Things To Do In Tempe, Arizona
A One Day Itinerary of things to do in Tempe
Tempe, Arizona – Most people know that it is home to Arizona State University (ASU). But Tempe holds some surprises for first-time visitors. First, it’s a city, complete with high-rise buildings. Second, it’s a waterfront city, sitting next to Tempe Town Lake. Third, it’s surprising close to Phoenix Sky Harbor airport, downtown Phoenix, and Old Town Scottsdale. It’s a great place to spend a day. Here is a one day itinerary of things to do in Tempe (prounounced temPEE it if you want to sound like a local).
Morning
Hike “A” Mountain
If you are able, this is one of the “musts” for things to do in Tempe. Hayden Butte Preserve, otherwise known as “A” Mountain is a landmark in Tempe. It has a giant A on it representing ASU. It has a short, but steep climb, on a mostly paved path, that rewards you with a sweeping view of Tempe and the Valley of the Sun. Planes fly close overhead as they are approaching or departing the Phoenix Sky Harbor airport.
As you climb “A” Mountain, you will see some petroglyphs that were left behind by the Hohokam. These images are roughly 1,000 years old.
It’s best to do first thing in the morning, before it gets too hot. And you can reward yourself with breakfast for your effort. “A” Mountain is at the corner of Mill Avenue and Rio Salado Parkway. There is a paid parking lot off Mill Avenue between 3rd Street and E Rio Salado Parkway that is close to the walking path for your hike.
Have Breakfast
There are several great places to get breakfast in Tempe. The two I really like that are in walking distance of “A” Mountain are Snooze and The Daily Jam.
Snooze is located at 615 South College Avenue. It is very popular so getting there early will give you an advantage. Their web site also allows you to join their wait list (in case you overslept). They have a great traditional breakfast menu that includes a few vegan options as well. My personal favorite is the Corned Beef Hash served with eggs and hash browns.
The Daily Jam is another favorite and a great back-up plan if Snooze is too busy. It is located at 310 S. Mill Ave (right across from the parking at “A” Mountain). They have vegan and gluten-free options, although their kitchen is not gluten-free. And their menu covers breakfast, brunch and lunch. My personal favorite is the Phoenix Sauté. It’s a vegan breakfast, but so delicious it will satisfy the meat eaters too.
Stroll Mill Avenue and the ASU Campus
A stroll on Mill Avenue and the ASU campus is a great way to see downtown Tempe…and walk off your breakfast. There are lots of stores, restaurants and bars and interesting things to see. Here are some suggestions:
- Cactus Sports – ASU gear
- Explore art throughout Mill Avenue and nearby with a walking tour
- Pitaya – clothing
- Urban Outfitters – clothing
- Slickables – ice cream sandwiches
Afternoon
Have Lunch
There are lots of choices for lunch in Tempe. Here are a couple of my favorites:
The Handlebar is located at 680 S Mill Avenue. The Handlebar is a very casual bar and restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. My favorite thing to get is their award-winning grilled cheese sandwich.
Pedal Haus – This restaurant/brewery with a large patio and beer garden is located at 730 S. Mill Avenue (next to the giant rabbit statues). Good beer and food and games outside. Their pizza is my go-to when I’m there.
Explore
There are lots of possibilities for things to do in Tempe. These are some of my favorites:
Check out a local brewery – The Shop Beer Company – You can get their beer Church Music all over town, but they have so much more to offer at their tasting room located at 922 West 1st Street.
Hang out at Tempe Town Lake – There are several options for hanging out ON the water. Check out Boat Rentals of America in Tempe for more information. Or take a leisurely walk on the walking path by the lake.
Papago Park – Located just north of downtown Tempe, Papago Park offers lots of things to do including:
- Phoenix Zoo
- Hole in the Rock
- Hiking trails
- Desert Botanical Gardens
Please note: The Papago Park activities are recommended for early morning only during the summer months.
Evening
Sunset
Arizona has spectacular sunsets and watching a sunset from a great spot is one of the top things to do in Tempe…and all over Arizona. Tempe has several great viewing spots. Get to your spot early so you don’t miss the “golden hour” when the light before sunset is golden and magical.
Papago Park – Lots of people go to Hole in the Rock for the sunset. But it gets crowded. The good news is that there are lots of rocks you can climb for optimal sunset viewing.
“A” Mountain – If you didn’t climb the mountain in the morning, this is a good time to take a look.
Local rooftops – There are a few hotels in Tempe that have great rooftop views such as Alibi at Canopy by Hilton or Skysill at the Westin. Get a cocktail and toast the beautiful sunset.
Dinner
By now you have worked up an appetite again. Here are recommendations for dinner.
Pita Jungle – Located on the corner of University and Mill Avenue, Pita Jungle is a fun, laid-back place for dinner. Healthy, Mediterranean inspired foot with vegan and gluten-free options. The Cilanto-Jalapeno Hummus is amazing – you might want to get a couple orders of it so there is plenty to go around.
Culinary Dropout – Classic, casual food, great drinks, live music and games. This place is popular and gets busy – so be sure to make reservations. Located at 149 S Farmer Avenue.
Ghost Ranch – Located in south Tempe at 1006 E Warner Road. It’s a 15 minute drive from downtown Tempe, but worth it for their modern southwest cuisine. It’s a popular place so you may want to go early.
After dinner, enjoy a stroll by Tempe Town Lake or head to your hotel or home to rest up from your fun-filled day in Tempe.
