Rio Salado Park: Tempe's Urban Oasis

Escape to Tempe's Rio Salado Park: A scenic urban oasis offering recreation, nature, and community events along the Salt River.

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Rio Salado Park

Rio Salado Park, nestled along the Salt River in Tempe, Arizona, offers a vibrant blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Once a desolate riverbed, it has been transformed into a scenic destination with walking trails, picnic areas, and diverse wildlife.

A brief summary to Rio Salado Park

80 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, Arizona, 85281, US
+1480-350-5200
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Local tips

Visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Bring a picnic to enjoy by the river; there are plenty of shaded areas.
Wear sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months.
Check the local event calendar for seasonal activities and guided tours.
Explore the trails on foot or bike for a more immersive experience in nature.

Getting There

Walking

From the center of Arizona State University near Old Main, walk south toward E University Dr. Continue straight, then turn left onto S Mill Ave and walk for 0.4 miles. Turn right at E Rio Salado Pkwy; the park entrance will be on your right. This walk is approximately 1 mile and should take about 20 minutes.
Public Transport

Take the Valley Metro Rail to the Mill Ave/3rd St station. From there, walk north on Mill Avenue, then turn right onto Rio Salado Parkway. The park will be on your right. Alternatively, several bus lines (48, 62, EART) stop near Tempe Beach Park / Rio Salado Pkwy. A single bus or light rail fare is $2.
Driving

From downtown Tempe, head east or west on Rio Salado Parkway. The park is located at 80 W Rio Salado Pkwy. Several parking options are available nearby, including the Tempe Beach Park Surface Lot (250 W Rio Salado Pkwy) with hourly rates of $2 between 8 AM and 6 PM Monday-Friday. Other parking garages like Idea Garage (830 W Rio Salado Parkway) charge hourly rates. Parking rates and availability may vary during special events.

Discover more about Rio Salado Park

Rio Salado Park is a captivating urban oasis in Tempe, Arizona, offering a tranquil escape with stunning natural beauty and a wide array of recreational opportunities. Spanning along the banks of the Salt River, this park provides a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. Originally, the area was a dry riverbed, often filled with trash and abandoned vehicles. In 1966, James Elmore, Dean of the Arizona State University College of Architecture, challenged his students to develop a plan to reclaim the space. This led to the Rio Salado Project, which envisioned transforming the riverbed into a mixed-use development centered around an urban greenbelt. The project gained momentum over the years, with the City of Tempe adopting the plan in 1975 and further support arising after extreme flooding in the late 1970s. Today, Rio Salado Park features lush greenery, well-maintained walking and biking trails, and captivating views of the sunrise and sunset. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, invigorating runs, or cycling expeditions along the scenic waterways. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including various bird species, making it a delightful destination for wildlife observation. Picnic areas equipped with tables and grills create an inviting atmosphere for family gatherings and romantic outings. Throughout the year, Rio Salado Park hosts numerous events and activities, providing opportunities to immerse oneself in the local culture and community. From guided nature walks to educational programs about the local ecosystem, there's always something happening at this vibrant location.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Blue Star Memorial Tempe Az

0.1 km

Explore the Blue Star Memorial in Tempe, AZ - a serene tribute to American veterans surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Tempe Tourism Office

0.3 km

Unlock Tempe's best: Expert travel info, maps, & local tips for an unforgettable Arizona adventure. Start your Tempe journey here!

Hackett House

0.5 km

Discover Tempe's history at Hackett House, a beautifully preserved landmark hosting community events and showcasing local heritage.

Tempe Butte

0.6 km

Hike Tempe's iconic 'A Mountain' for panoramic views, rich history, and a touch of ASU spirit in the heart of the city.

Harkins Theatres Valley Art

0.7 km

Discover Harkins Theatres Valley Art in Tempe, a cinematic gem blending classic charm with modern films, perfect for all movie lovers.

Tempe City Hall

0.7 km

Discover Tempe's iconic inverted pyramid, a symbol of innovative architecture and downtown revitalization.

Birchett House

0.9 km

Experience the historical elegance of Birchett House in Tempe, Arizona, a captivating landmark showcasing the region's architectural heritage.

