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.
Places to visit
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Tempe
morning:Start your day with a visit to the Arizona State University campus, filled with beautiful architecture and green spaces. Grab a tasty breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, known for its creative brunch options. Don't miss the opportunity to take a campus tour and learn about the university's history.
afternoon:Walk over to Tempe Town Lake for a scenic stroll along the water and enjoy water activities such as kayaking or paddleboarding. For lunch, head to Culinary Dropout, a trendy gastropub offering a diverse menu of comfort food with a modern twist. Afterward, explore the nearby Mill Avenue district for shopping and unique finds.
evening:In the evening, experience the vibrant nightlife of Mill Avenue with its lively bars and live music venues. Check out the lively scenes at Handlebar Tempe for a fun night out.
Outdoor Adventure
morning:Embark on an early morning hike at Papago Park, home to stunning red rock formations and scenic trails. After working up an appetite, enjoy a delicious breakfast at Morning Squeeze, a cozy spot serving up classic breakfast dishes with a Southwestern twist. Be sure to try their signature orange juice flight.
afternoon:Head to Tempe Beach Park for outdoor activities like biking and picnicking along the shores of Tempe Town Lake. Grab lunch at The Chuckbox, a local favorite known for its charbroiled burgers and old-fashioned ambiance. Don't miss the famous mesquite-grilled burgers and hand-cut fries.
evening:For a relaxing evening, catch a sunset kayak tour on Tempe Town Lake with stunning views of the city skyline. Afterward, head to Pedal Haus Brewery for excellent craft beers and a lively atmosphere.
Cultural Delights
morning:Begin your day with a visit to the Tempe History Museum, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and history of the region. Indulge in a delightful breakfast at NCounter, a charming cafe known for its specialty coffee and eclectic brunch options. Be sure to try the avocado toast or a classic egg dish.
afternoon:Explore the vibrant street art scene of downtown Tempe with a self-guided mural tour, featuring colorful and thought-provoking public art. Then, enjoy a leisurely lunch at House of Tricks, a hidden gem offering upscale American cuisine in a historic setting. Don't miss their patio dining experience.
evening:Delve into the local art and music scene by visiting the Tempe Center for the Arts, which hosts rotating exhibitions and live performances. Afterward, head to the Funky Monk for a lively evening of dancing and cocktails with a vibrant atmosphere.
Family Fun Day
morning:Start the day with a visit to the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, where you can explore an underwater world with fascinating marine creatures. Afterward, enjoy a family-friendly breakfast at Matt's Big Breakfast, known for their hearty morning meals and friendly ambiance.
afternoon:Spend the afternoon at the Arizona Museum of Natural History, where you can embark on a journey through time and learn about dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, and Arizona's natural history. For lunch, dine at the Cornish Pasty Co., serving up delicious pasties with a variety of fillings from around the world.
evening:End the day with a visit to the LEGOLAND Discovery Center, where kids and adults alike can enjoy interactive exhibits, rides, and building challenges. For a special treat, stop by Delice Bistro for gourmet gelato and sweet desserts before heading home.
Tempe Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Chimichanga
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!
Fry Bread
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.
Carne Asada Fries
A delightful creation consisting of crispy fries topped with grilled carne asada, cheese, guacamole, and salsa. Get your fix at America's Taco Shop.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Tempe Farmers Market
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.
Mill Avenue
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.
Things to do in Tempe
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Tempe
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!