Tempe

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Tempe's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Tempe Adventure - 1
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

Explore the Arizona State University Museum of Art for some culture. Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant and stroll around the ASU campus.

evening
:

Relax by the lake and enjoy the sunset views. Finish your day with dinner at a popular local eatery.

day 2
Tempe Outdoor Fun - 2
morning
:

Rent a bike and cycle along the Tempe Town Lake path for some morning exercise. Stop for a healthy breakfast at a smoothie bar.

afternoon
:

Visit the Tempe Marketplace for shopping and lunch, enjoying various dining options. Take part in their interactive water features if it's warm.

evening
:

Attend a live music event or outdoor movie at the Marketplace. End the evening with some dessert from a trendy ice cream shop.

day 3
Tempe Culture - 3
morning
:

Visit the Desert Botanical Garden to appreciate Arizona's unique flora. Enjoy a light breakfast at the garden café.

afternoon
:

Check out the Tempe Center for the Arts to see if any exhibitions are on display. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant with outdoor seating.

evening
:

Catch a show at the Tempe Improv for some laughs. Afterward, indulge in a late-night snack at a local diner.

day 4
Tempe Nature Day - 4
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll around Tempe Town Lake, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Grab breakfast from a lakeside café.

afternoon
:

Spend some time at Papago Park, hiking its trails and exploring the scenery. Pack a picnic for lunch to enjoy amid the natural surroundings.

evening
:

Head back to the lake for a sunset boat rental. Dine at a waterfront restaurant to complete your evening.

day 5
Tempe Arts Exploration - 5
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the ASU Art Museum, focusing on contemporary art. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby bakery with fresh pastries.

afternoon
:

Explore the vibrant murals around downtown Tempe and grab lunch at a local food truck. Discover local shops and galleries for unique finds.

evening
:

Take a stroll at the Tempe Beach Park and enjoy live performances if available. Conclude with dinner at a charming bistro nearby.

day 6
Tempe Food Lover - 6
morning
:

Kick off the day by trying a famous breakfast burrito at a local spot. Stroll around the neighborhood to enjoy the morning sun.

afternoon
:

Go on a culinary tour, sampling different cuisines across Tempe. Take a break and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a food hall.

evening
:

Experience an evening food festival or market if available. Wrap up your day with a visit to a dessert bar for some sweet treats.

day 7
Tempe Nightlife - 7
morning
:

Rest up, and enjoy a late breakfast at your hotel or a local brunch spot. Take it easy and recharge for the night ahead.

afternoon
:

Visit local breweries for some artisanal beer tastings over lunch. Check out some shops or relax at a café before the evening begins.

evening
:

Dive into Tempe's nightlife, exploring bars and clubs that offer live music. Enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant before heading out.

day 8
Tempe Family Day - 8
morning
:

Visit the Tempe Town Lake with the family for a fun-filled morning of activities like paddle boating. Enjoy breakfast at a kid-friendly diner.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the Phoenix Zoo, just a short drive away, for animal exhibits and interactive experiences. Pack a lunch for a picnic in the shade.

evening
:

Enjoy a family dinner at a restaurant with a fun atmosphere. Wind down with a movie night back at your accommodation.

day 9
Tempe Water Fun - 9
morning
:

Begin your day with a refreshing swim at the local pool or splash pad. Get breakfast at a quick-service spot nearby.

afternoon
:

Visit Big Surf Waterpark for thrilling water rides with family and friends. Enjoy lunch at the park to maximize your water fun.

evening
:

Join a guided stargazing tour at a local observatory if available. End your night at a cozy café with coffee and desserts.

day 10
Tempe Sports Day - 10
morning
:

Catch a morning sporting event or local game at Tempe Diablo Stadium. Grab a hearty breakfast at a nearby sports bar.

afternoon
:

Participate in recreational activities at the Tempe Sports Complex or take a guided sports tour. Enjoy lunch with other fans at the stadium.

evening
:

Attend a professional sports game if there's one scheduled. Celebrate with dinner at a sports-themed restaurant afterward.

Discover Tempe

Read more in our Tempe 2024 Travel Guide.

Tempe Travel Guide