Hey neighbors—Isabella Scott here, ready to share some local favorites for parks, attractions, and weekend vibes in Tempe. Whether you’re hiking, paddling, strolling, or soaking up local art and culture, there’s no shortage of things to do.
1. Get Moving Outside
Tempe Town Lake & Tempe Beach Park
This 2-mile stretch of water sits right in the heart of Tempe—it’s perfect for walking, biking, or rolling along the lake’s paths. Rentals for kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and pedal boats let you get out on the water. On cooler evenings, the beach park’s lawn is great for picnics and sunset views, while various open-air events pop up throughout the year. Be sure to bring water and sun protection if you stay late in the day.
Hayden Butte (“A” Mountain)
Want a quick hike that delivers big views? This short but steep trail climbs to overlook the valley, offering great photo ops at sunrise or sunset. It’s close to downtown and ASU, so you can easily pair it with lunch or coffee nearby afterward.
Papago Park
Red rock formations, desert trails, and iconic spots like Hole in the Rock make Papago Park a favorite. There are hiking and biking paths, beautiful desert scenery, and wide open skies. If you’re aiming to beat the heat, mornings or late afternoons are best.
2. Parks and Green Spaces Closer to Home
Tempe has more than 50 neighborhood and community parks, many of which are under a mile away depending on where you live. Here are a few gems:
- Kiwanis Community Park – a large lake, shaded ramadas, splash pad, indoor wave pool, and plenty of space to relax or play.
- Daley Park & Clark Park – well equipped for sports fields, playgrounds, and casual weekend hangouts. Great when you want low-key.
- Indian Bend Wash Habitat & Rio Salado Parks – if you’re up for stretches of trails, birdwatching, or valleyside greenery, these open spaces deliver serenity in the city.
3. Arts, Culture & Indoor Escapes
For days when you want to mix in culture or dodge the heat:
- ASU Art Museum & Tempe History Museum – delve into contemporary art or local history, including exhibits that reflect Tempe’s Native roots and community stories.
- Tempe Center for the Arts – lakeside theatre and galleries with regular performances, classes, and public art. An excellent stop to combine scenic views and creativity.
- Arizona Mills Mall: LEGOLAND Discovery Center & SEA LIFE – perfect for families or when the sun’s intensity makes outdoor plans less fun. Multiple indoor entertainment options under one roof.
4. Downtown Tempe & Mill Avenue
Once you’ve done the parks and views, downtown has its own draw. Mill Avenue is walkable and packed with cafes, local shops, breweries, rooftop patios, and always something going on—often spontaneous music or art installations. Use this area as your base for a mix of food, shopping, and evening energy.
5. Planning a Weekend Itinerary Idea
Here’s a sample for how to pack a weekend like a local:
- Saturday morning: stroll or bike around Tempe Town Lake, then hike Hayden Butte.
- Lunch downtown, followed by art gallery hopping or a visit to the ASU Art Museum.
- Late afternoon: head to Kiwanis Park to cool off and unwind.
- Evening: find a rooftop spot for dinner or drinks, and enjoy downtown nightlife or outdoor performances.
- Sunday: explore one of the larger parks or habitat areas, check out shops or a farmers’ market, and finish with a relaxing spot by the water.
No matter your pace—energetic, calm, discovery-oriented—Tempe has the mix. Get out there, stay curious, and enjoy what our city offers every weekend.