Tempe Scene - Venues

Tempe has a variety of venues to explore your inner spirit. The Frank Lloyd Wright designed ASU Gammage is a wonderful example of art incorporated into architecture. The nearby ASU Art Museum is a masterpiece in design created by Antoine Predock. The new and innovative Tempe Center for the Arts is the result of the collaborative work of Barton Meyer and Tempe’s own Architecton. Tempe’s impressive list of venues will keep visitors busy during their stay. Click here for a Map of Tempe Click here for instructions on using our map Must see:
	Arizona Historical Society Museum at Papago Park (480) 929-0292 \| www.arizonahistoricalsociety.org The Arizona Historical Society Museum, nestled within Papago Park, plunges into the ancient history of Arizona and Tempe as well as the changes and events within the 20th century. The exhibits featured at the museum include the impact of the desert climate, how agriculture and transportation have developed and the influence World War II had on the community. Along with these visual exhibits, the museum offers a rich archive of films and oral histories from people who inhabited the area. With all these qualities, it is easy to see why the Historical Society Museum at Papago Park has such a prominent place in the city of Tempe.
	ASU Art Museum (480) 965-6536 \| http://asuartmuseum.asu.edu Cited in Art in America as "the single most impressive venue for contemporary art in Arizona," the ASU Art Museum explores the art and its impact on individuals and society. The museum also strives to ignite interest in the arts in the community at both a collegiate and civic level by using new and innovative educational tools to build a connection between the audience and the art. Exhibiting over 10,000 contemporary works including crafts, prints and art from the Southwest and the Americas, the museum covers over 49,000 square feet of Arizona State University’s campus and was designed by the nationally acclaimed architect Antoine Predock.
	ASU Gammage (480) 965-3434 \| www.asugammage.com ASU Gammage stands as one of Arizona State University’s most beautiful and prized landmarks. Its fame is rooted in the fact that it was the last major architectural design of the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. ASU Gammage is among the largest university-based presenters of performing arts in the world. ASU Gammage is home to the M&I Bank “Broadway Across America – Arizona and Beyond” series. The remarkable versatility of the stage at ASU Gammage is enhanced by its collapsible orchestra shell, which can accommodate a full orchestra, as well as its chorus and pipe organ. The main foyer of Gammage is surrounded by glass walls with majestic pillars, which can also serve as an art gallery. Free tours of the theater are conducted daily so visitors can see the buildings magnificence up close.
	Changing Hands Bookstore (480) 730-0205 \| www.changinghands.com Changing Hands Bookstore has held its reputation as being the best bookseller in town for over 30 years. In 2007, Changing Hands was presented with the Publisher’s Weekly Bookseller of the Year. Independently run, Changing Hands regularly brings noted authors, guest readers and professionals to interact with members of the community; a trait that is not as typical with corporate booksellers. Located just down the street from Arizona State University, Changing Hands is seen to some as being a second home with is comfortable and airy atmosphere and friendly staff.
	Petersen House Museum (480) 350-5151 \| www.tempe.gov/petersenhouse This beautifully designed Queen Anne-style Victorian home was built by Niels Petersen, a Danish immigrant who settled in Tempe after finishing his career as a merchant marine, as a wedding present for his second wife in 1892. Now a museum, visitors can go on free tours of the historical landmark. Beautifully crafted artisan touches include colorful stained glass windows, hand-stenciled wall paper, gilded picture rails and much more.
	Tempe Beach Park (480) 350-8625 \| www.tempe.gov/lake Located on the south shore of Tempe Town Lake, Tempe Beach Park hosts a variety of sporting and cultural events such as live music festivals, little league baseball tournaments, biking, skating and five miles of running paths. To indulge in some outdoor grilling and picnicking, look no further than Tempe Beach Park. Finding that perfect picnic spot is easy with 25 acres from which to choose. Another draw to the park is Splash Playground, where families can go to cool off in those hot summer months.
