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Don’t Let Your Squad Ditch Your Plans! Here’s the Ultimate Guide to Tempe Beach Park That Will Have Everyone Jumping Back In
Welcome to Tempe Beach Park – your go-to spot for outdoor fun, family time, and killer views! Whether you’re in the mood to chill by the water or ready to jump into some action, this Arizona gem has a little something for everyone so get ready to have a good time!
With loads of activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and biking, you’ll never run out of things to do. You’ll never get bored cause there’s always something happening, from live concerts to food festivals.
So grab your sunscreen, round up your crew, and get ready to make some awesome memories at Tempe Beach Park!
What is Tempe Beach Park Known For?
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Tempe Beach Park is known for being the heart of outdoor fun in the city. If you’re up for breathtaking sunsets over the lake, its wide range of water activities, or the constant buzz of events—there’s always something happening here.
It’s located along the banks of Tempe Town Lake, with plenty of green space and killer lake views, making it perfect for everything from picnics to impromptu photo ops.
With its prime location near downtown Tempe, you’re just a short walk away from some of the best dining, shopping, and entertainment the city has to offer. So if you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a great hangout with friends, Tempe Beach Park has it all!
Best Time to Visit Tempe Beach Park
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For the best experience, hit up Tempe Beach Park between October and April when the weather’s super chill and perfect for outdoor fun. You can enjoy the park without melting in the summer heat!
And here’s a hot tip: check out the event schedule before you go—Tempe Beach Park is always packed with awesome events like Ironman Arizona and the Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade, so you won’t want to miss out!
How to Get to Tempe Beach Park
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Tempe Beach Park is conveniently located near downtown Tempe and is easily accessible by car, public transportation, or bike.
- By Car: Plug in 80 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281 into your GPS. If you don’t have GPS, you can still find your way by following these directions.
From I-10, after taking the 202 East, exit at Mill Avenue and head north until you see signs for Tempe Beach Park. If you’re coming from I-17, take the exit for I-10 East, then follow the same instructions for I-10.
Parking is available in nearby lots and garages, but it can fill up quickly on event days.
- Public Transit: You can take the Valley Metro Light Rail to the Mill Avenue/Third Street station, which is about a half-mile walk to Tempe Beach Park, taking roughly 10 minutes on foot.
Several bus routes serve the area, including Routes 61 and 70, which stop at the nearby Tempe Beach Park/Third Street bus stop. From there, it’s just a short walk of about five minutes to reach the park entrance.
Be sure to check the Valley Metro website for the latest schedules and route information to plan your trip effectively.
- Biking: Tempe is a bike-friendly city, and you’ll find bike paths leading to the park from many areas. There are bike racks available to secure your ride once you arrive.
What to Do in Tempe Beach Park
1. Snap Amazing Shot of the Landscape and Scenery
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The scenic Tempe Town Lake with its backdrop of the Mill Avenue Bridge and the surrounding desert hills makes Tempe Beach Park a picturesque setting.
You’ve got those lush green lawns blending perfectly with the vibrant desert views, giving you the best of both worlds. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to kick back, relax, and just soak it all in!
If you’re into photography or just love nature, the sunsets here are something special. Imagine golden hues splashing across the Arizona sky and shimmering off the lake’s surface—total Instagram gold!
So, grab your camera or phone and get ready to snap some epic shots that will make all your friends jealous. And don’t forget to just take a moment to breathe it all in; this scenery is the perfect backdrop for some quality time with friends or family.
2. Get Ready to Sail with Boating Rentals and Cruises
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Ready to hit the water? Tempe Beach Park has got you covered with kayak, paddleboard, and pedal boat rentals, so you can get up close and personal with Tempe Town Lake!
It’s the ultimate way to have some fun and get a little exercise at the same time. Paddle out with friends, challenge each other to races, or just float around and enjoy the sun.
If you’re feeling more like kicking back and relaxing, hop on one of the lake cruises! It’s a chill way to soak in those amazing views without breaking a sweat. Just sit back, sip on your drink, and enjoy the ride as you glide across the sparkling waters of the lake.
If you’re up for adventure or looking for some laid-back vibes, there’s something for everyone out on the water.
3. Join the Action with Ironman Arizona
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One of the highlights of Tempe Beach Park is the epic Ironman Arizona Triathlon. This event attracts elite athletes from around the globe who compete in swimming, biking, and running, making it a sight to see!
Participating or cheering from the sidelines, the energy is electric. You’ll witness some serious athleticism and determination that’ll leave you feeling inspired.
If you’ve ever thought about tackling a triathlon yourself, this is the perfect place to catch the excitement and get motivated. Even if you’re there just for the atmosphere, you’ll find tons of vendors, food, and activities to enjoy.
So grab your friends, a cooler of snacks, and settle in for a day of fun and competition. Trust me, this is one event you don’t want to miss!
4. Stroll Across the Pedestrian Bridge Over the Lake
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Spanning across the lake, the Tempe Town Lake Pedestrian Bridge is a must-see! This bridge connects the north and south sides of the lake and offers some of the best views in the park.
It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, a bike ride, or just taking a moment to soak in the scenery. Crossing to grab a snack on the other side or simply enjoying a peaceful walk, the views are absolutely stunning.
As you walk or bike across, keep your eyes peeled for the wildlife that calls the lake home. You might spot ducks paddling by, fish jumping, or even some birds soaring overhead.
