She created Wander In Arizona to share first-hand information about traveling to the many fantastic cities, trails, national parks, monuments and more as she continues to explore.
There are many amazing things to do in Tempe AZ, located in Maricopa County in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area.
Tempe is one of those Arizona cities that surprises people in the best way. Yes, it’s a college town in the Phoenix metro, but it’s also a lakeside-sunset city with walkable pockets, museum breaks, and nights that are genuinely fun without requiring a spreadsheet.
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway from Phoenix, stopping on a road trip, or building a “Phoenix–Tempe–Scottsdale” combo, Tempe makes it easy. The best plan is simple: spend time around Mill Avenue and Tempe Town Lake, then add one anchor experience (a bike tour, a show at Gammage/TCA, or an indoor Arizona Mills day if it’s summer).
In this updated 2026 guide, I’m sharing the best things to do in Tempe, where to stay, what to book ahead, plus a few itineraries you can steal and a “Tempe summer survival plan” that keeps the day fun even when the sun is not.
- Best for: Mill Ave energy + Tempe Town Lake sunsets + easy “do a lot without driving” weekends.
- Do first: Downtown Tempe/Mill Ave stroll, then choose your anchor: Tempe Town Lake (sunset loop) or a guided bike tour.
- 2026 transit win: Tempe has the free Orbit circulator and a modern streetcar that connects downtown/ASU/Town Lake.
- Don’t overplan: Tempe is best in 2 blocks: Mill Ave + the Lake. Everything else is bonus.
| Ideal trip length | 1–2 days (best), or evening stop | Closest airport | Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best time | Oct–Apr outdoors; summer = indoor + night plans | Most iconic | Tempe Town Lake + Mill Avenue |
| Best with kids | LEGOLAND + SEA LIFE at Arizona Mills | Best night | Show at Gammage/TCA or concert at Marquee |
- Do outdoors early: sunrise lake loop or a short walk at Papago/Hole-in-the-Rock.
- Go indoor mid-day: museums OR Arizona Mills (LEGOLAND + SEA LIFE) to reset in A/C.
- Come back out for sunset: Tempe Town Lake is best in golden hour.
- Night plan: show at Gammage/TCA or a concert at Marquee (Tempe is built for nights).
Tempe in 2 days
Day 1: Mill Ave + ASU Art Museum + Tempe Town Lake sunset + dinner/show.
Day 2: Book a bike tour or do Papago/Hole-in-the-Rock, then keep the evening easy with drinks or a concert.
Tempe in 3 days
Day 1: Downtown + lake + signature night.
Day 2: Arizona Mills indoor day or family day.
Day 3: Use Tempe as your base for a Phoenix/Scottsdale sampler without changing hotels.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT TEMPE, ARIZONA
Spring is the most crowded season in Tempe as it is a favourite period among locals and visitors.
The weather is excellent, and the warm air and colourful desert landscapes adorned with vibrant wildflowers in blossom, make it a popular month.
The hottest period in Tempe is between June and August.
If you want to avoid crowds and travel economically, the fall months are ideal, especially November and beyond, since Tempe is one of the best places to spend a winter in Arizona.
OTHER PLANNING GUIDES:
- Closest Airport to Phoenix
- Closest Airport to Mesa
- Closest Airport to Scottsdale
- Best Weekend Trips From Phoenix
HOW TO GET TO TEMPE (WITHOUT OVERTHINKING IT)
Tempe sits right next to Phoenix and Scottsdale, and it’s one of the easiest Arizona cities to do car-free-ish thanks to light rail connections, the Tempe streetcar, and free circulators.
- Fly in: Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) is the closest major airport. Then it’s a quick rideshare, rental car, or transit connection.
- Drive in: Tempe is right off the Phoenix metro freeway grid, so it’s an easy base for day trips.
- Use transit: Tempe is served by bus + light rail, plus the Tempe Streetcar linking downtown/ASU/Town Lake.
- Orbit is Tempe’s free neighborhood circulator (6 routes, runs daily).
