20+ Fun Things to Do in Tempe Arizona: A Complete Guide

Tempe, Arizona, is a treasure trove of experiences that can turn any trip into an adventure, especially when it comes to unearthing the gems of the desert!

Whether you fancy a splash into oceanic wonders, a stroll through bustling streets lined with history, or a leap into cultural feasts, I’ve compiled 20+ fun things to do in Tempe Arizona to add to your plans.

So buckle up, because you’re in for a ride that promises to sprinkle a little desert magic into your traveler’s soul!

Discover Tempe’s Top Attractions

From the vibrant energy of Mill Avenue District to the tranquil beauty of Papago Park, and the spirit-lifting melodies resonating from ASU Gammage, there’s always something fun to do.

So let’s hop in to the top attractions when you’re looking for things to do in Tempe!

Mill Avenue District: A Hub of Activity

If you’re itching for action, Mill Avenue District is downtown Tempe‘s heartthrob, throbbing with life day and night. This pedestrian-friendly zone is basically a dance floor for foot traffic.

Stroll past chic boutiques, watering holes that cater to every thirst, and eateries that turn your meals into a festival of flavors. Cool down from that hot desert sun with an ice cream, catch a show, or even spend some time on the lake.

Downtown Tempe has this unspoken rule: you’re never bored; if you are, you aren’t doing it right!

There’s plenty of parking on and off street, in lots and garages, and downtown is local to many of the other things to do in the general Tempe area so you can plan a whole day of activities!

Papago Park: Nature and History Combined

For a brush with nature, head to Papago Park, which seamlessly blends red rock formations and whispers of history. This park is a badge of honor for nearby Phoenix and looks like a canvas painted by Mother Nature herself.

Ample trails are ready to guide you from sunrise musings to sunset reflections in the heart of the desert landscape with sandstone rock formations as the backdrop. Hike and bike through nearly 1500 acres (which also houses the local zoo, botanical garden, and more).

If you can make it, definitely don’t skip out on viewing the “hole in the rock” – it’s one of my favorite scenic spots to hike to! It’s only about 0.2 miles, and 200 feet in elevation, so I think it’s worth the (relatively) small climb!

You’ll also find a playground for the kids, public restrooms, and shady trees and picnic tables for enjoying a meal. Leashed dogs are also welcome to come along!

Hours vary by season, but it’s usually 6am to 10pm or 5am to Midnight (but make sure to check in advance when you actually plan to visit).

Tempe Diablo Stadium: Home of the Angels’ Spring Training

Play ball! The Tempe Diablo Stadium is where you can catch the Los Angeles Angels in their spring training. Boy, is it a sight for sore eyes? When in Tempe, catching a game here is like holding a piece of America in your glove!

This iconic stadium has been around since the late 1960’s (though the Angels weren’t using it until the ’90s), and it’s a fan favorite with local residents and visitors alike.

It’s a small yet beautiful stadium, though it is outdoors, so it can get especially hot in the summer months (which is why the local league uses it for night games)!

Parking is $10 (card only), and there is food and beverage service available on site which is actually pretty good. I love the corn dogs (I know, it sounds so cliché) with a cold beer while watching the game. They have margaritas too!

Of course, you’ll also need to grab tickets for the actual game, and prices vary by day and seats, but you can expect to spend around $50 a person.

Tempe History Museum: Delving into the Past

When the present meets the past, you get the Tempe History Museum. This museum has been around since 1972 and was actually privately founded before being turned over to city management in the late ’80s.

It got a whole fresh new look back in 2010, and now it’s got something for everyone. Best of all: admission is free!

You’ll find rotating exhibits to check out that showcase the history and culture of Tempe. Former exhibitions have included trains of Tempe, signs of Tempe, works of famous photographers like Jan Young, and more.

There’s a children’s area, community room for activities, and always something new to explore around Tempe’s past, present, or future.

