This was my second year at AZ Rise Up, and while I haven't been to Tempe Beach Park as an actual park in... honestly, I don't even know how long... as a festival venue? Solid. Like, genuinely well done. They space the vendor area far enough from the stages so you're not fighting for your life trying to shop while also dodging people who are deep in their "vibe." Huge win. The stages are set up in a way where, even when artists are playing at the same time, it doesn't feel like a chaotic sound clash, which I did not expect but fully appreciated. Also noticed they adjusted the layout a bit this year (especially around the Rise Up stage), and it worked. Way smoother flow overall. GA+ still not exactly bursting at the seams, but hey, more room for the rest of us. Sound? On point. Setup? Thought out. Experience (overall)? Actually great. Now... the people. Let's just say there comes a moment in life where you realize a fan base is no longer your fan base. And for me, that moment was somewhere between hour 8 and hour 9 of holding down my spot, when I got full-on trampled by someone who apparently believed personal space is a myth. Ma'am. I had been standing there for nearly 9 hours. NINE. This was not a casual pop-in situation. Up until that point, everything had been amazing. The music, the energy, the flow, chef's kiss. But that one interaction? Immediate vibe break. That said, I'm choosing growth here: I genuinely hope she finds whatever she's running toward... and maybe learns how not to run directly through people to get there. Overall though? As a venue for this fest, Tempe Beach Park absolutely delivers. I'll be back... just maybe with stronger crowd boundaries and a little more side-eye. read more

We've visited the Tempe Beach Park area a few times for events like breast cancer walks and festivals. It's a beautiful location with scenic views of the bridges and water, and there's even a nearby museum which adds to the experience. Parking can be a bit of a mixed situation. There is a parking garage available, but it does require payment. We also noticed an additional open lot next to the garage where you can park for free; however, it is gated and the surface is mostly dirt and rocks, so just something to keep in mind. One thing we didn't come across was a public restroom, so it's unclear where the nearest one is located. Overall, it's a great area to visit and enjoy events. My only suggestion would be to add more parking options or provide a designated free parking area for visitors, so not everyone has to pay for parking. read more

Went to Tempe Beach Park for the 2026 Reggae Rise Up Festival. We rode the light rail to the event to avoid the hassle of finding a place to park. The festival was laid out exceptionally. There were plenty of vendors, tons of great food trucks, the stages were thoughtfully placed & the clever artist rotation assured that there was music playing at all times. Our only regret is that we did not bring chairs to sit in. Since a picture is worth a thousand words, watch my video from the event to get a glimpse on what the festival had to offer. Would highly recommend attending for 2027 if you missed it this year! Such a great day! read more

I've been to Tempe Beach Park close to ten times or so, which most of my visits being for festivals. Tempe Beach Park hosts several music festival including Innings Festival, Extra Innings Festival, and Reggae Fest. For a special event, parking isn't easy. You can find free parking but you'll have to walk 10 minutes or so. Which is what I typically do. Now, let's get to the good stuff. Tempe Beach Park is a spacious park. It's not a true "beach" as Arizona is a landlocked state, but it is a nice place for a walk by the water. Especially at night when the bridge lights up. There are also several statues and works of art spread out throughout the park. It's a well maintained park, too. If you're looking to get a little exercise in with nice surroundings, this is a solid choice. Some people even kayak or paddle board on the river if you're looking for something a little more adventurous. read more

Tempe Beach Park - Parks Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

Cute area for a morning stroll. Parking is $2/hour on weekdays 8am-5pm if you park in their lot, otherwise park at the Marquee Theater/Hope Church for free!!!! Easy walk over. Huge lane for walkers/joggers, scooters skateboards and bicycles. They have scooters for rent there. Lots of shaded areas with picnic tables, great view of the water. Do NOT recommend swimming in this lake- sincerely, a local. Their paddle boards and boat rentals are pretty affordable, especially if you split the cost with the rest of your party. Not many homeless out, either. A few vested people out picking up trash, keeping the area clean. Please pick up after yourselves, there's doggie poop bags spread around the park and trash cans, also water fountains and a floor fountain for your pups! read more

