Tempe, AZ: Hotel & Motel Planning Guide

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.

What hotels have the most value in Tempe?

Homey-yet-luxurious Arizona Grand Resort is the perfect hotel for those seeking amenities and great rates near Tempe. You'll find amazing rates here, especially during the hot summer months. Don't miss dining under the stars at this property. The facility's name fits, as the grand property features over five floors and grounds that include a lazy river, golf courses, children's pool, and poolside bar. The fitness center rivals any outside facility in its square footage and fitness equipment. Two restaurants, a bar/lounge and poolside bar, along with breakfast service ensure you'll never have to leave the luxurious Arizona Grand Resort.

If you are seeking a luxury hotel in the heart of Tempe, Arizona, Tempe Mission Palms - Destination Hotels and Resorts should be on your radar. The hotel's central courtyard offers an escape from the downtown scene, with an outdoor pool, lounge chairs, terrace dining, and outdoor fireplaces, to ward off the desert nighttime chill. On-site event space, excellent bars, lounges, restaurants, and chic décor make this a hotspot for events and wedding parties.

Where can you find hotel discounts for Tempe, Arizona?

Residence Inn Tempe Downtown/University is an excellent option for travelers seeking modern style and excellent rates. If you are a AAA member, you will secure excellent discounts at this downtown Tempe hotel. The décor is one of this hotel's most attractive features, with chic pendant lighting and seamlessly designed interiors that make you feel like you're staying at a boutique hotel at a much higher cost.

The hotel is a favorite of families visiting Arizona state students, who love the in-room kitchenettes, convenience shop, pool and spa access, free receptions, and daily breakfast. Free internet service, in-room desks, free daily newspapers, and ample event space make this hotel a favorite of business travelers, too. The hotel is also pet friendly.

For another affordable hotel option near ASU, check out Courtyard by Marriott Tempe. Clean, convenient, and comfortable, Courtyard by Marriott Tempe also offers a AAA discount.

What should you do on your stay in Tempe, AZ?

Tempe is known as a town that supports the arts, and there's no better place to experience the breadth of offerings than at Tempe Center for the Arts. The architecturally significant facility frequently hosts international and local musical ensembles and theater troupes, as well as exhibitions in its 3,500 square-foot gallery. Each year, Tempe Center for the Arts also welcomes the community to TCA's Disrupt FEST, bringing forward-thinking, edgy performances and art to the community.

You can learn more about Tempe's past at the Tempe History Museum. The museum's free admission makes this a fascinating and affordable attraction for families and history lovers, with added value programs like free concerts. If you visit in June or July, kids can participate in Tempe Time Machine programs on select days. Third Thursdays are another favorite attraction at the Tempe History Museum, serving up dessert and coffee and a chance to interact with local artisans and historians.

For a hyper-local experience, head to downtown Tempe. Yuccata Tap Room, billed as "Tempe's original home for live music," does not disappoint. The live music sets are rivaled only by the craft beer selection. Be sure to pop in on a Tuesday for "Beers and Baos," the house specialty. Discover local flavor for a good cause at 1865 Coffee House. Indulge in a donut, iced latte, or barista brew served up by this non-profit coffee house, which benefits the Salvation Army.

Foodies with a taste for upscale creations head over to House of Tricks, where the artistic plating and fusion dishes delights all the senses. When it comes to breakfast, Tempe takes brunch seriously. Each June and July, the Tempe Brunch crawl allows participants to visit four brunch spots, enjoy specials, giveaways, and indulge in mimosas to their hearts' content.