Looking for fun things to do in Tempe, Arizona? Here are some of my top picks!
Tempe, Arizona is the perfect long weekend destination.
It’s warm year-round, the food is delicious, and the sunsets can’t be beat.
I’ve visited twice — in 2020 and again in 2023 — and loved it.
Here are 26 fun things to do in Tempe, Arizona.
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1. Climb “A” Mountain
“A” Mountain, aka Hayden Butte Preserve, is easily identified by the giant “A” on the side painted yellow for ASU.
Rival teams have been known to repaint the letter at night in their colors so during season students take turn patrolling the site at night.
This is your perfect intro to Tempe. It’s located right downtown and is easy to reach.
The hike should take you approximately 10-15 minutes, and you’ll get views of the downtown area and surrounding landscape, like Camelback Mountain.
You can also see petroglyphs on the rocks along the way, a remnant of the indigenous peoples that first found this place.
It’s completely free and is a great spot to catch the sunrise around 7am.
2. Go horseback riding
If you want to feel like an authentic Arizonan, there’s no better way to do so than on horseback in the middle of the desert.
I recommend the Koli Equestrian Center.
It’s run by members of the Pima and Maricopa tribes, two distinct tribes that became allies in the 1800’s and now form the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.
There are several options available including daytime rides, sunset rides, birthday parties, trail rides ending with margaritas and more.
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3. Enjoy Tempe Town Lake
Tempe Town Lake is a man-made reservoir that serves as a city center and is always bustling.
If you want to get out on the water, you can rent a pedal boat, kayak, electric boat or SUP from Boat Rentals of America – Tempe Town Lake.
Prices range from $15-$75 depending on the type of vessel you rent.
Go alone or with family and friends — either way you’ll have a relaxing time on the water.
4. Attend Second Sundays on Mill Avenue
Second Sundays, as the name implies, is a market that places the second Sunday of every month from 10am to 3pm between October and April.
Attendees can enjoy live music, entertainment, and different themed activities.
There are dozens of local vendors in attendance selling homemade and Arizona sourced goods.
The event is free and pet friendly.
Bonus — street metered parking is also free in Tempe on Sundays.
5. Explore a secondhand bookstore
If you’re a book nerd (guilty!) then you can’t leave Tempe without visiting the Changing Hands Bookstore.
This place is expertly curated and has some really cool finds.
I fell in love with a journal where the lines are made from the text of a Jane Austen novel, and a coaster with a picture of Princess Leia that reads “well-behaved women rarely defeat empires.”
You can trade in your used books here so you always have something new to read.
6. Admire the Desert Botanical Garden
While technically in Phoenix, this place is a draw for all nearby towns.
The Desert Botanical Garden the best place to go to admire the diversity of desert scenery.
Featuring a wide variety of cacti species and trails meant to help you understand the local ecosystem, it’s a fun stop for students and educational trips.
There’s always a cool exhibit going on.
I went during “Fernando Botero: El Maestro,” an exhibit incorporating Botero statues around the premises.
At the time of his passing in September 2023, Botero was the highest paid living Latin American artist.
There was a designated exhibition space showcasing his pieces and featuring and in-depth movie about his life and work.
The Garden also has concerts, evening events, classes, panels and discussions.
Check the events calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.
7. Spend a day at the museum
Tempe can get toasty so if you’re looking for a reprieve from the sun where you can linger in A/C, head to a museum.
There are plenty to choose from.
The ASU Art Museum has two locations — one at the Nelson Fine Arts Center and the other the Ceramica Research Center at Brickyard.
There’s also the Tempe History Museum, a collection of items telling the story of the city. There are several interactive exhibits, making this a good for families.
The ASU Art Museum and Tempe History Museum are free to enter.
The Arizona Heritage Center at Papago Park is a local favorite and showcases the state’s history more broadly.
This site requires paid admission but there’s 2-for-1 First Tuesdays and free parking.
8. Hike the Hole-in-the-Rock Trail
Already at Papago Park? You should definitely hike the Hole-in-the-Rock Trail.
