Quirky Charm and Family Adventures: 5 Days in Tempe

Discover endless family fun in Tempe, where adventure meets affordability for an unforgettable United States getaway!

19 July 2023

Tempe, located in the United States, offers an exciting family-friendly trip with a mix of relaxation and fun. The city is home to the renowned Arizona State University, which boasts beautiful campuses and cultural attractions. Families can enjoy exploring Tempe Town Lake, visiting the fascinating Arizona Science Center, and experiencing outdoor adventures in the nearby Desert Botanical Garden.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Tempe, Where the Sun Smiles Upon You

  • Check into the FamilyX Hotel, a kid-approved paradise with a pool that shouts "cannonball!" and a breakfast buffet that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
  • Delight your little explorers at the Arizona Science Center, where they can unleash their inner mad scientists and learn about the wonders of the universe.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Tempe Town Lake, soaking in the picturesque views while your kids feed the ducks and you secretly wish you were a duck too.
  • Refuel at the Chuckbox, a local joint that grills up juicy burgers like they were born sizzling on a bbq pit, topped with all the fixings that dreams are made of.
  • Spend the evening at the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, where you can dive into the depths of the ocean without getting your hair wet. Enjoy mesmerizing marine life and an interactive touch pool.
Day 2

Embrace Nature's Embrace

  • Rise and shine to a delightful breakfast at the hotel, complete with fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and enough syrup to make even a pancake purist blush.
  • Lace up your hiking boots and venture into Papago Park, a hot spot for outdoor enthusiasts and camel-shaped rocks that'll make you do a double-take.
  • Channel your inner Indiana Jones at the Hole-in-the-Rock, a geological wonder that offers panoramic views of the city and a perfect selfie backdrop.
  • Savor a lunchtime fiesta at Someburros, tempting your taste buds with legendary carne asada tacos that know how to cha-cha-cha in your mouth.
  • Let your inner child run wild at CrackerJax, a family fun park with mini-golf, go-karts, bumper boats, and enough arcade games to make your head spin faster than a bumper car.
Day 3

Art Attack: Creativity Takes Over

  • Enjoy a leisurely morning at the hotel, swapping pancake tales with fellow travelers and discovering the secret to folding the perfect origami swan.
  • Immerse yourselves in creativity at the ASU Art Museum, where exhibits range from contemporary masterpieces to thought-provoking installations that'll make your brain do yoga.
  • Indulge in a lunchtime feast at Cornish Pasty Co., a quirky joint serving up delicious pasties filled with everything from traditional beef to vegan delights.
  • Unleash your inner Monet at the Ceramic Studio Tempe, where you can get your hands dirty (literally) and craft a masterpiece to cherish forever.
  • Join the locals at the Tempe Festival of the Arts, where colorful booths transform the streets into an artist's paradise, with live music and street performers to keep you entertained.
Day 4

Visa to Deliciousness

  • Start the day with a scrumptious breakfast at Snooze, an AM eatery with pancakes as fluffy as clouds and eggs Benedict that'll make you question your allegiance to cereal.
  • Enter the magical world of LEGOLAND Discovery Center, where your little brick enthusiasts can build, play, and embark on a bricktacular adventure.
  • Sample the flavors of the Southwest at Casa Reynoso, a family-owned restaurant with mouthwatering Navajo tacos that'll have your taste buds doing the conga.
  • Let the kids unleash their inner superheroes at the Arizona Historical Society Museum, where they can explore the history of the state in a fun and interactive way.
  • End the day with a bang at the Mill Avenue District, a vibrant hub of shops, restaurants, and entertainment that ignites the night with live music and buzzing energy.
Day 5

Farewell, Tempe...For Now

  • Bid adieu to the hotel with a hearty breakfast, cherishing the memories made and strategically planning your return so you can conquer that breakfast buffet once more.
  • Soak up the history and beauty of the Desert Botanical Garden, where stunning cacti and desert wildflowers will make you wonder if Mother Nature moonlights as an artist.
  • Enjoy a final meal at Culinary Dropout, a quirky gastropub with an industrial vibe, serving up dishes like crispy chicken biscuits and pretzel fondue that'll send your taste buds on a flavor rollercoaster.
  • Explore the Mill Avenue Pedestrian Bridge, where you can stroll across the Tempe Town Lake and capture one last breathtaking sunset photo to make all your friends jealous.
  • Depart Tempe with a heart full of memories, a camera filled with smiles, and a promise to return, for this quirky city has imprinted its charm upon your very soul.

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

Tempe in 3 Days: Sunshine, Adventure, and Culture!

Tempe, located in Arizona, is an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip. The city offers a wide range of activities suitable for all ages, from exploring the beautiful Desert Botanical Garden to cooling off at the family-friendly Big Surf Waterpark. Families can also enjoy cultural experiences at the Arizona State University Art Museum or embark on bike rides along the scenic Tempe Town Lake.

Escape for a Romantic Weekend in Tempe

From the stunning sunsets over the desert landscape to the vibrant nightlife, Tempe, Arizona, offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and romance. Couples can explore the city's thriving arts scene, wander through picturesque parks, and soak up the sun on nearby lakes. With top-rated restaurants and luxurious accommodations, Tempe is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway.

Tempe Treasures: A Family-Friendly Day Trip Guide

Tempe, located in the heart of Arizona, is the perfect destination for a family-friendly trip. Explore the fascinating Arizona State University campus, which offers informative tours and engaging exhibitions. Enjoy outdoor activities like biking along the scenic Tempe Town Lake or visiting the family-friendly museums and parks that offer interactive exhibits and playgrounds for children of all ages.

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.