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4-Day Adventure Guide to Tempe, Arizona

Discover the vibrant city of Tempe, full of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures.

22 April 2023

Tempe is a vibrant city situated in Arizona, known for its dynamic nightlife and cultural scenes. As a tourist, one can enjoy exploring the Arizona State University campus, visiting Desert Botanical Garden, and hiking the beautiful Papago Park. With its perfect Sonoran Desert weather, Tempe makes for a great vacation destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Travel plan

• Check into the chic and modern Graduate Tempe hotel, located steps away from Arizona State University.
• Embark on a scenic morning hike up to Hayden Butte, where you can take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.
• Cool off from the Arizona heat with a refreshing swim at Papago Park's Hole in the Rock Pool.
• Enjoy a classic Southwestern dinner at Los Dos Molinos, famous for their spicy New Mexico-style cuisine.
• Wrap up your evening with a show at the iconic Marquee Theatre, hosting but not limited to, indie rock and hip-hop acts.

• Channel your inner art aficionado by exploring the Contemporary Art Gallery at the ASU Art Museum.
• Learn more about the local history and culture by visiting the Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park, showcasing the Hohokam people's history.
• Indulge in a farm-to-table brunch at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, known for their breakfast cocktails and morning-oriented atmosphere.
• Shop for unique finds at the 6th Street Market, featuring local artisans and food vendors.
• Immerse yourself in the performance art scene with a show at the historic Tempe Center for the Arts.

• Go on a kayak adventure down the Salt River, where you can spot wild horses and stunning rock formations.
• Visit the Desert Botanical Garden to see an impressive collection of desert-adapted plants and blooms.
• Grab a coffee and baked good at Cartel Coffee Lab, Tempe's hip and urban coffee shop beloved by locals.
• Spend an afternoon strolling around Tempe Town Lake, a fun spot for biking, paddleboarding, or just lounging.
• Have a casual but delicious dinner of elevated pub fare and beer at Four Peaks Brewery.

• Take a 25-minute drive to Scottsdale, where you can explore the charming Old Town, full of art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.
• Visit the Musical Instrument Museum in north Phoenix, featuring a collection of over 7,000 instruments from around the world.
• Catch a game at the Arizona Diamondbacks' home stadium, Chase Field, located in the heart of downtown Phoenix.
• End your trip on a high note by indulging in a fancy dinner at Cafe Lalibela, an East African and Ethiopian restaurant with fantastic veggie and meat dishes.
• Savor your last moments in Tempe with a nightcap at Rúla Búla Irish Pub, a fun and lively spot with great drinks and live music.