Tempe Town Lake
A vibrant urban lake offering scenic walks, water activities, and stunning sunset views, blending nature with modern city life.

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 scenic walks, water activities, and stunning sunset views, blending nature with modern city life.
"Tempe Town Lake is a fun and peaceful place to visit, with beautiful views and plenty of activities."
🌅 Sunset Views are a Must
Grab a swan boat or find a spot by the water for breathtaking sunset views. Perfect for dates!
🚴♀️ Bike or Walk the Loop
The lake loop is great for biking, running, or walking. Rent bikes or bring your own!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunset Swan Boat Ride
Tempe Town Lake
Glide across the water in a swan boat as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors.

Marina Heights Art Installation
Marina Heights
Discover a unique, trippy art piece that offers a cool backdrop for photos and a moment of artistic appreciation.
Waterfront Stroll or Bike Ride
Tempe Town Lake Loop
Enjoy a leisurely walk or an energetic bike ride around the lake, taking in the scenic views and urban landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Arizona Heat
Water Activities & Restrictions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Views are a Must
Grab a swan boat or find a spot by the water for breathtaking sunset views. Perfect for dates!
🚴♀️ Bike or Walk the Loop
The lake loop is great for biking, running, or walking. Rent bikes or bring your own!
🛶 Kayak & Paddleboard Fun
Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the lake. Swimming is not allowed, but water activities are plentiful.
🧺 Picnic by the Water
Pack a picnic from nearby Trader Joe's or local eateries for a delightful meal with a view.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Views are a Must
Grab a swan boat or find a spot by the water for breathtaking sunset views. Perfect for dates!
🚴♀️ Bike or Walk the Loop
The lake loop is great for biking, running, or walking. Rent bikes or bring your own!
🛶 Kayak & Paddleboard Fun
Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the lake. Swimming is not allowed, but water activities are plentiful.
🧺 Picnic by the Water
Pack a picnic from nearby Trader Joe's or local eateries for a delightful meal with a view.
🎶 Concert Views from Afar
You might be able to hear concerts from nearby venues like the Innings Festival by being on the water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tempe Town Lake is a beautiful and peaceful urban oasis, praised for its scenic views, walking paths, and water activities like kayaking and paddle boating. Visitors enjoy the vibrant atmosphere on weekends and the stunning sunset vistas. Some wish for more shaded areas to combat the Arizona heat and note that swimming is not permitted.
"Tempe Town Lake is very safe for walkers and runners alike. Please be mindful of the bikers in the area, because there are plenty. The lake is spread out, so you can get your steps/miles in easily. It’s even safe in the evenings, but use proper discretion when alone. There’s also plenty of restaurants and shopping only .25 miles away. Lots of business and lodging."
Shre’e I
"Beautiful lake, calm and peaceful, great place to walk around or ride the electric bikes. Took a walk and enjoyed seeing people sail, boat or kayak. It was a weekend so we did not rent anything but saw there was a person sitting there as if you could rent a kayak or some sort of water activity. Great place to bike, walk, sight see, or enjoy water activity."
Kandice Mosier
"It’s a fun and peaceful place to visit.
I hope they’ll add more shaded areas to combat the heat."
LeAna
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tempe Town Lake is easily accessible by car, with several parking options available.
Public transportation, including light rail and bus services, also serves the area, making it convenient to reach from Phoenix and surrounding cities. Many visitors enjoy biking or walking to the lake, especially from downtown Tempe.Parking is available in various lots around the lake, including near the Marina Heights area and the north shore. Some parking can fill up quickly on weekends and during events, so arriving early is recommended. Check for specific event parking information if applicable.
Yes, Tempe Town Lake is well-served by public transportation. The Valley Metro Rail has a station nearby, and several bus routes stop in the vicinity, making it a convenient destination for those without a car.
Absolutely! Tempe has a robust network of bike lanes and multi-use paths that connect to Tempe Town Lake. It's a popular spot for cyclists and walkers, with dedicated paths around the lake itself.
While there isn't a single 'address' for the entire lake, a common reference point is the Marina Heights area, often found by searching 'Marina Heights Tempe, AZ'. You can also search for specific parks around the lake, like Tempe Beach Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entrance fee to access Tempe Town Lake and its surrounding parks. You can walk, bike, or simply enjoy the views for free. Fees may apply for specific events or rentals.
The park areas around Tempe Town Lake are typically open from sunrise to sunset. However, specific facilities or rental operations may have their own hours, so it's best to check in advance for any planned activities.
No, swimming in Tempe Town Lake is generally not permitted due to water quality and safety regulations.
However, you can enjoy various water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating.Tempe Town Lake hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and sporting competitions like triathlons.
It's also a popular spot for Fourth of July celebrations.Several vendors around Tempe Town Lake offer kayak and paddleboard rentals. You can often find them near the main park areas or by searching for 'Tempe Town Lake kayak rentals' online.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular activities include walking or biking the loop, renting paddle boats or kayaks, enjoying picnics, and watching the sunset.
The area also features public art installations and is a great spot for photography.Yes, Tempe Town Lake is considered safe for walkers and runners, even in the evenings, though it's always wise to use discretion when alone. Be mindful of cyclists who also frequent the paths.
Yes, the area surrounding Tempe Town Lake, particularly along Mill Avenue, offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. You can also grab takeout for a picnic by the water.
Fishing is permitted in Tempe Town Lake, and you'll often see people trying their luck. However, success rates can vary, and it's important to check local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses.
You can spot various bird species, including ducks and waterfowl, as well as other small wildlife. The lake is a valuable urban habitat for local fauna.
📸 📸 Photography
The Marina Heights area offers unique art installations for striking photos.
Sunset views over the water are spectacular. The modern architecture surrounding the lake also provides interesting urban backdrops.Absolutely! The west-facing views across the lake create stunning sunset opportunities. Renting a swan boat or finding a quiet spot along the shore can lead to memorable shots.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is welcome. However, commercial photography or videography may require permits, especially if it involves extensive equipment or blocking public access.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most flattering light. Midday can be harsh due to the Arizona sun, but it can work for capturing the vibrant blue of the water.
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local park rules. It's essential to check current regulations before flying a drone in the Tempe Town Lake area to ensure compliance and safety.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
📸 Couples and Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit