Tempe, AZ, located in the Greater Phoenix area, isn’t just about sunshine and cacti—it’s got a vibrant beer scene, coffee spots that truly deliver, and haunted dive bars serving up oysters.
I recently visited Tempe on a fall weekend for a self-guided ale trail across the city’s craft beer and brewery landscape, exploring local brews, great food, and unique hangouts. Huge shoutout to Tempe Tourism for hosting this unforgettable trip! Be sure to check out their website, Instagram, and TikTok to plan your own adventure.
Where to Sip in Tempe
Goldwater Brewing’s tasting room has a cool vibe, bright space, and excellent beers. I couldn’t resist picking up a few merch items—the branding here is on point.
This spot is an old house-turned-brewery, all backyard vibes and IPAs. With eclectic decor from local artists (available for purchase!), this place is all about “Church Music” but has a great variety on tap. I even tried a collab between The Shop and Pizza Port.
Hundred Mile nails atmosphere—welcoming, vibrant, and perfect for settling in for a while. Plus, the food was top-notch, making it ideal if you need a bite after some beers.
Four Peaks is an experience: a historic, haunted 19th-century brick building with a giant patio and haunted brewery tours in October. It’s a must for beer lovers and history buffs alike.
Pedal Haus offers massive patio sipping with a twist on European-style beers. Their pilsner was refreshing for patio sipping, and the food was solid—apps and mac and cheese hit the spot.
With a relaxed, industrial vibe, Fate Brewing is family-friendly and perfect for hanging out. It’s a comfortable spot to enjoy good company, good food, and a well-crafted brew.
Alibi Rooftop Lounge at Canopy by Hilton
Located atop the Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown, the Alibi Rooftop Lounge offers a unique rooftop sipping experience with stunning views. I enjoyed watching the sunset while trying their signature cocktails—it’s a memorable way to soak in the city from above.
A Tempe institution with dive-bar charm, Casey Moore’s blends Irish pub vibes and a rich history. Not only does it have a colorful past, but it’s rumored to have ghostly residents. Grab a pint, enjoy their famous oysters, and take in the atmosphere.
Fuel for the Day: Coffee & Breakfast Spots
For serious coffee lovers, Cartel’s cold brew was a game-changer in the Arizona sunshine. The quiet space is perfect for recovering from last night’s brewery hop.
This LGBTQ-owned spot is a true neighborhood gem. Friendly baristas, queer art, and Golden Girls on the projector—it’s the full experience. Their stickers, pins, and little treasures for sale are irresistible.
A must for brunch in Tempe, I tried their Pumpkin Espresso Martini, which was a smooth mix of coffee and fall flavors, plus the decadent Red Velvet Waffles. Delicious and Instagram-worthy!
Snooze has everything you want in brunch. Their pancake flight (the pineapple upside-down pancakes are my favorite) and creative breakfast cocktails are a perfect way to kick off the day.
Dinner Spots Worth the Buzz
Postino delivers quality bites and an impressive wine menu, especially their bruschetta flights. It’s a great spot for a laid-back dinner with plenty of outdoor seating.
Eureka! serves up juicy burgers and a fantastic whiskey selection in a beer-centric setting. Keep an eye out for their “steal the glass” nights!
For delicious Chihuahuan-inspired cuisine, Cocina Chiwas serves up authentic flavors and has an innovative cocktail program. A must-visit for anyone craving upscale Mexican flavors in Tempe.
Off the Barstool: Local Gems Worth the Hike (Literally)
A quintessential Tempe experience, renting a paddleboat or kayak at Tempe Town Lake offers a scenic way to enjoy the water and take in the surrounding views. It’s a fun break from the brewery crawl!
Hole in the Rock
This natural rock formation is a short hike with incredible views. Desert landscapes at sunset are well worth the trek.
Just outside Tempe, the 140-acre Desert Botanical Garden offers paths, scenic views, and desert plants. Perfect for a peaceful break from brewery hopping.
For a unique perspective, Green Belt Bike Tours’ "Hole-in-the-Rock Hike and Bike" e-bike tour covers Tempe Town Lake and Papago Park, with scenic biking and a brief hike to soak up the landscape. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and sightseeing.
Stay Central: Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown
The Canopy by Hilton is in downtown Tempe, walkable to breweries, coffee shops, and attractions. With a rooftop restaurant, pool, and city views, it’s ideal for a cozy stay. Their design is beautiful, with art, murals, plants, and even a fireplace with funky couches and hanging wicker chairs. The bed was so comfortable I couldn't wait to dive under the sheets each night.
Tempe’s craft beer scene, local coffee shops, and desert highlights make it a perfect weekend getaway. Whether you’re sipping IPAs, catching a cactus-drenched sunset, or exploring the unique local vibes, there’s something for everyone. Thank you again to Tempe Tourism for hosting! Be sure to follow @TempeTourism on Instagram and TikTok for more inspiration for your next visit.
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