Explore the first intentionally car-free community in the U.S.
Welcome to the first intentionally-built car-free residential community in the United States! Culdesac Tempe spans 17 acres of award-winning homes as well as a roster of micro-retailers. Stroll beneath the twinkling lights of this community, and you’ll encounter a variety of murals, pop-up events and small businesses throughout the maze of buildings — which draw architectural inspiration from Mediterranean villages, Greek islands and historic Italian hill towns.
Culdesac Tempe is more than a residential neighborhood. Located at 2025 E. Apache Blvd., this neighborhood is designed for approximately 1,000 residents. But part of this mixed-use development’s master plan is creating community, prioritizes walkability, and offering convenience for its car-free residents. As such, there are a limited number of day-use parking spots onsite. Alternatively, the Valley Metro Rail’s Smith-Martin/Apache Blvd. station is just one crosswalk stroll away from the Culdesac’s main courtyard.
Another distinguisher of this neighborhood is the entrepreneurs and small business operators that have set up shop in 18 of the first-floor units. Also referred to as micro-retailers, these tenants range from hands-on experiences, places to dine sip and snack, apparel shops, wearable art to browse, plants of the Sonoran Desert to adopt, ideas for creating your own custom souvenir and so much more.
Here’s everything you need to know about Culdesac Tempe ahead of your next visit. This downloadable map is a helpful tool as well. Then, plan to leave yourself plenty of time to stroll, browse and explore this truly one-of-a-kind place!
RETAIL
Artdillo
Upcycled furniture, handmade home decor, art, jewelry, kitchenware and textiles.
Instagram | 2026 E. Wildermuth Ave., #1136, Tempe
Ito Brand
Arizona’s only Puerto Rican clothing brand, specializing in sustainable clothing for everyone.
Instagram | 2026 E. Wildermuth Ave., Tempe
Kinkan Gifts
Imported clothing, homegoods and accessories that celebrate Japanese design and style.
Instagram | 2016 E. Wildermuth Ave., #1124, Tempe
Malisay Designs
Permanent jewelry studio featuring artisan and hand-stamped creations.
Instagram | 2016 E. Wildermuth Ave., #1082, Tempe
Maricopa Botanicals
Plant shop featuring dry-climate plants, hand-poured homewares, and eclectic gifts. Build-your-own plant and repotting available at The Plant Bar.
Instagram | 2025 E. Apache Blvd., #1130, Tempe
Oaty Bear
Boutique featuring dog accessories and toys made in the USA, limited-ingredient dog treats, and gear for dog moms and dads.
Instagram | 2036 E. Wildermuth Ave., #1254, Tempe
Sew Used
Pre-loved affordable clothing, true vintage, Y2K, modern, reworked and upcycled pieces. (No consignment or trade.)
Instagram | 2011 E. Apache Blvd., #155, Tempe
EXPERIENCES
Beauty and Body by Olivia
Create your own custom lip gloss and perfume/cologne experience. Licensed esthetician specializing in brows, sugaring, spray tanning, skincare, makeup and lash lifts.
Instagram | 2016 E. Wildermuth Ave., #1088, Tempe
Brite Candle Co.
Shop natural home and body fragrances or make your own candles, soaps, perfume and more.
Instagram | 2016 E. Wildermuth Ave., #1128, Tempe
PIP Crafts + Clay
Ceramic studio with beginner wheel-throwing classes, studio hours and craft workshops.
Instagram | 2011 E. Apache Blvd., Suite 147, Tempe
Please note that some of these experiences require reservations.
FOOD & BEVERAGE
Aruma Cafe
Mexican coffee shop featuring pastries, breakfast and lunch items, matcha and espresso drinks.
Instagram | 2011 E. Apache Blvd., #143, Tempe,
Busan Mart
An innovative Korean convenience store offering a curated selection of Korean/Japanese snacks, drinks, on-site ramen station, fresh kimbap, K-pop merchandise and beauty products.
Instagram | 2005 E. Apache Blvd., #101, Tempe
Cocina Chiwas
World-class Chihuahuan cuisine from the James Beard semifinalists Armando Hernandez and Nadia Holguin.
Instagram | 2001 E. Apache Blvd., Tempe
Nomad Boba
Vibrant boba teas, ice cream and authentic banh mi sandwiches.
Instagram | 2011 E. Apache Blvd., #139, Tempe
ReddHouse Pastry
Indigenous-owned bake shop specializing in cinnamon rolls, blue corn crossaints and french-inspired patisserie items.
Instagram | 2016 E. Wildermuth Ave., #1086, Tempe
EVENTS
Second Saturdays at Culdesac
Market featuring artisan vendors, live music, free crafts — plus lunch and cocktails at Cocina Chiwas — on the following dates for spring 2026:
- Feb. 14
- March 14
- April 11
- May 9
Stay tuned to Culdesac Tempe’s Instagram account and/or events calendar for the latest information on upcoming events.
