Downtown Tempe Spotlights

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Celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) Heritage Month

May is Asian American & Pacific Islanders Heritage Month! Let’s take this month to celebrate, learn, and appreciate the incredible legacy of the AAPI community.

Paving the Way for Smarter Mobility in Downtown Tempe

Learn more about the investments and mobility initiatives happening in Downtown Tempe- including Tempe TRiP, a new mobility and parking finder application that simplifies how you get to and through Downtown Tempe with ease.

April is Arab American Heritage Month

April marks National Arab American Heritage Month, a time to honor the vibrant culture, history, and contributions of Arab Americans who enrich our communities.

Endless Outdoor Fun in Downtown Tempe ☀️🥾🚲

Springtime Adventures Await! Soak up the sunshine, savor local flavors, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re here for the marathon, spring festivals, or just passing through, we can’t wait to welcome you to the heart of Tempe!

Volunteers are the Heart of Downtown Tempe 💗💖

In Downtown Tempe, volunteers are the backbone of much of the work we do to shape our community - from beautifying streets and supporting events, to fostering connections among residents, businesses, and visitors. April is National Volunteer Month and we are putting a spotlight on the fine work that our volunteers do while raising awareness on future opportunities to get involved.

Outdoor Dining Options in Downtown Tempe 🍹🍴

Life is too short to only eat, drink, or chill indoors. Patio season is just about every month in Arizona, and even in the middle of summer, there are days just slightly cool enough to hang out with outdoor seating with misters and cool vibes.

Hey, Girls! Knee Deep Tempe Sparkles on Mill Ave ✨🩷

There’s a sparkly new clothing store on Mill Avenue in Downtown Tempe, and it’s fabulous and just for the girls! Here's your first look at Knee Deep Tempe, an Arizona-local clothing brand for girls that brings a fresh, locally owned shopping destination to the heart of our city. ✨🩷

Flavor Eatery & Lounge is Spicing Things Up in Downtown Tempe

Flavor Eatery & Lounge just opened in Downtown Tempe, and is serving up pub grub with a Jamaican twist, along with live music, craft cocktails, and comedy night specials.

Support these Black-Owned Businesses in Downtown Tempe

Let's celebrate Black-owned businesses in Downtown Tempe. From restaurants and bars, to health, beauty and other services, you can show your support and love today and every day during the year. 🫶🏿

Fan Favorite Sports Bars in Downtown Tempe

Downtown Tempe’s got your gameday vibes covered! Whether you’re into rooftop hangs, cozy spots, or high-energy sports bars with epic food and drink deals, there’s something for everyone. Throw on your jersey, rally your crew, and make it a day to remember—Downtown Tempe is where the action’s at! 🍻🏈

Best Brunch Spots in Downtown Tempe

According to Lonely Planet Food, "There is no other meal but brunch that can be stretched from 9 am until 5 pm, depending on who you are, your stage in life, and what your mood dictates."

Downtown Tempe Pizza Tour 🍕

Who doesn't love pizza? Weirdoughs, that's who. OK, enough with the cheesy puns. Check out this official guide of local pizza joints in downtown Tempe known for serving up ooey, gooey goodness all year-long.

Dog-Friendly Things To Do in Downtown Tempe 🐾🌞

Dogs! Don't leave home without them. Check out all of the dog friendly places, events, experiences, and specials available in Downtown Tempe.

Moments to Love: Celebrate Valentine's Day in Downtown Tempe

If the construction on Mill Ave doesn’t sweep you off your feet, this roundup of Valentine’s and Galentine’s Day happenings sure will! From rooftop dinners and candle-making dates to Valentine Tea steeped in charm, Downtown Tempe has all the feels. Fall head over heels for everything we’ve lined up!

Honoring Tempe's Black History

Tempe’s Black history reflects resilience, progress, and the power of community. By acknowledging the struggles and celebrating the contributions of African Americans, we honor the past while building a more inclusive future.

Behind the Chair: A Battle With a Bigger Purpose

By blending competition, culture, and community advocacy, discover how Tempe’s Barber Battle goes beyond competition to empower barbers as mental health advocates.

Flowerful Business Specials: Tempe Blooms Weekend

Don't miss these exclusive, one-of-a-kind specials featured at select restaurants, bars, and retailers- during the Tempe Blooms weekend on Saturday 1/25 and Sunday, 1/26, 2025.

Drink in the View: Rooftop Bars in Downtown Tempe 🤩🌆

Discover the best rooftop bars in Downtown Tempe, where stunning views, craft cocktails, and vibrant vibes come together for unforgettable nights under the Arizona sky.

