Things To Do
Desert Botanical Garden
The venue itself! We love the Desert Botanical Garden, a Phoenix 'Point of Pride' with an immense collection of more than 50,000 plants, including native, rare and endangered species spread over 140 acres. We recommend taking a walk through the Center for Desert Living Trail, which this time of year will start blooming with shades and hues of pink and purple.
Papago Park
This sprawling park, known for its massive buttes that rise and fall throughout, is home to casual hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning desert views. Don't miss the opportunity to climb to the top of Hole in the Rock, a natural rock formation that offers incredible panoramic views of the city. Also located in the park is the Phoenix Zoo, one of the largest non-profit zoos in the country and home to over 3,000 animals. Every November, it transforms into a winter wonderland with over 4 million lights and a variety of holiday-themed displays for ZooLights.
Downtown Phoenix
From museums and art galleries to hip restaurants and bars, downtown Phoenix has something for everyone. Check out the Phoenix Art Museum, walk down Roosevelt Row, or grab a bite to eat at one of the many food trucks that line the streets.
Uptown Farmers' Market
The Uptown Phoenix Farmers Market takes place every Saturday 7-11am at Central Ave & Bethany Home Rd (15-20 minutes away from the venue), and features a variety of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. It's a great place to pick up unique souvenirs and gifts. We also recommend the Downtown Farmers Market at 5th St & McKinley, also every Saturday 8am-1pm.
Restaurants in Tempe
Tempe is known for its vibrant food scene, with plenty of options to satisfy any craving. Here are some of our favorite restaurants in the area: Culinary Dropout: This trendy gastropub serves up classic American dishes with a twist, along with an impressive selection of craft beers and cocktails. Little Miss BBQ: If you're a barbecue lover, Little Miss is not to be missed. This no-frills spot serves up some of the best brisket, ribs, and sausage in town, with meat that's slow-smoked to perfection. Show up early before they sell out! Postino Annex: This cozy wine bar and restaurant on College Ave is the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner. Their menu features a variety of bruschetta boards, salads, and paninis, along with an extensive wine list. Cornish Pasty Co.: For a unique dining experience, head to Cornish Pasty Co. This restaurant specializes in traditional English pasties, with a variety of sweet and savory options to choose from. Jack's favorite is the reuben!