We all need something to look forward to again. And nothing is more exciting than planning that next perfect getaway. The one that can’t get here soon enough. Because the journey begins the moment we decide to go somewhere. Anywhere. It’s time to feel that feeling once again. Let’s get inspired. Let’s save a date. Let’s book a trip. And aim for the destination that will feel like no other.
That’s why now is a great time to plan a trip to Tempe, Arizona. You can expect warm temperatures, sunny skies and activities ranging from art museums to stand up paddleboarding. No matter your comfort level, from outdoor activities to dining in at a local restaurant, a visit to Tempe will give you the change of scenery that you need. We’re here to help! Tempe is a short drive to some of our neighboring states. Can you say road trip? How about weekend getaway? Let’s Make Plans to visit Tempe, Arizona.
Come stay in Tempe
Tempe truly is the coolest city. Home to beautiful, Arizona State University, the city thrives with vibrant energy, diversity and fun. From great public art to delicious food at every budget, Tempe is a spectacular place to stay and play. And we don’t mean to brag, but Tempe hotels are awesome. From boutique brands to brands that you’ve come to love, Tempe is home to accommodations for every traveler. Families love Tempe for their suite style properties near entertainment districts such as Downtown Tempe, Arizona Mills and Tempe Marketplace. Most of our hotels are just steps away from a variety of food that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters or fun on Tempe Town Lake.
Location, Location, Location
Tempe is centrally located in the Phoenix Metropolitan area. With Phoenix to our west, Scottsdale to our north and Mesa to our east, we’re landlocked but we’re not complaining about it. We’re also able to access our freeways with ease.
It only takes about 7-10 minutes to get to the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport to Downtown Tempe. Many of our hotel partners offer a shuttle service to and from the airport. There’s also the advantage of the Valley Metro Rail which is a street level train that can transport you easily throughout Phoenix, Tempe and Mesa. For just $2 each way, you can get a ride to the airport. How about that!? Public transportation is so crucial to have and our city’s transportation operates seamlessly.
PRO TIP: Tempe is also great to be your “home base” for day trips as you explore our state. Check out our video series, Day Trips from Tempe to get inspired about the trips we took to Salt River Rafting, Antelope Canyon and so much more.
Seasonally friendly
You’ll discover that travelers near and far find themselves in Tempe for the enjoyable weather nine months of the year. With about 330 days of sunshine and an average temperature of 85 degrees Fahrenheit, Tempe is enjoyable for all. Bonus, there are handful of hotel properties in Downtown Tempe with rooftop pools. Another bonus, most hotel pools are heated, so even if the weather is bit cooler than promised, it won’t deter you from enjoying one of the best parts of visiting Arizona.
PRO TIP: Visits in the fall and late spring provide you with the same wonderful weather you come to expect January-March but at a wonderful price because it’s part of our destination’s “shoulder season,” a time when hotels aren’t as full as they are in the middle of spring.
Tempe hotels have health and safety COVID-19 policies in full effect
We mentioned that Tempe has outstanding brands and boutique hotels in our city. Rest assured that hotels in Tempe are proudly adhering to their brand’s new COVID-19 health and safety protocols.
As you visit our Where to Stay page, each of our hotel listings has a link to the new health and safety standards implemented by the hotel. Here are some of the brands that call Tempe home.
Protecting your health and safety
As an extra safety measure, the City of Tempe and Maricopa County require face coverings in public places. This applies at grocery and retail stores, restaurants and bars, on public transit and in public spaces in hotels to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
We’re partnering with our community to ensure the safety of our residents and visitors. We’ll continue to share information about how our partners have implemented the health and safety standards set forth by the CDC, Arizona Department of Health Services and City of Tempe. Stay tuned for more details.
We encourage you to check with individual businesses about their cleaning protocols and expectations from the guests that patronize their business.
AAA: Activities, Attractions, Adventures
Tempe is loved by all. We can’t say it enough! Whatever your comfort level may be for your trip to Tempe, we hope you’ll enjoy our well-curated art museums, limitless outdoor adventures from easy to expert, great attractions like SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, Phoenix Zoo and Hall of Flame Fire Museum.
Discover some of our favorite recommended outdoor options in Tempe. If you’ve got a need to check things off a list, you should check out our Top 20+ Activities in Tempe. Maybe it’s just too warm for people who live where it snows, no worries, check out these indoor activities in Tempe too!
Best part of fall in Arizona? Two words for you: Patio. Weather.
When just enough of the heat disappears, we all make our way to the nearest patio for an al fresco dining experience. You’ll find incredible craft breweries in Tempe and many restaurants with great patios.
And as a reminder, if you’re not ready to dine-in, even al fresco, no worries. We’ve curated a wonderful list of restaurants offering curbside pickup, takeout and delivery, so bring a bit of Tempe back to your hotel to enjoy by the pool, on your attached patio or in their public lounge spaces, safely.
We hope this inspires your next visit to Tempe, Arizona and that you’ll say to each other, “Let’s Make Plans.” You can always plan and book now and travel later. We’ll keep this page updated. And you can always reach out to us in the comments below or give us a follow on social media to really inspire your trip.
For more inspiration and travel advice, visit the U.S. Travel Association’s Let’s Go There website.
#OurTempe #LetsMakePlans
