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I spent a day kayaking under a desert sunset at Tempe Town Lake, and here’s everything I learned.
I’d never kayaked before, so when the opportunity to paddle under a desert sunset at Tempe Town Lake arose, I jumped at the chance.
As I paddled away from the shore, the vibrant colors of the sunset painted the sky, and I couldn’t help but smile at the sheer beauty surrounding me. It was a moment that felt both exhilarating and serene, a perfect introduction to this hidden gem.
After my kayaking adventure, I couldn’t resist exploring more of this vibrant area. I’ll share everything I learned in this article, from kayaking tips to must-see attractions. Trust me, there’s so much to discover here, so let’s get started!
What is Tempe Town Lake known for?
Tempe Town Lake, completed in 1999, is an artificial oasis in the Sonoran Desert. The lake is designed to withstand a 100-year flood event or greater, with a 1% chance of occurring in any year.
It has over 5 miles of walking, running, skating, and biking paths. It’s so picturesque, with six bridges, including the historic Mill Avenue Bridge and the Elmore Pedestrian Bridge.
On the lake’s south shore, Tempe Beach Park hosts awesome events like music festivals and cultural celebrations. It’s also a hotspot for water activities like boating, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
One of the things that makes this place special is the public art installations, like the “Words Over Water” tiles along the south shore and the cool lights on the Valley Metro Rail bridge.
However, swimming is usually prohibited in the lake, except for rare special events like IRONMAN Arizona.
Best Time to Go to Tempe Town Lake
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The best time to visit Tempe Town Lake is from October to April. The weather is perfect for cool outdoor activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and strolling around the lake.
On the other hand, winter, from December to February, is the time for birdwatching. You wouldn’t believe the migratory birds that come around during this season. It’s such a chill vibe and not as busy as other times.
Quick Tips to Enjoy Your Visit to Tempe Town Lake
| Rent a watercraft. Renting a watercraft is easy and can be done on-site at Boat Rentals of America or Northshore Watersport Rentals. You can choose from single or double kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and even fun donut boats that fit up to ten people! Bring your fishing gear. You only need an Arizona fishing license to fish here, which you can conveniently purchase online or at local stores. Pack a picnic. This park has numerous picnic tables, ramadas, and even a sandy beach area where you can lay out your blanket and soak up the sun. |
How to Get to Tempe Town Lake
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1. Valley Metro Rail
The Valley Metro Rail is a convenient way to Tempe Town Lake. The line runs from midtown Phoenix to Mesa and makes a few stops in Tempe, including one right near the lake.
Once you arrive at the Tempe Transportation Center, it’s just a short walk to the lake.
And here’s the best part – if you’re coming from the airport, there’s a direct connection, making it super accessible for travelers.
3. ORBIT Tempe
The bus system in Tempe, ORBIT, is totally free and super convenient for getting to Tempe Town Lake. The best part? The buses are named after planets and cover different neighborhoods in Tempe, including Tempe Town Lake.
The buses run frequently and take you through smaller streets, so you can soak in the local vibe as you travel. I hopped off near Tempe Beach Park and was at the lake in no time. It was such a cool way to explore the area.
What to Do at Tempe Town Lake
1. Take a scenic bike ride around the lake.
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Address: 550 E Tempe Town Lake, Tempe, AZ 85288, United States
Phone: +14803505200
The bike loop around the lake is about 7 miles long, and the path is smooth. As we rode, the sun shone, the water was sparkling, and there was so much greenery and cool art along the trail.
One of the best parts was crossing these cool pedestrian bridges connecting the two shores. There were also benches along the way, so we took breaks to rest and enjoy the surroundings.
If you don’t have your bike, no worries! Rental options like The Bicycle Cellar and Boat Rentals of America are nearby. We got standard cruisers, but you can also get fun bikes that fit many people.
The paths also connect to cool spots like Tempe Marketplace and Papago Park, so we had many options for more exploring after our ride.