Visit Tempe History Museum Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 5pm (closed Sundays and Mondays).

ASU Gammage: Architectural Marvel and Cultural Venue

ASU Gammage is a performing arts center, but it’s also an architectural marvel designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The building opened back in the 1960’s and it’s still a sight to behold today. If you’re a snowbird from Western PA, this may remind you of Falling Water, another iconic Frank Lloyd Wright building up north!

Located on the Arizona State University (ASU) campus, the Gammage is an extension of their music and theatrical programs, and the public can attend Broadway touring shows that rotate regularly. If you’re a local and love theatre, season passes are also available.

Just some of the noteworthy performances include Wicked, Mama Mia, Hamilton, Moulin Rouge, Beetlejuice, and the Life of Pi. Shows usually only run for a week at a time, though, so if there’s one in particular you want to catch, plan ahead! They announce shows up to a year in advance, so take advantage.

Tickets range from about $40 to upwards of $200 depending on the date, show, and seats selected. Lot parking will run you an additional $3 per hour (up to $15 max).

Sea Life Arizona Aquarium: An Underwater Adventure

Ever wondered where the ocean hides in the desert? Look no further than Sea Life Arizona Aquarium. It’s a 26,000 sq. ft. array of marine life in over 30 exhibits conveniently located for aquatic explorers of all ages.

With interactive touch pools that let you high-five a starfish, this spot turns every visit into an educational celebration of the deep blue. Just follow the current, and you’ll find an ocean in the heart of Tempe waiting to wave back at you.

It usually takes around 2 hours to walk through the aquarium in its entirely (unless you’re me and stop to watch the jellyfish for way too long)! There’s also an awesome tunnel to walk through that lets you see the sea life all around you, which is definitely the focal point of the aquarium!

Tickets range from $16 to $19 a person (to get the lower price, purchase tickets online in advance, and take advantage of the after 2pm entry discount). You can also get a combo ticket and visit Legoland next door and make a whole day of fun for around $32 a person!

Sea Life Arizona is open daily from 11am to 5pm (opens at 10am on the weekends) with last admission at 4pm.

Kiwanis Park: Recreation for Everyone

Kiwanis Park is where fun rolls out the welcome mat! It’s home to 12-acre Kiwanis Lake, where the water whispers invitations to splash around.

Rent a kayak, pedal boat, or water bike to enjoy a day on the lake, or stick to dry land with the batting range and kids playground (including the not as dry Cloud splashpad). There’s also fields for volleyball, soccer, tennis, and picnic spots too!

There’s an indoor water area in the Rec Center as well, with water slides and a small wave pool so you can beat that summer desert heat!

Admission is free and there is ample parking throughout the complex (it’s a 125-acre park, so I recommend parking closer to the side that has the activities you’re looking for).

Hours can vary by season, but the park itself is usually open from 6am to Midnight. The Cloud splash pad is open from 8am to 10pm only in the summer (April – October).

Outdoor Excursions and Activities

Grab your trail shoes and water bottles, because Tempe’s outdoor scene is buzzing louder than a bee on a cactus flower. I’m talking climbing rocks that jut out like nature’s skyscrapers, and lakes that glisten under the Arizona sun.

So let’s pack up and head out for some of the best outdoor things to do in Tempe Arizona!

Hiking Adventures at Hayden Butte Preserve

The Hayden Butte Preserve, known to locals as ‘A’ Mountain, is like a stairway to heaven. It has views that’ll make your heart race faster than your feet! With a location that’s surprisingly in downtown Tempe, you can head out for a cold brew after a successful climb!

Check out the views of the city and the airport from the top, along with the golden letter ‘A’ for ‘ASU’ for the local college campus.

It’s usually considered a “moderate” hike in terms of difficulty since it’s sort but steep. You’ll be traveling about 0.9 miles up 232 feet. There’s a “shorter” trail which is a combination of paved trailway and stairs, or a longer route which is dirt that switchbacks for a more gradual climb (but takes longer).