	Tempe Center for the Arts (480) 350-2822 \| www.tempe.gov/tca Tempe Center for the Arts (TCA), located on the shore of Tempe Town Lake, is one of Arizona’s premiere performing arts venues. In addition to performances by groups such as Childsplay, Tempe Symphony Orchestra and Tempe Little Theatre, the TCA provides its patrons with breathtaking building design by the local-based architecture firm Architekton as well as the award winning Los Angeles-based firm Barton Meyers Associates. Featuring a 600-seat proscenium theater, 200-seat studio theater and 3,500 square-foot gallery, the Tempe Center for the Arts is a must-see destination for those with a penchant for the arts.
	Tempe Town Lake (480) 350-8625 \| www.tempe.gov/lake Tempe Town Lake has been noted to be one of the most visited attractions in Arizona. The lake and the adjacent Tempe Beach Park are home to activities like sailing and rowing as well as many cultural events like festivals and outdoor music performances. Situated amongst some of Tempe’s most notable destinations, Papago Park and the Mill Avenue District, the lake brings a unique quality to Tempe as a tourism hotspot.
	Tempe Historical Museum (480) 350-5100 \| www.tempe.gov/museum The Tempe Historical Museum provides the opportunity to see and experience the great significance of Tempe’s history in Arizona. Exhibits are presented through hands-on activities, larger-than-life photographs, interactive displays and videos which capture all of Tempe’s unique qualities. The Tempe Historical Museum is the center to which the Tempe community can come together to celebrate their past and imagine a bright tomorrow.
	Mill Avenue District (480) 921-2300 \| www.millavenue.com For decades, Mill Avenue has been seen as the social hub of both Arizona State University students as well as Tempe residents. Mill Avenue offers that certain je ne sais quoi to locals and visitors alike with its eclectic and engaging vibe. Mill Avenue, in addition to its rich historical significance, also features local boutiques and classic mom-and-pop restaurants which are like unlike anything in the Phoenix metropolitan area. It encompasses such qualities as creativity, excitement and authenticity which makes this destination one that should not be passed up while visiting Tempe. The Mill Avenue District is also home to major venues such as the ASU Art Museum, ASU Gammage, Tempe Town Lake and Tempe Beach Park.
	Tempe Improv (480) 921-9877 \| www.tempeimprov.com The Tempe Improv has been featured numerous times on the hit show "Last Comic Standing" on NBC and draws some of the biggest comedy headliners from around the nation like Jerry Seinfeld, David Spade and Kathy Griffin. The state-of-the-art sound, lighting and video systems as well as a restaurant and bar make this club one of the best comedy clubs in Arizona. The food served at Tempe Improv is typical American fare which includes sandwiches, salads, and pasta. The Tempe Improv is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the newest and most cutting-edge comedy acts from around the country.
Additional venues:
	Arizona State University Museum of Anthropology (480) 965-6224 \| www.shesc.asu.edu/asuma The ASU Museum of Anthropology’s Grecian-style exterior sets the tone for the amount of insight visitors will receive about the history of human civilization and the complexities that surround the evolution of culture. Situated between Cady and Tyler Malls in Arizona State University’s main campus, the ASU Museum of Anthropology is one worth exploring. The museum’s exhibits illustrate the ways in which cultural expression has adapted over the ages of human history and how peoples of different societies react and experience the changes in our world.
	Barnes & Noble Booksellers (480) 894-6954 \| www.bn.com Barnes & Noble has developed a global reputation as one of the best booksellers in the country by serving millions of customers with its comprehensive selection of books, DVDs and CDs. Barnes & Noble has also pioneered the concept of a retail store as a community center and annually hosts more than 100,000 community events nationwide. With an expansive music library, café in every store and excellent customer service, Barnes & Noble is a great place to go to relax and enjoy a great book.
	Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre (480) 325-6700 \| www.broadwaypalmwest.com The Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre in Mesa, Arizona is the newest addition to the Prather family’s line of theatres. After the theatre’s debut in October 2001, it has come to be known as "The Valley's Ticket to Great Entertainment." After five illustrious seasons, audiences from all around the Valley are clamoring to see shows at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre. Finding a place to watch the show will never be a problem in this 500-seat facility. Along with its expansive dining and stage area, the theatre is just minutes away from Scottsdale, Phoenix and Tempe.