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WONDERFUL LAKESIDE PARK! I'm a huge fan of Tempe Beach Park, it's got great views of the lake and sidewalk trails for scooters, bikes, and joggers. The park is welcoming to all, locals, visitors, college students, families, and the elderly. I saw a great mix of folks enjoying a good view and walk. You'll see the Tempe skyline and Tempe's iconic bridges during your visit. I spotted a few ducks and wildlife, it was very peaceful. I was super tempted to sit at a park bench and just admire, but alas we came to walk! ASU's arts center is right in front of the water so if you're majoring in theatre, you've got great surroundings. Parking is a little hard to find, but once you find it it's super accessible and close to the water. I'd say parking was around $10 for us, not bad at all. If you're not in the mood for parking a car or walking, there's scooters for rent. My mom spotted paddle crafts for anyone wanting to get in the water. Tempe Beach Park has a neat grass area (also in front of the water). Note: There's one bridge that allows you access to the other side of the lake. We took the walking path from Tempe Beach Park and were able to get across easily to take a look at the lake from another angle! read more

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The site of the Ironman Arizona Village and transition area. It's a really nice park that is on the waterfront to the Tempe Town Lake. The lake is more of a reservoir that is polluted and swimming isn't normally allowed. The park, however, is a really nice spot to visit. There are a lot of Arizona State University (ASU) students that frequent the park, as the campus and football stadium is right next to the park. If ever in Tempe, the park is highly recommended to visit. read more

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I have never been an outdoorsy girl, except for that one period in time when covid hit. I did allll the things, including golf (even though I was really, REALLY bad)! It's now been about 4 months since I took the leap of faith and planted myself in Arizona. So far, it's been really good to me, and so has Tempe Beach Park! My roomie took me here back in January. We walked around the entire park. It was such a beautiful day, and I can honestly say I wouldn't mind coming here by myself to take a stroll every now and then. It's a great place to get that dose of vitamin D, and get those steps in. There are grassy areas as well as scattered seating so you can take a break once in a while. I lost recently came here for the Reggae Rise Up Festival during the first weekend in April. What a VIBE! Besides everyone smoking anything and everything, it was crackin'!! I saw a few ladies who were scantily clad, but no one seemed to care. There were food and merch vendors as well as VIP guest areas. I came to see Wiz Khalifa and he did NOT disappoint! The crowd went wild and overall, it was a fun event. Do remember to bring your chairs and/or picnic blankets for this event. Tempe Beach Park is an awesome outdoor area to take a stroll and clear your head, reflect and relax. It's also a nice place to take your s.o. to for an evening sunset walk. I'm looking forward to more events here in the future! read more

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I love it here! Always immaculate vibes and good energy surrounding the area. Perfect for a light walk/jog with a beautiful scenic view! I attended the Yes Day walk for autism this past weekend and was so happy that the weather was just perfect on the event day. read more

Tempe Beach Park - Parks Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

I've been coming here for the past 6 years for the 9/11 memorial service and Tempe Beach Park is the perfect place to host it. 2,9777 flags are set up and each flag represents a life lost. The park itself is pretty big and goes around one gigantic circle. During Covid, my friends and I used to roam this park late at night and ride the scooters for some fun. The park has always felt safe and its clean. The views are nice and there are benches throughout. read more

Tempe Beach Park - 2,9777 flags set up - Parks Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

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I make stops here at Tempe Beach Park quite often. This is my favorite spot to ride my longboard. Especially in the evenings when you can watch the sun go down. There is always all sorts of activity going on with people riding bikes, skateboarding or just going for a walk on the path around the lake. When they first started filling up Tempe Town Lake in 1999, people laughed and thought it was waste of money. Now with all of the highrises being built and the popularity of the park, the creation of Tempe Town Lake has been a huge success and has helped make Tempe a destination spot for travelers. Tempe Beach Park is host to so many fun events. Outdoor concerts, festivals and competitive events go on almost every weekend. My personal favorites over the years include Oktoberfest, 4th of July fireworks, 9/11 healing field, Tour de Fat bike parade, Fiesta Bowl New Years Eve block party, Innings Festival, APS Fantasy of Lights, AVP volleyball and the occasional 5K that I run here. The park also has a slash pad for kids and a baseball field named for local Diamondback legend Luis Gonzalez. For activities on the lake, you can fish at the lake (rainbow trout) and rent paddle boards and kayaks. There are several bridges that allow traffic to cross over Tempe Town Lake. These bridges allow cargo trains, the Valley Metro light rail, vehicle and pedestrian traffic to cross over the lake. You can get a glimpse of the historic Hayden Flour Mills building to the east of the park. There is also a remnant of the old Ash Avenue bridge that was built in 1913 by the parking lot. I like to stand on this old bridge to see all of the flags that are set up for the 9/11 healing field. Walking distance from the park are Mill Ave District, Sun Devil Stadium and Tempe Center for the Arts. Tempe Town Lake and Tempe Beach Park have been great for the community and have added much to Tempe's already rich history. read more