Leashed dogs are welcome to come along, and no bikes are allowed. You can expect the hike to take 30 minutes (but plan for at least an hour so you can check out the views)! Make sure to pack water, and sunscreen or a hat – it’s very warm, even in the winter months!

You can visit Hayden Butte daily from 6am to 10pm. Metered street parking is available, and there’s no fee to actually hike the mountain.

Tempe Beach Park at Tempe Town Lake: Water Sports and Relaxation

Tempe Town Lake is a man made reservoir that runs right through the heart of the city. There are lots of places to access it from, but Tempe Beach Park is one of my favorites!

Here, you can rent kayaks and paddleboards to go out and enjoy the water – I love watching the trains pass overhead on the bridge! This is the only way to enjoy the water here as well, as swimming is not permitted at all in the lake.

Feel free to bring your own water equipment as well, but note that you need to apply for a permit (which you can do online) to use it on the lake. It’s $10 for a day use permit, or $25 for an annual pass.

If you are not an Arizona resident, the annual pass cost is $50 instead. For snowbirds visiting for the season, learn about getting an Arizona ID card for non residents to take advantage of the local resident rate!

You can also walk or choose to rent a bike and travel the path all the way around the lake! It’s a groomed 7.4 mile trail that should take about 2 1/2 hours to complete on average. Make sure to pack plenty of water though! Even though it’s not a strenuous hike, it’s long and that desert sun is hot!

Admission to Tempe Beach Park is free, but you’ll have to find parking in a lot or garage nearby. The 201 S Ash Garage offers free parking on weekends (so long as there are no special events going on).

Explore the Arts and Culture Scene

From marveling at modern architectural designs to vibing with the best live music, Tempe’s arts and culture scene is a vibrant tapestry that’s woven with diverse threads. It’s a place where the performing arts thrive, and the streets themselves are a canvas for urban creativity.

So, lets check out some of the best things to do in Tempe Arizona for exploring arts and culture.

Tempe Center for the Arts: A Modern Venue for Performances

Not far from Tempe Beach Park, you can check out the Tempe Center for the Arts. This modern gem alongside Rio Salado Pkwy is known for its iconic roof and architectural marvel. Inside, though, it’s an epicenter for cultural happenings.

There are a variety of different venues within, including multiple theaters and galleries, which provide a number of different attractions to take in at the Center for the Arts.

There are choral and orchestral performances to move you, stand up comedy gigs to make you laugh, and even an open mic night to try your own hand! You can also find various plays, arts and crafts workshops, and other community events.

A nearby parking garage provides ample space for any time you want to visit (and make sure to check, as some events will provide validation)! If not, parking is $3 per hour to a maximum of $15 a day.

General hours are Tuesday – Saturday from 10am to 5pm (though the box office is not open on Saturdays). However, you may be able to arrive earlier to stay later for specific performances.

Marquee Theatre: Live Music and Entertainment

Just one mile north of ASU, Marquee Theatre’s your go-to spot for the music scene (and the occasional stand up comedy routine).

This venue is the former Red River Opry house, but nowadays it’s not just country musicians, but a whole slew of genres. Even big names like Adele, Greenday, Eric Church, Prince, Fallout Boy, and the Jonas Brothers have graced the stage (and that’s only to name a few)!

I love this theatre because it brings in so many great options in a somewhat smaller, more intimate setting. Maximum capacity is only about 1,500 people, so you can see your favorites without insanely overwhelming crowds.

Of course, that also means that tickets can go quickly, so make sure to plan in advance and stay on top of things if there’s an artist you’re dying to see. They usually limit the number of tickets you can purchase (I normally see 4-6 depending on the show) to help even things out.

Prices vary widely by show and seat, but you can expect to pay between $40 and $120 per ticket on average, and tickets are on sale at least 6 months in advance.

