Eat, Drink, & Shop Local This Holiday Season in Downtown Tempe!
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Shop Local this Holiday 2026 Season!
This holiday season, think local! From unique finds at independent shops to gift cards for your favorite restaurants and experiences worth sharing, Downtown Tempe has a few ideas for checking names off your holiday shopping list.
Browse local shops for shoes, ASU and sports gear, houseplants and accessories from local makers, thrifted finds, and more. And while you're here, make a day of it! Grab a coffee, meet up with friends for lunch, or treat yourself to dinner after crossing a few names off your shopping list.
view the 2026 holiday gift guide
Local Love: Why Shopping Small Matters
Shopping local comes with a few perks beyond finding a great gift. It's a chance to discover independently owned businesses, find something you might not see at a big-box store, and put your holiday spending right back into the community.
Did you know? For every $100 spent at a locally owned business, $43 stays in the local economy, compared to just $13 at non-local businesses. (Source: Local First Arizona)
That means your holiday purchases can have an impact beyond what's under the tree, helping support local jobs and the business owners who give Downtown Tempe its character.
Local Shops to Check Out
Looking for something a little different this year? Downtown Tempe is home to independent shops with plenty of gift-worthy finds.
From one-of-a-kind pieces and vintage treasures to everyday favorites and gifts that show off your Tempe pride, you might just find something you weren't expecting.
Take a look at some of the local spots worth exploring this holiday season!
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1 Last Rodeo Bootery & Custom Hat Bar 414 S Mill Ave, # 119 Tempe, AZ 85281 This year, give the experience of a custom cowboy hat bar experience, a pair of authentic leather boots or even a custom-made trucker hat. ! Last Rodeo just opened on Mill Ave and is the first custom hat bar to be downtown. Shop in person, and discover workwear, custom hats, custom boots, cute tops and accessories. |
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2 Hackett House Gift Shop 95 W 4th St Tempe, AZ 85281 FULL of cute little gifts and knickknacks perfect for the holiday season. Hackett House is definitely one of Downtown’s most underrated retailers. One of their unique features is that they are housed in a historic property---Tempe's first bakery. In addition, Hackett is a non-profit supporting Tempe Sister Cities so all tax free! Closed Dec 23 – Jan 6.
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3 Lotions and Potions 420 S Mill Ave, #105 Tempe, AZ 85281 Lotions & Potions has everything you need to keep you smelling good and feeling better. Choose from a large selection of essential oils, candles, luxurious soaps, and lotions or visit the Scent Bar to mix your own Custom Scented Body Care. They also have an abundance of décor, knickknacks and perfect small gifts! |
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4 The Shoe Mill 398 S Mill Ave, #100 Tempe, AZ 85281 The Shoe Mill has been doing business in Tempe, Arizona since 1987. Located on the corner of 4th and Mill, the Shoe Mill started out primarily as a Birkenstock store during the late 80s and early 90s. For women looking for comfort and style, they have a number of funky, fun brands to choose from. Shoe Mill is the best at keeping up with current styles and trends but always keep the staples on hand. |
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5 Cactus Sports 514 S Mill Ave Tempe, AZ 85281 Cactus Sports is THE ONLY independently owned and alumni operated Arizona State University fan shop left in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area - doing business on Mill Avenue for 32 years and counting. |
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6 The Plant Mill 518 S Mill Ave Tempe, AZ Plants. Need we say more? This is not your average plant shop - this is a destination plant store and gift shop. Filled to the brim with local vendors, you will always find something new at The Plant Mill. From unique and local pottery to house your new plant bestie in, all the way to bags, earrings, art and cards. |
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7 Yucatecan Imports 414 S Mill Ave, #108 Tempe, AZ 85281 Tucked away in the cutest courtyard on Mill, this hidden gems deals in a wide range of imports from dozens of countries. Family run business for over 25 years; the owner travels to over 3 dozen different countries and 6 different continents. Everything handmade with unique jewelry, satchels, clothing and more! |
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8 Rave Circus 414 S Mill Ave, #106 Tempe, AZ 85281 Don't leave this courtyard until you check out Rave Circus. Your one stop shop for all things rave and fun! A unique festival boutique on Mill since 2015. |
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9 The Henna Shoppe 411 S Mill Ave, Suite 102 Tempe, AZ 85281 All the flowy clothing, jewelry and Zen you were wishing for. Henna Kits also available for at-home henna! Each piece in their collection is a labor of love, handmade by skilled local artists and artisans. If it adds beauty to your life, you'll find it here. Also just launched online to bring unique products closer to you, no matter where you are. |
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10 TuTuGether 740 S Mill Ave, Unit 120 Tempe, AZ 85281 TuTugether is a creative haven, offering a hands-on crafting experience where participants of all ages can explore projects like tufting, decoden, and pouring art. Perfect for date nights, family outings, or solo adventures, the space combines artistic fun with a chance to take home your personalized creation. With expert guidance, high-quality materials, and a welcoming atmosphere, Tutugether ensures a memorable experience for crafting enthusiasts and beginners alike. Check them out for an experience- they also have some retail items too! |
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11 Urban Outfitters 545 S Mill Ave Tempe, AZ 85281 Urban Outfitters on Mill Ave has a wide selection of ASU-inspired gear, accessories, dorm essentials, trendy clothes, winter jackets, jeans, shoes, home decor and more! |
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12 Knee Deep Tempe 512 S. Mill Avenue Tempe, AZ 85281 Knee Deep Tempe opened on Mill Ave in 2025, and offers an assortment of denim, swim wear, lingerie, tanks, hats and accessories. One of their top sellers is the custom tees made on demand. |
Make a Day of It in Downtown Tempe
Holiday shopping is a pretty good excuse to spend a little extra time downtown.
Start with coffee, browse a few shops, grab lunch at a locally owned restaurant, or meet up with friends for dinner and drinks. And if you're shopping for someone who has everything, a gift card to their favorite downtown business is always an option.
This holiday season, keep Downtown Tempe on your list. Shop small, eat local, and enjoy a little extra time on Mill Avenue!