Gallery 100

1.2 km

Experience the innovative art of ASU's emerging talents at Gallery 100, showcasing diverse BFA student exhibitions in the heart of Tempe.

Desert Financial Arena

1.2 km

Experience the excitement of ASU sports and events at Desert Financial Arena, a premier venue in the heart of Tempe, Arizona.

Arizona Distilling Co.

1.2 km

Experience Arizona's craft distilling scene with award-winning whiskeys, gins, and vodkas made with local ingredients in the heart of Tempe.

Hyatt House Tempe / Phoenix / University

1.3 km

Enjoy spacious suites, modern amenities, and a prime location near ASU and Tempe's top attractions at Hyatt House Tempe/Phoenix/University.

Old Main

1.3 km

Discover ASU's historic heart: Old Main, a beautifully restored Victorian landmark hosting events and showcasing the university's legacy.

Mars Space Flight Facility

1.5 km

Explore the Red Planet at ASU's Mars Space Flight Facility: Discover Martian geology and ASU's role in space exploration.

Memorial Union

1.6 km

Experience the heart of ASU Tempe: dining, services, and community at the Memorial Union.

Sri Venkata Krishna Kshetra Temple

1.6 km

Explore the serene beauty and rich traditions at Sri Venkata Krishna Kshetra Temple, a spiritual haven in Tempe, Arizona.

Unmissable attractions to see

Tempe Beach Park

0.2 km

Discover Tempe Beach Park, a scenic gem in Arizona perfect for outdoor activities, relaxation, and breathtaking views along the Salt River.

Tempe Town Lake

0.2 km

Explore the beauty of Tempe Town Lake - a tranquil fishing lake and vibrant tourist attraction in the heart of Arizona.

Downtown Tempe

0.2 km

Explore the dynamic charm of Downtown Tempe, where culture, dining, and scenic views along the Rio Salado come together for an unforgettable experience.

Tempe Welcome Sign

0.3 km

Discover the warm hospitality of Tempe at the iconic Welcome Sign, a vibrant landmark inviting you to explore this charming Arizona city.

Hayden Flour Mill

0.3 km

Explore the enchanting Hayden Flour Mill, a historical site in Tempe, Arizona, offering stunning riverside views and insights into the region's rich milling history.

North Linear Park

0.5 km

Explore the natural beauty and tranquility of North Linear Park in Tempe, Arizona, a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Hayden Butte

0.5 km

Explore Hayden Butte in Tempe, Arizona - a stunning hiking area with breathtaking views and rich cultural history waiting to be discovered.

LoPiano Bosque Habitat

0.7 km

Explore the serene LoPiano Bosque Habitat in Tempe, Arizona - a nature lover's paradise filled with diverse wildlife and beautiful trails.

Tempe Center For The Arts

0.7 km

Experience the Tempe Center for the Arts, a vibrant hub for performing arts and cultural discovery nestled along the scenic Salt River in Arizona.

Tempe Town Lake Pedestrian Bridge

0.8 km

Explore the breathtaking Tempe Town Lake Pedestrian Bridge, an iconic landmark offering stunning views and vibrant surroundings in Tempe, Arizona.

ASU Art Museum Ceramics Research Center

0.9 km

Explore the ASU Art Museum Ceramics Research Center for an enriching journey through the art and history of ceramics in Tempe, Arizona.

Mountain America Stadium

0.9 km

Discover the excitement of Mountain America Stadium in Tempe, Arizona—where sports and entertainment come together in a vibrant atmosphere.

Arizona State University Desert Arboretum Park

1.1 km

Explore the Arizona State University Desert Arboretum Park, a stunning showcase of desert flora and a serene retreat in Tempe, Arizona.

Innovation Gallery

1.3 km

Explore the Innovation Gallery in Tempe, Arizona — where art, science, and technology converge to inspire creativity and discovery.

Papago Park in Tempe

1.3 km

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Papago Park in Tempe, Arizona, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Experience the best of Arizona's cuisine at Terra Tempe Kitchen & Spirits—where local flavors meet innovative dining.

Discover sustainable fashion treasures at Buffalo Exchange, Tempe's premier vintage clothing store, where style meets affordability.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Devil's Hideaway

0.5 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Devil's Hideaway in Tempe, Arizona, where craft cocktails and great food come together in a lively atmosphere.

