19 Amazing Things to Do in Tempe AZ (Arizona) 2022

You might not be familiar with Tempe unless you know someone who attended Arizona State University. Most people on the east coast simply view the Phoenix metro region as one large city, but Tempe is actually a stand-alone travel destination. There are some the great things to do in Tempe AZ. 

This thriving city is more than just a college town; it is packed with exciting and pleasant things to do, making it the ideal destination for people of all age groups. 

Naturally, the majority of people will immediately conjure up images of spa resorts in Scottsdale or Tucson. Or, trekking in Sedona or the Grand Canyon, when you mention Arizona.  But allow us to tell you what Tempe offers that those places do not.

Tempe is firstly cheaper. During the busiest times of the year, the Tempe Mission Palms Hotel has rooms for less than 100 USD per night. For the same night, the Hyatt Regency in Phoenix bills you  450 USD a night. 

Second, there are so many different things to do. Tempe has activities for everyone, whether your kids are looking for fun and be active, or you want to unwind by a pool with a beautiful view or enjoy the best of both worlds. Tempe would not disappoint you.

As the last point, Tempe is quite accessible. You don’t need to spend an entire day driving for your weekend getaway. Phoenix Sky Harbour International Airport, which has direct flights to 117 domestic destinations and 23 international cities, is only 12 miles from Tempe downtown. For an audience that is on a tight budget, the walkable downtown also helps to keep costs at bay.

So now we have convinced you that Tempe is a great destination for people of all age groups, we have handpicked 19 fun things to do in Tempe.

1. Start Your Exploration with the Downtown Tempe

Located on South Mill Avenue near Arizona State University in Downtown, and is one of the great places to start, and one of the best things to do in Tempe AZ.  It’s noted for its brick pavements, as well as its numerous bars that offer the vibrant nightlife.

Why you should go – There are numerous things to do in Downtown Tempe within a mile radius. You can savor diverse cuisines, sample award-winning microbrews, browse locally, explore modern artworks, attend a Broadway performance, hike, paddle by the lakeside, and visit one of the country’s largest university campuses. It is unlike any other downtown in Arizona.

What to do – At downtown, you can browse artworks that inspire you, make you laugh, give you a new perspective, or help you appreciate the marvel around you. 

Tempe is a city where paintings, engravings, and artworks are used to promote the arts. Fortunately for you, all of these works of art can be found in Downtown Tempe.  Indulge in a self-guided tour of Downtown Tempe that features 50 works of public art,

If you’re interested in learning more about Tempe’s art scene, we recommend taking a self-guided driving tour of some of our best Tempe artworks. You’ll be astounded by the amount of ingenuity on display across the city. If you’re with your family and loved ones, it is one of the most fun things to do in Tempe AZ. 

2. Switch to an Outdoor Mode at Desert Botanical Garden

Spanning 1500 miles between Tempe and the Phoenix, the Desert Botanical Garden is a magnificent venue that merges art and nature. The grounds are dotted with artworks, which gives this lovely area another dimension.

Tens of thousands of plants reside in the 140-acre complex, which also showcases samples of desert vegetation from around the world. This is an excellent area to spot hummingbirds and butterflies, as the special ecosystem is created to draw these creatures. 

Why you should go – Papago Park has picturesque pathways that wind through dramatic rock formations, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and environment lovers.

It is also the ideal location if you want to save money as this is one of the free things to do in Tempe  AZ. 

Numerous camping sites, sports fields, a pet-friendly park, a botanical garden, and the enormous Phoenix Zoo are all included in this park.

What to do – Spend a wonderful day at this attractive park with your significant other, family, or friends and create new memories.

Enjoy outdoor pursuits like trekking along scenic trails. There are playgrounds for your kids amidst the lovely scenery. Indulging yourself in a game of basketball, volleyball, or baseball, is one of the best things to do in Tempe AZ with kids and families. 

3. Marvel is the Best Artwork on Display at Arizona State University Art Museum

Opened in 1950, a one-of-a-kind museum nestled at the Arizona State University houses a massive collection of over 12,000 works of art.