- The Tempe Streetcar connects key Tempe stops (downtown, ASU, Town Lake).
- For longer rides (light rail/bus), check Valley Metro hours.
BEST TOURS TO ENJOY WHILE EXPLORING TEMPE
| Experience | Best for | Length | Book |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Cities & Nature: Phoenix + Tempe + Scottsdale | First-timers who want a “sampler platter” | ~2.5 hrs | Book → |
| Hole in the Rock & Tempe Lake E-Bike Tour | Active sightseeing without melting | ~2 hrs | Book → |
| Tempe Town Lake + Papago “Hole in the Rock” Bike & Hike | People who want a hike photo stop + lake path | ~1.5–2 hrs | Book → |
| Tempe Puzzling Adventure / scavenger-style walking game | Friends, couples, easy “do something” evening | ~2 hrs | Book → |
Family tickets in Tempe (Arizona Mills): LEGOLAND + SEA LIFE (click)
BEST THINGS TO DO IN TEMPE AZ
EXPLORE DOWNTOWN TEMPE
One of the best things to do in Tempe Az is the heart of the town, the perfect way to immerse in the city’s culture.
Downtown Tempe is located on South Mill Avenue near the Arizona State University Tempe Campus.
Mill Ave, a pedestrian-friendly street, is the perfect place to enjoy shopping, dining, and nightlife. Regardless of what time of day you visit, Mill Ave is always worth a stroll.
Known for its brick sidewalks, unique shops, many bars, delicious food, entertainment venues, microbreweries, restaurants, and shops, there’s something for everyone on this iconic Tempe street.
If you are wondering what to do in Tempe today, this is a great place to start.
On special days and during peak tourist months, you can even spot local artists performing on the street, as well as events and parties during Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
CHECK OUT THE UNIVERSITY ART MUSEUM
The list of the best things to do in Tempe AZ would be incomplete without mentioning the largest university in the state, Arizona State University.
ASU is also home to some fantastic museums open to the public, and Arizona State University Art Museum is one of them.
Established in 1950, the Arizona State University Art Museum features a permanent collection consisting of more than 12,000 objects, including Latin American art, art from Arizona and the Southwestern US.
You can find over 3,500 pieces of American ceramics, contemporary art, and American and European prints.
Depending on when you visit, you can attend one of the many events held at the museum, including attending creative workshops, and outreach activities.
Current details: ASU Art Museum is at 51 E. 10th Street and is typically open Wednesday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Monday, Tuesday, and university holidays.
Learn the history of Tempe
The Tempe History Museum is one of the best free stops in the city if you want a quick grounding in Tempe’s story before diving back into lake views, ASU energy, and nightlife. It covers the history of Tempe and the Salt River Valley through exhibits, archives, photos, and rotating gallery shows.
Current details: The museum is located at 809 E. Southern Ave. and is typically open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Admission is free.
VISIT TEMPE CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Whether you are an art buff or not, I highly recommend stopping by the Tempe Center for the Arts, known for its spectacularly designed building along the riverfront.
It’s a feast for the senses and one of the iconic landmarks in Tempe.
The Tempe Center for the Arts is a visual and performing arts located on West Rio Salado Parkway along the Salt River in Tempe.
Built between 2004 and 2007, the complex’s roof is dazzling, comprising intricate geometric folded plates.
The center serves as the home of dance companies from around the world.
Browse the visual arts space that displays thousands of splendid works by local and international artists.
Watch a show at the theatre, visit one of the many exhibitions, witness an event in their 200-seater studio theatre, or attend the many performances held here.
There are usually open-mic nights, plays held here by local theatre groups, and even free classical concerts during the evenings and weekends.
WITNESS AN EVENT AT ASU GAMMAGE
One of the iconic attractions in Tempe, Arizona, is ASU Gammage, a massive auditorium located on South Forest Avenue on the campus of Arizona State University.
It is one of the top things to do in Tempe AZ as this historic building was the last publicly commissioned building designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
Built between 1962 and 1964, the auditorium is named after Dr Grady Gammage, president of the university from 1933 to 1959 and close friend of Frank Lloyd Wright.
