You could say Tempe has more great places to stay than there are hiking trails in Arizona, but that would undersell your choices. Pick downtown or Mill Avenue if you want nightlife and easy light rail; choose near ASU for campus energy and short walks to events; lakeside hotels by Tempe Town Lake give quieter views and bike paths. Keep going to find the best hotels for your budget and plans.
Neighborhoods to Consider in Tempe
When you pick where to stay in Tempe, think about what you’ll be doing—downtown buzz, campus energy, or quieter suburban streets—because each neighborhood gives you a different feel. You’ll find Downtown Tempe lively, with Mill Avenue‘s restaurants, bars, and riverwalks within easy walking distance; it’s ideal if you want nightlife and short walks. Near Arizona State University, expect a younger vibe, student-friendly cafes, and events spilling into the streets—great if you’re attending a game or lecture but less ideal if you want calm. Hayden Flour Mill and the Warehouse District mix industrial charm with trendy eateries and art galleries, so you’ll enjoy creative energy and quieter evenings. For a more residential pace, South Tempe and the areas near Tempe Town Lake offer parks, bike paths, and family-oriented dining; you’ll sleep more soundly there. Consider transit access and your tolerance for noise when choosing the right neighborhood.
Best Hotels Near Arizona State University
If you want to be steps from class, you’ll find campus-adjacent hotels that put you on Mill Avenue or a quick walk to ASU’s quad. For tighter budgets there are clean, wallet-friendly motels and chains that still keep you close to bars and transit. If you’re treating yourself, boutique and luxury properties offer rooftop pools, modern design, and quiet comfort after a busy day on campus.
Campus-Adjacent Options
Staying near Arizona State University means you’ll be a short walk or shuttle ride from campus energy, sporting events, and the cafes that keep students fueled; campus-adjacent hotels put you right in the middle of it. You’ll find boutique properties and well-known chains with rooms overlooking palm-lined streets, plus suites with small kitchenettes for longer stays. Expect friendly front-desk staff who know game-day traffic patterns and will point you to quieter corners after an evening event. Mornings bring students with backpacks and the smell of espresso—grab a window seat to watch campus life unfold. If you want convenience, pick a hotel within a ten-minute walk of Sun Devil Stadium or the light rail; you’ll save time and enjoy the pulse of Tempe.
Budget-Friendly Stays
Looking to save without sacrificing comfort? You’ll find solid, wallet-friendly options a short walk or shuttle from Arizona State University. I stayed at a clean, no-frills motel that offered free parking, reliable Wi‑Fi, and a simple continental breakfast—perfect if you’re juggling campus visits or a tight schedule. Many budget hotels cluster along Mill Avenue and near University Drive; they’re basic but bright, with compact rooms, good air conditioning, and helpful front-desk staff who know local transit. If you prefer chains, look for value brands that include free breakfast and late checkout. Book early for football weekends to avoid price spikes. These practical stays keep costs low while letting you focus on exploring Tempe and the ASU campus.
Boutique and Luxury
While you’ll find plenty of wallet-friendly options, Tempe also has a handful of boutique and luxury hotels that turn a campus visit into a mini getaway, with design-forward rooms, rooftop pools, and attentive service that make relaxing simple after a day of classes or events. You’ll notice polished lobbies, local art, and concierge tips for the best late-night tacos. Staying near ASU means you can walk to football games, campus lectures, or Mill Avenue nightlife, then retreat to plush bedding and skyline views. Consider these perks when choosing a luxe stay:
- Rooftop pool with city or mountain views
- On-site farm-to-table dining
- Personalized concierge and in-room amenities
- Boutique-style rooms with unique decor
- Easy walkability to campus and transit
Downtown Tempe and Mill Avenue Stays
If you want to be where the action is, Downtown Tempe and Mill Avenue put you steps from lively nightlife, college energy, and a surprisingly walkable mix of bars, restaurants, and shops. You’ll hear live music spilling onto the sidewalks and spot students and locals mingling over coffee or tacos. Pick a boutique hotel or a modern chain and you’ll be close enough to stroll to evening events, arts venues, and casual late-night eats.
| Scene | Sights | Sound |
|---|---|---|
| Mill Ave at dusk | Neon signs, patios | Live bands, chatter |
| Side street cafés | Outdoor seating | Espresso tamping |
| Rooftop bars | City skyline | Glasses clinking |
| Local galleries | Murals, installations | Soft conversation |
| Weekend market | Food stalls | Vendors calling |
You’ll find convenience here: transit, bike lanes, and a contagious vibe that keeps you exploring until nightfall.
Lakeside and Tempe Town Lake Accommodations
If you want easy access to water views and morning walks, pick a waterfront hotel along Tempe Town Lake and you’ll wake to paddleboats and joggers on the shore. Many lakeside properties put you steps from the Lakewalk, where you can kayak, rent a stand-up paddleboard, or grab coffee from a riverside café. I’ve stayed at a hotel that let me step out for sunset photos and come back within minutes for dinner — it’s a peaceful, activity-filled base for exploring Tempe.
