Planning a trip to Tempe, Arizona? You’re in the right place. I’ve spent time visiting this city, and I can tell you it has far more to offer than most people expect.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the 17 best things to do in Tempe so you don’t waste a single hour wondering what’s next.
From hiking and lake walks to local food spots and art murals, this list covers it all. I’ll also share where to stay, the best time to visit, and tips to plan your trip without stress.
Why Visit Tempe, Arizona?
Tempe is one of those cities that surprises you. It sits right next to Phoenix, but it has its own personality. Here’s why so many travelers keep coming back.
Year-round sunshine and desert scenery make outdoor plans easy. You can count on warm weather for most of the year, which means hiking, biking, and lake activities are almost always an option.
Home to Arizona State University, Tempe has a lively energy. The campus brings in culture, art, food, and events that keep the city feeling fresh and active.
A mix of outdoor fun, arts, food, and nightlife means there’s something for every type of traveler. Families, solo visitors, and couples all find things they enjoy here.
Easy access from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport makes getting to Tempe simple. It’s just a short drive or light rail ride away, which saves you time from the moment you land.
17 Best Things to Do Tempe Visitors Will Love
From desert hikes to local food spots, here’s everything worth your time in Tempe.
1. Hike Hayden Butte (A Mountain)
A short but rewarding hike with city views that are hard to beat.
Hayden Butte is one of the most visited spots in Tempe for a reason. The trail is short and takes most people under 30 minutes to reach the top. Once you’re up there, you get a full view of the city, Tempe Town Lake, and the surrounding desert.
It’s one of the best places to catch a sunset in the entire valley. The sky turns orange and pink over the skyline, and it makes for great photos. Go on a weekday if you want a quieter experience.
2. Walk or Bike Around Tempe Town Lake
A scenic waterfront spot where locals and visitors relax and stay active.
Tempe Town Lake is a man-made lake right in the heart of the city. The path around it is about five miles long and works well for walking, jogging, or biking. It never feels too crowded, and the views of the water with the city behind it are really nice.
If you want to get on the water, rentals for kayaks and paddleboards are available nearby. It’s a laid-back way to spend a morning or afternoon without spending much money.
3. Visit Papago Park
Desert landscapes and short trails perfect for all fitness levels.
Papago Park is just a short drive from downtown Tempe and offers one of the most interesting natural settings in the area. The red sandstone formations stand out against the blue sky, and the whole place feels like a different world.
The short hike to Hole in the Rock is popular and takes less than 20 minutes. From the top, you get a wide view of the surrounding area. The park also connects to the Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Garden, so you can plan a full day here easily.
4. Visit the Desert Botanical Garden
A living collection of desert plants with rotating seasonal events.
The Desert Botanical Garden sits inside Papago Park and holds one of the largest collections of desert plants in the world. Walking through the trails feels like stepping into the heart of the Sonoran Desert.
The exhibits change through the year, and there are special events in different seasons, including night walks with lights during the cooler months. It’s a good spot for anyone who enjoys nature, photography, or simply being outside in a peaceful setting.
5. Tour Four Peaks Brewing Company
A local craft brewery known for its award-winning beers and relaxed vibe.
Four Peaks is one of the most well-known breweries in Arizona. They’ve been making craft beer in Tempe for decades, and their Kilt Lifter Scottish Ale has won national attention. The brewery itself is set inside a historic red brick building that adds to the experience.
You can take a tour, sample different beers, and grab food at the taproom. It’s a great stop for anyone who enjoys local craft drinks in a setting with real character.
6. See ASU’s Air Apparent
A sky-focused art installation that changes with the light throughout the day.
Air Apparent is an outdoor art installation on the ASU campus that plays with natural light and the open sky. It doesn’t look like much in a photo description, but when you stand inside it, the experience is different.
The best time to visit is during sunrise or sunset when the light shifts across the structure. It’s free to visit and takes only about 20 minutes, but it’s the kind of spot that sticks with you.
7. Catch a Show at ASU Gammage
A world-class performing arts venue with a Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired design.
ASU Gammage is one of the most recognizable buildings in Tempe. It was one of the last public buildings designed with influence from Frank Lloyd Wright, and the circular shape makes it stand out from everything around it.