This architectural marvel has three levels of seating and can accommodate 3,000 people.
It is renowned for its excellent acoustics, collapsible orchestra shell and symphony ring.
If you can time it right, do attend one of the events among the many symphony concerts, Broadway musicals, organ recitals, Operas, theatricals, and many other events held in the auditorium.
CHECK OUT THE EXHIBITS AT PETERSON HOUSE MUSEUM
Another exciting stop for museum lovers visiting Tempe is The Niels Petersen House, a local historic landmark.
Listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, it is one of the top things to do in Tempe AZ.
Known for its exemplary Queen Anne Style brick architecture in the Salt River Valley, this house gives you glimpses of the lives of the people in the late 1800s.
Wander around the well-preserved rooms adorned with pieces authentic to the late 1800s and early 20th century, all symbols of an upper-class society during those times.
Note that it is best to book your Petersen House Museum tour in advance, as visits are by appointment only.
STOP BY HAYDEN FLOUR MILL
One of the top historical landmark buildings in the city is Hayden Flour Mill, a perfect spot to get introduced to the city’s milling history.
Located at the southeast corner of Mill Avenue and Rio Salado Parkway, it is one of the fun places to visit in Tempe AZ.
The original flour mill was constructed in 1874 and rebuilt later as the building was brought down by a fire.
Although not used since 1998, and you cannot get in, the Hayden Flour Mill is worth a quick stop on your way to A Mountain as it is on the way.
WATCH A GAME AT DIABLO STADIUM
If you are a fan of sports, I highly recommend spending an evening at Diablo Stadium, one of the fun things to do in Tempe AZ.
Watch a game at Tempe Diablo Stadium
If you are a baseball fan, Tempe Diablo Stadium is the city’s most useful sports stop. It is the spring training home of the Los Angeles Angels, and it is one of the easiest ways to catch that classic Cactus League energy in the Phoenix metro.
Why it matters: Tempe and the Angels are partnered here through at least 2035, with major facility improvements underway, so this is still a core Tempe sports experience.
If you are visiting in spring, check the Angels schedule first. If you are not, keep this section lighter and frame it as a seasonal must-do rather than a year-round “always available” attraction.
ENJOY A CONCERT AT MARQUEE THEATRE
Located on the north side of Tempe Town Lake near the Mill Avenue Bridge, at the intersection of Mill Avenue and Washington Street, Marquee Theatre is one of the top tourist spots in Tempe that you must visit.
This popular venue is compact, holding only up to a thousand people, but it is renowned for hosting legendary celebrities, including the likes of Selena Gomez.
You need to plan your visit and the concert to attend at the Marquee Theatre in advance.
Check out their calendar online and book tickets before you go to Tempe.
SEE A BASEBALL GAME
Another venue for sports lovers visiting Tempe is Sun Devil Stadium, an outdoor football stadium on the campus of Arizona State University.
It is one of the top Tempe Arizona things to do to indulge in thrilling games of the Arizona State Sun Devils, for whom the stadium is the home.
Constructed in 1958, the stadium has a seating capacity of over sixty thousand people.
Explore the large stadium, nicknamed the House of Heat, known for its natural grass playing surface.
Sun hosts the annual Cactus Bowl, and other university games and events, so you will most likely be able to catch one for a fun evening in the city.
ENJOY HIKING IN THE GREEN SPACE
one of the easily-accessible green spaces in Tempe is LoPiano Bosque Habitat, located north of Loop 202 between College Avenue and Mill Avenue.
Featuring 13 acres of biking and hiking trails, the LoPiano Bosque Habitat is the perfect place to spend time in nature amidst the bustle of the city,
There are many hiking and biking trails, and spots to sit and enjoy people watching or viewing passing birds.
PLAY AT DALEY PARK
One of the best city parks known for its large green space with baseball & softball fields, basketball court, play area, horseshoes & grills is Daley Park.
Covering 17 acres, Daley Park is one of the best places in Tempe for a recreational evening.