It’s a great way to connect with nature while still being close to the lively park atmosphere. So lace up those shoes, grab your bike, and get ready to explore all the beauty that Tempe Beach Park has to offer!
5. Challenge Yourself on Walking and Biking trails
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Take advantage of the paved walking and biking paths that loop around the park. It’s perfect for a relaxing stroll or a scenic bike ride with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the views.
We love wandering along these trails, soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the vibrant scenery around me. You can take it easy or push yourself a bit, there’s a trail for everyone to enjoy.
It’s also a great chance to hang out with friends! We often grab my bike or go for a walk with a buddy and just chat while we explore the park. The trails are a great way to unwind and catch up while surrounded by nature.
So, pack some water, throw on your favorite sneakers, and hit the paths for a fun day outdoors!
3. Explore Playground and Picnic Areas
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There’s a large, modern playground for children to enjoy, and plenty of shaded picnic areas where you can have a family lunch or BBQ. We love bringing our family here!The kids have a blast playing on the swings and slides while grown-ups can relax under the trees.
If you find something special about sharing a meal outdoors, the the picnic spots here are perfect for spreading out a blanket and enjoying some good food and great company.
It’s a wonderful way to create lasting memories with loved ones in such a vibrant setting.
4. Participate in Special Events and Festivals
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From concerts to art festivals, Tempe Beach Park hosts events throughout the year, like the annual Innings Festival and the Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration.There’s always something exciting happening, and it’s a blast if you can join in on the festivities.
We love checking the schedule before my visits to see what events we can catch—there’s nothing quite like enjoying live music or watching fireworks with your friends and family in such a beautiful setting.
The energy in the air during these events is contagious, and it’s a great way to connect with the community.
5. Achieve your fitness goals at fitness stations
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Outdoor fitness stations are scattered around the park for those looking to break a sweat while taking in the stunning surroundings. You can stop at these stations to mix up your workout routine.
It’s motivating to exercise outside, and don’t you just love the feeling of fresh air while I work on my fitness goals. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned athlete or just getting started, these stations are a great way to enjoy the park.
What’s even great is the scenery makes the workout feel less like a chore and more like an adventure, making it easy to stay motivated. So grab a friend and get moving—you won’t regret it!
Where to Stay Near Tempe Beach Park
1. AC Hotel by Marriott Tempe/Downtown
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Address: 100 E Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281
Phone: +1 480-642-6140
Pricing: $$$
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Just a hop away from Tempe Beach Park, the AC Hotel by Marriott is where modern vibes meet comfort!
You’ll love the sleek rooms and the rooftop pool, which offers killer views of the city—perfect for those sunset selfies. To top it off, you can fuel up with a tasty breakfast before heading out to explore all the fun activities at the park.
2. Tempe Mission Palms
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Address: 60 E 5th St, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States
Phone: +1 480-894-1400
Pricing: $$
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If you want a touch of luxury right in the heart of Tempe, check out Tempe Mission Palms! This stylish hotel puts you just steps away from the action, with comfy rooms and a beautiful pool area that’s perfect for lounging.
Grab a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant, sip some cocktails, and soak in the sun before heading to Tempe Beach Park for some outdoor fun.
It’s the ideal spot for those who want a bit of relaxation mixed with adventure!
3. MOXY Phoenix Tempe
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Address: 1333 S Rural Rd, Tempe, AZ 85281
Phone: +1 480-968-3451
Pricing: $
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For a fun and funky stay, MOXY Phoenix Tempe is the place to be! With its trendy design and chill social spaces, this hotel is perfect for young travelers looking for a vibrant atmosphere.
Hang out at the lively bar, challenge your friends to a game of pool, or just kick back in the lounge before heading out to explore the park. It’s all about having a great time while being super close to all the excitement at Tempe Beach Park!
Where to Shop Near Tempe Beach Park
After enjoying a day in the sun, head to some nearby shopping destinations to round out your visit:
1. Tempe Marketplace
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Address: 2000 E Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85288
Phone: +1 480-966-9338
Just a short drive from the park, Tempe Marketplace is an open-air shopping center you will absolutely love. It’s got everything from trendy retail stores to some great restaurants and even a movie theater.
After a long day outside, it’s the perfect place where you can kick back and grab a bite to eat. There’s often live music happening here, which adds a fun vibe to the whole experience
Whatever your plan is–- to catch a flick or just stroll around, it’s a nice way to wind down!
2. Mill Avenue District
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Address: 1 W. Rio Salado Parkway Tempe, AZ 85281
Phone: +1 480 355-6060
Mill Avenue is a must-visit if you love boutique shopping and local eats. We love taking a leisurely stroll down this street—there are so many cute shops to browse through, and you can always find something unique to take home.
In addition, there are tons of coffee shops and cafes where you can stop for a quick break. The atmosphere is lively, with local artists often showcasing their work, and we find it’s a great way to soak up the local culture.
3. Arizona Mills Mall
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Address: 5000 S Arizona Mills Cir, Tempe, AZ 85282
Phone: +1 480-491-9700
If you’re in the mood for some serious shopping, Arizona Mills Mall is the place to be. This large indoor mall has everything from major retail chains to outlet stores, which is perfect if you’re hunting for deals.
You will love spending a few hours here just exploring—there’s always something new to discover. If you need a break, you can grab a bite at one of the many restaurants.
You’ll find this as a great spot to chill out after a day at the park, especially if you’re shopping for gifts or just treating yourself!