	Club Red (480) 343-5906 \| www.clubredswing.com If it seems like the ‘20s are a thing of the past, think again. At Club Red, swing dancing is still alive and well; where anyone can brush-up on the Charleston, Balboa or even the Lindy Hop. Dancers at all levels of experience are welcomed to step onto the parquet that spans over 1,200 square feet and show off their moves. Club Red also features billiard tables, 62” flat-panel television screens, stages for live and DJ’ed performances and a full bar and menu to re-energize before heading back out to the dance floor. Located just off of the 101 on University, Club Red is right in the middle of all that Tempe nightlife has to offer.
	Clubhouse Music Venue (480) 968-3238 \| www.clubhousemusicvenue.com Voted as Arizona’s Best Local Music Venue by The New Times Magazine, The Clubhouse has been in the main stop for the best in local, touring, and regional acts for four years. The main draw for this venue is not only its close neighborhood vibe but also because it is a nightly hangout spot for those 18 and over. Besides great music, The Clubhouse also has a full service kitchen for late-night snacking needs.
	Dance Studio Theatre (480) 965-6536 \| http://dance.asu.edu/ The Dance Studio Theatre is one of the only dance spaces in the country designed with interactive multimedia and telematic capabilities. The facility uses motion sensing technology so performers can interact with sound, lighting, images and video in their performances. The high-speed Internet used in the theatre enables a connection with other telematic facilities around the world for a dual, multi-site and web-based performance. The Dance Studio Theatre is arranged with 250 seats as well as 30 additional balcony seats, with a main stage for both formal and informal concerts.
	Evelyn Smith Music Theater (480) 965-6536 \| http://music.asu.edu/facilities/smith.php Named after a woman with a great passion for philanthropic work and an even greater love of the arts, the Evelyn Smith Music Theatre provides opera enthusiasts a place to call home and was modeled after the Wagnerian Theatre in Bayreuth, Germany. The five-story theatre yields 500 seats for productions by the Arizona State University’s Herberger College School of Music, including opera, concerts, musical theatre and plays.
	Gallery 100 (480) 965-6536 \| http://asu.edu/museums Unlike some of the other galleries on Arizona State University’s campus, Gallery 100 is specifically set aside for seniors in the undergraduate program and features their compiled work from throughout the semester. Because of this distinction, exhibits are constantly being shuffled and introduced to the gallery in order to showcase all the students’ final portfolios. Located in central campus, the gallery is easily accessible and open to the public.
	Gallery of Design (480) 965-6693 \| http://asu.edu/museums The Gallery of Design in the College of Design at Arizona State University focuses its exhibitions primarily on all facets of architecture. Each of the varying exhibitions feature top students’ work for the entire semester, faculty research and design projects, furniture, and special exhibitions from local, national and international designers. Projected on one of the main walls is a constantly changing mural of design work that is also featured throughout the gallery.
	Galvin Playhouse (480) 965-6536 \| http://theatrefilm.asu.edu/facilities/galvin.php The Paul V. Galvin Playhouse is one of Arizona State University’s most intimate and inviting playhouses in Tempe. An audience member will be sure to feel as though they are a part of the show in any one of the 485 seats because of its proscenium design and continental seating. Due to this feature, each member of the audience has a perfect view of the stage. As a part of the Nelson Fine Arts Center, the Galvin Playhouse showcases a vast array of talent the Herberger College of the Arts has to offer in one ideal location.
	Halle Heart Center Museum (602) 414-2800 \| www.americanheart.org The Halle Heart Center Museum is the place to go for those who are interested in how to keep themselves healthy and wise for the years to come. The museum’s exhibits and “Heart Guides” teach visitors how the heart and brain work as well as how to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and what to do in heart-related emergencies. Exhibits are designed for children, adults, special groups and even medical professionals. The facility includes two interactive theaters, two large meeting rooms which are available for conferences and even a gourmet kitchen where heart-healthy foods are prepared for visitors.
	Harry Wood Gallery (480) 965-6163 \| http://asu.edu/museums The Harry Wood Gallery at Arizona State University is just one of the many fine art exhibition galleries centrally located on campus. The gallery typically displays works from graduate students in the arts program with pieces ranging from the classic to the abstract. The unique quality about the Harry Wood Gallery is that it is operated completely by student internships and gallery management classes within the ASU Herberger College of the Arts. Because of this fact, the gallery challenges audiences to think outside the box and question social norms through its display of intriguing and unorthodox works. The Harry Wood Gallery is the place to find a true feast for the eyes.
