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Things to Do

While other Arizona cities are still building their urban buzz, Downtown Tempe has been setting the standard for years. From vibrant days to electric nights, it’s packed with endless entertainment and recreation to keep you exploring and surprising yourself.

Discover Downtown
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Beach Park
Tempe Town Lake is your playground, offering everything from serene paddleboarding to epic concerts and festivals. Pack a picnic, rent a bike, or simply soak up the Arizona sun along its scenic shores.
Dive in
"A Mountain" - Hayden Butte
Hike to the top of this iconic Tempe landmark for breathtaking views and a side of history. Bonus: It's Instagram gold at sunrise or sunset.
Take a hike
Before Tempe By Day
After Tempe After Dark

The Tale of Two Tempes

Downtown Tempe is a city with two distinct rhythms—one by day, and one by night. By sunlight, it's a walkable destination filled with brunch and coffee shops, local boutiques, lakeside adventures, and patios buzzing with conversation. But when the sun sets, the tempo shifts. Rooftop lounges, live music, culinary experiences, and buzzing bars light up the night, as electric lights and sunset vibes reflect off the buildings, water, and mountain backdrop.

Choose your adventure—day or night—and experience the unforgettable energy of Downtown Tempe.

Historic Attractions

Discover the historical charm woven into every corner of downtown, where thoughtfully preserved buildings and monuments tell the story of Tempe’s rich heritage.

Seasonal Highlights

Outdoor Recreation
Step outside and discover trails, parks, and paths perfect for biking, hiking, and soaking up the sunshine. From Mill Avenue to Tempe Town Lake, outdoor adventures are always in season.
Historic Mill Avenue
Don’t believe everything you’ve heard about Mill Ave—it’s not just for bar-hopping college kids (though, yes, the bars are legendary). This historic gem has evolved into a lively blend of restaurants, retail, unique experiences, and a nostalgic stroll down memory lane for anyone who once roamed these streets with a backpack and big dreams.
Family Adventures
Looking for the perfect destination to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones? Look no further than Downtown Tempe! Nestled in the heart of Center and the center of the Valley of the Sun, Downtown Tempe offers outdoor recreation, unique indoor experiences, restaurants and iconic annual events that are perfect for the whole family! Whether you’re seeking history, art, outdoor adventure, or simply a place to relax and enjoy delicious food, Downtown Tempe has it all.