Tempe Beach Park - Tempe's Fallen Heroes - Parks Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

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Great venue! I went to the Reggae Rise Up festival as part of the @yelpelite giveaway... lots of food, drinks and fun! Room for improvement would be more grass (vs dirt) and more seating for eating. Overall, it was a good experience! read more

Tempe Beach Park - Protege - Parks Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

It's not the best park. It's not the cleanest park. It's not the most well-laid-out park. But it can sure host a music event, and it does that well. More often than not, the park is closed off for one event or another, but they're normally pretty fun events that are run relatively smoothly because the park is so used to having them move in and out. When there isn't an event going on, I recommend renting a boat and taking it out on the water--it's a nice little adventure. Just don't get any of that Tempe Town Lake water in or around your mouth. Last time I kayaked in Tempe Town Lake, I saw more dead fish than the Exxon Valdez oil spill. Great path for walking, jogging, or riding your scooter. Just make sure you're aware of others, because if you don't look out where you're going, you're going to get run over by a scooter or a bike--knocking you into the water, which will then likely mutate you. You can only hope the mutation gives you superpowers, but no guarantees. read more

Tempe Beach Park - Side stage reggae fest - Parks Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

Beautiful and scenic park by the water especially at sunrise or sunset. Shade and restrooms are sparse and few in between. So be aware and prepared for both situations. The water fountain also has a pet friendly one too which is a nice consideration for your furry kids. This park is a nice, long pathway along the water. Plenty of parking as well. read more

We decided to buy tickets to the Extra Innings Festival and we were all shocked at how fantastic the venue was during the entire weekend! The event had so many people, thousands and this park provided a beautiful water background along with perfect hills to sit on to watch performances. The space was excellent for finding a nice to spot to sit and eat and get away from the crowds. The landscaping, shade and the layout was ideal. In the future if there is an event at Tempe Beach Park we will not hesitate to go! read more

Tempe Beach Park - Parks Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

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2025-2026 REGGAE RISE UP REVIEW: I've gone all 3 days both years and while my friends, family and I have fun, we can't help but wonder how this is a reggae festival? Thank the heavens they ended with Rebelution and Steven Marley so you can feel like you actually were at a reggae festival. Saturday was a joke for reggae, but had to go because of Surfer Girl and the one and only Hip Abduction (LOVE). Whoever plans this set list, please go to Jamaica, even to SoCal, to remind yourselves of what reggae actually is, so that the Arizona Reggae market no longer has to be embarrassed that this festival is only 40% reggae. Please and thank you. read more

It was a good festival venue. However the grass was so dead & there was soooo much dirt flying around. As a visitor you would think the water was good for water activities but the water didn't look promising. There was great parking. I'm sure there's a lot of history connected to the park. Hoping the park's grass grows after spring! read more

We came to Tempe beach park for the innings festival. The park is very big which made it perfect for the festival. I need to come back and see what other events they have year round. I will definitely be back next year for innings 2026! read more

This is a lovely park! I'm not usually visiting unless I'm running a race, going to a festival or riding along the canal path, but it's conveniently located at the north end of downtown Tempe, looking over Tempe Town Lake. They don't have playground equipment, but it is a great place to take a stroll or enjoy a scenic view of the area. Other deets - They do have a public restroom. In addition, a free lot for parking, this primarily applies to when visiting the park durning non events, otherwise other options along Rio Salado, such as Lot 59, ASU are available. Lastly, there is a small rental shop for kayaks and paddle birds on the canal. read more

Went two days in a row, and they have the parking lot closed off to the public and said that it was park was also closed off to the public. So still haven't had a chance to check it out. But it kind of stinks if you're coming to walk your dog and the city is chosen to block off an entire parking lot for an event. That's why I give it one star read more

I love this place & remember well when people complained about what a silly idea it was. The people on here complaining about the homeless need a hobby and some compassion. They are people too and you're only showing how ugly you're capable of being by complaining. I've never actually felt threatened or in danger from any homeless person there. They have just as much right to take up space in this world. read more

Good park, but hardly any shade. Would not recommend going in the summer. Too many office buildings around.

