Travel Guide to Arizona State University

travel guide / By CollegeNetWorth / June 7, 2025

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Planning a visit to Arizona State University? Whether you are a prospective student, a sports fan, or just exploring, ASU offers a vibrant campus experience.

Located in the heart of Tempe, Arizona, the university boasts a rich blend of academic excellence and cultural diversity. From its state-of-the-art facilities to its scenic desert surroundings, there is something for everyone.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from campus tours to sporting events. Plus, the local area is filled with restaurants, attractions, and outdoor spots that showcase the best of Arizona.

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In this travel guide, we will cover everything you need to know for a memorable visit. From accommodations to must-see spots, we have got you covered.

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Table of Contents

Key Facts about Arizona State University

Address: Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
Date Established: 1885
Campus Size: Approximately 661 acres
Notable Alumni: Jimmy Kimmel (TV Host), Pat Tillman (NFL Player and Army Ranger), Barry Bonds (MLB Player), Kate Spade (Fashion Designer)
Mascot: Sparky the Sun Devil
Other Relevant Information: ASU is known for its strong emphasis on research, innovation, and sustainability. It is also home to the largest public university by enrollment in the United States.

Unique and Interesting Information about Arizona State University Campus

Historic Roots: Arizona State University (ASU) was founded in 1885, initially established as the Territorial Normal School in Tempe to train teachers for the Arizona Territory.
Innovative Research: ASU is known for its cutting-edge research in various fields, including sustainability, space exploration, and artificial intelligence, often collaborating with NASA and other major organizations.
Extensive Campus Network: ASU has multiple campuses across the Phoenix metropolitan area, each with its unique focus, such as the Downtown Phoenix campus specializing in health and journalism programs.
Diverse Student Body: With students from all 50 states and over 130 countries, ASU boasts a culturally rich and diverse student population, fostering a global learning environment.
Top-tier Athletics: The Sun Devils, ASU’s athletic teams, compete in the NCAA Division I Pac-12 Conference, with a strong tradition in sports like football, basketball, and track and field.
Notable Alumni: ASU has produced many influential graduates, including former U.S. Senator Barry Goldwater, NFL star Pat Tillman, and actor David Spade, showcasing its impact across various professional fields.

Points of Interest on Arizona State University Campus

Mill Avenue District
Address: Mill Avenue, Tempe, AZ 85281
Why it’s a point of interest: This bustling district offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it a popular spot for students and visitors alike.
ASU Gammage Auditorium
Address: 1200 S Forest Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281
Why it’s a point of interest: Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, this historic auditorium hosts a wide range of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and other cultural events.
Tempe Town Lake
Address: 620 N Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281
Why it’s a point of interest: This man-made reservoir offers recreational activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking, providing a scenic escape within the city.
Arizona State University Art Museum
Address: 51 E 10th St, Tempe, AZ 85281
Why it’s a point of interest: The museum features contemporary art exhibitions and collections, providing a cultural and educational experience for art enthusiasts.
Desert Botanical Garden
Address: 1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Why it’s a point of interest: Located a short drive from the ASU campus, this garden showcases the beauty of desert plant life and offers walking trails, seasonal exhibits, and events.
Tempe Beach Park
Address: 80 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281
Why it’s a point of interest: This park is a popular venue for outdoor concerts, festivals, and other community events, offering a vibrant atmosphere and beautiful views of Tempe Town Lake.

Popular Ways to Travel to Arizona State University Campus

By Air:
- Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) – The nearest major airport, approximately 10 miles from the campus.
- Shuttle services and taxis are available from the airport to the university.
- Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate from the airport.
By Train:
- Amtrak services are available to Phoenix, with connections to other major cities.
- From the Amtrak station, you can take a taxi or public transportation to the campus.
By Car:
- Interstate 10 and U.S. Route 60 are major highways that provide easy access to the campus.
- Parking permits are required for on-campus parking; visitors can obtain temporary permits.
Public Transportation:
- Valley Metro Light Rail – Connects the campus to downtown Phoenix and other parts of the city.
- Valley Metro Bus – Multiple bus routes serve the campus area.
Other Ways:
- Biking – The campus is bike-friendly with numerous bike racks and paths.
- Walking – If you are staying nearby, walking is a convenient option.

