Thanks to the light rail from downtown Phoenix and downtown Mesa, getting to Tempe is easy. Once you're there, you can hop on the Valley Metro bus for a small fee or ride the free FLASH and ORBIT neighborhood circular buses. The town is also investing in a downtown streetcar, in a move designed to help residents go completely car-free.
There's so much to discover in Tempe. Sports lovers come for the football games at Arizona State, and to tee off at the city's two public golf courses. At Rolling Hills Golf Course or Ken McDonald Golf Course, you can tee off any day of the year, except for Christmas Day. The golf courses each feature pro shops, a full-service restaurant, and lessons are available. Online booking makes scheduling your day on the greens a breeze.
Much of the action in Tempe centers around man-made Tempe Town Lake, one of Arizona's most popular tourist sites. In fact, more than 2.4 million people visit the lake each year to walk, run, and bike its perimeter. Others opt for a day on the water, embarking from Town Lake Marina by boat or kayak. Tempe Town Lake is ringed with other attractions, including the Tempe Center for the Arts, a Veterans Memorial and Public Safety Memorial, parks, and recreation facilities, including volleyball courts.
Of course, a visit to Tempe is not complete without spending some time in the desert landscape. You can check out historic Native American markings on Hayden Butte, or visit Desert Botanical Garden, Papago Park, and Hole-in-the-Rock for scenic views and day hikes.
Whether you're in town for a college graduation, weekend getaway, or arts festival, make the most of your time in Tempe, Arizona in its lively downtown and Town Lake.
When should you visit Tempe, AZ?
Anytime is a good time to visit Tempe, Arizona. The desert climate ensures that you'll only deal with rain once or twice a month, on average. Winters are typically mild, in the upper 60s. Though summers climb into the low 100s, low humidity makes the heat bearable.
The best time to come to Tempe depends on what kind of entertainment you plan to pursue. Tempe boasts a robust calendar of weekly, monthly, and annual events dedicated to arts and culture, and Tempe Town Lake hosts more than 40 special events each year, from the Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade to Ironman Arizona and the largest Independence Day celebration and fireworks show in the state.
Each Sunday, October through April, downtown Tempe comes alive with the 6th Street Market, a diverse showcase of local artisans, makers, and performers. Over 100 vendors and performers are slated to participate each season. For a world-class arts experience, visit during the three-day juried Fall Tempe Festival of the Arts that is held each year in late November/early December. This festival ushers in the holiday season with an exhibition of artist booths down Mill Avenue, with a slate of live music performances, street performers, exhibits, and more. The following weekend in December, Santa arrives by boat! The annual Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade delights locals and visitors with a lighted procession of festively decorated boats on Tempe Town Lake, an event which has become a favorite Arizona holiday tradition.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Tempe, AZ:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs displaying average price patterns by star rating class in Tempe, AZ. Analyze these line graphs to evaluate the most cost effective seasons to book in Tempe for your upcoming travels.
Where are the luxury hotels close to Tempe, Arizona?
4 Star Average Prices: $171.72
There are several excellent luxury hotel options in and around Tempe, Arizona. For a five-star experience, check into The Phoenician, A Luxury Collection Resort Scottsdale. This grand resort is ideal for a romantic escape or a family vacation, and it is pet-friendly, too. A children's pool and children's activities ensure that you can spend time with the kids or get some alone time and ensure they are well-entertained.
Pamper yourself at the on-site spa or indulge in 24-hour pool access. You can work on your fitness at the wellness center or lounge in a pool cabana. The hotel offers ample event space, too, from intimate rooms for board meetings to grand ballrooms for galas and weddings.
If you are seeking more privacy for a honeymoon or personal retreat, check into the Canyon Suites at the Phoenician Luxury Collection. Sculpted marble tubs, sunset terraces, and fire pits are just a few of the luxury amenities you'll enjoy at the Canyon Suites.
What affordable hotel options are in Tempe, AZ?
3 Star Average Prices: $114.49
For a value rate at a chic boutique hotel, check out Hotel Adeline in Scottsdale. The grounds feature a subtle vintage vibe, from the kidney-shaped pools to the tiki-style outdoor bar. Rooms feature funky artwork, plus upscale touches like designer toiletries and Egyptian cotton sheets.
You'll find style in spades at Aloft Hotel, located in the Tempe Arts District. Loft style blends with modern style at Aloft with fun amenities like a lobby bar, a billiards table, and a cozy outdoor pool and terrace. While you will pay for extras like breakfast here, you will discover excellent hotel rates and chic guestrooms.
