Tempe Beach Park: A Riverside Escape

Just a short trip from Alight Tempe, Tempe Beach Park is one of the city's most beloved outdoor destinations. Set along the banks of Tempe Town Lake, this expansive park is a go-to spot for students looking to unwind, exercise, or gather with friends.

Whether you’re into paddleboarding, biking, jogging, or just relaxing on the grass with a coffee and a playlist, the park delivers. It features wide green spaces, watercraft rentals, and scenic views of the city skyline. The paved trails are perfect for early morning runs or evening walks as the sun sets over the water.

Special events such as outdoor concerts, festivals, and 5K runs frequently take place here, giving students something to look forward to year-round.

Mill Avenue District: The Pulse of Downtown Tempe

If there’s one street every ASU student gets to know intimately, it’s Mill Avenue. This bustling downtown strip is a hotspot for dining, nightlife, shopping, and cultural experiences—all within easy reach of Alight Tempe.

Mill Ave is the place to go whether you're grabbing brunch with friends, looking for a place to watch the game, or picking up a last-minute gift. You’ll find everything from locally owned boutiques and bookstores to national chains and quirky cafes.

Some student favorites include:

• Postino – Known for wine, bruschetta, and an Instagram-worthy patio.
• Snooze, an A.M. Eatery – A brunch staple with creative pancake flights and breakfast cocktails.
• Casey Moore’s Oyster House – A laid-back pub with great food and a long-standing ASU tradition.

Many restaurants also offer student discounts or happy hour specials, making it a budget-friendly place to hang out.

ASU Art Museum and Gammage Auditorium

If you're into culture, performance, and the arts, Alight Tempe has you covered. Being so close to campus means you're just steps away from venues like the ASU Art Museum and Gammage Auditorium, which bring world-class performances and exhibitions to the student community.

The ASU Art Museum frequently rotates collections that feature everything from modern art installations to local and indigenous artists. It’s a calm, inspiring place to explore between classes or on a lazy Sunday afternoon.

Gammage Auditorium, designed by none other than Frank Lloyd Wright, hosts Broadway shows, concerts, lectures, and ASU productions throughout the year. Think Hamilton, Wicked, or the latest student-run theater piece—whatever you're into, it’s happening here.

Easy Access via the Light Rail

One of Alight Tempe’s best features is its proximity to the Valley Metro Light Rail, making it incredibly easy for students to explore beyond Tempe. Whether you're heading to downtown Phoenix for a concert, checking out the Mesa Arts Center, or commuting to an internship, the light rail system is affordable, reliable, and student-friendly.

A five-minute ride gets you straight to the heart of ASU’s main campus. No car? No problem. The convenience of public transit means students don’t have to rely on parking passes or ride shares to get around.

A Foodie’s Paradise: Dining Around Tempe

Living at Alight Tempe means you're never more than a few minutes away from great food. Tempe is a melting pot of culinary options, from quick eats to global cuisine.

Some standout spots include:

• Café Rio for a fast and fresh take on Mexican fare
• Culinary Dropout for gastropub eats and fun weekend vibes
• The Dhaba for authentic Indian cuisine
• Pho Nhat for a warm bowl of Vietnamese pho after a long study session

Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or just picky? There are plenty of choices to fit every dietary need or craving.

Hiking and Outdoor Adventures

Just because you’re in a city doesn’t mean nature is far away. Hayden Butte, known locally as “A Mountain,” is a short hike from campus and a favorite for morning workouts or catching an unbeatable sunrise.

For those wanting a bit more challenge, the Papago Park trails or South Mountain Preserve offer more expansive hiking and biking options. These are great for weekend adventures when you need to clear your head and reconnect with nature.

Alight Tempe residents often organize group hikes, which is an excellent way to explore the area and meet new people in the process.

Local Events and Festivals

Tempe is a city that loves to celebrate. From Tempe Festival of the Arts to Oktoberfest at Tempe Beach Park, there’s always something going on. Students living at Alight Tempe often find themselves immersed in community festivals without even trying.

These events bring in local vendors, food trucks, live music, and artists, turning the city into a living canvas of culture and creativity. Even on quieter weeks, there’s likely a farmers market or food truck pop-up just a few blocks away.

Why Location Matters for Student Housing

There’s a reason why so many students prioritize location when choosing off-campus housing. Being close to the action doesn’t just save time—it opens doors to experiences you might not otherwise seek out.

That’s what makes Alight Tempe such a compelling choice. It sits at the intersection of convenience, culture, and community. It’s perfect for students who want the best of both worlds: a quiet place to study and a lively city to explore.

Spacious Student Living Options

Of course, location is just one piece of the puzzle. Alight Tempe also offers a range of floor plans—including some of the most popular three bedroom student apartments in Tempe, AZ. These layouts are ideal for students who want to share a space with friends but still value having their own private bedroom and bathroom.

Each apartment is fully furnished and includes high-speed internet, in-unit laundry, and a smart TV in the living room. Whether you're hosting a group study session or unwinding after midterms, the apartment's design supports both productivity and relaxation.

Making the Most of Student Life

With so much to see and do nearby, living at Alight Tempe means you can strike that perfect balance between academics and adventure. Spend a Saturday kayaking on Tempe Town Lake. Grab late-night ramen with roommates. Catch a live band on Mill Ave. Or just enjoy a low-key night stargazing from the rooftop deck with friends.

The point is, you don’t have to go far to find your groove in Tempe. The city is your backyard, and Alight Tempe makes it all feel comfortably close.

Final Thoughts: A Gateway to the Best of Tempe

When it comes to student housing near ASU, Alight Tempe offers more than just a place to sleep—it offers a lifestyle that supports exploration, engagement, and growth. Thanks to its unbeatable location, students can immerse themselves in all that Tempe has to offer—whether it's the serenity of the lake, the energy of downtown, or the culture on campus.

For those in search of modern, well-located three bedroom student apartments in Tempe, AZ, Alight Tempe checks every box. And with local attractions just minutes away, it turns your college years into something unforgettable—filled with friends, experiences, and a community you’ll never forget.