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.

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Travel plan

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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

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Type of trip

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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!

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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 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.

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.