Why you should go – This museum offers a variety of galleries with frequently changing exhibitions and is housed in a gorgeous modern structure. Along with a variety of arts and crafts, the main emphasis is on contemporary, Latin, and folk art. 

There are many examples of new multimedia, pottery, and other crafts, photographs, and art from Arizona and the Southwest, in the permanent collection.

The gift shop, which has a selection of things similar to the original artwork on show in the gallery, is recommended for visitors to stop by. 

Top art periodicals have rated the museum as one of the nation’s top locations for modern art.

What to do – Traditional and contemporary Native American art can be found in the museum’s exhibit galleries and outdoor courtyards. This is an excellent site for kids and families to learn about Native American history and view traditional arts.

Outside, you can stroll through the outdoor sculpture garden or join a museum garden tour. The museum also boasts a lovely outside café with courtyard seating and a rotating menu that includes special meals to go with the latest show.

Looking for one of the free things to do in Tempe Check out the new ‘Lustre and light’ show that exhibits? Dazzling materials are used to convey cultural or social values, frequently to draw attention to abuses of power and riches. 

4. Paddle at Tempe Town Lake

In the midst of the desert, Tempe Town Lake is a bit of an unexpected discovery. It is located in the center of Tempe. With bridges spanning it at various locations across the city, it seems to be more like a river than a lake.

Why you should go – We are 100 percent certain that Tempe Town Lake is the most picturesque location in Tempe. We all adore the lake images. If you have a thing for beautiful sunsets, with bridges, Tempe Centre for the Arts, and the peacefulness of the open area surrounding it.

What to do – One of the fun things to do in Tempe AZ is to indulge in paddling around the lake. Alternatively, you may go paddleboarding, kayaking, or have a family time out on an electric boat tour.

Check out the pricing plans with Boat Rentals of America that will help you awesome rides around the lake at a reasonable cost. 

The park also holds a variety of events, including ultramarathons, musicals, and festivities. Additionally, it hosts a special program called the Living Tree Memorial Program, which enables you to plant a tree in honor of a loved one.

5. Accomplish your kid Goals at Sea Life Aquarium

The 26,000-square-foot Sea Life Arizona Aquarium is a highly recognized aquarium with a first-of-its-kind 360-degree ocean tunnel.

Why you should go – Sea Life Arizona is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Scores of aquatic creatures live in the 26,000-square-foot immersive aquarium, which also includes a 360-degree ocean corridor and interactive touch pools. The aquarium is rich with incredible marine life, including sea urchins, octopus, sharks, and stingrays that wander around in the instructional aquatic facility. This is, of course, one of the fun things to do in Tempe with kids. 

What to do – At this fantastic aquarium, you can marvel at the beauty of sea life with your kids and families.  View a variety of aquatic animals, including predators, tiger sharks, stingrays, lionfish, crabs, and more.

You can also engage with creatures like tortoises, reptiles, and tarantulas while watching live nursing practices, or attending a lecture on marine species preservation. 

6. Hike ‘A’ Mountain to Capture the Stunning Views of the City at Sunrise

Hayden Butte, sometimes known as “A” Mountain, is one of Tempe’s most famous geographical features. “A” Mountain is an accessible trek with some excellent views, especially at sunrise is one of the amazing things to experience in Tempe AZ.

Why you should go – Are you interested in the outdoors and looking for one of the free things to do in Tempe AZ. If so, talk a walk through Hayden Butte Preserve. The 0.7-mile journey ends at a picturesque lookout point from where you may take in the breathtaking scenery of Tempe’s landscape.

What to do – The trail ascends and crosses Tempe Butte’s “face” after beginning in the center of Tempe. As you climb to the summit, you’ll even pass by the letter “A.” 

The hike is considered to be very easy, but there is a little bit of a hard climb at the beginning as you gain altitude. You should be able to get to the top in about 15 minutes. 

When you get to the letter “A,” the trail’s paved lower section changes to a rocky route.

It is recommended to set your sail 30 minutes before sunrise. As soon as you get to the top, you should be greeted to a stunning pink and orange dawn. See the colors radiating off Tempe Town Lake while watching planes take off from Phoenix Airport above you. 