Choose your favourite sport between baseball and basketball courts, softball and volleyball courts, horseshoes and corn hole.
Stroll amidst lush spaces, jog, run or enjoy people-watching.
There are many picnic tables with grills, along with a larger picnic pavilion with grills while your kids have a blast in the playground.
Opening hours – 6 AM to 12 AM
FUN THINGS TO DO IN TEMPE AZ
TAKE YOUR KIDS TO LEGOLAND
Who doesn’t love unleashing their inner child? Relive your childhood or enjoy a fabulous time with your kids, getting creative at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona.
Another Arizona Mills attraction, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, is one of the fun things to do in Tempe Az, for families with young kids.
Enjoy the rides at Merlin’s Apprentice Ride and the Kingdom Quest Ride.
The build-and-play zones allow kids to let their imaginations run wild.
If you want a bit more educational, check out a variety of LEGO-themed workshops and classes.
There are various themed build-and-play zones, including an underwater zone, a pirate zone, and even a princess zone.
Enjoy LEGO-themed movies, as the 4D effects make the experience even more fun at the 4D cinema. Take your kids on the LEGO raft ride to cool off. Find your tickets here online.
HAVE FUN WITH YOUR KIDS AT THE SEA LIFE AQUARIUM
One of the fun things to do in Tempe AZ is check out SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium in the Arizona Mills Mall.
Plus, during summer in Tempe, SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, spanning a massive 26,000 square feet, is a great place to cool off and escape the heat.
Get your tickets to the aquarium quickly online here.
Get up close and personal as you walk through the sea tunnel to watch sharks, stingrays, seahorses, angel fish, clownfish, jellyfish, lionfish, many types of sharks, and other sea creatures.
Learn all about the beautiful sea creatures at the many interactive touch pools, where kids and you can touch crabs, lobsters, and sea stars.
LEARN ROCK CLIMBING
One of the fun and unique things to do in Tempe Az is Phoenix Rock Gym, a year-round indoor rock climbing facility to perfect rock-climbing skills.
In this vast indoor gym spanning 17000 square feet, dare to get on one of the ropes dangling to climb rocks as high as 30 meters.
You do not need to be an experienced rock climber, and even if you have never done it before, you can learn right on the premises.
Bring your own rock-climbing gear or rent it here.
There are areas for warm-ups, cool-downs, and 56 top-ropes are available, ranging from straightforward cruising climbs to overhanging arm blasters.
ESCAPE THE ROOMS
One of the fun things to do in Tempe AZ at night is to solve puzzles at Great Room Escape.
With each room carefully put together with different fun and quirky themes, it is one of the best things to enjoy with your friends and family.
SHOP AT ARIZONA MILLS
One of the oldest shopping areas and entertainment centres in the city. Arizona Mills is the place to go for buying some souvenirs and more.
Filled with beautiful artwork inside, this mall is home to top brands and houses Sea Life Arizona Aquarium and the largest IMAX theatre in Arizona.
If you want the kids to be occupied, Arizona Mills is still a strong indoor fallback thanks to attractions like LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona, SEA LIFE Arizona, and Tilt Studio.
VISIT THE LOCAL MARKETPLACE
If you want to shop where the locals shop, head to Tempe Marketplace, a vibrant outdoor shopping center where you can enjoy a plethora of activities.
Located along the Salt River in Tempe, on East Rio Salado Parkway, the shopping centre is home to more than a hundred shops of all kinds.
If you wonder what to do in Tempe besides the museum, the marketplace is an excellent spot where you can go window shopping, live entertainment, and occasional events amidst the colourful buildings sprinkled with fountains.
Admire the spectacular visual and laser effects, one-of-a-kind water features, and patio fireplaces in the Market Place.
On the weekend evenings, you can enjoy musical performances in the large courtyard.
It is one of the best things to do in Tempe at night as the venue becomes bustling with live music in the evenings.
LAUGH OFF AT AN IMPROV
One of the top entertainment centres in the city, Tempe Improv is the place to go to laugh to your heart’s content thanks to a series of talented comedian performances.
