If you’re looking for free things to do in Tempe, Arizona, Traveler Heavens has got you covered. Tempe is a vibrant city with a variety of free activities for visitors and locals alike, and Traveler Heavens is the ultimate guide for exploring this bustling desert town without breaking the bank.
From Tempe History Museum to visiting Tempe Beach Park and exploring the ASU Art Museum, there are plenty of exciting options for those seeking free entertainment. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or nature, Tempe has something for everyone, and Traveler Heavens is here to help you discover it all.
READ MORE: Best Places to Visit in Arizona (United States)
At Traveler Heavens, we understand that traveling can be expensive, and we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to explore new places and experiences without financial constraints. Our website is designed to provide comprehensive information about the best free activities in Tempe, so you can plan your trip accordingly and make the most out of your time in this amazing city.
So, whether you’re a budget traveler or simply looking for some cost-effective ways to explore Tempe, Traveler Heavens is the ultimate resource for free things to do in Tempe.
List of Free Things to Do in Tempe
Sure, here’s a list of free things to do in Tempe:
- Visit Tempe Beach Park
- Explore the Arizona State University campus
- Moon Rock at the Lunar Museum
- Visit the Tempe History Museum
- Attend a free event at Tempe Marketplace
- SEA LIFE Aquarium
- Visit the ASU Art Museum
- Tempe Festival of the Arts
- Pollack Tempe Cinemas
- Visit the Tempe Public Library
Details of Free Things to Do in Tempe
Tempe, Arizona offers a variety of free activities for visitors and residents alike. From exploring the beautiful Tempe Beach Park to hiking “A” Mountain for stunning city views, there’s plenty to do without spending a dime. Art lovers can take a self-guided art walk or visit the ASU Art Museum for contemporary art from around the world.
History buffs can explore the Tempe History Museum, and those looking for some exercise can attend a free yoga class or hike the nearby trails. With free events at Tempe Marketplace, a weekly farmers market, and the Tempe Public Library’s numerous resources and programs, there’s something for everyone in Tempe.
1. Tempe Beach Park
Tempe Beach Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for free things to do in Tempe. This beautiful park is located along the banks of the Salt River and offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking to go for a stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery, Tempe Beach Park is the perfect place to do so.
One of the best things about Tempe Beach Park is that it’s completely free to enter. So, whether you’re a local or a tourist, you can enjoy all that this beautiful park has to offer without spending a dime. The park features a playground for children, walking trails, and picnic areas, as well as several outdoor sculptures that add to its charm.
For those looking for a bit more adventure, Tempe Beach Park is also home to several exciting events throughout the year. From live music performances to food festivals and more, there’s always something happening at this vibrant park. So, whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to unwind or a lively event to attend, Tempe Beach Park is the perfect destination for free things to do in Tempe.
2. Arizona State University campus
The Arizona State University (ASU) campus in Tempe is a beautiful destination that offers many free things to do. This vibrant university has a plethora of unique buildings, public art displays, and picturesque landscapes, making it a great place to explore on foot. Visitors can wander around the campus, admire the architecture, and take photos with the many public art installations on display.
The ASU campus also hosts a variety of free events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and cultural festivals. These events are open to the public and offer a great opportunity to engage with the ASU community and learn about the campus culture. Some of the most popular events include the annual Spring Fling and Homecoming celebration, which features a parade, fireworks, and a block party.
In addition to the events, visitors to the ASU campus can also check out the ASU Art Museum, which offers free admission to the public. This contemporary art museum features works from around the world and often hosts temporary exhibitions, making it a great destination for art lovers and museum-goers alike. Overall, the ASU campus in Tempe offers many free things to do and is a great place to explore for those looking to experience the unique culture of this vibrant university.
3. Moon Rock at the Lunar Museum
If you’re a space enthusiast looking for free things to do in Tempe, the Lunar Museum is a must-visit destination. This unique museum is dedicated to exploring the wonders of space, and its centerpiece is a moon rock that visitors can see up close and personal. This fascinating artifact was brought back to Earth during the Apollo 15 mission and is one of only a few moon rocks available for public viewing in the world.
