Fall is the ideal season in Tempe to lace up and get moving! From leisurely 5K walks to challenging marathons, our city offers diverse races for every fitness level. Discover these exciting triathlons, runs, and walks happening this fall: Cruiserman Triathlon – September 28: Ditch the high-tech gear for this laid-back triathlon featuring floaties, cruiser bikes, and flip-flops. Competitors swim with flotation devices (no boats), bike through town, and jog an obstacle-filled trail. Enjoy sunset v

Nestled in Papago Park just north of downtown Tempe, the Phoenix Zoo offers easy access with ample parking, making it an ideal spot for a morning or afternoon family outing filled with educational and entertaining experiences. Highlight exhibits feature orangutans, giraffes, zebras, monkeys, stingrays, and elephants. Monkey Village allows visitors to walk through the habitat, watching monkeys swing from tree to tree up close. The orangutan exhibit provides two prime viewing areas to observe the

This season, Im thrilled to serve as a Gammage Goer for ASU Gammage, reviewing select performances. Disneys The Lion King opened last night and runs through November 17th, delivering an unforgettable experience. With roots in Freehold, NJ—Bruce Springsteens hometown—and just an hour south of New York City, Ive enjoyed Broadway shows over the years. Im no theater expert, but as an everyday enthusiast, my perspective mirrors that of most attendees at Gammage. Assuming familiarity with the story,

As an ASU student in Tempe, your schedule revolves around classes, studying, and fueling up with quick, budget-friendly meals. With four years of local experience, Ive identified standout spots near campus that deliver exceptional flavor without the high cost or long waits. Daily Jam is a top breakfast choice in Tempe. This urban restaurant on Mill Avenue, steps from the light rail station, features indoor/outdoor seating and a spacious patio perfect for studying or socializing with friends. Ar

Im sipping a smoothie called “Berry Me Alive” at 24 Carrots. The playful name became even funnier when I ordered it aloud. I appreciate establishments that prioritize quality, and 24 Carrots exemplifies this. One of Tempes newest vegan restaurants, it sources all ingredients locally from Phoenix-area farms, including several in Tempe. The menu evolves weekly to feature the freshest seasonal produce. Now open at the corner of McClintock and Guadalupe—in the same plaza as Changing Hands Bookstor

As Arizona Beer Week approaches, we connected with a genuine beer authority. While many enjoy beer, few match the expertise of Nick Nitz, Handlebar Tempes Resident Beer Geek. If youve visited Handlebar Tempe, youve likely spotted Nick behind the bar in his signature baseball cap, engaging customers with enthusiasm. Preparing for his Certified Cicerone exam—the beer equivalent of a wine sommelier—Nick joined the team when the venue opened in September 2012 and was promoted to Beer Geek in January

Whether youre attending a spring training game in Tempe, youve experienced Tempe Diablo Stadium—the Los Angeles Angels spring training home since 1991. As a frequent visitor for work and games, I sought deeper insights, so I connected with Jerry Hall, the stadiums manager. Born in Colorado, Jerry relocated to Arizona 20 years ago and has managed Tempe Diablo Stadium for the past eight years. From his office window overlooking the field behind home plate, I asked about the venues unique aspects.

Relive childhood creativity at the Chalk Art Festival at Tempe Marketplace on Saturday, April 12. Local artists will transform sidewalks in The District into stunning original works, including six unique 8x6-foot chalk murals visible from all angles. Unleash your inner artist in the community mural area, where chalk and instructors assist participants of all ages. A dedicated KidZone offers engaging activities for children. Combine art with shopping and dining at favorites like California Pizza

Pat’s Run, one of Tempes most beloved annual events, takes place on April 26. Celebrating its 10th year, this 4.2-mile race caps off the spring running season with excitement and purpose, raising funds for a meaningful cause. If you havent experienced Pat’s Run yet, here are four compelling reasons to sign up today. Honor Pat Tillman’s enduring legacy. Arizona State University alumnus Pat Tillman gave up his professional football career to serve in the U.S. Army. Held in late April to mark the

I attended the grand opening of the ASU Art Museum Ceramics Center & Brickyard Gallery at its new Tempe location last Friday evening and was truly impressed by the expanded space. Situated just off Mill Avenue in the former Borders Bookstore section of the Brickyard, it offers far greater visibility than its previous spot across from the ASU Art Museum in an old strip mall, known then as the Ceramics Research Center. The center showcases a remarkable collection of nearly 4,000 ceramic pieces

