9 Things to Do in Tempe
It’s no surprise that Frank Lloyd Wright made his winter home in Arizona — it’s easy to be inspired by the region’s natural beauty, diverse culture and perpetual sunshine. His legacy lives on today all around the greater Phoenix area, where a multitude of buildings bear his influence, and art and design reign supreme. From performing arts to gardens full of succulents, here’s where to go to find your own inspiration in the Valley of the Sun.
1. Be inspired at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West.
Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s desert masterpiece, offers an immersive glimpse into the architect’s creative vision and connection to nature. Built into Scottsdale’s rugged McDowell Mountains, this UNESCO World Heritage Site seamlessly blends organic architecture with its Sonoran Desert surroundings, creating a serene and inspiring experience. Visitors can explore Wright’s personal winter home and studio, marveling at innovative design details, hand-crafted spaces, and his bold use of materials. A visit to Taliesin West is not just a tour — it’s a journey through one of America’s most iconic architectural achievements.
2. Wander through the cacti at Desert Botanical Garden.
Discover the tranquil beauty of the Sonoran Desert at the Botanical Garden, where desert plants are nestled amid the red rocks of the Papago Buttes. With five thematic trails to explore, it’s easy to get lost among the towering cacti, swaths of succulents, brilliant wildflowers, and lush trees.
Photo: Laura Segall, Desert Botanical Garden
Photo: Museum of Contemporary Art
3. Catch the latest exhibition at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art.
Designed by award-winning architect Will Bruder, SMoCA’s five galleries showcase rotating art exhibitions from some of the biggest names in contemporary art. With everything from conceptual art to interactive pieces, there’s always something new to see.
4. Kayak the Salt River.
Best known for group float trips, there’s more than one way to experience the Salt River. Beat the crowds with an early morning kayak journey: This two-hour trip offers stunning views of the surrounding Tonto National Forest, and a chance to spot the wild horses that the region has become known for.
Photo: Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
5. Snag a seat at the Wright Bar at the Arizona Biltmore.
Explore the lush grounds of the Arizona Biltmore before settling into the infamous Wright Bar for artful small plates and classic cocktails — this is the purported home of the original Tequila Sunrise, after all. Named for Frank Lloyd Wright, who worked as a consulting architect on the property, the bar evokes the glamour of Hollywood’s golden age.
6. Attend an event at Taliesin West.
Continue your connection with Wright and with Taliesin West by experiencing an “after hours” event on the property. During the monthly Sunsets & Sips happy hour, guests linger and mingle with a beverage in hand to enjoy one of the best views in the Valley. Film buffs will want to check the calendar for the Taliesin West Film Series; and Foundation members will find a host of exclusive activities, from guided walks to compelling lectures. Visitors with children will enjoy taking part in our annual Discovery Day, which offers families a chance to spend the day engaging in activities at Taliesin West for a low price.
7. Soak up the soul of the Southwest at the Heard Museum.
A destination for American Indian art since 1929, the Heard has become one of the world’s leading destinations for art and education. Known for its award-winning exhibits, the museum uses its collections and first-person voice to tell the stories of Indigenous cultures while also celebrating the work of current artists.
8. Attend a show at the ASU Gammage.
Set in the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Grady Gammage Memorial Auditorium, the ASU Gammage program brings shows like “Hamilton,” “The Color Purple,” and “Wicked” to the Valley, so visitors can experience the best of Broadway without ever leaving the Scottsdale area. Tickets sell fast though, so be sure to plan in advance.
Photo: Tim Trumble
9. Chill out at Tempe Town Lake.
Created by damming a portion of the Salt River, this 2-mile long lake now offers a welcome reprieve from the Valley’s arid desert landscape. While away an afternoon with a leisurely walk around the lake’s perimeter or take to the water with a boat rental from the marina.