2. Explore Tempe Beach Park.
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Address: 80 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States
Phone: +14803505200
Tempe Beach Park is not your typical sandy beach. It’s an awesome open space perfect for picnics, sports, or just chilling in the sun. And get this—they have restrooms and shaded areas, so it’s totally family-friendly.
We stumbled upon the Tempe Splash Playground, and it was a blast! It felt like we were walking into a mini water park, with kids and adults all having a great time. There were fun water slides and sand play areas, and we couldn’t resist joining.
3. Check out local events and festivals.
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Address: 550 E Tempe Town Lake, Tempe, AZ 85288, United States
Phone: +14803505200
Tempe Town Lake hosts so many amazing events and festivals throughout the year! For example, the July 4th Tempe Town Lake Festival is a blast. It’s a family-friendly celebration with live music, games, delicious food, and fireworks.
Then there’s the Tempe Festival of the Arts, a giant marketplace with hundreds of artists showing off their work. I loved strolling through the booths, checking everything from beautiful paintings to handcrafted jewelry.
And let’s not forget the Four Peaks Oktoberfest! It brings a taste of Germany right to Tempe Beach Park. This lively festival is all about local brews, traditional German food, and fun carnival games for all ages.
4. Explore the walking trails.
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Address: 550 E Tempe Town Lake, Tempe, AZ 85288, United States
Phone: +14803505200
Tempe Town Lake has a stunning seven-mile loop perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling. I started at Tempe Beach Park and felt the energy of the place with families picnicking and kids playing nearby.
The trail offers beautiful views of the lake and the cityscape, and there are over twenty pieces of public art along the way. I even crossed a pedestrian bridge connecting the north and south shores, which was a nice change of scenery.
5. Try your hand at fishing.
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Address: 550 E Tempe Town Lake, Tempe, AZ 85288, United States
Phone: +14803505200
We also had an awesome fishing experience at Tempe Town Lake. We grabbed our fishing licenses, which you need here, and found a cozy spot near one of the fishing docks.
It was such a rush reeling in my first catch. We caught some feisty sunfish and even a couple of small bass, which made for great stories to share later. The best part was the friendly vibe among all the other anglers.
If you’re considering fishing at Tempe Town Lake, I have a few tips for you. Try going early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the fish are most active. And don’t forget to bring some snacks and drinks to enjoy while waiting for a bite.
Where to Stay Near Tempe Town Lake
1. Tempe Mission Palms
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Address: 60 E 5th St, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States
Phone: +14808941400
Pricing: $$
From the moment we walked into Tempe Mission Palms, we were greeted with such warm hospitality. The view of Tempe Town Lake and the Phoenix Mountains was just stunning.
But what made the stay special was the hotel’s location. It’s just a short walk from Mill Avenue, so we had easy access to many restaurants, shops, and bars. We didn’t even need to worry about parking.
Let me tell you about the food—the on-site restaurant, Mission Grille, served up some seriously delicious meals. One evening, we hung out at Harry’s Place, the indoor/outdoor lounge, sipping cocktails and mingling with other guests.
2. Ac Hotel By Marriott Phoenix Tempe/Downtown
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Address: 100 E Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States
Phone: +14806426140
Pricing: $$$
AC Hotel by Marriott Phoenix Tempe/Downtown has a modern and sleek design. The lobby has a welcoming vibe and many cozy seating areas, making it easy to chill out or do some work.
Our room’s floor-to-ceiling windows gave us incredible views of the Tempe skyline. We also loved the AC Kitchen, where we kicked off our mornings with an awesome European-inspired breakfast.
And after a day of exploring, we’d wind down at the AC Lounge with a cocktail and some tasty tapas, chatting about our day. Oh, and the hotel had a top-notch fitness center, too!
3. Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown
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Address: 108 E University Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States
Phone: +14809686800
Pricing: $$$
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Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown’s vibe was so laid-back and welcoming. The rooms were super comfy and had lots of natural light. And the location couldn’t have been better—right by Tempe Town Lake and all the action on Mill Avenue.
