Discover the Charm and Adventure of Tempe, Arizona: A Comprehensive Guide to all the Best Things to Do

Tempe, Arizona is a vibrant city known for its sunny weather, stunning desert landscapes, and unique cultural experiences. Located just east of Phoenix, Tempe has something to offer for everyone.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for adventure or an art lover seeking inspiration, Tempe is the perfect destination for your next vacation. One of the main reasons why Tempe is such a popular tourist destination is because of its variety of activities.

From hiking and kayaking to shopping and dining, there’s never a dull moment in this exciting city. With so much to see and do in Tempe, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start your adventure.

Don’t worry! This guide will help you discover the best things to do in Tempe, Arizona so that you can make the most of your trip.

Are you an adrenaline junkie? The Grand Canyon State has got you covered! Check out our guide on the best things to do in Arizona.

Outdoor Activities

Hiking at Papago Park

There are a number of hiking trails around Tempe, but one of the most popular is Papago Park. This park offers some of the best views in the area, with red rock formations and desert landscapes that will take your breath away.

There are several trails to choose from, ranging in difficulty from easy to moderate. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting out, there’s something for everyone at Papago Park.

One of the most popular hikes at Papago Park is the Hole-in-the-Rock Trail. This trail is relatively short and easy, but it offers stunning views of both Tempe and Phoenix.

At the top of the trail, you’ll find a natural sandstone formation with a hole in it – hence the name! It’s a great spot to take photos or simply enjoy the scenery.

Kayaking on Tempe Town Lake

If you’re looking for a fun way to cool off during your trip to Tempe, consider kayaking on Tempe Town Lake. This lake is located right in downtown Tempe and offers beautiful views of both city skyline and surrounding mountains. You can rent kayaks by the hour or by the day from several vendors located around the lake.

Kayaking on Tempe Town Lake can be as relaxing or as challenging as you want it to be. If you’re looking for a more leisurely experience, stick close to shore and enjoy the scenery.

If you’re feeling adventurous, paddle out towards some of the lake’s islands for a more challenging workout. No matter what your skill level or fitness level may be, kayaking on Tempe Town Lake is an experience not to be missed.

Biking on Rio Salado Pathway

Looking for a fun way to explore outdoor scenery while getting in some exercise? Look no further than the Rio Salado Pathway!

This paved path stretches for several miles along the Salt River, offering beautiful views of both nature and the city. You can rent bikes from several vendors located around Tempe, or bring your own if you prefer.

The Rio Salado Pathway is great for both recreational riders and serious cyclists. It’s relatively flat with only a few small hills, so it’s great for those who are just starting out.

However, it also offers plenty of challenges for more experienced cyclists who want to push themselves. No matter what your skill level may be, biking on the Rio Salado Pathway is a fun way to explore all that Tempe has to offer.

Cultural Experiences

Visiting the ASU Art Museum

Tempe offers excellent cultural experiences, and one of the best places to start is at the Arizona State University Art Museum. This museum features contemporary art exhibitions which rotate throughout the year, so there’s always something new to see. The ASU Art Museum also has a permanent collection of art, with pieces ranging from traditional paintings to modern installations.

Admission is free, but donations are greatly appreciated. The ASU Art Museum is not just a place for adults either; it offers programming for families and children as well.

For example, they have “Family Days” where kids can engage in hands-on art activities inspired by current exhibitions. The museum also hosts lectures and other events regularly which are open to the public.

Exploring the Desert Botanical Garden

If you want to experience nature and learn about plant life unique to Arizona, then head over to the Desert Botanical Garden in Tempe. This garden boasts 140 acres of beautiful desert scenery with over 50,000 plants on display! You’ll be able to take a peaceful walk through winding paths surrounded by cacti and succulents native to this region.

The garden also has several exhibits that showcase desert plant adaptations including how they survive in harsh desert conditions. In addition to exploring outdoor exhibits at Desert Botanical Garden, there are indoor galleries showcasing artwork inspired by nature in the Southwest including photography and paintings from local artists.

Attending a Performance at Tempe Center for the Arts

For those interested in performing arts, Tempe Center for Arts (TCA) is an excellent place worth checking out. TCA offers shows year-round featuring various types of performing arts such as theater productions and concerts.

The venue holds up to 600 people per performance so it’s perfect for enjoying bigger productions. Moreover, the theater is located in a beautiful building overlooking Tempe Town Lake with stunning views of the surrounding area.

Before or after the performance, you can enjoy the lake’s surroundings by taking a walk around the lake or grabbing a bite to eat at one of many nearby restaurants. The Tempe Center for Arts also offers classes and workshops in various performing arts disciplines at various levels for those wanting to learn and get involved!

