Best Things to do in Tempe | Must-see attractions 2025

Arizona State University

Open 24 hours

University

1151 South Forest Avenue

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Arizona State University in Tempe is the largest public university in Arizona, with over 150,000 students across its five campuses, founded in 1885.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free to access campus and public areas. Some events and attractions may require a fee.

Kiwanis Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

Mill Ave. and All America Way

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Kiwanis Park in Tempe, Arizona, offers sports fields, lakes, picnic areas, and a recreation center, ideal for family outings and outdoor activities.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Special events may have separate fees.

SEA LIFE Centre Arizona

10:00 AM–7:00 PM

Aquarium

5000 S Arizona Mills Cir (at Arizona Mills Mall)

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SEA LIFE Centre Arizona is a 26,000 sq. ft. interactive aquarium in Tempe, featuring thousands of aquatic creatures and engaging touch pools.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Paid. Prices vary; check for family discounts and special event rates.

Sun Devil Stadium

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Stadium

500 E Veteran's Way

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Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, Arizona, hosts the Arizona State Sun Devils and previously the Arizona Cardinals. It's an outdoor venue with rich football history.

Duration: 2-3 hours for game days.

Varies based on events. Regular season games typically range from $15 to $100.

Tempe History Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

809 E Southern Ave (at S. Rural Rd.)

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Tempe History Museum presents the rich history of Tempe, Arizona, showcasing exhibitions from Native American heritage to contemporary stories, all with free admission.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. All programs and exhibitions have no admission fees.

Papago Park

5:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

1000 N College Ave Curry Rd. and College Ave.

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Papago Park in Tempe, Arizona, features expansive hiking areas, the Phoenix Zoo, and the Hole-in-the-Rock geological formation, ideal for outdoor activities.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. Zoo admission requires a paid ticket.

Peterson House Museum

1:00 PM–4:00 PM

Museum

1414 W. Southern Avenue

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Peterson House Museum in Tempe, United States, offers insights into local history, showcasing artifacts and stories from its past to enrich visitor experience.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Karsten Golf Course

6:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

1125 E Rio Salado Pkwy (Rural Rd.)

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Karsten Golf Course in Tempe, Arizona, offers a classic links-style experience, blending challenging holes with Arizona's picturesque landscape.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Paid. Fees vary based on time of day and season; contact the course for specific rates.

Big Surf

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Amusement Park

1500 N McClintock Dr (btwn Loop 202 and McKellips)

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Big Surf in Tempe, Arizona, is America’s original waterpark, featuring the 3rd largest wave pool globally, thrilling slides, and family-friendly activities.

Duration: 4-6 hours.

$30 for adults, $20 for children under 48 inches, discounts available for groups and season pass holders.

Hackett House

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Event hall

95 W 4th St

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Hackett House, located in Tempe, features historical architecture and serves as a vibrant community hub for events and gatherings.

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for special events and exhibitions.

Marquee Theatre

5:00 PM–12:00 AM

Theater

730 N Mill Ave (at Washington St.)

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Marquee Theatre in Tempe, Arizona is a premier music venue hosting various performances with a capacity of 1,200, known for its vibrant atmosphere and quality acoustics.

Duration: 3-4 hours, including performance time and intermissions.

Varies by event. Average tickets range from $25 to $50; some events may offer discounts for students or early purchases.

City Of Tempe

9:00 AM–10:00 PM

Public Building

Tempe

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City of Tempe, Arizona offers vibrant culture, scenic parks, and a rich history centered around Tempe Town Lake and Arizona State University.

Duration: About 2-3 hours.

Free. Some events and exhibitions may require tickets.

Tempe Beach Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

80 West Rio Salado Parkway

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Tempe Beach Park is a recreational area in Tempe, Arizona, featuring a splash playground, boating, and sports facilities, ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. Some activities may have rental fees.

Shalimar Country Club

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

2032 E Golf Ave (South Country Club Way)

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Shalimar Country Club in Tempe offers an 18-hole golf course designed by renowned architect William Bell in 1960, featuring scenic views and a vibrant community atmosphere.

Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours.

Membership required; inquire for rates.

Sandra Day O'Connor House

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

1230 N College Ave (Curry)

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Sandra Day O'Connor House, a historic single-family home in Tempe, Arizona, serves as a museum dedicated to the life of the first female U.S. Supreme Court Justice.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for special exhibits and events.

ASU Art Museum Ceramics Research Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

699 S Mill Ave (Seventh Street)

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ASU Art Museum Ceramics Research Center in Tempe, Arizona, showcases an extensive collection of ceramics and offers insights into ceramics research and history.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Rio Salado Park

Open 24 hours

Park

E Curry Rd & N Miller Rd

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Rio Salado Park in Tempe, Arizona, features hiking trails and a desert river habitat home to over 200 bird species. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and outdoor activities.

Duration: About 2-3 hours.

Free.

The Shrine of Holy Wisdom

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Tempe

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The Shrine of Holy Wisdom in Tempe, United States, offers a tranquil space for meditation and self-discovery through yoga, workshops, and nature activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special workshops may have a fee.

All Saints Catholic Newman Center

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Church

230 E University Dr (at College Ave)

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All Saints Catholic Newman Center in Tempe, Arizona, serves the Catholic community, providing religious services, social events, and a welcoming atmosphere for students and families.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations encouraged for special events.

Desert Cross Lutheran Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

8600 S McClintock Dr

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Desert Cross Lutheran Church in Tempe, Arizona, offers spiritual guidance and community events in a modern, welcoming environment.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for community programs.