Kick off the New Year with these 6 Unique Outdoor Activities in Downtown Tempe

Kick off your new year with unbeatable views, unique events, elevating dining experiences, and perfect weather. Downtown Tempe is your destination for good times all year long!

Get Ready to Rock N' Roll in Downtown Tempe 🏃🏽‍♀️🚶🏻‍♀️🏅🎵

The Paradox Rock 'N' Roll event series returns to Downtown Tempe the weekend of January 18, 2025. Here is what to know, how to plan, and what to do in Downtown Tempe this weekend!

Peach Bowl Watch Parties in Downtown Tempe 🏈🔱

If you are looking for the best spots to watch the Peach Bowl, we have you covered. Downtown Tempe is packed with vibrant bars, restaurants, and watch parties where you can cheer on the Sun Devils alongside fellow fans. 🏈🔱

Where To Celebrate New Years in Downtown Tempe 🥂

Get the inside scoop on all of the NYE events, happenings, dinner specials and more. Ring in the 2025 new year in Downtown Tempe.

Community Partner Spotlight: Tempe Community Council

Learn more about Tempe Community Council, a local organization that embodies the spirit of connection and service. Together, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive Tempe—and we couldn’t do it without partners like them.

Plan Your Visit to the Boat Parade

Ready for the Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade? Review this information first and then plan for the most magical and festive experience!

Media Alert: Fall 2024 Tempe Festival of the Arts

One of the Southwest’s longest-standing and most anticipated events, the Tempe Festival of the Arts, will return to Downtown Tempe from Dec. 6–8, 2024.

Holiday 2024 Gift Guide 🎁

Shop local this holiday season - here is roundup of products and unique experiences that you can find in Downtown Tempe this season!

Media Alert - Holidays in Downtown Tempe

Here is your inside look to Downtown Tempe Holiday Events in 2024, with details on the full lineup of events and happenings throughout the season.

Mill Ave is Getting Fresh! 🚧✨

Get ready for a Mill Ave glow-up! 🌟 Construction cones may be cramping your vibe, but don’t let them cramp your style—Mill Avenue businesses are still open and ready for your support. From lush new trees to modernized sidewalks, Downtown Tempe is about to get fresher, greener, and better than ever!

First Look: Julian Wright’s new Restaurant Concept, “Carmen” will bring a taste of Mexico’s Coastline to Mill Avenue

Julian Wright, the visionary behind Tempe favorites Pedal Haus and Devil’s Hideaway & Idle Hands on Mill, has announced his newest restaurant concept, Carmen, which is set to open in Spring 2025 at 6th and Mill in Downtown Tempe.

Eat, Drink, & Shop Local This Holiday Season in Downtown Tempe!

Mill Ave’s best kept secret is its retail stores and we are here to let to cat out of the bag. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the great small retail spots to find unique gifts and experiences to share with loved ones this holiday season.

ASU Homecoming Week: It's Game On!

It's Game On in Downtown Tempe! Get ready to celebrate Sun Devil pride in the heart of Downtown Tempe! ASU Homecoming is here, bringing festivities, tradition, and a sea of maroon and gold to Downtown.

Exciting Changes Ahead with New Restaurants Coming Soon

It’s official- Downtown Tempe’s food scene is becoming even more awesome – with new restaurants, bars, and culinary experiences coming to town soon!

Shop Small Weekend x Downtown Tempe

Celebrating Downtown Tempe’s Newest Mural: A Tribute to Indigenous Heritage

Dive into the cultural legacy of the O’odham people with Oidbad, a stunning 218-foot mural in Downtown Tempe. This powerful new artwork, crafted by local Indigenous artists, tells a story of heritage, resilience, and community.

Here's Your First Look at Fall Events in 2024

It's Happening! It's Fall in Downtown Tempe!

ASU Family Weekend in Downtown Tempe

Where Are Your Boots Parking For Tempe’s Boots In The Park?

Welcome to ASU: Fall Welcome Week

Hey, congrats! You’re officially a Sun Devil. Break in the new title by attending the ASU Fall Welcome Week festivities and Pre-Welcome Week events in Downtown Tempe!

A New Mural Comes to Downtown Tempe

Something special is coming to our vibrant downtown—a new mural that will not only beautify our city but also celebrate a perhaps lesser-known piece of Tempe’s history— the rich cultural heritage of the O’odham people.

Cheers to Beers

Downtown Tempe, where life is brewtiful! Check out our top picks for the best places to enjoy a beer Downtown.