Inside, the venue hosts Broadway tours, concerts, and performing arts events throughout the season. Even if you’re not catching a show, the building itself is worth seeing from the outside. Check the schedule ahead of time so you can plan around a performance.
8. Browse 2nd Sundays on Mill
A monthly street market with local makers, live music, and food.
On the second Sunday of each month, Mill Avenue turns into an open-air market with local artisans selling handmade goods. You’ll find art, jewelry, ceramics, clothing, and more from makers based in the area.
Live music plays throughout the event, and food vendors set up nearby. It’s a free and casual outing that gives you a real feel for the local creative community. If your trip lines up with the second Sunday, make time for it.
9. Visit the Tempe History Museum
A free museum covering the full story of Tempe from its earliest days.
The Tempe History Museum is a small but well-organized space that covers the city’s past in an honest and interesting way. Exhibits cover Native American history, the growth of ASU, and how the city changed over the decades.
Admission is free, and the rotating exhibits mean there’s often something new to see. It’s a good stop if you want to understand the place you’re visiting on a deeper level.
10. Visit the ASU Art Museum
A free contemporary art space on campus with rotating international collections.
The ASU Art Museum is another free stop that often gets overlooked. Located on the main Tempe campus, it features rotating exhibits of contemporary art from artists around the world. The work shown here tends to be thought-provoking and not the kind of thing you’d find in a typical gallery.
Visiting takes about an hour and fits easily into a day on or near campus. It’s a solid option for art lovers who want something outside the usual tourist stops.
11. Try Axe Throwing at LumberjAxes
A fun group activity that’s beginner-friendly and surprisingly addictive.
LumberjAxes is one of the more unexpected things to do in Tempe, and it’s a great choice if you’re traveling with friends or want something active and entertaining. You don’t need any experience to start. The staff walks you through the basics before your session begins.
It’s a popular spot for birthday groups, date nights, and just casual hangouts. Book ahead, especially on weekends, since time slots fill up fast.
12. Play Board Games at Snakes and Lattes
A cozy café with hundreds of board games, food, and a welcoming crowd.
Snakes and Lattes is a board game café where you pay a small fee to access their full library of games. They have hundreds of options, and the staff can help you find the right game for your group.
You can order food and drinks while you play, which makes for a really comfortable few hours. It’s a great spot for a rainy afternoon or when you want to slow down and actually connect with the people you’re traveling with.
13. Eat at Green New American Vegetarian
A laid-back vegan spot known for creative comfort food with bold flavors.
Green New American Vegetarian is one of the most talked-about restaurants in Tempe, and not just among vegans. The menu is built around familiar comfort food made entirely from plant-based ingredients, and the portions are generous.
The space is casual and welcoming, with a crowd that ranges from students to families. If you’re not sure what to order, the Mac Daddy and the nachos are both popular choices. It’s a good stop even if you usually eat meat.
14. Relax at Singh Meadows
A peaceful farm-to-table café set in a working garden with picnic-style seating.
Singh Meadows is one of those places that feels removed from the city even though it’s not far from everything. The café operates out of a working farm, and the menu changes based on what’s growing.
You can grab food, find a shady spot, and sit outside for as long as you want. It’s a calm, slower-paced experience that’s easy to enjoy on a cool morning or a light afternoon.
15. Grab Coffee at Cartel Coffee Lab
A respected local roastery with strong coffee and a comfortable work-friendly space.
Cartel Coffee Lab has been part of the Tempe coffee scene for years. They roast their own beans and take their craft seriously, which shows in every cup. The space is clean, quiet enough to work in, and the staff actually knows coffee.
It’s the kind of place where locals sit for hours with a laptop or a book. If you’re a coffee person, this is worth going out of your way for.
16. Visit South Mountain Park
A massive desert park with miles of trails and wide views across the valley.
South Mountain Park is one of the largest municipal parks in the United States. It sits on the southern edge of the Phoenix metro area and offers dozens of trails at different difficulty levels.
The views from the upper trails stretch across the entire valley, and on a clear day, you can see for miles. It’s best visited in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. Bring water and wear good shoes.