Faithful Word Baptist Church

10:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

Tempe

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Faithful Word Baptist Church, located in Tempe, Arizona, is an independent Baptist church founded in 2005 by Steven Anderson, known for its fundamentalist views.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed but not required.

Tempe LDS Institute of Religion

9:00 AM–9:00 PM

Church

1000 S McAllister Ave

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Tempe LDS Institute of Religion provides educational and spiritual resources for students and community members in Tempe, Arizona.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may have a nominal fee.

Islamic Community Center Of Tempe

9:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mosque

131 E 6th St

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The Islamic Community Center Of Tempe serves as a hub for worship and community activities, fostering understanding and unity among diverse groups in Tempe, Arizona.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome but not required.

First Baptist Church of Tempe

Office hours vary; check website

Church

4515 S McClintock Dr

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First Baptist Church of Tempe offers contemporary worship and community services in a historic building founded in 1900, with accessible facilities and engaging programs for all ages.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed, and some special events may have fees.

City in the Desert

9:00 AM–8:00 PM

Church

1040 East Apache Blbd (Rural and Apache)

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City in the Desert offers a captivating mixture of modern architecture and natural desert landscapes, attracting tourists and history buffs alike.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. Certain events and exhibitions may require tickets.

St John the Evangelist Orthodox Church

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

916 S 52nd St

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St John the Evangelist Orthodox Church in Tempe, USA, serves as a spiritual hub with beautiful architecture and active community involvement.

Duration: Around 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for special events and maintenance.

Phoenix Zoo

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Zoo

455 N Galvin Pkwy (btwn E McDowell & E Van Buren)

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Phoenix Zoo, established in 1962, hosts over 1,400 animals across 125 acres, focusing on conservation and immersive experiences for families and nature lovers.

Duration: 3-4 hours.

General Admission: Adults $30, Children (3-12) $20. Discounts available for seniors and military.

Gammage Auditorium

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

1200 S Forest Ave (at Arizona State University)

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Gammage Auditorium in Tempe is Frank Lloyd Wright's final major work, featuring a colosseum-style design and serving as a prominent venue for Broadway-style performances.

Duration: 1-2 hours for a tour.

Varies by event. Call for pricing details on performances and tours.

Town Lake Pedestrian Bridge

Open 24 hours

Bridge

700 W Rio Salado Pkwy (Salt River)

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Town Lake Pedestrian Bridge in Tempe, AZ, spans 2,100 feet, serving pedestrians and cyclists with picturesque views of the lake and city skyline.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free access for all visitors.

Tempe Splashpark

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Amusement Park

80 W Rio Salado Pkwy

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Tempe Splashpark in Tempe, AZ offers interactive water play areas for families, featuring slides, fountains, and shaded picnic spots for a fun outdoor experience.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some special events may have fees.

A's Spring Training Beer Garden

5:00 PM–10:00 PM

Event hall

Arizona

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A's Spring Training Beer Garden in Tempe, USA, features craft brews and diverse food options, catering to fans during the A's spring training games.

Duration: 2–4 hours, depending on game times and events.

Free entry; food and drinks available for purchase.

Mill Avenue Bridges

Open 24 hours

Bridge

Tempe

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Mill Avenue Bridges, located in Tempe, Arizona, features two intricately designed pedestrian bridges connecting downtown to Tempe Town Lake, showcasing scenic views and local art.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Accessible to all visitors without charge.

Spirit: The Horses At ASU

Open 24 hours

Gallery

300 E Lemon St.

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Spirit: The Horses At ASU features a remarkable collection of life-sized fiberglass horse sculptures created by artist Joni Nimmo. It's a unique cultural landmark in Tempe, Arizona.

Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Free. No admission fee required.

Tempe Church of the Nazarene

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

3929 S Rural Rd

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Tempe Church of the Nazarene offers a community-focused environment with various ministries. Located in Tempe, Arizona, it actively engages with local residents.

Duration: 1-2 hours depending on service attendance.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Tempe First United Methodist Church

9:00 AM–3:00 PM

Church

215 E University Dr (Forest Ave)

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Tempe First United Methodist Church, established in 1889, features Gothic architecture and serves as a vital community hub in Tempe, Arizona.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require registration or a fee.

Gethsemane Lutheran Church & School

9:00 AM–3:00 PM

Church

1035 E Guadalupe Rd

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Gethsemane Lutheran Church & School in Tempe, Arizona, offers religious services, education, and community events. A welcoming space for worship and learning.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have a fee.

The Spring Community Church

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

340 E 15th St (at S McAllister Ave)

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The Spring Community Church in Tempe offers a welcoming atmosphere with diverse worship services and community outreach, engaging individuals and families alike.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are encouraged but not required for attendance.

Paul V Galvin Playhouse

12:00 PM–6:00 PM

Theater

Tempe

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Paul V Galvin Playhouse in Tempe, AZ, serves as an artistic venue for live performances, housing a dynamic array of theater productions and cultural events.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Generally $20-$40. Discounts available for students and seniors.

Tempe Christian Church

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

5815 S McClintock Dr

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Tempe Christian Church, located in Tempe, Arizona, is a community hub focused on spiritual growth and outreach programs.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a donation.

Tempe Church of Christ

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Tempe

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Tempe Church of Christ serves the local community in Tempe, Arizona, offering worship services, educational programs, and outreach activities.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours for services and events.

Free. All worship services and community events do not require entry fees.