This natural rock formation features two large holes and was used by the Hohokam tribe to signal when it was time to harvest or sow.
The hike is surprisingly easy as you can park right at the bottom of the rock.
It takes 5-10 minutes depending on your speed.
The views are stunning — the panoramic desert scene interspersed with palm trees and modern buildings makes Tempe look like an oasis.
9. Learn about First American culture
There are 22 federally recognized First American tribes in Arizona.
While in Tempe, the names you’ll hear the most are Hohokam, Pima and Maricopa.
The Pueblo Grande Museum is a great first stop if you’re just starting to learn about the culture.
It is located at a Hohokam excavation site and showcases artifacts from the dig.
Even better, they have a program called S.A.L.T. which stands for “Study of Ancient Lifeways and Technologies.”
Every month they put on class where you can learn skills like how to start a fire, roast agave or make a cutting tool out of stone.
Everyone is welcome, just inquire and sign up ahead of time.
Those wanting to actually see and tour an Adobe Pueblo-style building should head to the Eisendrath House.
This is a popular spot for special events and weddings because it’s so scenic.
It’s part of the Carl Hayden Campus for Sustainability and, apart from being a tourist attraction, aids on water conservation efforts.
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10. Shop at Tempe Marketplace
Tempe Marketplace is a sprawling outdoor shopping complex with more than 100 shops and restaurants.
They host more than 300 events a year, from motorcycle shows to pottery classes.
They also have free concerts on Fridays and Saturdays, featuring local bands from 7pm to 10pm.
Tempe Marketplace is also an unexpected hub for street art.
11. Catch the Arizona sunset
Arizona’s sunsets are legendary.
If you’re looking for a romantic spot with unbeatable views, head to Top of the Rock, a restaurant at the Marriott Resort in Tempe at the Buttes.
For sunset by the water, check out Tempe Beach Park.
12. Tour ASU Gammage
ASU Gammage is a Frank Lloyd Wright design and looks a lot like a wedding cake.
Take advantage of the free half-hour guided tour on Monday afternoons between 1pm-4pm.
You’ll get a behind the scenes look and thorough history of the building.
ASU Gammage also serves as an active performing arts center for students and touring broadway companies so feel free to catch a show while you’re in town.
13. Stop by Palm Walk
Also on the ASU Capus, Palm Walk is a pedestrian street lines with more than 100 palm trees.
It is the most photographed place on the campus and has become emblematic of the school.
Stop by during dusk, aka the golden hour, for stunning pictures.
14. Try bouldering at Arizona Bouldering Project
Arizona Bouldering Project in Tempe is a climbing space, gym, and community gathering center.
Unlike regular rock climbing, bouldering doesn’t use any ropes. As a result, you don’t go as far up.
I enjoyed trying bouldering here for the first time.
In addition to climbing walls, they have a fitness center, yoga studio, co-working space, and more.
Click here to read all about Arizona Bouldering Project.
15. Indulge your sweet tooth
Tempe knows how to do sweets.
For a decadent treat yo’self moment, head to Tracy Dempsey Originals.
Aside from the delicious desserts, there are cooking classes and the sale of local products and wine.
Craving cookies at midnight? Insomnia Cookies has your sweet fix.
Tempe is also home to VooDoo Doughnuts, which opened in 2023. They have vegan and seasonal donut options.
16. Plan a travel photoshoot
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CzsZQycO8U3/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
During my second visit, I was stopped by a local photographer from Starfield Studio. The desert landscapes make a gorgeous background for shots.
Reach out and schedule your session.
You can also book a session with a local photographer through Flytographer, a site that specializes in travel photo shoots.
17. Search for street art
There is so much good street art in Tempe!
This one is at the Montage Apartments, an unexpected find, and is called “Girl in a Dream III” by Clyde Thompson.
Right across the street in Daley Park you’ll find “Meet me at Daley Park,” a piece by Jake Early showcasing Tempe’s history, landmarks and economy.