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Tempe, head to the Tempe Improv operating since 1974 and is famous for hosting plenty of celebrity artists, including Jerry Seinfeld, Bill Maher, and Tim Allen.
Located in Downtown Tempe, this is the perfect outlet for some if you are not with kids. You can even join in as they also host open mic nights.
Book your tickets online at the Tempe Improv as they get sold out pretty soon, especially when big names perform.
There is even a restaurant and bar to bite before the show.
UNWIND AT THE LOCAL BREWERY
There is nothing better than pints of cold beer to unwind on an evening after a busy day of outdoor explorations.
Head to Four Peaks Brewing Company to quench your thirst with some local beers, one of the things to do in Tempe this weekend
Try a pint or two at this brewery, housed in a lovely old brick Mission Revival building built in 1892.
Or opt for a flight at this working craft brewery known for its award-winning brews.
Or better, join one of their interesting tours to learn about the brewing process of craft beers, which also includes sampling them.
Relax at their pub, amidst high wooden ceilings and 35-foot high clerestory windows eating delicious pizzas and burgers with your beer.
✅Custom Arizona Brewery / Vineyard Tour🤩 – Discover several breweries in the Phoenix area on this private excursion.
There are also options in the area to try mead and wine if you’d like to enjoy a mix of the three to accommodate everyone in your group. Read more about Custom Arizona Brewery / Vineyard Tour.
RELEASE YOUR RAGE(OR ADRENALINE!)
Located on University Drive, one of the fun attractions in Tempe is heading to the Rage Release Room, Simply Smashing.
If you are looking for quirky things to do in Tempe, Arizona, look no further.
In this space, you can vent your frustration, anger, and rage by smashing, crushing, and breaking various objects in a safe, protected, and air-conditioned environment.
Considered a unique and new concept, a combination of a gym, therapy space, anger management room, and amusement park, it is definitely worth checking out for an unusual evening in Tempe.
Packed with coveralls, gloves and goggles, and choosing your favourite music to be played, you can choose from a wide range of objects to let it all out in about 25 minutes.
ENJOY AXE THROWING
One of the unusual things to do in Tempe Az is Lumberjaxes Axe Throwing, a pub and an adventure view for Axe throwing, another adrenaline-releasing activity that has gained popularity recently.
After you have had your fill of throwing, taste the best grills with the best brews and cocktails – a perfect evening Tempe itinerary.
THINGS TO DO IN TEMPE AZ FOR OUTDOOR LOVERS
FISH AT TEMPE TOWN LAKE
One of the best lakes in Arizona, Tempe Town Lake is one of the top things to do in Tempe AZ.
Tempe Town Lake is a popular local spot for walking, jogging, and biking, and one of the largest urban lakes spanning 224 acres.
Tempe Town Lake has more than a 2-mile-long lake to enjoy boating(including electric motors).
Although you cannot swim, jet ski or waterski, fishing and kayaking are popular in Tempe Town Lake.
Head to the northern end of the lake, which has boat ramps and spaces for fishing, playing, and sunbathing.
There is a marina with boat rentals, picnic ramadas, multi-use trails, a playground and splash pads.
You can fish Walleye, largemouth bass, yellow bass, rainbow trout, bluegill, channel catfish and crappie regularly stocked.
PICNIC AT KIWANIS PARK
Kiwanis Park, a famous park home to the big Kiwanis Lake, is one of the best urban green spaces in Tempe, spanning 54,000 square feet.
It is one of my favourite free things to do in Tempe AZ as it has something to offer to visitors of all ages and travellers of all types.
If you want to enjoy outdoor games, choose between a playground, basketball courts, baseball, volleyball and tennis courts.
Want to picnic? Head to the picnic tables overlooking stunning, lush views.
If you want to have fun in the water, how about fishing in the lake? Or relax and watch colourful visitors, including herons, ducks, and geese.
If you want to escape the heat if you are here during hot afternoons, head to one of the indoor and outdoor wave pools for cooling off.
Stroll along the winding trails to enjoy stunning sunset views over the lake.
