Top 6 Must-Visit Tempe Spots for Out-of-Town Guests This Holiday Season
Hosting family or friends in Tempe this fall and holiday season? As Tempe tourism experts, we've selected the top six destinations to impress your visitors with unforgettable experiences. These local favorites blend natural beauty, holiday magic, and vibrant culture.
Phoenix Zoo
The Phoenix Zoo delights all ages with over 3,000 animals, from African lions to zebras. Interactive highlights include Stingray Bay, the Arizona Trail featuring native wildlife, Giraffe Encounter, Monkey Village, and a 4-D Theater. Discover the new Isle of the Tiger exhibit, offering enhanced views of Sumatran tigers Jai and Suriya as they play, splash, or relax.
For evening fun, ZooLights—powered by SRP EarthWise Energy—runs from November 23 through January 10. Nearly 4 million lights illuminate animated displays, with the Music in Motion show at the main lake synced to Polar Express and Winter Palace by Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Meet Tortuga the Talking Galapagos Tortoise and Jengo the Talking Giraffe, enjoy 3-D light sculptures, 2-D butterflies, and ice carvings, all while sipping hot chocolate. Visit the zoo's website for tickets and hours.
Desert Botanical Garden
A visit to the Tempe-Phoenix area demands a stop at the Desert Botanical Garden, a living museum showcasing over 50,000 arid-climate plants worldwide. Easy trails reveal saguaros, quail, and whimsical Boojum trees. Dine at Gertrude’s on-site restaurant, featuring seasonal, locally sourced brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Evenings glow with Las Noches de las Luminarias from 5:30-9:30 p.m., November 25–December 31 (select member-only nights; check the website). Over 8,000 luminaria bags, twinkle lights, and live holiday music create a magical scene. Tickets sell out fast—purchase ahead. The Bruce Munro: Sonoran Light exhibit runs November 22–May 8, enhancing the spectacle.
Take a Hike
Visitors from cooler climates will relish Tempe's sunny trails, from challenging mountain hikes to gentle walks. Pack water and sunscreen, then explore stunning vistas. Find trail guides on the Tempe Tourism website. Favorites include South Mountain Park and Preserve and Papago Park trailhead near the Phoenix Zoo.
Tempe Marketplace
This open-air shopping hub shines during holidays. From November 25–December 31, enjoy "snow" shows at 7 and 8 p.m. near the Christmas tree by Dave & Buster’s—a delightful rarity that sparks joy across generations. Perfect for family dining, desserts, and holiday shopping.
Arizona Mills
Shop at Arizona Mills' diverse outlets like U.S. Polo Assn., O’Neill, Hurley, Conn’s, H&M, Gap Outlet, and At Home. Savor global flavors at Villa Food Hall, from Mo’ Burger to Tinta Mexicana. Highlights include SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, Harkins IMAX Theater, GameWorks, and Santa photos through December 24.
Tempe Restaurants
Tempe's dining scene rivals top culinary hubs. Award-winning Four Peaks Brewing Company offers Kilt Lifter ale, historic charm, and beer bread sandwiches. Pedal Haus Brewery features craft beers, gastropub fare, and a vast patio. Rustler’s Rooste boasts city views and classics like burgers, ribs, and seafood. Culinary Dropout in a warehouse space pairs inventive dishes with games, fire pits, and cocktails. Postino Annex in a historic ASU building serves shareable bruschetta. Browse all options by category or location on the Tempe Tourism website.