Bee Haven!!! We used to come here to feed the homeless until Tempe became strict on the rules. I am not a fan of this park because of the bee issues. Every single time we've come here, including today...bees everywhere!!! There plenty of parking onsite. That's all! read more

Being a visitor in a new city. The planes flying in the air, the cars everywhere. You can't help but find yourself wondering what's there to do around here. You google "what to do in Phoenix?" BAM! Tempe Beach Park. Cool! You click the images go wow! You scroll, by the time you're at the 3rd pic, the tires screech and you're on the way! What can I say? The water basking in its gloryness! You see the scooters zipping around. The sound of small waves waving. The beautiful bridges lighting up at night. With the city in the background it's just so perfect. I can't think of a better place to de-stress. It's my go to for great therapy. My dog loved it too. She had the biggest smile. It melted my heart to see her so happy! read more

I really enjoy Tempe Beach Park and have been there many times for races along the shore or to rent kayaks. The parking is sometimes limited but if you're attending an event the garage on Ash is close and convenient (and sometimes free). I just wish they had more 5K races there because it used to be my favorite place to run. read more

Tempe Beach Park - Caribbean Christmas 5K - Parks Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

Potential to be beautiful but overrun by homeless. Not a good area, go during the day with others. Such a shame

Fantastic venue for a. Music festival! Beautiful lake and awesome bike riding on the paths! read more

Tempe Beach Park - Parks Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

There are signs that say the dead tilapia floating in the water are nothing to worry about (they, apparently, die when they get too cold). However, in addition to the dead fish, there was some trash and the whole river walk felt unclean. There are much nicer places in the Phoenix area to spend your day. read more

This is just a personal issue with the park name. Tempe BEACH Park. Yet, there is not a beach in sight? It would be awesome if this park had a beach with swimming. However, this park only has boat rentals. I do enjoy the Tempe "Lake" Park. It was busy with festivals almost every weekend pre- Covid. Even now, it is buzzing most afternoons and evenings with people walking, jogging and biking. I enjoy it as a quick place to have picnic with a view. Unfortunately, parking is very limited. Before Covid, the City of Tempe was planning a much needed remodel and re-evaluation of how the park best serves the future. There was a big presentation and Park celebration upon release of the plans. Sadly, nothing has started yet. Is this another Covid killed project? read more

Tempe has the most beautiful urban park that I have ever seen in Arizona. The park has a lovely river that cuts through. The river itself is truly the star of this urban park and is probably the main reason for this development. I visited this place a few times, one during the afternoon, early evening, and late evening. My favorite visit is the late evening because the summer sky is impressive, which I have uploaded the picture for. 1. The main parking lot is small and limited. However, there is an overflow parking that is a few blocks away from this main parking lot, and the overflow parking has plenty of parking. In other words, you may need to drive further down street just in case if the main parking lot is not available, though the overflow parking is actually on dirt. 2. There are plenty of benches that face the river. Likewise, there are plenty of concrete to sit on. Keep in mind that this park is very busy and active with many people. When you walk by the river, it makes you feel alive and apart of the people. 3. There are many beautiful lights at night. The lights are on the bridge that look incredible during thr evening only. It is quite spectacular, and I highly recommend coming during the evening if possible. 4. It is right across a fairly steep hill with a beautiful hiking trail. You need to cross the street to access the hiking trail if you choose to hike. It is also across the historic mill, and it is abandoned. Feel free to stroll by this historic mill as well. Happy walking at this urban park! You'll have so much joy as much as I did. read more

Tempe Beach Park - Beautiful sunset - Parks Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

I'm visiting from out of state & was looking for a good place to run. This park was the first one that popped up and I decided to check it out. It's such a big area, there's so much to do. I ran here two times and really enjoyed both times! There's kayaking, rental boats, paddle boarding, & more. I was going to check out the kayaks but I decided not to since I was way way too hot. It's very clean, peaceful, and just a great spot to get some "me time" or even just hang with some friends. read more