We’d come back from exploring and just chill by the pool, sipping cocktails from the Alibi Rooftop Lounge and taking in the stunning city views. They even had complimentary bikes, so we biked around the lake trails, which was a blast.
We hit the fitness center in the mornings, and Alter Ego, the on-site restaurant, served some seriously delicious meals. The staff was so friendly and had great tips for things to do around town.
4. Vīb Hotel By Best Western Phoenix-Tempe
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Address: 511 S Farmer Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States
Phone: +14808052070
Pricing: $$
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Vīb Hotel’s contemporary design, colorful accents, and chic furnishings set the tone for our stay. We loved how everything felt fresh and inviting, making it a great place to unwind after exploring Tempe Town Lake.
One of our favorite amenities was the heated outdoor pool. After a long day of fishing and picnicking by the lake, there’s nothing quite like cooling off in the pool.
The hotel also offers a 24/7 fitness center, which we appreciate for keeping up with our workout routines while traveling. With equipment like Peloton bikes and free weights, it was easy to squeeze in a quick session before heading out for more adventures.
5. Sonesta Select Tempe Downtown
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Address: 601 S Ash Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States
Phone: +14809662800
Pricing: $$
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Sonesta Select Tempe Downtown had a modern and stylish vibe, and the rooms were comfortable and spacious. I’m telling you, the bed was like sleeping on a cloud.
One of the highlights for me was lounging by the pool, drink in hand, soaking up that Arizona sunshine. The location was perfect, too—right near Tempe Town Lake, Arizona State University, and tons of dining and shopping options.
Oh, and the little touches made the stay special. The complimentary WiFi was a lifesaver for planning our activities, and the staff was always friendly and helpful. Plus, having self-parking available made everything so easy.
Where to Eat Near Tempe Town Lake
1. Culinary Dropout
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Address: 149 S Farmer Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States
Phone: +14802401601
Pricing: $$
Website
Culinary Dropout’s vibe is rustic charm mixed with modern style. The place has a vibrant yet cozy feel, and the spacious patio is the perfect spot to soak up the Arizona sunshine.
The menu offers classic American comfort food with a creative twist. We started with their famous soft pretzels with provolone fondue—so addictive! Then, we couldn’t resist trying the slow-braised 36-hour pork ribs.
Plus, there was live music, which added to the lively vibe. We were tapping our feet to the local bands while savoring our meals. It was the perfect blend of good food and good vibes.
2. Perfect Pear Bistro
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Address: 603 W University Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States
Phone: +14809667327
Pricing: $$
Website
Perfect Pear Bistro’s cozy yet vibrant ambiance made me feel at home. The decor is a great mix of rustic charm and modern touches, and I especially loved the outdoor patio with the misters to keep things cool during those hot Arizona days.
The menu at Perfect Pear Bistro offers a delightful twist on modern American comfort food, with seasonal ingredients keeping things fresh and exciting. I was thrilled with the variety of options, from hearty salads and wraps to pasta dishes and tacos.
When it came time for the main course, we couldn’t resist ordering the chipotle vodka sauce pasta and Paco’s Tacos. We left feeling satisfied but couldn’t resist grabbing a slice of their peach and pear cobbler for dessert—an absolute cherry on top.
3. Eureka! Tempe
Address: 690 S Novus Pl #173, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States
Phone: +16022424431
Pricing: $$
Website
Eureka! has a cool vibe with a mix of rustic and modern decor. It’s spacious, with indoor and outdoor seating.
We tried their Al Pastor Fish Tacos, and they were out of this world. The flavors were just incredible. And let’s not forget the craft beer and whiskey selection—it’s pretty impressive.
What stood out was the dedication to fresh, scratch-made food. You could taste the difference, and the service was fantastic. Our server knew their stuff and made great recommendations.
4. Zu Izakaya
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Address: 2210 N Scottsdale Rd, Tempe, AZ 85288, United States
Phone: +14806254372
Pricing: $$
Website
Zu Izakaya has a casual vibe and a cool Asian fusion menu. When we walked in, the atmosphere was warm and inviting, with soft lighting and stylish decor. The colorful art and Japanese elements on the walls added a fun touch to the place.