Waterfront Hotel Options
Step down from the bustle of downtown and you’ll find Tempe’s waterfront hotels offering calm, scenic stays right along the lakeshore—perfect for morning jogs, paddleboarding at sunrise, or unwinding with a sunset drink on a patio. You’ll notice rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, patios that face the water, and staff who point you toward the quietest spots to watch light on ripples. Prices vary by view and season, so book early for sunrise-facing suites. If you like practical comforts, choose a hotel with secure kayak storage and bike rentals.
- Lake-view rooms for morning light
- On-site boat or paddleboard access
- Patio seating for evening cocktails
- Secure bike and gear storage
- Proximity to restaurants and transit
Activities Along Lakewalk
When you stroll or bike the Lakewalk you’ll find a string of lakeside hotels and rentals that turn the waterfront into your backyard, with easy access to paddleboard launches, seating nooks for sunset-watching, and cafés where you can grab a coffee before a dawn row; many properties even offer secure gear storage, guided kayaking tours, or on-site bike rentals so you can skip lugging equipment. You’ll spot guests rolling out yoga mats on grassy stretches, joining impromptu fitness classes, or launching into calm water for a morning paddle. Staff often recommend scenic loops and rent tandem kayaks for families. In the evening, you can follow the lit path, stop at a terrace bar for skyline views, or book a private sunset cruise — practical perks that make a lakeside stay feel effortless.
Family-Friendly and Budget Options
Often you’ll find that Tempe balances family-friendly comforts with surprisingly affordable choices, so you don’t have to compromise on convenience or fun. You’ll notice hotels near Mill Avenue and the ASU campus offering suites and pools that keep kids entertained while you relax. I remember booking a modest motel that turned out to have a play area and complimentary breakfast—small comforts that made our stay feel thoughtful, not cheap.
Tempe lets families enjoy convenient, budget-friendly stays—suites, pools, breakfasts, and little extras that make trips feel thoughtful.
Look for properties that advertise family suites, kitchenettes, and extras like laundry or cribs. These amenities stretch your budget and make longer stays easier. Consider staying a little off the main drag to find lower nightly rates without losing access to parks, cafes, and the waterfront.
- family suites with sofa beds
- free breakfasts and coffee
- on-site pools and play spaces
- kitchenettes or mini-fridges
- laundry facilities for longer trips
With a bit of planning, you’ll enjoy Tempe’s attractions without overspending.
Getting Around: Transportation and Parking Tips
Getting around Tempe is straightforward once you get your bearings—whether you’re hopping on light rail, biking along the river, or circling for a parking spot near Mill Avenue. You’ll find free Sun Devil Shuttle loops near ASU, Valley Metro light rail that links to Phoenix Sky Harbor, and plenty of bike lanes that make short trips enjoyable. I remember locking a rental bike by Tempe Town Lake and walking to dinner within minutes; small choices like that save time and stress.
| Mode | Tip |
|---|---|
| Light Rail | Buy a day pass for spur trips to Phoenix or Mesa |
| Bus | Check real-time apps for infrequent routes |
| Bike | Use Tempe’s bike paths and secure locks |
| Ride-share | Demand spikes during events — allow extra time |
| Parking | Metered spots near Mill fill fast after 5pm |
Plan for events, carry coins or an app for meters, and park in hotel garages when available to avoid circling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Pet-Friendly Hotels in Tempe With Onsite Dog Parks?
Yes — you’ll find pet-friendly Tempe hotels with onsite dog parks, like some boutique and extended-stay properties. You’ll appreciate fenced play areas, water stations, and staff tips for nearby trails; bring treats and a leash for fun.
Which Hotels Offer Airport Shuttle Service to Phoenix Sky Harbor?
Several Tempe hotels offer Phoenix Sky Harbor shuttles: Embassy Suites, Sheraton, and Hyatt Place. You’ll appreciate punctual pickups, helpful drivers, and door-to-door convenience—plan schedules, tip courteously, and call ahead to confirm availability and times.
Do Any Tempe Hotels Provide Long-Term Stay Discounts or Extended-Stay Rates?
Yes — many Tempe hotels offer long-term discounts or extended-stay rates. You’ll often negotiate weekly or monthly pricing at extended-stay brands, university-adjacent properties, or by contacting the hotel directly for corporate or seasonal deals.
Are There Hotels in Tempe With Accessible Rooms and Mobility Amenities?
Yes — you’ll find many Tempe hotels with accessible rooms, roll-in showers, grab bars, lowered sinks, and wider doorways; I’ve stayed in a couple that also offered wet bars, visual alarms, and helpful staff who pre-arranged mobility aids.
Which Hotels Have Rooftop Pools or Rooftop Bars With City Views?
Like a postcard come alive, you’ll find rooftop pools and bars at Hotel Valley Ho, Canopy by Hilton Tempe, and Graduate Tempe; you’ll sip cocktails, watch city lights shimmer, and trade stories under warm desert skies.
Conclusion
Where to stay in Tempe depends on the vibe you want: pick downtown/Mill Avenue for nightlife, the ASU area for energy and events, Hayden Flour Mill for trendy eats, Tempe Town Lake for peaceful waterside walks, or south Tempe for quiet neighborhoods. Look for hotels with free breakfast, parking or shuttles, and kitchenettes for longer stays. Getting around is easy with light rail, bike paths, and plenty of parking if you plan ahead.