	Katzin Concert Hall (480) 965-6536 \| http://music.asu.edu/facilities/katzin.php As one of the most frequently used music halls on Arizona State University’s campus, Katzin Concert Hall is also by far one of the most beautiful. The concert hall opens into a lush fountain courtyard as well as houses a stunning nine-foot Hamburg Steinway piano. The maple-paneled stage and multi-faceted walls brings an air of elegance to the hall inviting smaller orchestras as well as larger solo and chamber music recitals. The perfectly engineered design makes for immaculate acoustics making the Katzin Concert Hall the place to not only see the music being performed, but also become a part of the experience.
	Last Exit (480) 557-6656 \| www.lastexitlive.com/ From the beginning, Last Exit has evolved into the leading music venue for both local and national touring acts. Last Exit can house over 300 people nightly and boasts a complete professional quality sound and lighting system that was custom built for the specifications of the room. In addition to the great national and local acts that perform nightly, Last Exit also holds various other events such as CD releases and listening showcases, rock-n-roll fashion shows, benefit concerts, music conferences, record label showcases and live CD/DVD recordings.
	Lyceum Theater (480) 965-6536 \| http://theatrefilm.asu.edu/facilities/lyceum.php Even though the Lyceum Theatre is the smallest of Arizona State University’s theatres and playhouses, it is by no means one to be overlooked. The beautifully designed stage takes on the persona of a true proscenium theatre with its marble-like stage and continental configuration. The theatre is a great place to catch a student production and see the talent of these young aspiring actors. With its convenient location in the heart of campus, there’s no excuse not to stop in and enjoy a show.
	Marquee Theatre (480) 829-0607 Alt: (480) 829-1300 \| www.luckymanonline.com Despite its relatively intimate setting, Marquee Theatre has all the makings of a big concert venue – a high-grade sound system and some of the hottest bands around. Built in 1993, the theatre is located just north of the Mill Avenue Bridge in downtown Tempe. In the past, the venue catered mostly to country and jazz musicians, but has evolved into featuring more mainstream and indie bands. The theater's original design still remains featuring its plush decor and Southwestern influence. Some of the acts that have graced the stage of the Marquee Theatre include Sonic Youth, The Darkness, The Strokes and Badly Drawn Boy.
	Monti's La Casa Vieja (480) 345-2392 \| www.montis.com The original adobe hacienda was once the home of Charles Trumbull Hayden who settled in Tempe in 1871 to establish a flourmill and a ferry service. Today, Monti's La Casa Vieja is the oldest continuously occupied structure in the Valley. Monti’s has kept a strong determination to continue cultivating the history of Tempe over the years by putting hundreds of artifacts, memorabilia, photographs and other unique objects relating to the Hayden family and the city’s past on display throughout the restaurant. Monti’s unique flare, great steaks and quality standards is what makes this restaurant exquisite. The rich history and superb fare makes Monti’s a cut above the rest.
	Mill’s End Café & Crêperie (480) 829-0755 This quaint café, located right where the name would suggest, offers a vast array of delicious French crêpes (both sweet and savory) that are made-to-order at any time of the day along with their multitude of delicious coffee and espresso drinks. Because of its convenient location at the top of historic Mill Avenue, visitors can stop in before a day of shopping or after a satisfying dinner at any one of Mill Avenue’s premiere restaurants. With events like poetry readings and performances by local musicians, Mill’s End is the place to go to sit and socialize with friends and enjoy a good ol’ cup of Joe.
	Organ Hall (480) 965-6536 \| http://music.asu.edu/facilities/organ.php Named for the rare Traeri organ that is housed within its walls, Organ Hall is one of four theatres in the nation to have such a prized musical treasure. The beauty of the instrument isn’t just limited to the visual but also its tonal quality. Likewise, the architectural design of the hall brings forth a source of inspiration for lovers of organ music all around the Valley. Along with local patrons of the arts, the theatre hosts a variety of visiting organists and organ builders from North America, Europe, Australia and Japan who come to Tempe to hear and experience the beautiful music that echoes in Organ Hall.
