Background

Downtown Tempe: A Vibrant Hub of Culture and Entertainment

Experience the energy of Arizona! Downtown Tempe: where ASU meets vibrant nightlife, dining, arts, and Tempe Town Lake.

4.4

Downtown Tempe, adjacent to Arizona State University, is a dynamic district known for its blend of shops, restaurants, nightlife, and cultural attractions. Home to Tempe Town Lake and Mill Avenue, it's a popular destination for students, locals, and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Downtown Tempe

Local tips

  • Explore Mill Avenue for a wide variety of dining, shopping, and nightlife options.
  • Visit Tempe Town Lake for outdoor activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, or a relaxing walk along the shore.
  • Check out the ASU Gammage and ASU Art Museum for cultural experiences.
  • Attend one of the many events and festivals that take place in Downtown Tempe throughout the year.
  • Use public transportation or the free Orbit shuttle to get around Downtown Tempe.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    Downtown Tempe is pedestrian-friendly, with most attractions within walking distance of each other. From Tempe Town Lake, walk south on Mill Avenue to reach the main shopping and dining area. ASU Gammage is a short walk east of Mill Avenue on the ASU campus.

  • Public Transport

    Valley Metro Rail and bus services provide convenient access to Downtown Tempe. The Mill Avenue/3rd Street light rail station is centrally located. Several bus routes serve the area, with the Tempe Transportation Center at 200 E. Fifth Street acting as a central hub. A single bus or light rail fare is $2. The Tempe Streetcar also runs through Downtown Tempe, costing $1 per ride. The free Orbit neighborhood circulator connects Downtown Tempe to surrounding neighborhoods.

  • Parking

    Several parking garages and lots are available in Downtown Tempe. Metered street parking is also an option. Meter rates vary from $1 to $2 per hour. Garages such as the 201 S Ash Garage and Hayden Square Garage charge around $2-$3 per hour. The ParkMobile app can be used to pay for and extend parking at meters. Some garages offer free parking for a limited time or on specific days. Be aware of time limits and restrictions to avoid fines.

Unlock the Best of Downtown Tempe

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Downtown Tempe

Downtown Tempe is a bustling urban center that offers a diverse range of experiences. Situated next to Arizona State University (ASU), it serves as a lively hub for students and the wider community. The area's history dates back to 1870 when Charles Trumbull Hayden established a ferry crossing and flour mill, laying the foundation for the town. Today, Downtown Tempe is known for its energetic atmosphere, with Mill Avenue serving as the main artery, lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. Tempe Town Lake, a man-made lake on the north end of downtown, provides recreational opportunities such as boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The five-mile path around the lake is ideal for walking, jogging, and biking. Tempe Beach Park, located along the lake, hosts various events throughout the year. Arizona State University's Tempe campus adds a significant cultural element to the area. ASU Gammage, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, is a prominent performing arts center that hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and dance performances. The ASU Art Museum showcases diverse art collections and exhibits. Downtown Tempe also features public art installations and murals, adding to its visual appeal. Throughout the year, Downtown Tempe hosts numerous events, including the Tempe Festival of the Arts, which draws artists and visitors from across the region. The district's blend of history, culture, recreation, and entertainment makes it a must-visit destination in the Phoenix metropolitan area.

Popular Experiences near Downtown Tempe

Popular Hotels near Downtown Tempe

Select Currency