As the school year ends, summer beckons with endless possibilities. Keep boredom at bay in Tempe, AZ, with our curated list of family-friendly activities that promise fun from June through August. Kiwanis Wave Pool Arizona summers mean pool time, and Tempes Kiwanis Wave Pool stands out as a top indoor destination. Affordable entry—$7 for adults, $5 for kids 2-12—includes wave action, slides, and tube rentals. No sunscreen needed indoors. Visit the Kiwanis Wave Pool website for current hours and

I recently enjoyed a captivating afternoon at Arizona State Universitys (ASU) Gallery of Scientific Exploration on the Tempe campus. This innovative space educates visitors about earth and space sciences through immersive digital media, interactive exhibits, public lectures in a high-definition theater, and glass-enclosed research labs where you can observe scientists in action. Right in the lobby, a detailed model of NASAs Mars rover Curiosity greets visitors. Another highlight is the EarthSco

Escape the ordinary and embrace the outdoors at Tempe Town Lake, Tempes stunning urban oasis in the desert. With mild weather ideal for boating, now is the perfect time for an unforgettable excursion on these serene waters. Renting a boat is straightforward through Tempe Boat Rentals. Visit their kiosk on the south side of the lake at Tempe Beach Park for a variety of watercraft suited to solo adventurers or groups. Options include kayaks, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), pontoon boats, pedal boats

Movie lovers cherish those timeless films they can watch endlessly. For many, the 1989 Batman starring Michael Keaton and Jack Nicholson is a prime example—a cult favorite where every line is unforgettable, yet the excitement never fades. The thrill of catching its trailer as a child made it special, and seeing it twice in theaters during its original run was unforgettable. Thats why the one-night screening in Pollack Tempe Cinemas Cult Classics series was a must-see. Located at 1825 E. Elliot R

Summer in Arizona brings scorching heat, making indoor outings essential for family fun. Fortunately, Tempe offers a wealth of engaging indoor activities perfect for young children. As a local parent and family activities enthusiast, here are my top 5 recommendations to keep kids entertained all season long: 1. SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium at Arizona Mills – A thrilling destination for young explorers, featuring over 5,000 sea creatures in themed exhibits designed to captivate childrens imagi

Escape the scorching Arizona afternoons at SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium in Tempe, located at Arizona Mills. Its an ideal summer destination for families seeking cool, immersive fun year-round, but especially during the hottest months. Your journey begins with vibrant freshwater fish from streams and lakes, leading into the mesmerizing ocean exhibits. Start at the interactive touch tanks with tide pool creatures, then marvel at sharks, rays, seahorses, and more. Thoughtfully designed low displays en

With years of experience working in downtown Tempe, Ive discovered standout lunch spots that deliver exceptional flavors, ambiance, and satisfaction. Here are my top 6 recommendations in no particular order: Pita Jungle – Experience fresh, vibrant Mediterranean flavors at Pita Jungle. The hip, welcoming atmosphere feels like home. Signature hummus shines, especially roasted bell pepper or cilantro jalapeño varieties. Opt for seasonal salads from daily specials or hearty chipotle chicken lavosh

Eating ranks among my top passions, whether at home or out with friends. Late-night cravings often strike for more than a mere snack—I crave a substantial meal. Tempe shines with its wealth of late-night restaurants, especially downtown. When hunger hits around 11 p.m., youre covered. Here are my top picks to tame those midnight munchies. Boulders on Broadway Bar and Grill A Tempe favorite for food and craft beer lovers. Indulge in specialty pizzas, calzones, tacos, and half-pound burgers on bri

Were excited to share this guest post from Christopher Matthews, a passionate local expert in biking and craft beer. Follow him on Twitter here for more insights. Navigating the Valley of the Sun is effortless on two wheels. Riding to, from, and around Historic Downtown Tempe offers a delightful way to explore this cultural hub of the East Valley, whether starting from Downtown Phoenix, Arcadia, or South Scottsdale (SoSco). A successful ride requires minimal prep and strategic stops. Choose from

Who doesnt love discovering exceptional experiences without spending a dime? Tempe offers world-class museums, live entertainment, outdoor pursuits, and vibrant events—all for free. Explore this curated guide to budget-friendly attractions that showcase the best of Tempe. Museums, Galleries, and Performances Experience the ASU Art Museum and its Brickyard Ceramics Research Center, home to over 12,000 objects highlighting contemporary art, crafts, prints, and Southwestern works. ASU also hosts