In addition to the Moon Rock, the Lunar Museum features a variety of other space-related exhibits and artifacts, including meteorites, spacecraft models, and photographs from space. Visitors can learn about the history of space exploration and the scientific discoveries that have been made along the way.
The museum also offers educational programs and events for children and adults, making it a great destination for families and school groups. Best of all, admission to the Lunar Museum is completely free, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking for free things to do in Tempe.
The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday and offers guided tours for those who want to learn even more about the fascinating world of space exploration. So, whether you’re a space enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and educational experience, be sure to add the Lunar Museum to your list of free things to do in Tempe.
4. Tempe History Museum
For those interested in history and culture, the Tempe History Museum is a must-visit destination for free things to do in Tempe. This museum features a variety of exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the city of Tempe, from its earliest inhabitants to its modern-day culture and traditions. Visitors can learn about the history of the city’s founding, its growth and development over time, and the many diverse communities that call Tempe home.
One of the highlights of the Tempe History Museum is the Changing Gallery, which features rotating exhibits that explore different aspects of Tempe’s history and culture. Recent exhibits have included “Chicanx/Latinx Resistance” and “Indigenous Connections: Our Home, Our Culture, Our Stories.” These exhibits offer a unique and educational experience for visitors and showcase the diverse voices and perspectives that make up the Tempe community.
Admission to the Tempe History Museum is completely free, making it a great destination for anyone looking for free things to do in Tempe. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday and offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and community celebrations. So, whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the area, be sure to add the Tempe History Museum to your list of must-see destinations in Tempe.
5. Tempe Marketplace
The Tempe Marketplace is a bustling shopping and dining destination that offers plenty of free things to do for visitors of all ages. This open-air shopping center features over 100 stores and restaurants, as well as a variety of free events and activities throughout the year.
Visitors can wander through the outdoor mall, browse the shops, and take in the vibrant atmosphere of this popular Tempe destination. One of the highlights of the Tempe Marketplace is the Splash Pad, a free water play area for kids that offers a fun and refreshing way to beat the heat during the summer months.
Children can splash and play in the water, while parents relax on the nearby benches and enjoy the lively energy of the surrounding area. The Splash Pad is open daily from 9am to 10pm, making it a great destination for families looking for free things to do in Tempe.
In addition to the Splash Pad, the Tempe Marketplace hosts a variety of other free events and activities throughout the year, including live music performances, movie nights, and holiday celebrations.
Visitors can check the calendar of events on the Tempe Marketplace website to see what’s coming up and plan their visit accordingly. Overall, the Tempe Marketplace is a vibrant and exciting destination that offers plenty of free things to do for visitors of all ages.
6. SEA LIFE Aquarium
If you’re looking for a unique and educational experience in Tempe, the SEA LIFE Aquarium is a great destination for free things to do. This indoor aquarium features a variety of marine life from around the world, including sharks, sea turtles, and colorful tropical fish. Visitors can learn about the different habitats and ecosystems of the ocean and see firsthand the importance of conservation efforts to protect these incredible creatures.
One of the highlights of the SEA LIFE Aquarium is the interactive touchpool, where visitors can touch and interact with a variety of sea creatures, including starfish and sea urchins. This hands-on experience is a great way to learn about the different textures and behaviors of these fascinating animals, and is sure to be a hit with visitors of all ages.
Admission to the SEA LIFE Aquarium is free for children under the age of three, and discounted tickets are available for students, military personnel, and seniors. The aquarium is open daily and offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year, including guided tours and behind-the-scenes experiences.
Whether you’re a marine enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and educational experience, be sure to add the SEA LIFE Aquarium to your list of free things to do in Tempe.
7. ASU Art Museum
The ASU Art Museum is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts looking for free things to do in Tempe. This contemporary art museum is located on the campus of Arizona State University and features a variety of exhibits and installations from artists around the world.
Visitors can view works in a variety of media, including painting, sculpture, photography, and new media, and explore the cutting-edge and diverse voices of the contemporary art world.
One of the highlights of the ASU Art Museum is the Ceramics Research Center, a collection of over 4,000 ceramic objects that span over 5,000 years of history. This unique and educational exhibit showcases the versatility and beauty of ceramics as an art form, and offers visitors a rare glimpse into the rich history and cultural significance of this medium.