Vintage Bar & Grill

0.6 km

Experience the best of grilled delicacies at Vintage Bar & Grill in Tempe, Arizona, where flavor meets a vibrant atmosphere.

Sunbar Tempe

0.6 km

Experience the best of Tempe at Sunbar, where delicious grill cuisine meets vibrant nightlife and unforgettable events.

Low Key Piano Bar

0.7 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Low Key Piano Bar in Tempe, where live music and great drinks create unforgettable nights.

Varsity Tavern

0.7 km

Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Varsity Tavern, Tempe's premier sports bar for delicious food, great drinks, and unforgettable game days.

UpBar Tempe

0.7 km

Discover UpBar Tempe, a lively bar offering craft cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for socializing in the heart of Arizona.

Fat Tuesday

0.8 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Fat Tuesday, Tempe's top cocktail bar known for its frozen drinks and lively atmosphere.

Frolic

0.8 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tempe at Frolic, where handcrafted cocktails meet a lively atmosphere, perfect for any social occasion.

The Handlebar Tempe

0.8 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at The Handlebar Tempe, your go-to spot for great food, drinks, and sports in Arizona.

Pedal Haus Brewery

0.9 km

Discover the vibrant Pedal Haus Brewery: a perfect blend of craft beer, delicious food, and lively atmosphere in Tempe, Arizona.

Skysill Rooftop Lounge

0.9 km

Experience the best of Tempe at Skysill Rooftop Lounge—where stunning views meet exquisite cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere.

University Sports Grill

1.0 km

Experience the ultimate sports dining at University Sports Grill in Tempe, AZ, where delicious food meets vibrant game-day excitement.

Alibi

1.0 km

Experience Tempe's nightlife at Alibi, a vibrant bar known for its craft cocktails, lively ambiance, and delicious bites.

The Dark Side

1.1 km

Experience Tempe's vibrant nightlife at The Dark Side, where live music and eclectic drinks create unforgettable memories.

Taste of Tops

1.1 km

Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Taste of Tops, Tempe's premier bar destination for locals and tourists alike.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Rio Salado Park with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Rio Salado Park: Tempe's Urban Oasis

A brief summary to Rio Salado Park

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Driving

Unlock the Best of Rio Salado Park

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Rio Salado Park

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Blue Star Memorial Tempe Az

Tempe Tourism Office

Hackett House

Tempe Butte

Harkins Theatres Valley Art

Tempe City Hall

Birchett House

Gallery 100

Desert Financial Arena

Arizona Distilling Co.

Hyatt House Tempe / Phoenix / University

Old Main

Mars Space Flight Facility

Memorial Union

Sri Venkata Krishna Kshetra Temple

Unmissable attractions to see

Tempe Beach Park

Tempe Town Lake

Downtown Tempe

Tempe Welcome Sign

Hayden Flour Mill

North Linear Park

Hayden Butte

LoPiano Bosque Habitat

Tempe Center For The Arts

Tempe Town Lake Pedestrian Bridge

ASU Art Museum Ceramics Research Center

Mountain America Stadium

Arizona State University Desert Arboretum Park

Innovation Gallery

Papago Park in Tempe

Essential places to dine

The Lodge Sasquatch Kitchen

Culinary Dropout

The Yard At Farmer Arts District

Loco Patron

Daily Jam - Breakfast & Brunch Restaurant

Caffe Boa

Desert Roots Kitchen

Harry's Place

Cornish Pasty Co

Bang Bang - Tempe

Snakes & Lattes Tempe

CASA Tempe

Foch Café & Bistro

Mellow Mushroom Tempe

Terra Tempe Kitchen & Spirits

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Daily Rotation

Mill Avenue Shops

Courtyard Shops

Yucatecan Imports

Rave Circus (Powered by The Flow Shop)

Lotions & Potions

Rosebuds Candle Co.

Pitaya

TECHNOIRCANDY

Urban Outfitters

Happy Healthy High Horny Herbs

Centerpoint on Mill

ACG Go Anime Store

Sun Devil Marketplace

Buffalo Exchange

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Devil's Hideaway

Vintage Bar & Grill

Sunbar Tempe