Nestled within the sprawling Phoenix Metropolitan Area, Tempe is a city with a distinct personality that sets it apart from its neighbors. While it boasts the same breathtaking desert landscapes as the rest of Arizona, it also offers a vibrant blend of arts, culture, and dining, along with the lively energy that comes from being home to Arizona State University.
With over 300 days of sunshine per year, Tempe provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, from lake days to hiking scenic buttes. When the sun gets too intense, visitors can cool off with an array of indoor attractions, including fascinating museums, an aquarium, and expansive shopping centers. Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or entertainment, Tempe has something for everyone.
11. Tempe Center for the Arts
A Hub for Creativity and Performance
Situated along the southern shore of Tempe Town Lake, the Tempe Center for the Arts (TCA) is as visually striking as it is culturally significant. Its bold geometric roofline has made it an architectural icon in the city’s skyline. But beyond its striking design, the TCA is a thriving arts hub, hosting an eclectic mix of performances, including dance, music, and theater productions throughout the year.
Inside, the gallery space features rotating exhibits showcasing local, national, and international artists. Whether you’re catching a live show or browsing an inspiring art exhibit, a visit to TCA is a must for culture lovers.
10. Kiwanis Park
A Lush Oasis for Outdoor Fun
A favorite among locals, Kiwanis Park is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing day outdoors. Centered around the scenic Kiwanis Lake, the park offers lush green spaces ideal for picnics, outdoor games, and family gatherings.
Visitors can rent kayaks and paddleboats for a peaceful time on the water, while kids can enjoy a sprawling playground and sports fields. The park’s indoor wave pool is a unique highlight, providing fun for all ages. Open until midnight, Kiwanis Park is also a great spot for a romantic evening stroll under the stars.
9. Arizona State University (ASU)
A Campus Steeped in Culture and Sports
Arizona State University isn’t just a place for students—it’s one of the city’s biggest attractions. Art enthusiasts will love the ASU Art Museum, which houses over 10,000 artifacts, paintings, and ceramics with a focus on Southwest and Latin American culture.
For theater lovers, the Gammage Auditorium—designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright—hosts world-class performances. Sports fans won’t want to miss a game at Sun Devil Stadium, where ASU’s football team plays under the bright Arizona lights.
8. Hayden Butte (A Mountain)
A Sunset Spot with History and Views
Hayden Butte, affectionately called “A Mountain”, has been a significant landmark for centuries. The Hohokam people left behind nearly 500 petroglyphs here, some dating back to 750 AD.
Today, it’s a popular hiking destination, offering panoramic views of Tempe and the surrounding valley. The short but steep trail is particularly popular at sunset, when the desert sky explodes in breathtaking shades of orange and pink.
7. Tempe Diablo Stadium
Spring Training with the LA Angels
Baseball fans can get their fix at Tempe Diablo Stadium, the spring training home of the Los Angeles Angels. As part of the Cactus League, the stadium hosts MLB teams in pre-season games, offering a chance to see top players in an intimate setting.
During the fall, the stadium is also home to the Arizona Fall League, where rising baseball stars take the field. Tickets are affordable, making it a great way to enjoy America’s pastime in a relaxed setting.
6. Papago Park
Red Rock Formations and Desert Beauty
A sprawling desert park featuring majestic sandstone buttes, Papago Park is one of the most scenic spots in Tempe. The park’s most famous attraction is Hole-in-the-Rock, a natural rock formation that serves as a perfect lookout point over the city.
The park also features easy hiking trails, a Desert Botanical Garden with diverse cacti and desert plants, and the Arizona Historical Society Museum, where you can learn about the state’s rich past.
5. Big Surf Waterpark
America’s First Wave Pool
Opened in 1969, Big Surf Waterpark made history as the first-ever wave pool in the United States. Over the years, it has expanded to include thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and kid-friendly attractions.
From heart-racing rides like the Black Hole to family-friendly tube slides, this park is the perfect way to beat the Arizona heat and have some fun.
4. Arizona Mills
A Shopping and Entertainment Hotspot
For those in need of some retail therapy, Arizona Mills is the city’s go-to shopping destination. With nearly 200 stores, this massive outlet mall has something for every budget.
But Arizona Mills isn’t just about shopping—it’s also home to Sea Life Arizona Aquarium, the state’s largest IMAX theater, and various family-friendly attractions, making it a great spot for all ages.
3. Tempe Town Lake
A Desert Oasis for Outdoor Adventures
One of the most picturesque areas in Tempe, Tempe Town Lake is perfect for a scenic walk, bike ride, or paddleboarding session. The lake is also home to Tempe Beach Park, a popular green space where families can relax and kids can cool off at the Splash Pad.
As the sun sets, the lake transforms into one of the most photogenic spots in the city, with reflections of the city lights shimmering on the water.
2. Sea Life Arizona Aquarium
A Fascinating Underwater World
Located within Arizona Mills, Sea Life Arizona Aquarium offers an immersive marine experience featuring exotic sea creatures from around the world. Visitors can walk through the ocean tunnel, where sharks and stingrays glide overhead, or visit the Interactive Rockpool, where kids can touch starfish and sea anemones.
A highlight is Ziva, an endangered green sea turtle who now thrives in a 161,000-gallon tank, serving as a powerful symbol of marine conservation efforts.
1. Mill Avenue District
The Beating Heart of Tempe
No visit to Tempe is complete without exploring the Mill Avenue District. This pedestrian-friendly neighborhood is a hub of activity, featuring boutique shops, trendy bars, casual dining spots, and lively entertainment venues.
The district is also well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to navigate. It hosts some of the city’s biggest events, including the Tempe Arts Festival, which showcases local art, music, and food in a vibrant street fair setting.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or a taste of Tempe’s nightlife, this city has it all. With its mix of stunning natural landscapes, dynamic arts scene, and bustling entertainment districts, Tempe is a must-visit destination in Arizona. Start planning your trip and get ready to explore this desert gem!