Admission to the ASU Art Museum is completely free, making it a great destination for anyone looking for free things to do in Tempe. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday and offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and community celebrations. So, whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the area, be sure to add the ASU Art Museum to your list of must-see destinations in Tempe.
8. Tempe Festival of the Arts
The Tempe Festival of the Arts is a popular annual event that offers visitors a chance to enjoy a variety of free activities, entertainment, and exhibits in the heart of downtown Tempe. This three-day event takes place twice a year, in the spring and fall, and features over 300 artists showcasing their works in a variety of media, including painting, sculpture, jewelry, and photography.
Visitors can stroll through the festival, browse the booths, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this vibrant celebration of art and culture. In addition to the art exhibits, the Tempe Festival of the Arts offers a variety of free entertainment and activities for visitors of all ages.
This includes live music performances, street performers, and a variety of interactive exhibits and installations. Food and beverage vendors are also available, offering a variety of delicious and affordable options to fuel your festival experience.
Admission to the Tempe Festival of the Arts is completely free, making it a great destination for anyone looking for free things to do in Tempe. The festival is typically held in March and November, and attracts thousands of visitors from around the region.
So, whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and festive way to spend the day, be sure to add the Tempe Festival of the Arts to your list of must-see events in Tempe.
9. Pollack Tempe Cinemas
Pollack Tempe Cinemas is a popular destination for movie lovers looking for free things to do in Tempe. This independent cinema is located in the heart of downtown Tempe and offers a unique movie-going experience. The theater features a variety of films, including independent and foreign films, as well as classic and cult favorites.
Visitors can enjoy a comfortable and intimate screening experience in one of the theater’s five auditoriums, each featuring state-of-the-art projection and sound systems. In addition to the unique movie selection, Pollack Tempe Cinemas offers a variety of special events and programming throughout the year. This includes free screenings of classic films, as well as special events like sing-along screenings and themed movie nights.
The theater also hosts special events in conjunction with local arts organizations, offering visitors a chance to engage with the vibrant arts community in Tempe.
Admission to Pollack Tempe Cinemas is not free, but the theater offers discounted tickets and special promotions throughout the year, making it a budget-friendly destination for movie lovers. The theater is open seven days a week and offers matinee showings as well as evening screenings.
So, whether you’re a cinephile or simply looking for a unique and affordable way to spend the day, be sure to add Pollack Tempe Cinemas to your list of must-see destinations in Tempe.
10. Tempe Public Library
The Tempe Public Library is a great destination for anyone looking for free things to do in Tempe. This public library is located in the heart of downtown Tempe and offers a variety of resources and programming for visitors of all ages.
The library features a collection of over 200,000 books, DVDs, and other materials, as well as public computers and free Wi-Fi access. Visitors can also take advantage of the library’s study rooms, meeting spaces, and other amenities.
In addition to its extensive collection, the Tempe Public Library offers a variety of free programming and events throughout the year. This includes story times and other activities for young children, as well as book clubs, writing workshops, and other events for adults.
The library also hosts special events in conjunction with local arts organizations, offering visitors a chance to engage with the vibrant arts community in Tempe.
Visitors to the Tempe Public Library can also take advantage of a variety of online resources and services, including e-books and audiobooks, online databases, and streaming services. The library’s website also offers a variety of online resources and tools, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to expand their knowledge and skills.
Whether you’re a book lover, a student, or simply looking for a quiet and welcoming space to read or work, the Tempe Public Library is a must-see destination in Tempe. With its extensive collection, free programming, and convenient downtown location, it’s a great resource for anyone looking to explore the vibrant community of Tempe.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Tempe, Arizona offers a wealth of free things to do for visitors of all ages and interests. From outdoor adventures at Tempe Beach Park to cultural experiences at the ASU Art Museum and Tempe Festival of the Arts, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Of all the destinations listed above, one place to visit first would be Tempe Beach Park. This expansive park offers stunning views of the nearby mountains and a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. With its beautiful scenery and convenient location near downtown Tempe, it’s the perfect place to start your exploration of this vibrant city.
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