Tempe in 3: A Thrilling Budget Getaway

Discover Tempe's hidden gems without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

With a limited budget, visitors to Tempe can still enjoy the city's beautiful desert scenery. A stroll through Tempe Town Lake and Papago Park is a great way to soak up the natural beauty of the area. Budget-friendly activities include visiting free attractions like the ASU Art Museum and the Desert Botanical Garden.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Get to know Tempe

  • Check into Hotel Super 8 Tempe/ASU/Airport Area a budget-friendly option with clean rooms and basic amenities
  • Take a leisurely stroll around Tempe Town Lake and soak in the scenic beauty
  • Explore the eclectic art scene at the ASU Art Museum, which boasts a unique collection of contemporary art
  • Visit the famed Mill Avenue district, a vibrant area lined with boutiques, restaurants, and bars
  • Satisfy your taste buds with a sumptuous meal at the House of Tricks, a cozy restaurant serving inventive New American cuisine
  • Catch an evening performance at the Tempe Center for the Arts a state-of-the-art venue that showcases innovative theatrical productions
Day 2

Get adventurous

  • Drive up to Camelback Mountain and hike up to the summit for breathtaking views of the city skyline
  • Experience the thrill of indoor skydiving at iFLY Phoenix a great alternative to the real thing for those who are afraid of heights
  • Take a guided bike tour of Tempe and discover the city's hidden gems
  • Head over to the Desert Botanical Garden, home to a vast array of cacti and desert flora and fauna
  • End the day with a soak in the hot tub at GreenTree Inn & Suites Phoenix Sky Harbor a comfortable hotel that offers amenities like free breakfast and airport shuttle services
Day 3

Get cultured

  • Start off the day with a delicious breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, which serves up creative breakfast fare such as Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes and Breakfast Pot Pie
  • Visit the Arizona State Capitol Museum and learn about Arizona's rich heritage
  • Head over to the Musical Instrument Museum and browse their collection of over 15,000 musical instruments from around the world
  • Take a trip to the Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park, which offers a fascinating peek into the ancient Hohokam civilization
  • End the day with a delicious meal at Four Peaks Brewery, a craft brewery that also offers a tasty menu of pub fare

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Tempe, United States by plane is to fly to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport which is located approximately 6 miles from Tempe.

Car

The best way to get to Tempe, United States by car is to take Interstate 10 which runs through Tempe. From the West, take Exit 151A (Rural Road) and from the East, take Exit 153 (Baseline Road).

Train

There is no direct train service to Tempe. The closest Amtrak station is in Maricopa, AZ which is approximately 27 miles away. It is recommended to rent a car or take a shuttle service to Tempe.

Boat

There are no boat options to get to Tempe, United States as it is a landlocked city.

Bus

The best way to get to Tempe, United States by bus is to take the Greyhound Bus which stops at the Tempe Transit Center located in the heart of Tempe.

More travel plans

Romantic Day Getaway: Tempe, AZ

Tempe, located in Arizona, is a great destination for a romantic trip. Enjoy the warm desert weather with your significant other as you explore the city's local boutiques, art galleries and restaurants. Take a hike at Papago Park or visit the Desert Botanical Garden for a peaceful getaway in nature.

The Ultimate Tempe Weekend Adventure Guide

Tempe is a vibrant city located in the heart of Arizona, United States. It is home to Arizona State University, which means that the city has a bustling nightlife, arts and culture scene. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, from hiking in Papago Park to kayaking on Tempe Town Lake.

Tempe on a Tight Budget: 2-Day Adventure

Explore the beautiful downtown Tempe, Arizona on a limited budget by checking out free outdoor concerts and festivals throughout the year. Hike the popular Papago Park and see the iconic Hole-in-the-Rock for breathtaking views of the city. Stay at affordable lodging options such as the Graduate Tempe or the Motel 6 Tempe ASU to stretch your budget.

5-day Tempe Adventure: Culture, Hiking, and Fun

Tempe, United States is a vibrant and youthful city that offers plenty of cultural, culinary and outdoor experiences for tourists. Visitors can admire the stunning desert landscape while hiking at the Papago Park, explore the Arizona State University campus, and immerse in the city's history and art scene at the Tempe History Museum and ASU Art Museum. Tempe also boasts a diverse range of restaurants, bars and nightclubs, making it an ideal destination for a fun and exciting holiday.