Things To Do
in Tempe
Tempe is a vibrant city located in the Phoenix metropolitan area of Arizona, known for its lively atmosphere and cultural events. Home to Arizona State University, Tempe has a youthful energy with a bustling downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The city is bordered by the scenic Tempe Town Lake, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation such as kayaking and biking.
With a diverse population and a variety of annual festivals, Tempe is a dynamic and engaging place to live or visit.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike at Hayden Butte, enjoying the views of Tempe Town Lake. Grab breakfast at a local café to fuel up for your adventure.
Explore the Arizona State University Museum of Art for some culture. Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant and stroll around the ASU campus.
Relax by the lake and enjoy the sunset views. Finish your day with dinner at a popular local eatery.
Rent a bike and cycle along the Tempe Town Lake path for some morning exercise. Stop for a healthy breakfast at a smoothie bar.
Visit the Tempe Marketplace for shopping and lunch, enjoying various dining options. Take part in their interactive water features if it's warm.
Attend a live music event or outdoor movie at the Marketplace. End the evening with some dessert from a trendy ice cream shop.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Home to Arizona State University, offering educational opportunities and a vibrant college atmosphere.
- Rich cultural scene with various events, festivals, and art galleries.
- Pleasant year-round climate with plenty of sunshine.
- Access to outdoor activities with nearby parks, lakes, and hiking trails.
- Strong sense of community and diverse population.
- Hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 100°F.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue, particularly during peak hours.
- Higher cost of living compared to some neighboring areas.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Potential for dust storms and monsoon rains during summer months.
Best Activities in Tempe
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the unique desert landscape and enjoy beautiful views of Tempe and Phoenix.
Rent a kayak and paddle along the scenic Tempe Town Lake with stunning views of the city skyline and surrounding mountains.
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Arizona Canal Trail which offers a scenic route with easy access and beautiful surroundings.
Play a round of golf at the ASU Karsten Golf Course, known for its challenging layout and beautiful desert scenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tempe with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tempe
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a scenic overlook of Tempe and Arizona State University campus
Provides stunning views of the lake, surrounding parks, and downtown Tempe skyline
Features unique rock formations and panoramic views of the Phoenix metropolitan area
Food in Tempe
Tempe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A deep-fried burrito typically filled with shredded beef or chicken, cheese, and various savory ingredients. A must-try dish at Macayo's Mexican Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A Native American specialty, the fry bread is a crispy yet fluffy flatbread often served with honey or as a base for Navajo tacos. Enjoy this at the famous Fry Bread House.
A delightful creation consisting of crispy fries topped with grilled carne asada, cheese, guacamole, and salsa. Get your fix at America's Taco Shop.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tempe better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An excellent spot to savor fresh produce, artisanal treats, and local street food offerings on the weekends. Don't miss the food trucks serving up diverse cuisines.
Stroll along Mill Avenue to explore an array of street food vendors offering everything from gourmet hot dogs to fusion cuisine, providing a unique culinary experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tempe, it's important to be mindful of personal space and not to invade someone's personal bubble.
There are designated quiet hours in Tempe, especially in residential areas, where loud noises should be minimized to respect neighbors.
Respecting local laws and regulations is crucial in Tempe, including traffic rules, noise ordinances, and other community guidelines.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tempe with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tempe
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Tempe, United States, especially in the service industry. It is customary to tip 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants, bars, and for various services such as hairdressing, taxi rides, and hotel stays.
Payment in Tempe, United States, is generally made using cash, credit/debit cards, or digital payment methods such as mobile payment apps. Many businesses in Tempe accept major credit cards, but it's always good to have cash on hand for smaller vendors and businesses that may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tempe.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a wonderful time to visit Tempe with pleasant weather and blooming wildflowers. You can expect mild temperatures and various outdoor activities like hiking and picnicking.
Summer in Tempe is hot with temperatures often reaching over 100°F. It's a great time to enjoy water activities on the Salt River or indoors in air-conditioned museums and malls.
Fall brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities like kayaking on the Tempe Town Lake or exploring the nearby desert areas.
Winter in Tempe is mild and comfortable, making it a great time to explore the city's parks, gardens, and hiking trails. However, it can get chilly in the evenings.
Tempe at Night
Hiking in Tempe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
One of the largest municipal parks in the United States, South Mountain Park offers numerous trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, with stunning views of the desert landscape.
Known for its unique rock formations and scenic views, Papago Park features several trails, including the popular Hole-in-the-Rock, making it ideal for short hikes and outdoor activities.
Offering trails that stretch through the Sonoran Desert, Usery Mountain Regional Park provides a variety of hiking options suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
A challenging hike with steep inclines and breathtaking views, Camelback Mountain is a popular spot for those looking for an adventurous outing. The Echo Canyon and Cholla trails are the main routes.
Located near the Salt River, Saguaro Lake features several hiking trails that lead to beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains, perfect for a scenic day hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tempe through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tempe by plane.
The primary airport serving the Phoenix metropolitan area, located about 8 miles from Tempe.
Located approximately 18 miles from Tempe, it serves as a secondary airport for the Phoenix area, focusing on low-cost carriers.
About 116 miles south of Tempe, this airport serves the Tucson area and is the second largest in Arizona.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, contributing to cultural diversity.
This group makes up a large percentage of the population, representing individuals of European descent.
A growing demographic group, including individuals of East Asian, Southeast Asian, and Indian descent.
A smaller yet important demographic in Tempe, contributing to the city’s cultural landscape.
Individuals identifying with multiple racial backgrounds, reflecting increasing diversity.
This group represents the indigenous tribes of the region and their descendants.
A smaller demographic group in Tempe, including individuals from various Pacific Island nations.
Individuals who do not fit into the standard racial classifications, encompassing a varied background.
The Soul of Tempe
Discover the essence of Tempe through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is highly popular in Tempe, especially with the presence of Arizona State University (ASU), where college football games draw large crowds and enthusiasm.
Basketball has a strong following in Tempe, with both collegiate and local league games attracting fans. ASU's basketball teams contribute to the city's sports culture.
Soccer is growing in popularity in Tempe, with youth leagues and community clubs providing opportunities for participation and watching the sport.
Baseball is enjoyed at various levels, including youth leagues and community games. Spring training for MLB teams nearby also boosts interest.
Ice hockey is a popular sport in Tempe, highlighted by the presence of local teams and the Arizona Coyotes, which enhances community engagement and attendance.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tempe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Tempe boasts numerous eateries with dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus, such as Green New American Vegetarian and Pita Jungle, ensuring a plethora of plant-based options.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can savor delectable gluten-free delights at restaurants like Ncounter, which features a separate gluten-free menu with various breakfast and lunch items.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tempe with these cultural adventures.