Hike to the top of the Tempe Butte, an extinct volcano, following a trail in the park.
Enjoy bowling with your kids at the bowling alley or play with your kids on swings and a zip line.
For people wanting more water sports, there is a three-story tower with multiple slides, or rent a pedal boat or kayak.
If you are looking for a quiet, romantic walk at night, stroll the pathways at night as the park is open until midnight every day!
You may even be able to join a local event, as Kiwanis Park is a famous venue for all types of events and festivals.
Opening hours – 6 AM to 12 AM
HIKE IN HAYDEN BUTTE PRESERVE
Hayden Butte Preserve is one of the top attractions in Tempe.
If you are an outdoor enthusiast wondering what to do in Tempe, Az, I recommend heading to this iconic cinder cone.
Hayden Butte Preserve is also a protected area home to over 500 petroglyphs, created by the Hohokam Native Americans between 750 AD and 1450 AD.
Besides being a popular spot for hiking and running, Hayden Butte offers stunning views of the college town and is a perfect spot to watch golden sunsets painting the desert landscapes on the horizon spectacularly.
On a clear day, you can even see all the way to Phoenix.
Since the hike is pretty easy, it is one of the fun things to do in Tempe, AZ, with kids.
Also known as ‘A’ Mountain, or ASU Mountain, due to its proximity to the Arizona State University Campus at over 400 meters high, the hike to the top of Hayden Butte takes around 30 minutes to climb, delivering panoramic views over Tempe.
Ensure to bring a headlamp or flashlight if you’re hiking at sunrise or sunset, as the trails can be a bit dark.
There are two, well-marked, easy-to-follow trails – the Cave Creek Trail and the Gila Trail.
The Cave Creek Trail is shorter and steeper, while the Gila Trail is longer and more gradual.
HIKE AT PAPAGAO PARK
Head to Hole in the Rock, a natural geological formation in Papago Park, one of the popular hikes and things to do in
Hole-in-the-Rock is a series of holes carved out by millions of years of erosion by the wind into the sandstone hills.
Due to its location, this 1,500-acre park, only 15 minutes east of downtown Phoenix, is also one of the best Phoenix sunrise spots as well.
Plenty of trails are categorized into the West Side Trails and the East Side Trails.
One of the most popular routes for enjoying a quiet sunrise is the trail to Hole-in-the-Rock.
RECOMMENDED – 10 Best Places To Watch An Epic Sunset In Sedona
The trail, about 0.3 miles one way, is easy, and you can enjoy a quick hike with your family and friends to admire the gorgeous views during the golden hour.
From the parking lot, you will pass a series of unique red sandstone rocks to access the viewpoint, accessed via stone steps rising 200 feet high.
You can climb inside the formations and watch one of the best sunsets near Phoenix, casting brilliant hues over downtown and the desert oasis below.
Since the park gates close at 7 PM, plan your hike accordingly.
Learn more about the area’s history in the Heritage Square Museum, which features a replica of an old-fashioned Western town, by joining one of their guided tours.
AZ Heritage Center at Papago Park is one of the best museums known to preserve the history of Arizona, from the 20th and 21st centuries
Check out the days of the early settlement and a Copper Mine Exhibit, a scale model of an Arizona copper mine that shows how the copper ore was brought up from the earth and made into everyday products.
EXPLORE TEMPE ON A BIKE
One of the fun things to do in Tempe AZ if you love outdoor adventures, is renting a bike to explore the city.
Tempe is home to over 217 miles of bike paths, and since it is a college town, you will be accompanied by plenty of locals on your tour.
Rent an e-bike for an easy touring option, especially for a ride enjoying the views of the lake and other city views.
They even offer bike locks and e-bike tours if you’d like a guide to help you discover the best spots in Tempe.
✅Hole in the Rock & Tempe Lake E-Bike Tour: 2 Hours(5/5 200+ reviews🤩) – This morning Scottsdale e-bike tour gives a great alternative to walking tours that allows you to cover the city without getting too tired before lunchtime. Check out more info here.