General hours for the Marquee Theatre are 12pm to 6pm daily, but shows very often have 7 or 8pm start times, so they’ll be open for ticketed guests then as well.

Cultural Insights at the AZ Heritage Center

Where can you get a hands-on take on Arizona history? Dive right into the AZ Heritage Center at Papago Park. The center is beautifully nestled in the beautiful surroundings of Papago Park (you know, the place with the hole in the rock I mentioned earlier)!

This place is filled with interactive exhibits that bring the rich tapestry of local culture to life. Permanent exhibits include Old West and WWII learning and heritage of the area, while rotating exhibits like Navajo weavings, Americana, and Barry Goldwater’s ham radio offer something new to explore.

There’s plenty of free on-site parking, and admission is just $15. Discounts are available for seniors, military, students, and kids, and free for members of the Arizona Historical Society!

Visit the AZ Heritage Center Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 3pm (closed Sundays and Mondays). They do often host events (such as weddings, fundraisers, concerts, and more in their gorgeous outdoor space) so you may want to double check before you visit that there isn’t a private event.

Enjoy the Delight of Shopping and Leisure

When it’s time to switch gears, Tempe’s shopping and leisure spots offer a little retail therapy to soothe the soul. From exploring over 100 shops and restaurants to finding unique local crafts, the city’s got you covered.

So, grab your pocketbook and let’s stroll down some of the best things to do in Tempe Arizona for shopping and relaxing.

Tempe Marketplace: Retail Therapy and Dining

Nearby Tempe Town Lake, Tempe Marketplace is where you can shop till you drop and then refuel at the coolest coffee shops. This buzzing center is brimming with outdoor activities and spring training vibes. It’s where you can kick back and enjoy the Arizona sunshine, retail style!

Get pampered for the day with visits for your nails, lashes, and a blowout at the salon. Treat yourself to ice cream or a frozen yogurt to cool off in the desert heat.

Stroll through all the popular mall stores, like JC Penney, Bath and Body Works, DSW, Old Navy, Sephora, and more! Then, finish the day with a bite to eat – there’s brewpubs, steakhouses, burgers, Greek, sushi, and more to explore – including iconic Lou Malnati’s deep dish pizzas and Portillos sandwiches!

There are more than 100 different shops and eateries, tons of free parking, and over 300 events to check out annually, meanings that you’ll always find something to do when you spend the day strolling this outdoor mall complex.

Tempe Marketplace is open daily from 11am to 9pm, though individual store hours can vary.

Arizona Mills: A Shopper’s Paradise

If outlet shopping is your jam, then Arizona Mills with its 170+ stores is for you. This mall has deals so good they’ll make you want to high-five every mannequin you pass by! From big brands to unique finds, it has the shopping game on lock.

You can also catch a bite to eat, with all sorts of great fast casual and sit down options like Johnny Rockets, Joe’s Crab Shack, Fruitlandia, El Pollo Loco, Firehouse Subs, and so many more!

Got the kids in tow? Legoland Discovery Center is also located in Arizona Mills! Of course, there’s a retail store, but you can check out indoor rides, a 4D cinema, and lots of building areas to keep the kids (or the kid in you) busy for hours. Tickets start at $22, and you can bundle if you plan to visit the Sea Life Aquarium I mentioned earlier to save!

Parking for the outlet mall is ample and free, and general hours are 10am to 8pm. Friday and Saturday nights are open until 9pm, and Sundays they close a little earlier at 7pm. Remember that individual store hours can vary, though.

Changing Hands Bookstore: A Haven for Book Lovers

Bookworms, take note! Changing Hands Bookstore is like the promised land for readers. Located in Tempe Square Shopping Center, this independent bookstore offers a mix of new, used, and discounted reads for every book lover!

You can catch author events frequently, and there’s a little eatery nearby to grab a nice lunch and have a quiet afternoon looking through all the pages of wonder. Seating inside allows a respite for reading and relaxing too. The Phoenix location has a bar for those 21+ as well (but not at the Tempe store).