At Social Hall you’ll find “Get Together Tempe,” a piece by Morgan Delaney that will let the world know where you are.
Perhaps the most colorful of all, you’ll find “Rangoli Sunrise” by Kylian Maney at The Dhaba.
18. Taste local brews
Want to have a good time with friends in a relaxed setting? Stop by a local brewery.
Huss Brewing Company is a fan favorite. Try the Magic in the Ivy, a pale ale. This place is BYOG — bring your own grub.
There’s also The Shop Beer Co. They have limited releases like “Passion Punch” and “Bohemian Sunshine” and a food truck from Wednesdays to Sundays.
For a Tempe institution visit Four Peaks Brewing Company, named America’s Favorite Craft Brewery by the Travel Channel.
Finally, you can’t leave Tempe without stopping by Pedal Haus Brewery, a bike themed establishment named the best brewery in America!
19. Take an e-bike tour of the city
Tempe is an active community and e-biking can make you feel like you’re getting exercise, even if you’re not necessarily “in shape.”
I rode 6 miles and barely broke a sweat!
The motor helps you go uphill and accelerate, covering a longer distance in a shorter time and with less effort.
The folks at Tempe E-Bike Tours will make sure you have a smooth ride and see much of the city in a short time.
20. Stop by The Gallery at Tempe Center for the Arts
Located right by Tempe Town Lake, the Tempe Center for the Arts has a free art gallery inside that showcases local artists.
I found the pieces to be impactful and thoughtfully curated.
During my visit, the staff had a recreated a painting into an interactive photo area with props. They were very helpful and willing to explain the pieces to you if you asked.
There was also an outdoor sculpture display immediately adjacent to the gallery.
21. Have family time at Kiwanis Park
The Kiwanis Recreation Center has a batting cage, indoor seasonal wave pool, tennis courts and gym.
There’s also Kiwanis Park, with lake that has pedal boats, fishing, walking paths and picnic areas.
This is an affordable way to spend the day with large groups or young children.
22. Visit The Little Cholla Night Market
Taking place every Thursday night from 6pm-9pm, the Little Cholla Night Market features stall from local vendors.
Items range from jewelry to clothing to postcards.
There is a focus on sustainability as it takes place in Culdesac Tempe, the first car-free neighborhood in the US.
It was intentionally built as such and is a lifestyle community worth supporting.
23. Listen to dueling pianos at the Low Key Piano Bar
If you like listening to live music, this is the stop for you. They’re open until 2am, including on weekdays, and have a full bar on site.
The piano players take requests and occasionally bring up guest performers to join them on the drums. Tips are encouraged, and they have their Venmo shown on the stage.
This is a fun place to come with friends. You won’t be able to stop yourself from singing along.
24. Peruse the Mill Avenue Shops
Mill Avenue Shops in downtown Tempe is filled with local vendors and funky stores.
Yucatecan Imports has unique products from around the world.
Candy Addict has nostalgic candy from different decades.
Lotions & Potions has a scent bar where you can mix your own body care.
25. Attend a special event
When it comes to events, Tempe always has something going on.
During my visit, the PGA Tour was in town. I’m told they don’t even attempt to quiet the audience and understand Tempe is the “party” stop.
If you’re a baseball fan, come during mid-February to mid-March for spring training.
The Tempe Festival of the Arts is held in the spring and fall and showcases over 350 vendors from around the country.
26. Ride in a self-driven car
Tempe, Arizona is one of the few places that gets to try Waymo, a new ride share app that utilizes self-driven cars.
You’ll actually see one parked in front of the Little Cholla Night Market every week.
I used this service a few times while in Tempe and found it safe and futuristic.
You book on the app like any other ride share, and use the app to unlock the car when it arrives. I found prices to be slightly less than comparable apps, and there was no need for a tip.
These are just some of the many fun things to do in Tempe, Arizona.
Till next time, safe travels!
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Note: This trip was sponsored by Tourism Tempe. All opinions are my own.
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