TRY THE BEST FOOD IN THE FAMOUS RESTAURANTS
When you visit Tempe, there are lots of dishes to be had and drinks to be tasted.
Thanks to many fantastic restaurants in Tempe, you will be occupied and treated to a variety of delicious cuisines and drinks.
Here are some of my favourite places to eat in Tempe, AZ.
Top of the Rock – Known for its luxurious ambience and excellent location, Top of the Rock is the restaurant to go if you are looking for fine dining or a dinner date in Tempe.
Located at The Buttes by Marriott, Top of the Rock features innovative farm-to-table cuisine infused with local Tempe culture.
You will be treated to stunning night views on the 14th floor, surrounded by a classy atmosphere.
Select from their wide variety of delicious spreads and wines to enjoy amidst a perfect setting for a romantic dinner.
Postino Annex – Located in downtown Tempe, Postino Annex is the perfect spot for lunch, as you can squeeze a visit in amidst exploring the best things to do in Tempe with friends.
You can choose from large and small platters depending on your hunger level that go best with wine or a cup of coffee.
Barrio Queen – Located in Tempe Marketplace, Barrio Queen is the best place to go if you crave Southern Mexican cuisine.
From tasty tacos to mescal menus, you can taste a variety of snacks and drinks, including tequila, here.
Ghost Ranch – Known for its unique dishes like the Aztec Cake(no, it is not a cake, but a tasty layered Mexican lasagna) and other delicious items, including steaks and crisps, Ghost Ranch is worth stopping by for a bite.
FOOD + DRINKS IN TEMPE (MY EASY WINS)
| Spot | Best for | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Top of the Rock | Date night views + “we dressed up a little” dinner | Website → |
| Postino Annex | Lunch boards + wine + easy “hangout” energy | Website → |
| Barrio Queen (Tempe Marketplace) | Tacos + tequila + group dinners | Website → |
| Ghost Ranch | Modern Southwest + happy hour | Website → |
WEEKEND PLANS: 1–3 DAYS IN TEMPE (DONE RIGHT)
| Plan | Morning | Afternoon | Night |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Day | Downtown Tempe + ASU Art Museum | Tempe Town Lake loop + Hayden Flour Mill photo stop | Dinner + a show (Gammage/TCA) or Marquee concert |
| 2 Days (best) | Day 1: Lake sunset + Mill Ave | Day 2: Book a bike tour (Papago/Hole-in-the-Rock) or do the 3-cities sampler | Rooftop drinks + night stroll (Tempe does “easy fun” well) |
| 3 Days | Arizona Mills with kids (LEGOLAND + SEA LIFE) | Extra outdoors: lake paths + Papago sunset | Catch a second show or add a scavenger-style game night |
PICK YOUR VIBE: THE BEST WAY TO DO TEMPE
Tempe can be lake-sunset calm, Mill Ave chaos (the fun kind), family-friendly indoor escapes, or a “see three cities fast” strategy. Pick your vibe below and steal the plan.
💛 Couples: Sunset loop + a real night out
- Start slow: Mill Ave stroll + coffee, then duck into a museum (ASU Art Museum is an easy win).
- Golden hour move: Tempe Town Lake loop at sunset (no notes, it’s perfect).
- Dinner: pick one “views” spot or a fun share-plates place so you’re not rushing.
- Night anchor: catch a show at Gammage/TCA or a concert at Marquee.
👨👩👧👦 Families: Easy wins + air-conditioning (when needed)
- Start with movement: short lake walk + playground time (Tempe Beach Park area works well).
- Midday plan: Arizona Mills for LEGOLAND + SEA LIFE (hot-day lifesaver).
- Keep it simple: one “big kid activity” + one calm activity beats a packed itinerary.
- Night: easy dinner + early wind-down (Tempe is still a college town).
✨ Girls Trip: Mill Ave energy + “three cities” flex
- Start with photos: Mill Ave + Hayden Flour Mill/Town Lake backdrop shots.
- Then: do the “3 cities” sampler so you can say you did Phoenix + Tempe + Scottsdale in one go.