Depending on condition and space availability, you can also sometimes trade in lightly used books towards your next purchase. I love that, so I can always get something new without having to build yet another bookcase!

Visit Changing Hands in Tempe daily from 10am to 9pm (closes at 8pm on Sundays). There’s plenty of free on site parking for the strip mall it’s located in as well.

Family-Friendly Fun Activities

For those traveling with a troop of eager explorers, Tempe’s family-friendly destinations offer many activities. Of course, I’ve already covered some, like the Sea Life Aquarium, Legoland at Arizona Mills, and the ample playground and splash pad at Kiwanis park.

But, if you’re looking for some additional ideas for family friendly things to do in Tempe, then let’s dive in!

Desert Botanical Garden

Alright, technically not in Tempe, but worth the 20 minute trip to nearby Phoenix, you’ll find the Desert Botanical Garden. This stroller-friendly well-manicured garden trails are perfect for walking, relaxing, and enjoying the beautiful Arizona desert foliage, cacti, butterfly garden, and various sculptures.

However, one of my favorite things is the Flashlight nights they offer in the summer, which are ideal for kids. Explore the garden with flashlights and visit various stations. You can learn about stars, constellations, and the moon, learn about desert critters like scorpions, paint with glow in the dark chalk, and more!

It’s a great way to make learning fun, interactive, and entertaining! On site food is available (either from the restaurant or food trucks), and there’s a variety of drinks (both alcoholic and non) so parents can enjoy the evening as well, making it a great activity for the whole family.

The Botanical Garden is open Monday through Thursday 7am to 8pm. Flashlight nights are 6:30 to 9:30pm various days in July, August, and September (buy your tickets online in advance to reserve a spot).

General admission is $17 (kids under 2 are free), and you can take advantage of free admission on the second Tuesday of every month as part of the community program!

Take a Walk on the Wild Side at Phoenix Zoo

Now, Phoenix Zoo is technically located in Phoenix address wise. However, it’s actually in Tempe’s Papago Park, wedged between the hole in the rock and the Arizona Heritage Center I mentioned before, so that makes it a Tempe attraction to me!

This zoo opened back in the 1960’s and remains the largest privately owned non-profit zoo in the nation! Stroll through 125 acres of animal exhibits, encounters, and learning activities perfect for kids and families. There are over 400 different species here!

The giraffes and tigers are always popular, but you’ll find me in Stingray Bay petting a ray! You can also ride a camel, visit the petting zoo, feed a giraffe, or catch one of the great wildlife presentations – there’s always something fun to do at the zoo!

If you want to bring swimwear for the kids, there’s a fun splash pad to play in, and if not, maybe try the carousel instead.

Food is available on site, and you’re also welcome to bring your own from home (so long as you don’t share with the animals).

Phoenix Zoo hours vary by season, but you can typically visit daily in the Winter (Nov – Jan) from 9am – 4pm, Spring (Jan – June) from 9am- 5pm, and Summer (June – Aug) from 7am-1pm. Note that inclement weather can affect what animals are out, so plan accordingly.

Children’s tickets are $30 and adults are $40 (save $2 by buying online in advance). Zoo members are welcome to enter an hour earlier than other guests.

Experience Gastronomy and Nightlife

As the sun sets, things to do in Tempe shift to the gastronomy and nightlife scene. Tantalize your taste buds, throw back a cold one with friends, and remember the night is still young and there’s so much to explore!

Local Brews: Tasting Tempe’s Craft Beers

Hit the town and get a taste of the desert through Tempe’s craft beer scene. You’ll find plenty of places with unique ales and lagers born from the creative minds of local brewmasters. From hoppy IPAs to rich, dark stouts, each taproom serves up a bit of that Sonoran Desert spirit in liquid form.

Tempe itself only has around 10 craft breweries (though that can always change), but if you expand to nearby Phoenix, then all of the sudden, you’re easily pushing 100 different options.