Food and Drink Scene

Trying local craft beer at Four Peaks Brewing Company

Arizona is known for its craft beer scene, and Four Peaks Brewing Company is one of the best places in Tempe to try local brews. Located in a historic building just steps away from Arizona State University’s main campus, this brewery has been serving up unique, award-winning beers since 1996. From refreshing wheat beers to bold IPAs and stouts, there is something for every taste preference here.

A must-try is the Kilt Lifter Scottish Ale, which has become a staple in Arizona. The atmosphere at Four Peaks is casual and lively, with indoor and outdoor seating options available.

Dining at unique restaurants like Cornish Pasty Co. and House of Tricks

Tempe’s food scene offers endless possibilities for dining out, but two restaurants stand out in terms of uniqueness: Cornish Pasty Co. and House of Tricks. Cornish Pasty Co., located on University Drive near ASU’s main campus, serves up savory pasties inspired by traditional English fare.

These hand-held pies are filled with a variety of ingredients such as steak, veggies, cheese, and more – perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on-the-go. For a more upscale dining experience, head to House of Tricks on 7th Street near Mill Avenue.

This cozy restaurant features an ever-changing menu that showcases seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms whenever possible. The ambiance is warm yet elegant – perfect for date night or special occasions.

Sampling sweets at Sweetest Season Artisan Eatery

No visit to Tempe would be complete without indulging in some sweets! Sweetest Season Artisan Eatery offers an array of treats that are both delicious and aesthetically pleasing. Owner Jocelyn Flanagan creates everything from scratch using only the finest ingredients, resulting in treats that are both indulgent and wholesome.

Try the macarons in flavors like matcha and lavender, or the cookies that come in interesting flavors such as brown butter sage. Everything is presented beautifully, making Sweetest Season Artisan Eatery a great place to grab something sweet for yourself or as a gift for a loved one.

Shopping and Entertainment

Exploring unique boutiques and shops in Downtown Tempe

Downtown Tempe is a shopper’s paradise, offering a variety of unique and trendy boutiques. One of the most popular shopping spots is the iconic Mill Avenue District, where you can find everything from vintage clothing to handmade jewelry. If you’re looking for something more upscale, check out the boutiques at Tempe Marketplace or Scottsdale Fashion Square.

One of my personal favorite stores downtown is Bunky Boutique, which offers a curated selection of women’s clothing, accessories, and gifts from local designers. Another great spot for unique finds is Changing Hands Bookstore, where you can browse through new and used books while sipping on a coffee from their in-store cafe.

Catching a game or concert at Sun Devil Stadium or Marquee Theatre

Tempe has no shortage of entertainment options when it comes to live events. Sports fans will want to catch a football game at Sun Devil Stadium – home to the Arizona State University Sun Devils – during football season. The stadium also hosts other events throughout the year such as concerts and festivals.

If music is more your thing, check out the Marquee Theatre for an intimate concert experience with top artists across all genres. The venue has been around since 1993 and has established itself as one of Arizona’s premier live music destinations.

Checking out local art galleries like Gallery 225

Art lovers will appreciate the variety of galleries that call Tempe home. One standout gallery is Gallery 225 in downtown Tempe which showcases contemporary art by both established and emerging artists. Another popular gallery is ASU Art Museum which features rotating exhibitions throughout the year.

For something more immersive, head over to Scottsdale’s Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA), located just a short drive away from Tempe. The museum is dedicated to contemporary art, architecture, and design from around the world and has a collection that spans over five decades.

Whether you prefer shopping, sports, or art – there’s something for everyone in Tempe. So next time you’re planning a trip to Arizona, be sure to add this vibrant city to your itinerary!

Conclusion: Summarizing Tempe’s Best

Tempe, Arizona is a fantastic destination with a wide variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking at Papago Park or biking along the Rio Salado Pathway are great ways to take in the natural beauty of the area. Kayaking on Tempe Town Lake is another popular activity that allows visitors to enjoy the water and city skyline all at once.

Cultural experiences in Tempe are also plentiful. The ASU Art Museum features a diverse collection of art from around the world, while the Desert Botanical Garden showcases local flora and fauna in a beautiful setting.

And for those looking for entertainment, attending a show or performance at the Tempe Center for the Arts is always an enjoyable evening out. No trip to Tempe would be complete without exploring its food and drink scene.

From local craft beer at Four Peaks Brewing Company to unique dining experiences like Cornish Pasty Co. and House of Tricks, there’s something for everyone’s taste buds. And be sure to save room for dessert at Sweetest Season Artisan Eatery!

Shopping in Downtown Tempe offers visitors access to unique boutiques and shops you won’t find anywhere else. Catching a game or concert at Sun Devil Stadium or Marquee Theatre is always an exciting time, while visiting local galleries like Gallery 225 will leave you inspired.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural enrichment, delicious food and drinks, or just some good old-fashioned fun with friends and family, Tempe has something for everyone. So don’t wait – book your trip today and get ready to explore all that this amazing city has to offer!