Best hotels in Tempe
Residence Inn by Marriott Tempe Downtown / University
510 South Forest Avenue, Tempe, AZ, 85281
This Marriott is in a great location whether you’re here to explore Downtown or visit the university. There’s a mix of studios and suites – both one and two bedroom – that are ideal for longer stays with their fully-equipped kitchens.
Tempe Mission Palms
60 East Fifth Street, Tempe, AZ, 85281
Enjoy Tempe’s spectacular sunsets from the rooftop pool at the highly-rated Tempe Mission Palms. You’re at the heart of Downtown, with over 300 rooms to choose from. There’s a fitness center, suites, and an excellent restaurant to dine in.
Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown
108 East University Drive, Tempe, AZ, 85281
This sleek boutique-style hotel fits right in with the Downtown vibe in Tempe. Modern furnishings are married with local artwork and fabrics at Canopy by Hilton. The rooftop lounge and pool are a wonderful place to relax after a day spent exploring the city.
Best restaurants in Tempe
Azusa Ramen
3128 South Mill Avenue, Tempe, AZ, 85282
Simple but deeply flavored ramen is the order of the day at Azusa. After spring rolls or chicken karaage, dive into a scrumptious bowl of tonkatsu, an aromatic pork broth with fishcake, pork chashu, seasoned egg, and sesame seeds.
Detroit Coney Grill
930 West Broadway Road, Tempe, AZ, 85282
Get a taste of Motor City at Detroit Coney Grill, where it’s all about world-class hot dogs and hamburgers. Kick off with some spicy wings – the mango habanero sauce is a real winner – then get the Detroit Coney dog, simple with chili, mustard, and onions. If you’re really hungry, the burgers are stacked and stupendous.
Café Lalibela
849 West University Drive, Tempe, AZ, 85281
A great spot for both stellar Ethiopian coffee and food, Lalibela can rustle you up a good cup of Joe, but also meat and vegan dishes. Curries such as Asa Wat – tilapia with berbere chili sauce and spices are full of deep flavor.
Best things to do in Tempe
ASU Gammage
ASU Tempe Campus, 1200 S. Forest Avenue, Tempe, AZ, 85281
ASU Gammage – also known as the Grady Gammage Memorial Auditorium – is an art center on the ASU campus. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in the 1960s, it’s a wonderful performance space that plays host to visiting Broadway shows, A-list musicians, and community events.
Tempe Town Lake
Tempe, AZ, 85281
This artificial two-mile-long lake is one of Arizona’s most popular public attractions. When the sun is up high, there’s no better place to cool off in Tempe, an oasis in the desert. Take to the water for rowing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding.
Arizona Mills
5000 South Arizona Mills Cir, Tempe, AZ, 85282
There’s more than just shopping to engage you at Arizona Mills, with the likes of a Legoland Discovery Center and Sealife Aquarium in addition to just short of 200 stores. Pick up some bargains, visit with the turtles then dine at any of a huge array of chain restaurants.