7. Understand the City’s history and Legacy at Tempe History Museum

The Tempe History Museum chronicles the tales of the residents of Tempe, from native American progenitors to the present.  The exhibits and programs are made to engage both the local populace and tourists who are interested in learning more about this city.

Why you should go – This is a very well-kept facility and a terrific find for families as there is plenty of entertainment for the kids here. 

With a variety of displays on fascinating and thought-provoking subjects, the museum contains a wealth of authentic knowledge about Tempe’s past. 

The museum is surrounded by a lawn that frequently hosts live performances of music from all different genres. 

Additionally, there is a charming café inside where you can get delectable appetizers as well as hot and cold beverages.

What to do – The museum includes a children’s area, and a community room. There are permanent installations that focus on themes like Surviving in the Desert, Rebuilding Our Community, University Town, and Kumbaya culture. 

Tempe: Distinct, Diverse, Dynamic is a primary exhibition that one must attend that utilizes a range of mediums to portray Tempe’s history and legacy. 

Temporary art exhibitions are held at the Community Room Art Gallery. The Changing Exhibits Gallery and the Community Room can be booked for events like meetings and plays.

8. Shop Til You Drop at Tempe Marketplace

Along the Salt River in Tempe, on East Rio Salado Parkway, is a sizable outdoor shopping mall called Tempe Marketplace. The shopping center offers more than a million square feet of retail space and is perched on 130 acres of land. 

The shopping complex is separated into two areas: an outer ring that houses large retail establishments and an inner ring called the District that comprises smaller businesses. 

It has more than 120 retailers, entertainment facilities, and restaurants.

Why you should go – Why not consider spending a pleasant afternoon at the Marketplace which is one of the fun things to do in Tempe for families. 

A 1.3 million square foot shopping center that is home to a veritable array of stores, eateries, coffee shops, and theatres.

A highly pleasant environment to roam around is created by the artistic layout, which also includes spectacular visual and laser effects, one-of-a-kind water features, and patio fireplaces. 

While the parents enjoy an afternoon of shopping, the kids can go to the movies. 

What to do – With numerous large superstores and chic boutiques, it’s one of the best places in Tempe to shop. The District, a section of Tempe Marketplace, is the ideal place to hang out with friends and get a nibble while shopping.

You can also enjoy the live music at night, at the heart of the shopping complex. The outdoor stage is the ideal place to soak into the spectacular Arizona sunset, the pleasant weather, and some cuisine from adjacent establishments. Definitely, one of the best things to do in Tempe at night.

9. Catch a Live Show at ASU Gammage Auditorium

Located on the Arizona State University campus, the ASU Gammage auditorium is a sight to behold.  The historically significant structure is an architectural marvel since it was the final project of the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

The auditorium has three levels of seating and can accommodate 3,000 people. It is renowned for its excellent acoustics and symphony ring.  Operas, symphony performances, instrument recitals, theatricals, and many other events are held in the auditorium.

Why you should go – When searching for cool attractions, this is one of the best paces to go in Tempe AZ. 

It has several art exhibits spread throughout the facility and kiosks providing a variety of delightful appetizers and alcoholic beverages. Depending on the current productions, the lobby also sells broadway merchandise. 

What to do – Take out a couple of hours in the evening to attend a breathtaking live performance at the ASU Gammage Auditorium.

You may experience events like Broadway musicals, operas, theatrical plays, and a ton of other fantastic selections. This is one of the incredible things to do in Tempe at night. 

10. Commit to ‘Being a Better You’ at Phoenix Rock Gym

Hone your rock climbing abilities at the year-round indoor facility at Phoenix Rock Gym.

All you have to do is tie in and ascend. There are ropes already dangling. The space offers arm-ups, cool-downs, and entire workouts that can be completed in the spacious, 2-level bouldering area. There are 56 top-ropes available, ranging from straightforward cruising climbs to overhanging arm blasters. There are also chimneys, aretes, skulls, and more.

