Top 7 Fun Things to Do in Downtown Tempe: Hiking, Biking, Culture & More
Discover endless fun in Downtown Tempe, centered around vibrant Mill Avenue. Enjoy top-tier shopping, dining, outdoor adventures like hiking and biking, movies, museums, and captivating theater performances.
Here’s our curated list of must-do activities in Downtown Tempe:
1) Hike “A” Mountain: At the north end of Downtown, tackle this short but steep trail to “A” Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of ASU Tempe campus and the surrounding Tempe landscape. A true local favorite!
2) Catch a movie: Head to AMC Dine-In Centerpoint 11 in the heart of Downtown Tempe for a luxurious cinema experience. Recline in plush seats, savor gourmet concessions, or dine at nearby restaurants before or after your show.
3) Take a bike ride: Rent a bike from The Bicycle Cellar near Mill Avenue or bring your own. Explore Tempe’s extensive bike paths, including those around Tempe Town Lake or the scenic Crosscut Canal Multiuse Path through Papago Park.
4) Enjoy a theater performance: From innovative shows by Stray Cat Theatre at Tempe Center for the Arts to blockbuster Broadway productions at ASU Gammage, Downtown Tempe’s stages deliver world-class entertainment. Check schedules and tickets at www.straycatheatre.org or www.asugammage.com.
5) Relax at Tempe Town Lake: Just north of Downtown, this gem offers scenic running, walking, and biking paths encircling the lake. For water fun, rent paddleboards, kayaks, or pedal boats from Tempe Boat Rentals.
6) Visit the ASU Art Museum: Immerse yourself in diverse visual arts, from ancient prehistoric drawings to contemporary works by global artists. Explore the ASU Art Museum at Mill Ave. and 10th St., and the Ceramics Research Center & Brickyard Gallery nearby on Mill Ave. and 7th St.
7) Join 2nd Sundays on Mill: Experience this popular monthly event series (held the second Sunday, seasonally) on Mill Avenue. Browse artisan markets with crafts, baked goods, and gifts; enjoy live music, street performances, fitness classes, and outdoor games.