- Night: rooftop drinks + live music (or a show).
- Next morning: brunch + a mellow lake loop before you leave.
🧿 Solo: Walkable days + low-effort fun
- Start with an easy win: a long lake loop + coffee stop.
- Midday: museum time (ASU Art Museum/Tempe History Museum) for air-conditioned wandering.
- Night option: scavenger-style puzzling adventure if you want “activity” without needing a group.
- Best solo vibe: Tempe Town Lake at sunset. You’ll feel like you planned your life perfectly.
SIGNATURE TEMPE NIGHTS (WHY YOU SHOULD STAY OVERNIGHT)
- ASU Gammage: Broadway + touring shows (check the official lineup before you book your weekend).
- Tempe Center for the Arts: concerts, comedy, open mic nights, and seasonal events.
- Marquee Theatre: live concerts near Mill Ave (great “last-minute tickets” venue).
- Tempe Town Lake evening loop: Tempe Beach Park stays open late (listed to midnight).
- Do outdoors early: sunrise lake loop or a short walk at Papago/Hole-in-the-Rock.
- Go indoor mid-day: museums OR Arizona Mills (LEGOLAND + SEA LIFE) to reset in A/C.
- Come back out for sunset: Tempe Town Lake is best in golden hour.
- Night plan: show at Gammage/TCA or a concert at Marquee (Tempe is built for nights).
KNOW THIS BEFORE YOUR PLAN
- If you only have 1 day: Do Mill Ave + Tempe Town Lake, then pick one anchor only: a show, a bike tour, or Arizona Mills.
- No-car version: Stay downtown, use light rail + the Tempe Streetcar + free Orbit, and keep your trip focused on Mill Ave, ASU, and Town Lake.
- With kids: Do the lake early, then Arizona Mills for LEGOLAND + SEA LIFE during the hottest part of the day.
- If you hate crowds: Skip peak Mill Ave late-night energy, do the lake at sunrise or sunset, and use museums/arts venues as your calmer anchors.
WHERE TO STAY IN TEMPE (QUICK PICKS)
| Stay | Best for | Why it works | Book |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown | Walkable downtown, rooftop vibes | Great “stay in the action” base near Mill Ave. | Check rates → |
| Tempe Mission Palms (Destination by Hyatt) | Couples + “classic Tempe” location | Downtown base with strong weekend energy. | Check rates → |
| Hyatt House Tempe / Phoenix / University | Families, kitchen suites | Across from ASU, easy logistics. | Check rates → |
| Hyatt Place Tempe / Phoenix / University | Simple, reliable mid-range | Solid base if you’re out all day and just need comfy sleep. | Check rates → |
| Drury Plaza Hotel Phoenix Tempe | Value + breakfast included | Strong “families + budget” pick with easy parking. | Check rates → |
| The Westin Tempe | Modern upscale + rooftop bar energy | Great for couples/girls trips who want a polished stay. | Check rates → |
THINGS TO DO IN TEMPE FAQS
Yes, especially if you want a fun Arizona weekend without a big driving itinerary. Tempe is compact, walkable around Mill Ave, and has a strong mix of lake views, museums, and nightlife.
One day covers highlights. Two days is ideal if you want both Tempe Town Lake + a guided bike/3-cities tour, plus a real night out.
Downtown Tempe and Mill Ave are very walkable. For longer hops, use the free Orbit circulator or the streetcar.
A sunset loop around Tempe Town Lake followed by dinner on/near Mill Ave. Tempe Town Lake is built for walking, biking, and events.
Yes, especially if you stay downtown. You can use bus/light rail connections, plus Orbit and the streetcar for local movement
If you want a “we did a lot fast” experience, book the 3 Cities & Nature sampler or the Tempe Lake E-Bike tour.
Arizona Mills experiences like LEGOLAND and SEA LIFE are easy, kid-friendly, and air-conditioned.
Downtown (near Mill Ave) if you want nightlife and walkability; near ASU if you want convenience and suite-style stays.
