Part of the Phoenix Metro Area, Tempe’s main claim to fame is as the home of Arizona State. Most definitely a college town, Tempe has a mix of art, culture, entertainment and history that makes it an exciting place to visit. The college campus itself is always fun to explore. This is by far the state’s premiere university, and the largest in the country as far as enrollment numbers. A member of the PAC-12 conference, ASU’s sports teams are always a popular draw. For the outdoor enthusiast, the trails through the Sonoran Desert prove an exhilarating hike. See the plant and animal life indigenous to the Arizona desert as you spend the day exploring Papago Park. You can also try South Mountain Park which is actually 16,000 acres that covers three separate mountain ranges.
Just a short walk from downtown, Tempe Town Lake offers visitors plenty to do by way of fishing, paddle boarding and kayaking. The lake is 220 acres and a major attraction in the heart of the city. You will almost always find someone running, biking or walking along paths around the lake.
At night the city comes alive. Take a walk to the District Stage most weekend nights and there is sure to be a live performance of some kind. From jazz, to rock, to singer/songwriters, the city attracts all sorts of musical talent. And with a number of theatrical venues, catching a play is also a great option.
As this is a college town, Tempe certainly has plenty to offer in this arena. Specializing in local cuisine, the region’s restaurants make use of home grown ingredients. They also like to kick it up with some international flair. When it comes to breweries, the city boasts a handful of incredible local breweries well worth checking out!
Arizona State University is huge. The Sun Devils have a solid athletic program and visitors come to watch a variety of sports. ASU is also known for being a top party school (the summer-like weather for most of the school year doesn't hurt).
October through April are considered the good weather months. Winter is a very mild season with highs in the upper-70s. Tempe is a destination for college football fans who come to town around new year's for the Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl.
Spring is sunny, warm, and dry. It is the dry season. By May, average daily highs reach the mid-90s.
Summer is extremely hot. Temps regularly reach around 105 degrees. A lot of the university activity also dies down for the summer.
Fall is a happening time in Tempe. Students arrive on campus, the weather becomes very nice, and college football season kicks off. October temps hover around the upper-80s.