Couple those cold ones with good friends and some local chow for an evening well spent!

Sweet Tooth Indulgences: Tempe’s Dessert Spots

When it comes to desserts, Tempe’s spots are like art installations for the taste buds. Talk about Tracy Dempsey Originals, an oasis of confections where you can scarf down decadent treats and learn to make them.

For those midnight munchies, Insomnia Cookies delivers (literally)!

Want something unique? Crepe Bar offers a huge selection of crepes perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. My favorite is maple butter! You’ll find gluten free options here too.

Of course, it’s not just limited to dessert here – you can find savory crepes to enjoy for breakfast and brunch, as well as a variety of coffees, drinks, and alcoholic options too.

Outdoor Dining & Drinks: Savoring Tempe’s Weather

Thinking of basking in that golden Arizona sun or cozying up under the stars? Tempe has the perfect outdoor scene where you can enjoy dining and drinks in the gorgeous weather. While there are lots of great options to choose from, here’s two of my favorites for outdoor dining options.

Four Peaks Brewing offers craft brews and pub food that’s sure to satisfy. Burgers, sandwiches, salads and rotating seasonal specials abound. My recommendations? Try the garlic beer cheese bread or the green chile mac and cheese (I like to add some delicious blackened chicken)!

My other favorite is Perfect Pear Bistro with an outdoor dining area that’s gorgeous and vibrant. They’re serving up comfort food and American fare and doing it right! They also serve up local craft brews (but don’t make their own), as well as wines and cocktails.

You’ll find everything from salads to wraps, soups to grain bowls, and even tacos on the menu here. Their unique roasted butternut squash tacos are a must (if you like squash, that is), and the pear cobb salad in the fall is delicious. Though, I don’t think I’ve ever had anything I didn’t enjoy from their rotating menu!

Planning Your Visit to Tempe, Arizona

Planning your trip? Tempe is easy to navigate. Here are a few tips for getting around with ease.

Tip 1: Best Time to Visit Tempe – Seasonal Considerations

Tempe shines brightest in the fall and spring—when the city is brimming with life and the temperature’s just right. Prepare for a visit to the Arizona Heritage Center or catch an event that aligns with Desert Financial’s seasonal lineup!

Every season has its perks, so no matter when you come by, Tempe’s bound to welcome you with open arms and sunny days!

If you do plan to visit in the heat of the summer (June – August) expect limited hours at some attractions, and plan to pack a lot of sunscreen and water to stay hydrated in the desert heat.

Tip 2: Where to Stay in Tempe – Accommodation Options

No matter your style or budget, Tempe has a bed for you. Luxe it up at spots with a rooftop pool to beat that desert heat. Cozy inns? Check. Snazzy suites? Yup.

You’re all set for a comfy stay after a day of desert explorations or a night on the town. Pro tip: book a place with a view so you can wake up to those stunning Arizona skies.

Tip 3: Getting to Tempe – Transportation Tip

Got wheels? Great. But if you’re without a car, don’t worry. The light rail swoops through town making your hop-on, hop-off plans a breeze.

Plus, it’s a wallet-friendly way to cruise from must-see spots to hidden gems. Whether you’re jetting in for a quick trip or a leisurely vacation, Tempe’s transport has got your back.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts: Things to do in Tempe, Arizona

If you’re on the lookout for a place that has charm, a dash of adventure, and a sprinkle of culture, I’ve got to say, Tempe’s a great place to be.

One minute, you’re exploring the botanical gardens, feeling like you’re in a lush green bubble, right in the middle of the desert. The next, you’re checking out the brewing process at Peaks Brewing Company for an educational journey into hops and barley. You’re getting wiser while you wet your whistle – how neat is that?

Tempe, Arizona is the kind of place where memories are made, and it’s waiting with open arms to offer a warm southwestern welcome. So pack your bags because Tempe is worth every bit of the journey!