This post was sponsored by Tempe Tourism, all opinions expressed are my own - as always!
[Blog post was published prior to Covid-19. Please travel safely and confirm specific details with the businesses and attractions listed as hours/availability may have changed.]

The first time I visited Arizona was earlier this year and I fell in love hard! Such a magical state with the most beautiful Saguaro-filled desert landscapes, gorge warm sunny weather, and breathtaking sunsets. Naturally, I jumped at the opportunity to return and explore the wonderfully offbeat town of Tempe in partnership with Tempe Tourism. Located in the heart of Metropolitan Phoenix, Eddie and I spent a fun-filled fall weekend here taking in the sights and experiences. Keep scrolling for where we stayed, what we ate, and all the adventures we had during our viz.

Graduate Tempe

We stayed at the fabulous Graduate Tempe, a hotel chock full of eclectic design goodness. Our room was wonderfully decorated and super comfortable, with a lovely balcony overlooking the city.

The hotel is located across the street from Arizona State University, so the vibe is young and fun! Also just a short walk to all of the Mill Avenue stops and shops, as well as nearby Tempe Town Lake and ASU Gammage theater.

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I loved the many big comfy couches outside in front of the hotel, perf for lounging on while waiting for your rideshare. Wish all hotels did this tbh!

Living for these green chairs! All the furniture and decor are so interesting and unique - an interior lover’s dream.

Koli Equestrian Center

One of my fave experiences during this trip was a private sunset horseback ride in the heart of the Gila River Indian Community Reservation. It was absolutely magical! Our guide at the KOLI Equestrian Center took such good care of us, teaching us about the history of this land while we rode our horses through the desert. We saw all sorts of critters like jackrabbits, hawks, and quails.

My boy Midnight was such a darling. Isn’t he gorge? It was so peaceful and fun here in the dez riding these horses.

This sunset! Can you believe?

After the ride, our guide made us margaritas and gave us chips and salsa to enjoy while sitting outside enjoying the rest of the sunset. It was something out of a dream! A very special experience I’ll remember forever.

Desert Botanical Garden

Whenever I travel to a new city, the first thing I do is look up the nearest botanic garden. I just love learning about a region’s native plants! The Desert Botanical Garden in Arizona is really something special - all 140 acres filled with my faves, prickly bbs. Saguaro trails, Yucca forests, butterfly gardens, wildflower paths, and more. Needless to say, I was in. my. element!!

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I recommend getting there early when they first open! That’s what Eddie and I did and it was perfect. We got to experience the beautiful plants and landscapes while it was quiet and peaceful in the early morn.

Gah I just love Stapelia!! Seeing this garden made me so happy. If you follow along on Instagram, you may know that my own Stapelia bb at home flowered recently and I lost my mind about it. Obsessed!

Perfect Pear Bistro

The food in Tempe is seriously no joke! Our meal at Perfect Pear Bistro was to die for. We enjoyed it outside on their gorge patio.

My mouth is watering just looking at this photo! Gosh, this was so yummy. I got the French Pantry sammy - chicken, brie, pears, red onions, arugula, grain mustard, balsamic glaze & a four cheese blend served on a toasted french roll. Eddie ordered the hummus nachos - crispy tortilla chips, hummus, feta cheese, diced tomatoes, red onions, cilantro, basil & southwest cream sauce. I also recommend the Peach & Pear Jalapeno Margarita if you like a fruity spicy kick!

Four Peaks Oktoberfest at tempe town lake

Our trip was the same weekend as Four Peaks Oktoberfest, so we definitely took advantage of the fall festival fun while in town. Held on the shores of Tempe Town Lake, we enjoyed beers, cider, and lots of live music.

Tempe Town Lake

Eddie and I had planned on renting a kayak or pedal boat for a Tempe Town Lake adventure - but when the man at the kiosk asked us if we wanted an electric boat instead, we looked at each other and said "YEP!" In my mind I thought it would be a small lil two person sitch, and I almost died when we walked to the dock and they pointed out this 12 person mini party boat. What is life!! The most fun surprise ever.

Being out on the lake just the two of us as the sun set was a pretty magical experience. It seemed like we had the whole lake to ourselves, and the water was so calm and peaceful.

Peep that full moon! The dreamiest.

Ghost Ranch

In keeping with the Tempe food norm, our last dinner in town was absolutely drool-worthy. Ghost Ranch serves modern Southwest cuisine, and we couldn’t stop talking about how dang yummy everything was! We got to meet Chef Rene Andrade, who also happens to be the Tempe Public Market Cafe chef (they’re located right next to each other!) and wowza does he make the most delish food. Literally cannot say enough good things about our meals at these two restaurants!!

Potato Tacos, made with smashed Idaho potatoes, chimayo sauce, and tomato chiltepin salsa in a crispy corn tortilla. Swoon.

A bowl of warm yummy elote! Eddie ordered the enchiladas and kept saying they were the best he’s ever had. That boy has had a lot of enchiladas! V high praise.