things to do in tempe az

Tempe, Arizona, is a vibrant college town located near Phoenix, offering a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. Here are some things to do in Tempe, AZ:

1. Arizona State University (ASU) Campus: Explore the beautiful campus, visit the ASU Art Museum, and catch a sports game at Sun Devil Stadium.
2. Mill Avenue: This lively street is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, making it a great place to spend an evening.
3. Tempe Beach Park: Enjoy swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding on the lake, and take a stroll along the walking path.
4. Desert Botanical Garden: Discover over 50,000 plants and one of the world’s largest collections of cacti and succulents.
5. Tempe Mission Palms: Visit this historic mission, which dates back to 1887, and explore the surrounding gardens and trails.
6. Old Town Tempe: This charming area features shops, restaurants, and galleries, and is a great place to find unique souvenirs.
7. Tempe Marketplace: This outdoor shopping center offers a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
8. Roosevelt Row Arts District: Explore the vibrant art scene in this downtown area, featuring galleries, studios, and street art.
9. Tempe Beach Park Events: Attend concerts, festivals, and other events throughout the year at the park.
10. Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Rent equipment and explore the Tempe Town Lake, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Outdoor Activities:

1. Hiking: Explore the many trails in the Tempe area, including the Tempe Buttes Trail and the Papago Park Trail.
2. Biking: Rent a bike and ride along the Tempe Town Lake or explore the surrounding trails.
3. Golfing: Tee off at one of the many golf courses in the area, including the Tempe Golf Course and the ASU Golf Course.
4. Hot Air Balloon Rides: Take a scenic hot air balloon ride over the Phoenix area.

Food and Drink:

1. The Whining Pig: Enjoy craft beer and wine in a cozy atmosphere.
2. MacAlpine’s Soda Fountain: Try classic milkshakes and burgers at this retro-style diner.
3. The Arrogant Butcher: Savor gourmet burgers and craft beer in a lively atmosphere.
4. Tempe Farmers Market: Visit the market on Saturdays to sample local produce and artisanal goods.

Events:

1. ASU Football Games: Catch a Sun Devil game at Sun Devil Stadium.
2. Tempe Festival of the Arts: Attend this annual festival featuring live music, food, and art.
3. Tempe Oktoberfest: Celebrate German culture with beer, food, and live music.
4. Tempe Pride Festival: Join the celebration of diversity and inclusivity with live music, food, and activities.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Tempe, AZ. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or food and drink, Tempe has something for everyone.