Location: Tempe
Top Things to do in Tempe
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The 10 Best Free Things to do in Tempe, Arizona (AZ)
Located just 10 minutes east of downtown Phoenix, Tempe exudes its own personality and the youthful spirit of a college town. Home to Arizona State University, the largest public university in the United States, Tempe has a vibrant downtown that’s active day and night. You’ll find locally-owned eateries and microbreweries, annual festivals, arts and cultural events. And plenty of opportunities to enjoy over 300 days of sunshine a year on a bike, hiking trail or stand-up paddleboard.
Restaurants in Tempe
1. Tempe History Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 34 reviews
The Tempe History Museum explores Tempe's history by telling the stories of people who have lived here from our Native American ancestors to present day. The exhibits, and programs are designed to captivate and connect with local residents as well as people who want to know more about this area. The museum offers free live local music, kids programming, as well as galleries that offer exhibitions that change monthly and annually. There is no admission to Tempe History Museum for any program or exhibition.
2. Four Peaks Brewing Company
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 244 reviews
The original Four Peaks in Tempe is the Mother Ship to all things Four Peaks! Daily Specials, Single Tank Series, and seasonals make each visit unique! Join us for a brewery tour and experience the sights, sounds, and smells of what makes Four Peaks Brewery Arizona's premier brewery! Visit our website for more details.
Reviewed By 87RichardB - Rockford, United States
We went here on the suggestion from our granddaughter who is a student at ASU. I loved everything about it, they were very busy but the service was excellent. When we're traveling we always look for an excellent brew pub, with good food and a good selection of beer. They had several different brews and I was glad to see they had Pale Ales and IPAs. We thought the food was very good, had an artichoke appetizer dip that was so good, my wife and I had the turkey club on sourdough and it was big and so good. Our granddaughter also enjoyed her food and comes here often with her college friends. We will definitely come back the next time we're in the area.
3. Tempe Marketplace
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 147 reviews
With 1.3 million square feet of retail space to explore and over 100 shops and restaurants to choose from, Tempe Marketplace is the ultimate destination for Valley natives and out of town visitors. Delivering a refreshingly vibrant outdoor environment, complete with cozy fireplaces, unique water features and lush landscaping, the center provides an unparalleled interactive shopping, dining and entertainment experience. Dramatic lights and eye-catching laser elements create a modern and spirited atmosphere, yet the gathering spaces and entertainment areas make it a warm community hub. Conveniently located in the heart of the Valley at the Loop 101 and 202 crossroads, Tempe Marketplace is just minutes from Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler and Gilbert.
Reviewed By Srini52 - Bengaluru, India
Large shopping complex, one can easily spend a few hours walking around. It has variety of stores like Best Buy, ???? Target, Barnes and nobles and many more. Host of eating places to choose for an excellent dining experience.
4. Mill Avenue District
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 761 reviews
This is a shopping, dining, nightlife area. It's similar to 5th Ave and Old Town in Scottsdale, which are listed on tripadvisor.
Reviewed By jhonesnaps63 - Bradenton, United States
This are has the true ambiance of an excellent college town and activities. The buildings are old and majestic and packed with history.
5. Kiwanis Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 84 reviews
Reviewed By robbygc - Toronto, Canada
My wife and myself loved the Kiwanis Park There were a huge lake. Wow! Many people were fishing. There was a bridge. There is a playground as well. The best part was the Kiwanis Park
6. Hayden Butte Preserve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 96 reviews
Reviewed By cohoman - Sammamish, United States
While visiting the Phoenix area, my wife suggested we hike the trail up "A" Mountain. Since I'm a Sun Devil graduate, I couldn't say no! So, my wife, teenage son, and I hiked up the paved trail on a hot (92F) April afternoon. The trail is a little steep, but not that bad for us. The last half of the trail to the top had steps made of railroad ties and a handrail to assist hikers. Great view of Tempe city from the top. Definitely worth doing once if you're a Tempe resident.
7. Desert Arboretum Park
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 13 reviews
This large arboretum contains more than 300 species of plants from various regions of the desert.
Reviewed By travelingspirit52
The Desert Arboretum Park contains many specimens of cactus, aloe, and plants that live in the desert. Some of the Aloe were blooming when we visited in Feb. It was a beautiful day to wander around and look at the plantings and appreciate the plants of the desert.
8. Arizona Mills
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 399 reviews
Arizona Mills is the state’s largest indoor, climate controlled outlet, value and entertainment destination! With over 185 stores to choose from including NIKE Clearance Store, Tommy Hilfiger Company Store, Disney Store Outlet, Gap Factory, Old Navy Outlet and Vans Outlet. Arizona Mills offers shops, services and brands you love at prices you can afford – everything from Women’s Fashion to Jewelry to Shoes and more! Conveniently located on the Arizona Mills Interchange at the intersection of I-10 and US 60, you’ll find us just 10 minutes south of Sky Harbor Airport, and 10 minutes west of the ASU campus. In addition to incredible shopping, Arizona Mills also features unique entertainment and restaurant options like LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Sea Life Arizona, Rainforest Café, Tilt Studio, Harkins Luxury 25 and the largest IMAX in the state. At Arizona Mills you can always find More Brands! More Stores! More Savings! And More Fun!
Reviewed By scrollings
A great place to beat the heat while getting some exercise here in the Valley of the Sunstroke! Three laps around the perimeter takes me about an hour, less if I power walk. Some of the visitors aren't all that careful about masking, despite it being required, but it's easy enough to avoid them. The shops are mostly outlet stores, so there are lots of bargains for stop-off shopping, esp nowadays.
9. Arizona State University Art Museum
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 52 reviews
Reviewed By RainbowNurse - Phoenix, United States
The ASU Art Museum is a dynamic museum which provides not only a permanent gallery and pottery collection, but ever-changing exhibits reflecting current artists, political events, reflections on past artists, etc. I make a point of coming to this museum multiple times a year and I see something new each time I go. The architecture of the building is as fascinating as the exhibits are. You will not be disappointed.
10. Rula Bula
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 24 reviews
Reviewed By edwardwE3008HA
One of the oldest restaurants in Tempe. The food is excellent and authentic, prices are reasonable. Though somewhat student oriented (at the edge of ASU), it is not too noisy and is faithful to its Irish roots.
