Tempe Itinerary: Family Fun, Hidden Gems & Adventure
Experience endless family fun in Tempe, where memories are made and moments cherished.
19 July 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Tempe, located in the heart of Arizona, offers a perfect destination for a family friendly trip. This vibrant city boasts a wide range of family-oriented activities, including the Arizona Museum of Natural History, Tempe Town Lake for boating and fishing, and the Desert Botanical Garden for an educational and scenic experience. With its warm climate and welcoming atmosphere, Tempe promises a memorable and enjoyable vacation for families of all ages.
Travel plan
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- Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at the retro-inspired Morning Glory Café, where fluffy pancakes and gooey french toast reign supreme.
- Meander through the vibrant Tempe Marketplace, where shops, entertainment, and quirky sculptures collide.
- Visit the fascinating Arizona Museum of Natural History, where you can befriend dinosaurs, unearth ancient fossils, and get lost in the wonders of our planet's history.
- Catch a show at the Tempe Center for the Arts, a stunning waterfront venue that hosts a variety of performances, from ballet to live music.
- Savor a mouthwatering dinner at Grimaldi's Pizzeria, offering pizzas bubbling with cheese and adorned with delicious toppings.
- Rise and shine for an early morning hike up "A"-Mountain, also known as Hayden Butte Preserve, to catch a breathtaking sunrise over Tempe's skyline.
- Head to Kiwanis Recreation Center for some family-friendly fun with swimming pools, a lazy river, and waterslides guaranteed to please young and old alike.
- Embark on a leisurely bike ride along the serene pathways of the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area, where nature's beauty meets urban charm.
- Bust out your picnic blanket and enjoy a relaxing lunch at Papago Park, surrounded by stunning desert landscapes and peculiar rock formations.
- Indulge in some retail therapy at Arizona Mills, a sprawling outlet mall where bargain hunting becomes a thrilling adventure.
- Embark on a thrilling aerial adventure at Vertical Hold, where you can try your hand at rock climbing or challenge your balance on a high ropes course.
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of SEA LIFE Arizona, where you can marvel at mesmerizing sea creatures and learn about marine conservation.
- Fuel up with a delightful late lunch at House of Tricks, a charming eatery nestled in a historic bungalow, serving up creative dishes using local ingredients.
- Take a leisurely stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens at the Desert Botanical Garden, discovering an array of cacti and desert flora.
- End the day with a fantastic dinner at Culinary Dropout, where a hip ambiance meets inventive dishes and an impressive selection of craft beers.
- Start your day with a delectable brunch at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, where pancakes stacked high and savory breakfast delights await.
- Pay a visit to the quaint Tempe History Museum, where you can delve into the city's past, from Native American settlements to the birth of the university.
- Relax and enjoy the tranquility of Tempe Town Lake, whether it's paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply basking in the sun along its sandy shores.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth with a stop at Sweet Republic, an artisan ice cream shop offering heavenly flavors like salted butter caramel and strawberry rose.
- Conclude your trip with a delightful dinner at the award-winning House of Tacos, where traditional Mexican flavors meet modern twists in a cozy and lively atmosphere.
Length of stay
Type of trip
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.