Tempe Thrills: A 5-Day Budget Adventure

Discover Tempe's hidden gems without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Tempe on a limited budget will offer you a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and a vibrant nightlife. You can hike the trails of Papago Park, explore the Desert Botanical Garden, or take a stroll along Tempe Town Lake. For food and drinks, check out the local food trucks or head to Mill Avenue for happy hour specials.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcoming Tempe

  • Check in at Hotel Tempe/Phoenix Airport Inn Suites, a cozy and budget-friendly hotel with a free airport shuttle.
  • Visit the Tempe History Museum and learn about the area's heritage and culture.
  • Play a game of frisbee or have a picnic at Tempe Beach Park.
  • Savour some delicious Mexican cuisine at El Pollo Loco or floral flavoured ice-cream at SNOICE.
  • Watch a production at the iconic Tempe Center for the Arts.
Day 2

An Arizona Exploration

  • Admire the flora and fauna at the Desert Botanical Garden.
  • Get your caffeine fix at Cartel Coffee or go on a unique tea adventure at Infusion Coffee & Tea.
  • Hike up the Papago Mountain, take pictures with the Hole in the Rock formation.
  • Satisfy your cravings with smoked BBQ Ribs at The Chuckbox or Lebanese delights at Cafe Istanbul.
  • Explore the art-filled courtyard and exhibitions at the ASU Art Museum.
Day 3

Sunny Adventure

  • Take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise with Hot Air Expeditions and marvel at the sunrise views of the Sonoran desert.
  • Rent kayaks or paddleboards at Tempe Town Lake Marina and have some fun in the sun.
  • Treat yourself to the fantastic crop-to-cup coffee at Press Coffee Roasters.
  • Bite into the unique empanadas at Republica Empanada or indulge in vegan doughnuts at Nami.
  • Watch the Arizona State University Sun Devils play a game at the Sun Devil Stadium.
Day 4

A Shopping Spree

  • Shop till you drop at the Arizona Mills Mall, with over 100 stores to choose from.
  • Take a stroll through the beautiful outdoor Tempe Marketplace, and shop or dine at the variety of retailers and restaurants.
  • Get a taste of the best pizza in town at the Venezia's New York Style Pizzeria or try the green chilli on burgers at The Chuckbox.
  • Visit the Tempe History Museum to learn more about the town's past.
  • Experience cutting-edge art and architecture at the fine arts center, The Ceramics Research Center and Brickyard Gallery.
Day 5

Farewell Tempe

  • Explore the Arizona State University Tempe campus and snap photos at the famous Sun Devil statue.
  • Enjoy the delicious breakfast burritos and bagels at Spinelli's Pizzeria or have the grub from the colorful food trucks at Pedal Haus.
  • Make memories with some laughter at Tempe Improv Comedy Theatre.
  • Grab some souvenirs and snacks at the ASU Bookstore or the Tempe Farmers Market.
  • Head back to the hotel and relax before catching the flight back home.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Tempe

Welcome to the land of sun, cactus, and college students who never seem to graduate. Tempe, the city that's always hot, whether it's the weather or the nightlife!

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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 Dime: A Budget Day Trip.

Tempe offers plenty of affordable activities for visitors on a limited budget. Hiking the iconic "A" mountain and walking around the bustling downtown area are free. Staying in budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or Airbnb rentals can help save money for exploring the city's museums and cultural sites.

Escape to Tempe: A 5-Day Romantic Adventure

Tempe, United States is a perfect destination for a romantic trip. With its stunning natural beauty, charming downtown area, and rich culture, Tempe has everything to make your trip unforgettable. From hiking at the beautiful Papago Park to enjoying a candlelit dinner at one of the many high-end restaurants in the area, Tempe has something for everyone looking for a romantic getaway.

Tempe in 3: A Thrilling Budget Getaway

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.