We were blown away by the variety on the menu, from sushi to Korean-inspired dishes. We tried a mix of dishes, but the bulgogi mushroom pot was hands down the best.
Another cool thing about Zu Izakaya is their happy hour specials. We got to try some amazing appetizers like soft shell crab and grilled galbi while sipping refreshing cocktails.
5. Alter Ego Tempe
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Address: 108 E University Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States
Phone: +16026127871
Pricing: $$
Website
Alter Ego is vibrant and welcoming, with colorful murals and stylish lighting that set the perfect mood for a great meal. You could have a casual lunch or a fancy dinner and feel at home.
The food there is something else—a mix of modern American and Asian fusion dishes that are adventurous and delicious. We tried the salmon board, and it was like love at first bite.
And get this—live acoustic music played in the background, which just added to the warm vibe of the place. One thing that stood out to me was how accommodating they were with dietary preferences.
Where to Shop Near Tempe Town Lake
1. Mill Avenue Shops
Address: 414 S Mill Ave #114, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States
Mill Avenue Shops has a mix of local boutiques, quirky shops, and well-known brands. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy, and street performers added to the lively vibe.
I found everything from trendy clothing stores to unique gift shops and even specialty food stores like Candy Addict, where I satisfied my sweet tooth with nostalgic treats.
I loved that many shops featured local artisans and handmade products, giving it that personal touch you can’t find in big-box stores. It was awesome to support local businesses while picking up some unique souvenirs.
2. Tempe Marketplace
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Address: 2000 E Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85288, United States
Phone: +14809669338
Tempe Marketplace is a huge outdoor shopping center with over 100 shops and restaurants. The place is lively, with colorful lights and beautiful landscaping, making walking around feel like an adventure.
The District area was especially charming, with cozy seating and water features. They even had live music playing, which really added to the whole vibe.
And get this – the whole place is dog-friendly! We brought our furry friend along and had a blast. These cool pop-up art installations gave the entire place an artsy feel.
3. Broadway Marketplace
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Address: 917 E Broadway Rd, Tempe, AZ 85282, United States
Phone: +18338004343
Broadway Marketplace felt like a real community hub. We spent a good amount of time checking out all the stalls selling local produce, baked goods, and specialty items. The deli had amazing gourmet sandwiches and ready-to-eat meals.
What I loved most was how they hosted weekly events like food tastings and live music. It added to the lively vibe of the place.
But what made this place stand out was how much they support local businesses. We found some cool handmade crafts and gifts that made perfect souvenirs from our trip.
4. Arizona Mills
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Address: 5000 S Arizona Mills Cir, Tempe, AZ 85282, United States
Phone: +14804919700
Arizona Mills is super spacious and easy to get around, so I could hop from store to store without feeling overwhelmed. They’ve got a Harkins Theatres with IMAX, so after a long day of shopping, I caught a movie.
There’s also a Tilt Studio with arcade games, laser tag, and virtual reality experiences—perfect for taking a break or entertaining the kids. Plus, the whole mall is climate-controlled, so there’s no need to worry about the Arizona heat.
There are also over 30 eateries to choose from. I ate at the Rainforest Café, surrounded by animated jungle creatures—such a fun twist! It’s definitely a great place to get great deals on top brands while enjoying some entertainment and good food.
5. Courtyard Shops
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Address: 414 S Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States
As its name suggests, Courtyard Shops are tucked away in a cozy courtyard, and the vibe there is so chill and relaxed. My favorite part was that they have a mix of local boutiques, specialty shops, and popular retailers, so there’s something for everyone.
What’s special about this place is the emphasis on local businesses. I found some unique clothing and accessories in the boutiques there, and the shopkeepers were so friendly and eager to share their stories about their products.
But what really stood out to me was the sense of community there. Throughout the day, there were live music performances and art displays, making the atmosphere feel so lively and engaging.
