Discover the Best of Tempe

Things to Do in Tempe

Experience the best of Tempe, Arizona, a vibrant destination offering scenic parks, local museums, shopping centers, dining, and cultural attractions. From outdoor recreation and arts to lively city experiences, enjoy a variety of things to explore within easy reach of MK Hotels Extended Stay.

A rocky desert canyon frame looks out onto a green valley and town in the distance, with clear blue sky and distant hills.
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0.6 Miles | ​ 3 Minutes Drive

Papago Park

Papago Park is a scenic desert destination known for its iconic red rock formations and the famous Hole in the Rock. Visitors can enjoy easy hiking, beautiful views, and peaceful outdoor spaces, making it a great spot for walking, photography, and experiencing Arizona’s natural beauty.

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Two giraffes stand close together in a sunny enclosure, one with its neck curved while the other leans in, green trees in the background.
A group of tall giraffes stands among trees in a zoo or park, with several youngsters and adults in a sandy yard.
A tiger rests on a log inside a enclosure, looking relaxed with a soft gaze, surrounded by blurry green leaves.
Two zebras grazing on a sunny grassy field, one foal standing nearby, in a savanna-like scene. End of sentence.
A young lion cub on a rock, mouth open wide as if roaring or yawning, in a natural green backdrop.
Two hippos stand at a pond’s edge, drinking and cooling their bodies as the grassy bank glows in sunlight.
An elephant standing in a green clearing, tusks curved upward, big ears, trees in the background, midday sunlight.

2.9 Miles | ​ 6 Minutes Drive

Phoenix Zoo

The Phoenix Zoo is a popular family-friendly attraction featuring a wide variety of animal exhibits set across scenic outdoor spaces. Visitors can enjoy interactive experiences, shaded walking paths, and engaging exhibits, making it an enjoyable destination for families, couples, and animal lovers of all ages.

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A dense desert garden of tall cacti with yellow flowering succulents and warm sunlight filtering through.
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MK Hotels

3.3 Miles | ​ 7 Minutes Drive

Desert Botanical Garden

The Desert Botanical Garden showcases thousands of desert plants along scenic outdoor trails. Visitors can explore native cacti, wildflowers, and unique desert landscapes, making it a peaceful and enjoyable destination for nature lovers and families.

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A city river scene with a long bridge across calm water, modern buildings in the background and a partly cloudy sky overhead, sunny and vibrant.
Two people in kayaks paddling on calm water, one orange and one blue, near green vegetation along the shore.

2.4 Miles | ​ 6 Minutes Drive

Tempe Beach Park

Tempe Beach Park is a popular outdoor space offering scenic views, walking paths, and recreational areas along Tempe Town Lake. Visitors can enjoy boating, open green spaces, and relaxing spots for leisure, making it a great place for outdoor activities, family time, and enjoying the natural surroundings.

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A dinosaur skeleton on display, with a large skull and long neck bones visible against a dark background.

8.3 Miles | ​ 14 Minutes Drive

Arizona Museum of Natural History

The Arizona Museum of Natural History offers engaging exhibits focused on the Southwest’s history, culture, and natural science. Visitors can explore dinosaur displays, ancient civilizations, and interactive exhibits, making it a great destination for families, students, and anyone interested in learning about the region’s rich heritage.

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A rough stone or concrete wall next to fast-flowing white water, like a dam or spillway edge.

5.2 Miles | ​ 11 Minutes Drive

Arizona Falls

Arizona Falls is a unique urban attraction featuring a restored hydroelectric plant, cascading waterfalls, and a scenic footbridge. Visitors can enjoy shaded viewing areas, learn about renewable energy, and capture great photos, making it a relaxing and interesting stop for all ages.

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MK Hotels

11 Miles | ​ 15 Minutes Drive

Heard Museum

The Heard Museum is a renowned cultural attraction dedicated to Native American art, history, and traditions. Visitors can explore impressive exhibits featuring Southwestern art, artifacts, and contemporary works, making it a meaningful and enriching experience for art lovers and cultural explorers.

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A young boy on a skateboard at a playground, wearing a cap and white outfit, standing near a red slide with a sunny backdrop.

4.6 Miles | ​ 8 Minutes Drive

Riverview Park

Riverview Park is a spacious and family-friendly park offering large play areas, modern climbing structures, shaded picnic spots, and a fun splash pad. It’s an ideal place for outdoor recreation, relaxation, and quality time with family, making it a popular destination for visitors of all ages.

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