Top 5 Must-See Spots on Arizona State University’s Main Campus

ASU Gammage Auditorium (1200 S Forest Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281): Designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, this theater is a cultural gem hosting Broadway shows and various performances. A must-see for architecture and art enthusiasts.
ASU Art Museum (51 E 10th St, Tempe, AZ 85281): Known for its contemporary art collection, the museum offers a dynamic array of exhibitions and educational programs. It’s a great spot for art lovers to explore innovative works.
Palm Walk: This iconic pathway lined with towering palm trees runs through the heart of the campus and offers a picturesque view, perfect for a leisurely stroll or memorable photographs.
Future Sun Devil Welcome Center and College Avenue Commons (660 S College Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281): This modern facility is the starting point for campus tours and provides valuable information for prospective students and visitors.
ASU Student Pavilion (400 E Orange St, Tempe, AZ 85281): A hub of student activity, this LEED Platinum-certified building hosts events, meetings, and serves as a sustainable model of green building practices on campus.

Where to Eat

Eureka! – 414 S Mill Ave Suite 115, Tempe, AZ 85281

A lively spot known for its gourmet burgers and craft beers. Perfect for a casual meal with friends or a post-game celebration.
Culinary Dropout – 149 S Farmer Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281

This trendy gastropub offers a relaxed atmosphere with eclectic menu options and live music, making it a great place to unwind after a busy day.
The Chuckbox – 202 E University Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281

A local favorite for its iconic burgers cooked over an open flame grill. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience a true Tempe tradition.
Casey Moore’s Oyster House – 850 S Ash Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281

Renowned for its seafood and vibrant patio, this historic pub offers a unique dining experience with a touch of local history.
Alter Ego – 108 E University Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281

Located within the Canopy by Hilton, this modern eatery serves up innovative dishes and craft cocktails, ideal for a sophisticated dining experience.

Where to Stay Near Arizona State University Campus

Hyatt Place Tempe/Phoenix/University
Address: 601 E 6th St, Tempe, AZ 85281
Why stay here: Located just a short walk from the ASU campus, this hotel offers modern amenities, spacious rooms, and a rooftop pool. Perfect for visitors who want to be close to campus activities and downtown Tempe.
Book here
Graduate Tempe
Address: 225 E Apache Blvd, Tempe, AZ 85281
Why stay here: This hotel boasts a unique, collegiate-themed decor and is located directly across from ASU. Enjoy the rooftop bar and on-site restaurant, making it a great choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the college atmosphere.
Book here
Aloft Tempe
Address: 951 E Playa Del Norte Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281
Why stay here: Aloft Tempe offers a trendy, vibrant atmosphere with a focus on modern design and social spaces. It’s close to ASU and Tempe Town Lake, ideal for visitors who enjoy outdoor activities and nightlife.
Book here
Comfort Inn & Suites Tempe Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport
Address: 808 N Scottsdale Rd, Tempe, AZ 85281
Why stay here: This hotel provides a comfortable stay with complimentary breakfast and airport shuttle service. It’s conveniently located near ASU and the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, making it perfect for travelers.
Book here
AC Hotel Phoenix Tempe/Downtown
Address: 100 E Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281
Why stay here: Offering a sleek, European-inspired design, this hotel is situated near ASU and Tempe Beach Park. Guests can enjoy a rooftop pool, fitness center, and easy access to local dining and entertainment.
Book here

Conclusion

Arizona State University offers a vibrant campus life and diverse cultural experiences, making it a must-visit destination for prospective students and travelers alike. The combination of academic excellence and the dynamic atmosphere of Tempe ensures a memorable visit for everyone.

With numerous local attractions and convenient travel options, planning your trip to ASU has never been easier. Be sure to utilize the resources provided above to book your lodging and make the most of your visit to this exceptional university.

Additional Details About Visiting Arizona State University Campus

Parking Options: Arizona State University offers various parking options for visitors and commuters. Hourly parking is available at $3 per hour with a daily maximum rate of $12 at locations like Lot 59 on the Tempe campus. More details can be found on their official parking page.
Visitor Center: The ASU Visitor Center is located at the University Center Building B, 1130 E University Drive, Suite 120, Tempe, AZ 85281. It provides information and resources for prospective students and visitors.
Stadium Parking: For events at the Sun Devil Stadium, parking is available at the Stadium Parking Structure with a rate of $4 per hour and a daily maximum of $16. More information can be found on the ASU Fulton Center Garage page.
Campus Stadiums: The Sun Devil Stadium, located at 500 E Veterans Way, Tempe, AZ 85281, is the primary venue for ASU football games. It is a key landmark on the Tempe campus and hosts various sports events throughout the year.
Parking Permits: ASU provides a variety of parking permits for students, faculty, and staff. These permits cater to different commuting needs and can be purchased through the university’s parking permits page.

Joe Hughes is the founder of CollegeNetWorth.com, a comprehensive resource on college athletes' earnings potential in the NIL era. Combining his passion for sports with expertise in collegiate athletics, Joe provides valuable insights for athletes, fans, and institutions navigating this new landscape.

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