7 Insider Ways to Explore Tempe Like a True Local
Tempe stands out as more than just a Phoenix suburb—it's a vibrant, free-spirited college town with a unique identity. Visitors discover funkier shops, art installations everywhere, laid-back residents, and eclectic menus blending local Southwestern flavors with global cuisine. This refreshing, unfussy culture makes Tempe cooler than typical suburbs, inviting you to blend in and experience it like a local.
Discover seven authentic ways to enjoy Tempe as a native does.
Go Boating on Tempe Town Lake
Situated at the edge of downtown, Tempe Town Lake serves as a cherished oasis in this desert city. Strolling the artistic pedestrian bridge, you'll spot locals paddling kayaks, rowboats, standup paddleboards, and small sailboats below. Join them by renting from Boat Rentals of America—opt for a swan pedal boat for Instagram-worthy moments. If water isn't your thing, jog or bike the lakeside path, or picnic in the nearby park.
Dine at Beloved Local Restaurants
Tempe boasts diverse dining options, from Southwestern staples to international fare. Savor authentic Thai at Yupha's Thai Kitchen or Pakistani dishes at Curry Corner, featured on Food Network's Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Craft beer and pizza shine at award-winning Pedal Haus Brewery (named Best Brewery in the U.S. by Copa Cervezas de Americas 2019). Vegetarians love Cafe Lalibela's Ethiopian plates, while The Dhaba offers Zagat-praised Indian cuisine—a favorite of Tempe Mayor Corey Woods. Try Mexican at Casa Reynoso, Italian at Caffe Boa, or historic seafood at purportedly haunted Casey Moore's Oyster House.
Get Active, Preferably on Two Wheels
With 300 sunny days a year, Tempe hosts major events like IRONMAN Arizona. Fitness permeates the culture: hike "A" Mountain for stunning desert views. Cyclists enjoy 215 miles of bikeways, earning Tempe Gold-Level Bicycle-Friendly status from the League of American Bicyclists. Rent bikes from The Bicycle Cellar in Downtown Tempe or borrow from hotels like Graduate Tempe, Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown, or Moxy Phoenix Tempe. Pedal around Tempe Town Lake, Mill Avenue, or Papago Park.
Immerse in the Arts Scene
Tempe's public art reflects residents' creative passion. Admire Rangoli Sunrise mural by Kyllan Maney at The Dhaba restaurant or El Valle del Sol at Tempe Marketplace by Champ and Such Styles.
Arizona State University (ASU) anchors the cultural hub. Explore the ASU Art Museum for contemporary works, including exhibits by women artists. Visit the James Turrell ASU Skyspace: Air Apparent, a modern pit house inspired by Native American traditions—best at sunrise or sunset with its color-changing LED-lit sky opening.
Catch shows at Frank Lloyd Wright-designed ASU Gammage, home to Broadway tours like Mean Girls and Hamilton.
Hike Papago Park
Shared by Tempe, Phoenix, and Scottsdale, Papago Park's 1,500 acres offer trails, picnics, lagoons, Phoenix Zoo, and Arizona Heritage Center. Iconic Hole-in-the-Rock provides framed desert views via a quick 10-minute hike—perfect for sunset. Stroll the Desert Botanical Garden amid 50,000+ arid-climate plants.
Sample Local Microbrews
Tempe's craft beer scene elevates beyond college bars. Sip White Rabbit Hazy IPA at Pedal Haus Brewery or hyper-local brews at The Shop Beer Co. in an ex-mayor's home. Taste Scottish ales from Four Peaks Brewing Company or German Kolsch at family-owned Huss Brewing.
Dive into a Pool with Epic Views
Year-round pool weather calls for stays with splashes. Marriott Phoenix Resort Tempe at The Buttes features a pool in craggy Southwestern hills. Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown offers rooftop city views. Anticipate Westin Tempe's rooftop pool post-opening.
