, multi-share apartments and all-inclusive student housing, and there are also many student apartments near the tourist attractions.
Downtown Hotel
There are many chain hotels and boutique hostels in the city center, making it easy to explore the main attractions in Tempe.
Homestays and Short-Term Rentals
Tempe also has a large number of homestays listings, suitable for short-term trips or family trips.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Tempe, Arizona?
How is the weather in Tempe Arizona? Tempe enjoys a typical desert climate, the four seasons are not obvious, the temperature difference between summer and winter is large. Due to its desert location, Tempe’s climate is characterized by hot summers and warm winters.
Summer temperatures often break 40℃, especially between June and September, when daytime temperatures are unbearably high and night temperatures drop slightly but remain above 30℃. As a result, visitors to Tempe during the summer months often choose to go out in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
Winters in Tempe are mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures usually between 15 and 25 ℃. It is ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the beautiful landscape of the desert during the winter season in Tempe Arizona. Winter is the peak tourist season in Tempe, especially between November and March, when visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, sightseeing and other activities without being affected by the hot weather. The warm climate during the day is perfect for hiking, running, rolling, visiting Tempe Desert Botanical Garden or outdoor adventures such as hiking in Papago Park. During the night, the temperature is moderate enough to enjoy a meal at an open-air restaurant or cafe and experience the local nightlife.
While the summer heat in Tempe may deter some visitors, for those adventurers who can tolerate the heat, the desert summer scenery has its own charm. Overall, the best time to visit Tempe is in the winter, and the warm climate and abundance of outdoor activities make this an ideal vacation spot, especially for those who love the sun, outdoor activities and desert scenery.
Conclusion on What to Do in Tempe
Tempe is a vibrant and fun tourist destination with beautiful natural scenery and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you like to be outdoorsor just relax and enjoy nature, there are plenty of things to do in Tempe to suit you. Moreover, during your trip, don’t forget to taste the local cuisine to make your trip more colorful. Hopefully this article will help you get to know this vibrant city better and start an unforgettable trip to Tempe!
FAQs on Things to Do in Tempe AZ
What are the cool and unusual things to do in Tempe?
Hiking “A” Mountain, kayaking, rowing, sailing on Tempe Town Lake, and seeing sunrise and sunset in Tempe are the cool and unusual things to do and see in Tempe.
Does Tempe have nightlife?
Yes, you will feel the real vibrant in the nightlife in Tempe. There are craft breweries, cool cocktail bars, distillery tasting rooms, charming rooftop bars, sports bars and more. Whether collegiate students, young professionals, or sports fans, all can find the perfect place for a night on the town and enjoy the nightlife in Tempe.
Is Downtown Tempe walkable?
Downtonw Tempe is a very walkable urban and most errands can be accomplished on foot. The entertainment district in downtown Tempe boasts authentic Southwestern and global cushines, boutique retails and shops, and an endless variety of street performances, all of this can be reached just by walking.