17. Experience Tempe’s Public Art and Murals
A self-guided walking tour through colorful murals and outdoor art installations.
Tempe has invested in public art throughout the city, and the result is a great self-guided walking experience. Many of the murals are concentrated near Mill Avenue and the downtown area, with pieces from both local and national artists.
You don’t need a map or a tour guide to enjoy it. Just walk around and look up. It’s free, it’s interesting, and it gives you a sense of the city’s creative identity in a way that a museum visit can’t.
Where to Stay in Tempe
Tempe has a good range of places to stay depending on your budget and what you want to be close to.
Downtown hotels are the most convenient for first-time visitors. The AC Hotel by Marriott Phoenix/Tempe Downtown is a popular choice. It’s modern, well-located near Mill Avenue, and within walking distance of Tempe Town Lake and many of the spots on this list.
Best neighborhoods for visitors are the Mill Avenue area and anywhere near the lakefront. These spots keep you close to restaurants, nightlife, and the main attractions without needing a car for most outings.
Tips for booking during peak season: Tempe gets busy in the fall when ASU football is in full swing, and again in spring during spring training and graduation season. Book at least a few weeks ahead if your trip falls in those windows. Prices jump and availability drops fast.
Best Time to Visit Tempe
October through April is the sweet spot for most visitors. Temperatures are comfortable, outdoor activities are enjoyable, and the city hosts a lot of events during this window. If you want the best experience overall, aim for November through March.
Summer travel is possible but comes with heat. June, July, and August regularly see temperatures above 110 degrees Fahrenheit. If you visit in summer, plan outdoor activities early in the morning and spend the hottest hours indoors. The upside is that hotel prices drop significantly.
Seasonal events are spread throughout the year. Fall brings ASU football and the Arizona State Fair. Spring has the Tempe Festival of the Arts and spring training baseball nearby. The Desert Botanical Garden runs its popular Luminaria event in late fall and winter.
Tips for Planning Your Tempe Trip
Simple planning tips to help you get the most out of your time in Tempe.
- Tempe is accessible by the Valley Metro Light Rail, which connects directly to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. Once you’re in Tempe, many of the top spots are walkable from downtown.
- For South Mountain Park and Papago Park, a car or rideshare works better than public transit. These spots are a bit farther from the downtown core.
- Several of the best things to do in Tempe are completely free. The murals, Tempe History Museum, ASU Art Museum, and hiking trails cost nothing at all.
- Pair one or two free spots with a paid experience like Four Peaks Brewing or LumberjAxes, and you can fill a full day without spending much money.
- Two to three days is enough to cover the highlights without rushing. If you want a slower pace or plan to take day trips to Sedona or the Grand Canyon, add another day or two to your trip.
Conclusion
Tempe is one of those places that grows on you fast. I didn’t expect to love it as much as I did, but the mix of outdoor access, local food, and real community energy made it hard not to.
The 17 best things to do in Tempe in this guide are a solid starting point, but the city rewards slow exploration too. Give yourself time to wander.
If you’ve already visited Tempe or plan to soon, drop a comment below and share your favorite spot. I’d love to hear what made your trip special.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best free things to do in Tempe?
Some of the best free options include the Tempe History Museum, ASU Art Museum, the public murals around downtown, and hiking at Hayden Butte. Tempe Town Lake paths are also free to walk or bike.
Is Tempe worth visiting if you’re not an ASU fan?
Yes, Tempe is worth a visit regardless of your interest in the university. The food scene, outdoor parks, craft breweries, and local markets are all worth the trip on their own.
How do I get around Tempe without a car?
The Valley Metro Light Rail connects Tempe to the airport and nearby cities. Many of the downtown spots are walkable, and rideshares are easy to find for places slightly farther out.
What is the best area to stay in Tempe?
Staying near Mill Avenue or Tempe Town Lake puts you close to most of the top spots. It’s a walkable area with good food, nightlife, and easy access to the lake paths.
How many days should I spend in Tempe?
Two to three days is enough to cover the main highlights. If you want to include day trips or take a slower pace, three to four days gives you more breathing room without feeling rushed.