Why you should go – If you aspire to have a better version of yours, think about choosing a special physical activity. 

This is a unique physical exercise that will involve your body, and that tests your grit and resilience. It seems a little risky, but not quite as risky as venturing out into the desert alone. While you’re on vacation. 

What to do – Suit yourself to the facility that serves over 17000 square feet of climbing space.  You don’t have to be an expert rock climber. You may learn everything you need to know on the spot. Rock climbing equipment would be available on-rent.  

Even complete beginners will quickly develop their skills and courage with the help of lessons and an orientation video. The trails are frequently modified to offer novel experiences.

11. Take a Campus Tour of Arizona State University

One of the largest public universities by enrollment in the US offers a broad pedestrian mall and unique architecture which is surrounded by the subtropical flora. 

Landmarks include the famous Palm Walk, which dates back a century, Old Main, the oldest original campus building, Sun Devil Stadium, and Gammage Auditorium, which was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. 

The Tempe campus has an unmatched dedication to sustainability and is the most solar powered campus in the country. It provides simple access to all of metropolitan Phoenix via public transportation, including light rail.

Why you should go – Make sure to stop by this historic university, one of the most breathtaking locations in the city. Also one of the great things to do in Tempe this weekend.

This beautiful university is close to a number of dining establishments, entertainment venues, waterfront activities, and lovely parks.

What to do – Sign up for a guided walking tour of Arizona State University with your mates. This is also one of the fun things to do in Tempe for couples.  You can discover its past, hear tales from students, and much more on your tour.

After that, you can refuel by going to a nearby restaurant for a meal. Or, have a good time at a comedy club. You can also go on a shopping spree at one of the many boutique stores in the area.

Visit College Avenue where you can explore the restaurants and the largest bookstore, which has apparel, ASU memorabilia, and much more.  The finest aspect is that “A” Mountain that sits at the end of College Avenue. It is a place where you may admire it or soak in the scenery while hiking.

12. Enjoy the Game at Diablo Stadium

A fantastic baseball stadium with a seating capacity of over 9,500 serves as a home ground for two influential American baseball teams – The LA Angeles and the Arizona League Angels. 

Why you should go – The magnificent design of this baseball stadium is only one of the unusual sights to see in Tempe.

It has luxuries like plush seating, clean lavatories, and cutting-edge lighting and audio systems. Every seat in the house offers excellent views of the landscape and is one of the best things to do in Tempe Arizona with kids. 

This stadium hosts community events all year round in addition to exhilarating baseball games. 

What to do – Prepare to be on the edge of your seat as you watch a thrilling baseball game with your pals and family at the Tempe Diablo Stadium.

After the game, visit a nearby cafe for a freshly brewed cup of coffee, go shopping, visit a museum, or engage in other enjoyable cultural activities. 

13. Shop, Dine, and Have fun at Arizona Mills

Arizona Mills is a major indoor outlet shopping mall in Tempe, located on South Arizona Mills Circle. The mall contains around 185 stores and 6,000 parking spots. The outlet mall’s interior boasts abstract patterns and a variety of artwork.

Burlington Coat Factory, Dior, Ross Dress For Less, Versace, and Sports Authority are among the retailers. Sea Life Arizona and Arizona’s largest IMAX theatre are also located in the mall. 

Why you should go – Visit this world-class shopping mall with your friends and family ffor the ultimate shopping experience.

It is a popular family destination since it offers amenities such as a breastfeeding lounge, stroller on rent, baby dressing stations, and a children’s play area.

Other features include phone charging stations, high-speed WiFi, and a number of magnificent onsite activities, such as the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Arizona. With kids and families.

What to do – Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime bonding experience with your friends/family while shopping at Arizona Mills.

Designer and budget-friendly retailers, such as the Gap Factory, Tommy Hilfiger, Forever 21, Bath & Body Works, Adidas, Victoria’s Secret, and others, offer a wide range of products.

After that, satiate your hunger at one of the city’s many eateries, such as Sbarro, Johnny Rockets, or Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant.

14. Have a Couple of Times at Kiwanis Park