Just 10 minutes from downtown Phoenix, Tempe is a unique city with the youthful spirit of a college town. Home to the largest public university in the U.S., this vibrant destination includes over 300 days of sunshine for hiking, biking and water parks. With festivals, microbreweries, arts and live music, it’s also home to diverse attractions that educate and inspire. Here are some of the top places to visit, while you’re in town.
1. Big Surf Water Park
Enjoy some wet and wild fun with the family at Big Surf. Escape the desert heat with thrilling water slides, a lazy river and America’s original wave pool, featuring 2.5 million gallons of cool, refreshing water.
2. ASU Gammage Auditorium
Thought to be the final public commission of legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, this stunning theatre is a sight to behold. Enjoy live performances, along with three lobby galleries that include photography and paintings from talented local artists.
3. Sea Life Arizona
Home to thousands of strange aquatic creatures, this 26,000-square-foot interactive aquarium is a great place to take the kids. Enjoy a 360-degree ocean tunnel, interactive touch pools and a wide range of amazing sea life, including sharks, octopi and seahorses.
4. Karsten Golf Course
Tee off at one of the premier golf courses in the state. Part of Arizona’s State University, Karsten features undulating greens, rolling fairways and a number of challenging holes.
5. Kiwanis Lake and Park
Thrill the family with boating, sports fields, seasonal paddleboat rentals, playgrounds, a zip line and a recreational center with wave pool.
6. Arizona State University Wells Fargo Arena
Cheer on the Sun Devils as they compete against rival programs from the PAC-12. A great destination for sports fans, this 10,754-seat multi-purpose arena plays host to a packed schedule of basketball games, gymnastics, women’s volleyball and wrestling.
7. Halle Heart Children’s Museum
Explore a broad range of educational exhibits that center on good health. Learn about the workings of the circulatory system and how diet can affect our long-term health. There are also a number of great hands-on activities that stress the importance of staying healthy throughout every stage of life.
8. Tempe Marketplace
Enhanced by unique architecture, water features, dramatic lighting and outdoor fireplaces, Tempe Marketplace is one of the city’s most popular outdoor destinations. Discover an eclectic mix of restaurants, movie theaters, coffee houses and over 1.3 million square feet of retail space.
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