	Pyle Adult Recreation Center (480) 350-5211 \| www.tempe.gov/pyle The Pyle Adult Recreation Center is one of Tempe’s most commonly used recreational facilities. The center features a multi-purpose room with a stage, an instructional dance room, billiards room, card room, conference room and six meeting rooms. A variety of activities and programs are available throughout the day to match anyone’s interests. Located in central Tempe, the Pyle Center is easily accessible to anyone looking to shoot some pool or just play a few hands of cards with friends.
	R.S. Dietz Museum of Geology (480) 965-7065 \| www.asu.edu/museums Minerals, gems and fossils from around the world aren’t the only allures at the R.S. Dietz Museum of Geology. Not only is the museum home to the only active seismograph in central Arizona, but it also has a six-story Foucault pendulum, which is the only one in the state. What’s more, the museum also features the illustrious Columbian mammoth bones that were discovered nearby in Chandler, Arizona.
	Tempe Marketplace (480) 350-8625 \| www.tempemarketplace.com When looking for entertainment Nirvana, Tempe Marketplace is the place to go. Not only does it offer a plethora of options for shopping and dining – like boutiques and major retailers plus casual dining – but Tempe Marketplace includes a variety of entertainment outlets like laser light shows, live music performances and interactive fountains. Additionally, “The District” at Tempe Marketplace houses one of Arizona’s largest movie screens at Harkin’s Theatres Ciné Capri as well as the enormous arcade and gaming venue at Dave & Buster’s. Tempe Marketplace is any family’s one-stop-shop for food, shopping, fun and entertainment right in the heart of Tempe.
	Three Roots Coffee House (480) 966-4949 Three Roots is one of Tempe’s best kept secrets. The café has the feel of an off-beat San Francisco coffeehouse with its eclectic furnishings and hodge-podge of colorful décor. The food and coffee served is completely organic and almost all menu items are vegan. But, meat-lovers shouldn’t shy away because the burgers served at Three Roots would rival any quarter-pounder. Likewise, Three Roots strives to lessen their impact on the environment and therefore supports Tempe’s local farmers and economy through the purchase of local-grown ingredients and eco-friendly containers. With just a stone’s throw away from Arizona State University’s campus, it’s easy to pop over for that much needed quick afternoon pick-me-up or to indulge in those late-night deep conversations with friends.
	The Set (602) 953-2728 \| www.thesets.com The Sets brings a whole new meaning to the nightlife scene in Tempe. This venue is one worth going to with its four unique rooms including a live music venue, an atrium with patio seating, a billiard hall and the main bar that is filled with other entertainment such as air hockey and video games. The Sets automatically provides party-goers with a different atmosphere with every new room. The Sets is one of the most diverse venues in Arizona, so whatever your taste in entertainment may be, you’ll be sure to find it here.
	Step Gallery (480) 965-6536 \| http://art.asu.edu/gallery/step/index.php The Step Gallery at Arizona State University features unique works from ASU students in the Herberger College of the Arts as a part of their final portfolio projects. The gallery is proposal-driven and student-run within the Arizona State University’s Herberger College of the Arts. There, one can expect to see all disciplines of art such as sculpture, photography, painting and metal work. Likewise, the style of works ranges from the classical to the modern and are masterfully composed to give each member of the audience a true viewing experience.
	Stray Cat Theatre (480) 820-8022 \| www.straycattheatre.org The Stray Cat Theatre features performances that are decidedly off the beaten path and aggressively seek out and showcase the most vital contemporary material. This theater company’s goal is to provoke, challenge and jolt their audiences out of conventional responses – sparking them to look at the live theatre experience through a fresher lens. The Tempe Performing Arts Center, 132 E. Sixth St., is the new home to the Stray Cat Theatre, making it easy to get to from anywhere in the valley.
	Tempe Family YMCA (480) 730-0240 \| www.valleyymca.org The Tempe Family YMCA has been a part of the Tempe community for over 50 years. Each of the YMCA’s members has the ability to participate in programs that incorporate a healthy lifestyle for both mind and body. The helpful staff strives to help all of its members have fun, make new friends and help others. The modern Fitness Center and Group Exercise classes make it especially easy to have a great time. Family-friendly programs are also offered in order to promote and improve the health and well being of everyone in the Tempe community.

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