Tempe Town Lake
A vibrant urban lake offering recreation, nature, and stunning sunset views in the heart of Tempe, Arizona.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Tempe Town Lake
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant urban lake offering recreation, nature, and stunning sunset views in the heart of Tempe, Arizona.
"This beautiful park area is a great place to 'chill' - relax, have a picnic, enjoy nature - right in the heart of Scottsdale!"
🌅 Sunset Magic
Catch the golden hour! It's the most beautiful time for photos and a romantic stroll.
🛶 Rent a Boat
Swan boats or kayaks offer a unique perspective of the lake. Book ahead!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunset Serenity
Entire Lake Perimeter
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky over the water. A perfect romantic setting or peaceful end to your day.
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Waterfront Activities
Various Rental Kiosks
Rent paddle boats, kayaks, or even swan boats for a fun-filled afternoon on the water.
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Wildlife Watching
Lake Shores and Parks
Spot ducks, geese, swans, and other bird species. A peaceful spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Active Pursuits
Surrounding Paths
Enjoy walking, jogging, or biking along the scenic paths. Popular for local running clubs.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Activities & Rentals
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Magic
Catch the golden hour! It's the most beautiful time for photos and a romantic stroll.
🛶 Rent a Boat
Swan boats or kayaks offer a unique perspective of the lake. Book ahead!
👟 Walk or Bike
The paths are perfect for a leisurely walk or an energetic bike ride.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Pack a lunch and enjoy a meal with a view. Many spots are ideal for picnics.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Magic
Catch the golden hour! It's the most beautiful time for photos and a romantic stroll.
🛶 Rent a Boat
Swan boats or kayaks offer a unique perspective of the lake. Book ahead!
👟 Walk or Bike
The paths are perfect for a leisurely walk or an energetic bike ride.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Pack a lunch and enjoy a meal with a view. Many spots are ideal for picnics.
☀️ Hydrate!
Arizona heat is no joke. Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
🎣 Fishing Fun
Try your luck fishing! Popular with locals for catching bass and catfish.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tempe Town Lake is widely praised as a beautiful and relaxing urban oasis, perfect for picnics, nature observation, and romantic sunset strolls. Visitors enjoy the variety of activities like fishing and boating, as well as the scenic walking and biking paths. However, the intense desert heat can limit enjoyment during midday, especially in warmer months.
"This beautiful park area is a great place to “chill” - relax, have a picnic, enjoy nature - right in the heart of Scottsdale! And it’s perfect for a romantic sunset stroll around the lake!"
Steve Hughes
"Ducks, birds, swans, & Canadian geese galore. Very beautiful lake & wildlife. There's a volleyball net as well & great place to bring your dog(s)."
Jaime
"Definitely a pleasant place to visit but that totally depends on the climate. We had been there during mid afternoon on a very sunny day and it was little challenging. Fishing is really fun here. We couldn't find much visitors. We could hardly spend an hour because of the very hot climate. Kids have their own space to play with some nice stuff in play area. Parking is good."
AM
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tempe Town Lake is easily accessible by car, with several parking lots available. Public transportation options, including bus routes and the Valley Metro Rail, also serve the area. It's also a popular destination for cyclists and pedestrians, with extensive path networks.
Parking is available in several lots around the lake, including near the marina and along the north and south shores. Some areas may have fees, especially during events. Check signage for specific rates and hours.
Yes, Tempe Town Lake is well-served by public transportation. The Valley Metro Rail has a station nearby, and numerous bus routes stop in the vicinity, making it convenient to reach without a car.
Absolutely! Tempe Town Lake is connected to a vast network of bike paths, including the popular cross-town greenbelt. It's a favorite spot for cyclists and runners.
While there isn't one single address, a central point for navigation is often considered to be near the Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 S. Mill Avenue, Tempe, AZ 85281.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tempe Town Lake itself is a public park and generally free to enter. However, specific activities like boat rentals or special events may have associated costs.
The park and its paths are typically open from sunrise to sunset. Specific facilities like rental kiosks or restrooms may have different operating hours.
Swimming is generally not permitted in Tempe Town Lake due to water quality and safety regulations. Stick to boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding for water fun.
It's highly recommended to book boat rentals, especially kayaks and paddle boats, in advance, particularly on weekends or during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
Tempe Town Lake hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and the popular Fourth of July fireworks display. Check the City of Tempe's event calendar for updates.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a wide range of activities including walking, jogging, biking, fishing, picnicking, and renting paddle boats or kayaks. It's also a great spot for photography and enjoying the sunset. +1
Yes, the area surrounding Tempe Town Lake, particularly Downtown Tempe and Mill Avenue, offers a plethora of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. You can also grab takeout for a picnic.
Fishing is a popular activity at Tempe Town Lake, with many visitors reporting success catching bass and catfish. Remember to check local fishing regulations and obtain a license if required.
Dogs are welcome at Tempe Town Lake, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. There are also designated dog parks nearby.
The 'golden hour' around sunrise and sunset offers the most stunning light for photography, creating beautiful reflections on the water.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire perimeter offers great views, but the bridges, the waterfront promenade, and areas with the Tempe skyline in the background are particularly picturesque. Sunsets are a must-capture moment.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations and may be restricted in certain areas, especially near parks and residential zones. Always check with the City of Tempe for current drone policies before flying.
Popular shots include sunset silhouettes, reflections on the water, active shots of people biking or boating, and wide-angle views of the cityscape.
The bridges crossing the lake, the Tempe Center for the Arts, and the surrounding modern architecture provide excellent backdrops for photos.
Early morning for sunrise and late afternoon for sunset provide the best natural light. Midday can be harsh due to the desert sun.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water, and keep an eye out for the various birds and waterfowl that frequent the lake – a simple joy for little ones. The accessibility of the paths also makes it easy for strollers. Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water, as the Arizona sun can be intense.
❤️ Couples and Romantic Getaways
+1Enjoy a picnic dinner by the water, or explore the many dining options in nearby Downtown Tempe. A sunset stroll hand-in-hand along the lake's edge offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for couples.
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
+1The scenic views and the refreshing breeze off the water make for an enjoyable exercise experience, even on warmer days. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid the harshest sun.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Water Activities and Rentals
+1It's wise to book your rentals in advance, especially during peak times like weekends or holidays, as they can fill up quickly. The rental kiosks are typically located along the lake's edge, making them easily accessible. Remember to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy on the water, as some rental packages allow this.
For those who prefer to bring their own equipment, kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular. The calm waters of Tempe Town Lake make it an ideal spot for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Always be mindful of other lake users and adhere to any posted safety guidelines.
Active Pursuits and Recreation
+1For those who enjoy a bit of friendly competition, you'll find volleyball courts and disc golf areas within the adjacent parks. The green spaces around the lake are also ideal for a game of frisbee or simply relaxing on the grass. The park is also known to be a good spot for Pokémon Go players, with numerous 'gyms' and 'stops' scattered throughout the area.
Whether you're training for a marathon or just looking for a pleasant way to spend an afternoon outdoors, the recreational opportunities at Tempe Town Lake cater to a wide range of interests and fitness levels.
Wildlife and Nature
The surrounding park areas are also home to various plant species, offering a touch of green that's especially appreciated in the desert climate. The presence of these natural elements provides a peaceful backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment of reflection.
While fishing is a popular pastime here, it's important to be aware of and respect the local wildlife. Observing them from a distance ensures their well-being and enhances the experience for everyone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit