Tempe, Arizona, is more than just a college town. It’s a vibrant desert jewel buzzing with energy, thanks to Arizona State University, but it’s also a hub for incredible food, art, and outdoor adventure.
Nestled in the Sonoran Desert with the iconic Tempe Town Lake and sprawling mountain parks, this city offers a stunning backdrop for any trip. Finding the right spot to stay is key to unlocking all this magic.
Your hotel is your home base for exploring everything from bustling Mill Avenue to serene desert trails.
Get ready to discover the absolute best places to stay in Tempe. We’ve done the legwork to handpick a list that covers every type of traveler.
Think sleek downtown high-rises with killer views, relaxed resorts with sprawling pools, and value-packed spots that put you right in the action.
Your perfect Tempe escape is waiting. Let’s find your dream accommodation in Tempe Arizona.
1. The Westin Tempe – Best Overall & For Luxury
This isn’t just a hotel; it’s a landmark. Soaring 16 stories high, it offers the most incredible panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the sparkling Tempe Town Lake.
The vibe here is sleek, sustainable, and seriously cool. From the moment you walk into the chic, airy lobby, you know you’re in for a treat.
Let’s talk about the rooms. They’re designed for pure comfort and wellness. You’ll find their famous Heavenly® Beds, floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with light, and smart amenities that make life easy.
The rooftop is where it’s at, though. It features a stunning pool deck, a hot tub, and even a running track high above the city. Their dining options are top-notch, focusing on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
This hotel is the best place to stay in Tempe for travelers who want a central location, modern luxury, and those unforgettable views.
2. Graduate Tempe – Best For Fun & A Unique Vibe
For a stay that’s bursting with personality and a serious dose of nostalgia, you can’t beat the Graduate Tempe.
This hotel is a love letter to ASU and Sun Devil pride, but you don’t have to be an alum to appreciate its whimsical, clever design.
Every corner is an Instagram moment, from the lobby filled with quirky artifacts to the rooms decorated with yearbook photos and custom-made furniture. It’s playful, it’s bold, and it’s incredibly fun.
The location is absolutely perfect for anyone wanting to be in the heart of the action. It’s just steps from the ASU campus and a short stroll to all the restaurants and shops on Mill Avenue.
Their rooftop restaurant and bar offer fantastic views and a great scene. The rooms are cozy, comfortable, and packed with unique details that tell a story.
If your idea of a great vacation includes a lively atmosphere and a one-of-a-kind experience, the Graduate is your perfect Tempe Arizona hotel.
3. Tempe Mission Palms Hotel – Best For Families & Pools
Planning a family trip to the desert? You need space, a great pool, and a location that keeps everyone happy. The Tempe Mission Palms Hotel delivers on all fronts.
This place feels like a relaxed resort right in the middle of downtown. The huge, lagoon-style pool is the star of the show, complete with a waterslide and a splash area that will make your kids’ day. It’s the perfect place to cool off after a day of exploring.
The rooms are spacious, many with balconies, and the hotel’s lush, palm-shaded grounds make you forget you’re in a bustling city center. You’re just a block from Mill Avenue, meaning you can easily walk to find a meal that pleases everyone.
They often have live music by the pool, adding to the festive, vacation-ready atmosphere. For a family-friendly hotel in Tempe that combines resort amenities with downtown convenience, this is a top-tier choice.
4. My Place Hotel-Tempe/ASU – Best Budget-Friendly & Extended Stay
Who says you need to spend a fortune to get a great, comfortable room? My Place Hotel is a genius option for budget-savvy travelers and anyone staying for more than a few nights.
The model here is simple: clean, modern rooms with one amazing extra—a full kitchenette in every single room. This means you can save serious cash by preparing your own meals and snacks.
The beds are comfy, the WiFi is free, and the whole place is exceptionally clean and well-maintained. It’s located just a quick drive or light rail trip from downtown Tempe and ASU, giving you easy access without the downtown price tag.
They are also pet-friendly! For a no-fuss, value-packed stay, this is one of the best hotels in Tempe for travelers who prioritize practicality and smart spending.
5. Aloft Tempe – Best For a Modern, Social Vibe
Craving a hotel that feels like a trendy, urban loft party? Aloft Tempe is your scene. This hotel is all about high energy, modern design, and social spaces.
The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by the vibrant W XYZ® bar, a pool table, and a lobby that’s always buzzing. The aesthetic is industrial-chic with high ceilings, concrete floors, and bold colors. It’s effortlessly cool.
The rooms, called “lofts,” continue the theme with platform beds, high-tech amenities, and spacious, glass-walled bathrooms. The outdoor pool area is a social hub with its own bar.
Its location is unbeatable for nightlife and dining on Mill Avenue. If you’re traveling with friends or want to be where the action is, Aloft is a fantastic Tempe Arizona accommodation for a lively and stylish stay.
6. Hyatt Place Tempe/Phoenix Airport – Best For Business & Convenience
When you’re in town for work, you need efficiency, reliability, and easy access. The Hyatt Place near the airport and ASU research park is a business traveler’s dream. It’s designed for productivity and comfort.
Every room is a spacious suite with a distinct sleeping area and a cozy corner with a sleeper sofa and a large desk—perfect for setting up a mobile office.
They offer a 24/7 fitness center, a 24-hour guest kitchen, and free breakfast that’s actually good and will get your day started right.
The proximity to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is a major plus, making your commute to and from your flight a total breeze. For a seamless and comfortable business trip, this Hyatt Place is a reliable and smart choice for your Tempe lodging.
7. Residence Inn by Marriott Tempe Downtown – Best For Extended Stays
If you need a true home away from home for a week, a month, or longer, the Residence Inn downtown is your answer. This all-suite hotel is specifically designed for extended visits.
You’ll get a full kitchen with a refrigerator, stove, microwave, and all the dishes you need. It’s a game-changer for long-term travel, allowing you to maintain your routine and save money on meals.
The hotel offers spacious studios and one-bedroom suites, free grocery delivery service, a complimentary breakfast buffet, and a relaxing outdoor pool and patio area.
Its downtown location means you’re never far from anything. For relocations, long-term projects, or anyone who values space and convenience, this is the ultimate extended stay hotel in Tempe.
8. Hilton Garden Inn Tempe/Phoenix Airport – Another Top Pick For Convenience
Another stellar option for travelers prioritizing easy access is the Hilton Garden Inn. Situated perfectly between the airport, ASU, and downtown Tempe, it makes getting anywhere incredibly simple.
This hotel is known for its consistent quality and friendly service. The rooms are comfortable and feature their custom-designed Garden Sleep System® beds, ensuring a great night’s sleep.
They have a great cooked-to-order breakfast option, a 24-hour business center, and a fantastic rooftop pool with stunning views of the desert landscape and the city lights.
The on-site restaurant and pavilion market are super convenient for grabbing a quick bite or a late-night snack. For a dependable and comfortable stay with excellent amenities, this Hilton Garden Inn is a fantastic Tempe Arizona hotel option.
9. Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown – Best Boutique & Artsy Vibe
For travelers who seek a more curated, local, and artistic experience, the Canopy by Hilton is a breath of fresh air. This boutique hotel embodies the spirit of its neighborhood.
The design is inspired by the surrounding desert and the creative energy of ASU, featuring works by local artists throughout the property. It feels fresh, vibrant, and uniquely Tempe.
The rooms are thoughtfully designed with a focus on comfort and local flair, including yoga mats and custom murals. The hotel’s restaurant is a destination in itself, focusing on hyper-local ingredients.
They even offer complimentary bikes to explore the nearby Tempe Beach Park and arts district. For a stay that feels authentic and design-forward, Canopy is the best boutique hotel in Tempe.
10. Crowne Plaza Phoenix Tempe – Airport – Best For Event Travel
Attending a conference or a big event at the ASU Gammage or the Tempe Convention Center? The Crowne Plaza is your ideal partner.
This hotel is directly connected to the Convention Center via a skybridge—you can’t get more convenient than that. It’s built to handle event traffic with a large, efficient lobby and plenty of meeting space.
After your event, you can unwind at their outdoor pool or get a workout in at the fitness center. The rooms are comfortable and designed with the business or event traveler in mind.
The on-site restaurant provides reliable and convenient dining options. For hassle-free event attendance, this is one of the most practical places to stay in Tempe.
11. Embassy Suites by Hilton Tempe – Best For Spacious Family Suites
Families need space to spread out, and Embassy Suites has built its entire brand on this idea. Every single “room” here is a two-room suite, giving parents a separate living area to relax in after the kids have gone to bed.
This simple feature can transform a family vacation from chaotic to peaceful.
The hotel also offers a fantastic free cooked-to-order breakfast and an evening reception with complimentary drinks and snacks. The indoor atrium, filled with plants and a koi pond, is a beautiful and unique space to enjoy.
With an outdoor pool and a location near Papago Park, it’s a great fit for families. For sheer space and value, Embassy Suites is a top family hotel in Tempe.
12. Hotel Adeline – Best For a Retro Pool Party Vibe
Want to feel like you’ve stepped into a cool, mid-century modern getaway? Hotel Adeline, part of the Scott Resort collection, is a stylish and social spot with a serious focus on poolside fun.
The design is a playful take on 1950s and 60s style, with a gorgeous, sprawling pool as the central gathering place. It’s a scene, in the best way possible.
The rooms are bright and retro-modern, with Smeg fridges and custom artwork. The pool cabanas are the place to be for a day of relaxing and socializing.
While it has a resort feel, it’s still just a short drive from downtown Tempe and the airport. For a stylish, fun, and sun-soaked getaway, Hotel Adeline offers a unique and vibrant Tempe Arizona accommodation experience.
Conclusion
Tempe’s hotel scene is as dynamic and diverse as the city itself. Whether you’re here to hike “A” Mountain, catch a game, visit ASU, or dive into the food scene, your perfect home base is on this list.
From luxurious high-rises to value-driven suites, the best Tempe Arizona hotels offer something for every style and budget.
Don’t just dream about your desert adventure. Make it happen. Use this guide to book your ideal stay in Tempe today and get ready to experience the energy and beauty of this incredible Arizona destination. Your perfect trip is waiting.