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Aloha! Not only was this my first time going to Tempe Town Beach, it was also my 1st YPE! Seeing all the different performances from Hawaii, and the South Pacific Islands (Cook Island, Samoa, Tahiti, etc) is an awesome experience! And, being AZAFs 25th Anniversary, made it extra special. One of the MCs marked her 24th time in the festival. It is a great way to see the Islands, without ever leaving the desert. Though, I do wonder if the crowds in Hawaii would be less. Whew! Though, I don't know was worse in detracting from the authenticity; seeing a "serving wench" with a cellphone in her Bustier (Prirate Day at the Renaissance Festival). Or, a pale skin, Blond hair young lady doing an Island dance. :-D There is so much to see, and do, that it's impossible to see everything in one day. And, tomorrow (Sunday, and the last day) will be a different program. Both vehicle, and pedestrian traffic is quite heavy. Luckily, being a weekend, the bicycle traffic was minimal. Parking close by (2 blocks away) in the Parking Garage on Rio Saldo Pkwy is $10.00. The other parking is at least a quarter mile away. The weather was beautiful, and made for a nice day. But, be sure to being the Sun block. A bit late, but here's the pictures. Aloha! read more

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Worst money spent for VIP tickets to fireworks. Limited covered tables. One tent and the misters a joke 2 little ones in a corner. No clips for table clothes all blowing at off. At first told only one water or soda per person. Had to complain and then they told us was not informed but all you need while here. Tent blocking stage to see from VIP area. Have not seen food yet but seems will be all precooked nothing fresh. Will update soon. read more

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Beautifully kept park with nice scenery and bridges. Great place to stroll, ride bikes, or just relax.

I walked around here at night and at dawn-the varied lights from the city scape, park and river is gorgeous. It's a very large park meandering along the Salt River. I agree with some other Yelpers that the beach name should be changed. It should be called Salt River Park since the river is the star and there is no real beach. I would rank this one of the best parks in Arizona. read more

Very nice place to relax, or jog or bike, whatever suits you best AT NIGHT in the summer. Otherwise it is just to hot during the day. Sitting in my car writing this at 8:54 pm, it is still 106°. I have not been here at any other time of the year, so all I know is HOT. But that aside, on any given evening you will see people jogging, walking their dog, kayaking etc. This place is for every kind of person. If you like water, get out on the water, if you like to get your cardio on, there is that too. If you like airplanes, look up. If you like trains, look at the bridges. Nice little place to hang out to destress. read more

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Walked around here in the evening after a heavy meal up the street. Parking was pretty difficult (idling cars waiting for spots) around 9pm on Saturday during the summer. Lots of people walking dogs, riding scooters, just relaxing, and even some people on a Segway tour. It's especially nice near the parking lot where the light rail crosses the water because that bridge was lit up with pride colors and the adjacent bridge for cars has lights strung up. There was also an ice cream truck in this area. Very cute place! read more

Tempe Beach Park - Light rail bridge - Parks Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

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Was here for the Autism Walk put on by SARRC and walked with my friend and her family...a team outing...as my friend's son is autistic. It was a beautiful day to walk in the event and check out all the vendor booths prior to the walk itself. A great turnout and fun had by all. The only drawbacks? Having to pay in the parking garage to park, the torn up streets due to lightrail/trolley construction, & mass confusion at the sign in and registration tables made for some chaos. The park itself is nice but gets dirty and cluttered quick due to events. read more

We decided to stop here and have lunch at the park. We have never been so we didn't know what to expect. It's an okay park. Their benches and tables are dirty and unkept. There's also no nearby bathrooms so that's something to keep in mind when stopping by here. There's also no playground for the littles. But there's plenty of space to run around or ride on bikes. Parking lot is small and tight spaces. We did like that they have many kinds of rentals and plan to come back to try some of them out! Will update on that later. read more

Where else can you go lakeside, where kids can play, and you can watch pro volleyball competition within the metropolitan Phoenix area? Great forethought by city planners. Good work, Tempe. You let us down in other areas such as the evil Kiwanis Recreation Center graveyard, but Tempe Beach Park is not the case. NOTE: Read my other numerous reviews for tips, entertainment, and unique historic references. Thank you, Tim B. read more

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