While making a great trek across the United States of America on your adventures while traveling, a great spot to stop is in Tempe, Arizona. Located in the suburbs of Phoenix, Arizona in the central southern part of the state, this dry, hot location is a great place to explore the southwestern feel of the United States. From enjoying the downtown area, discovering the history of Arizona, looking at sea life in the aquarium, or shopping, here are eight of the best things to do while in Tempe, Arizona.
1. Walk through the Mill Avenue District
A great way to spend a day while in Tempe, Arizona is to walk through the Mill Avenue District, also known as the downtown area, of Tempe. Tons of shops, restaurants, and activities to do while you are here, such as an escape room challenge, live music at bars, and beautiful sights to see are some of the few reasons to head to the downtown area during your stay in Tempe.
Downtown Tempe, Arizona
Address: 6th St @ Mill, Tempe, AZ 85281
Website: Downtown Tempe, Arizona
2. Sea Life Aquarium
If you are looking for an indoor-activity for you and your friends or family while in Tempe, Arizona, head over to the Sea Life Aquarium. This is especially a great way to spend a day if you have young children. See all types of sea life while at this amazing aquarium, filled with fish, sea turtles, stingrays, sharks and more! They also have a LegoLand if you have children that love these timeless toys. Pricing starts at 11.50 USD and varies, dependent on what activities you want to do while you are there. The Sea Life Aquarium is a must-see while in Tempe!
Sea Life Aquarium
Address: 5000 S. Arizona Mills Circle, Ste 145, Tempe, AZ 85285
Website: Sea Life Aquarium
3. Tempe Beach Park
Want to soak up the sun while in hot, Tempe, Arizona? Head over to the Tempe Beach Park where you will feel like your are right on the shore! Located close to the downtown area of Tempe, and offers access to a water park for children and the Tempe Town Lake for swimming, kayaking, and enjoying the outdoors. Don’t forget your sunscreen!
Tempe Beach Park
Address: 80 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281
Website: Tempe Beach Park
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
The Tranquil Desert
Tempe, Arizona, United States
Prickly Pear Cottage 🌵Centrally located w/hiking!
Tempe, Arizona, United States
Studio Apt. Students. Travel nurses. 30 day min.
Tempe, Arizona, United States
4. Arizona Mills Mall
Once you enjoy your day out in the sun, you may want to go and cool off a bit and maybe do some shopping! Make your way to the Arizona Mills Mall for some cool air-conditioning and tons of amazing brands to shop, such as Adidas, Disney, Forever 21, or Gap, as well as many options for eating and fun for you and your kids. Be sure to bring your wallet!
Arizona Mills Mall
Address: 5000 S Arizona Mills Cir, Tempe, AZ 85282-6402
Website: Arizona Mills Mall
5. Segway Tour of Scottsdale
The town of Scottsdale is a close twenty-minute drive from Tempe and it is a great way to explore the outer limits of Phoenix. You can take a tour of Scottsdale or the Tempe Town Lake on this great Segway tour! Groups are limited to six people which lead to more hands on assistance with Segways and closer interaction with your tour guide. A great way to spend an afternoon in Scottsdale or Tempe! Prices start at 37.50 USD and are approximately one and a half hours long, including all the equipment you need plus water and optional frozen ties to keep you cool.
Segway of Scottsdale
Address: 7330 E Earll Dr H, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Website: Segway of Scottsdale
6. See a game at Diablo Stadium
If you are a lover of the great American past time or have never seen the sport (baseball, that is), head over to the Diablo Stadium to watch a baseball game. Arizona is known for the location of many major league baseball team’ spring training, and you can watch the star athletes practice for the upcoming season, or see a local game as well. Don’t forget your peanuts and cracker jacks!
Diablo Stadium
Address: Tempe Diablo Stadium, 2200 W Alameda Dr, Tempe, AZ 85282
Website: Diablo Stadium
7. Hike Hayden Butte Preserve
One of the great parts about Tempe is its vast supply of hiking trails and outdoor activities! Head to Hayden Butte Preserve to hike up to the top of the mountain for beautiful 360 degree views of Tempe, Scottsdale, and Phoenix, Arizona. You can even stop by the History Museum after to learn more about the history of Tempe and the importance of this great city landmark. Open from dawn until dusk.
Hayden Butte Preserve
Address: E Rio Salado Pkwy & S Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281
Website: Hayden Butte Preserve
8. Shop at Tempe Marketplace
If you didn’t get enough of your shopping done while in the Arizona Mills Mall, head to the Tempe Marketplace as well! Amazing restaurants, stores, and tons of events, this outdoor marketplace has everything you may need while treating yourself to some souvenirs and bringing back gifts for your friends and family. A wonderful place to spend a few hours relaxing and strolling through the Marketplace in Tempe.
Tempe Marketplace
Address: 2000 E. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe, AZ 85281
Website: Tempe Marketplace
Take your turn in Tempe!
Tempe, Arizona is a perfect place to stop and discover while visiting the Phoenix area. From enjoying the outdoors at the Beach Park, hiking up to Hayden Butte Mountain, to seeing aquatic life and shopping indoors, Tempe has something for everyone, no matter what age. Make sure to make time for Tempe on your travels through the Southwestern part of the United States of America.