Westin Tempe, Arizona Offers Perfect Location to Stay & Play for ASU Crew

Bicycles are available for guests at Westin Tempe too! Submitted photo.

Story, photos (unless otherwise noted), videos by Cassie Hepler

When I first moved to Arizona, I rented an Airbnb studio in Tempe called the hobbit hole somewhere downtown close enough to ride your bicycle but too far to walk especially in the heat. That was my first experience with Tempe, Arizona and I do have fond memories of it. My hosts were amazing and knowing I was relocating, told me if I found an apartment (or in my case, an Arcadia casita), they would gladly release the rest of my stay and even help me move. Talk about Western hospitality! So my first impression was excellent in this area.

Known mainly for Arizona State University, it is the hub of all things youth, learning and drinking… although that may be shifting with evolution and demographics nowadays. I’m pretty sure my alumni Penn State vs. ASU college parties could compete in a crazy Olympic drinking sport which if that’s finally phasing out, it’s probably a good thing. So I rarely get back to Tempe anymore because I live in North Phoenix now which is about 45 minutes away with little traffic. On this staycation, I had no clue what I was signing up for. As my new motto goes, say yes and figure the rest out later! So I was pleasantly surprised with my experience at Westin Tempe.

Gearing up to head to Philly for a month in a couple days ahead of this trip, I was in need of a break from packing, working and jamming a month of planning into my brain. It was a nice break from the grind – and the heat of summer approaching with a steamy July! So I drove downtown Tempe and was greeted with valet parking who whisked my car away for me, already a relief off my shoulders. And with 18 stories, 290 guest rooms and suites, and over 21,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space, I was free to roam and explore Westin Tempe!

Welcome to downtown Tempe at the Westin Tempe.

Rad art pieces hanging everywhere at Westin Tempe.

The color scheme reminded me of Tulum at Westin Tempe.

Very cool hanging art which would make a rad flowing dress photo on the stairs at Westin Tempe. This photo doesn’t do it justice!

Poking around the kitchen at Terra Tempe at Westin Tempe which doesn’t open until 5 p.m.

The extra seating guest area at Westin Tempe.

The bar was slighting popping when I arrived at Westin Tempe.

I liked these little pod dining seats which I ended up in for dinner at Westin Tempe.

After I checked in early because of my Marriott Bonvoy membership, I explored the room at Westin Tempe.

Marble showers and walls were a nice touch at Westin Tempe.

A little coffee nook with waters in the mini fridge at Westin Tempe.

My super fluffy and comfy bed at Westin Tempe was perfect!

Peaking straight out my window with a mountain view at Westin Tempe. Notice the “A” for ASU, I have hiked that mountain!

A better view to the right at Westin Tempe with Tempe Town Lake in the background.

And to the left, you can see the mountains hiding in the back at Westin Tempe.

Looking straight down from the 16th floor with car for scale at Westin Tempe.

What was super cool were these extra perks you get for booking through Marriott directly at Westin Tempe.

The view from behind the building is not as impressive at Westin Tempe, blocked by other tall buildings.

I tried out the mocktails which were only available as prickly pear lemonade.

Then went up to change for dinner and noticed this complimentary lavender scent which I love at Westin Tempe.

Executive Chef Mario Ventura leads Terra Tempe Kitchen & Spirits boasting Southwestern-inspired cuisine but a modern twist. A legit hidden gem, Terra Tempe is in a perfect location and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. ASU Gammage and the Sun Devil Stadium are right next door.

The meaty Mexican prawns that my belly enjoyed at Westin Tempe.

The app we all need to try, DIY Terra’s Hot Stone with wagyu beef for 8-10 seconds each side at Westin Tempe.

The prettiest “snow” covered beet and apple salad that tasted just as delicious as it was presented at Westin Tempe.

The most loaded with veggies gnocchi I’ve ever had and it was a delight to the tastebuds at Westin Tempe.

I was mocktail-ing that night due to way too many solstice parties at Westin Tempe and this spicy Fever-Tree ginger beer is a go to for me!

I was growing increasingly impressed with this dinner and had to go stalk the chefs for a minute at Westin Tempe. Nice fade bro!

When a restaurant is this good, the half chicken will be divine and that is was at Westin Tempe. Down to the sauce! The bacon potato salad hidden underneath was also outstanding.

We started losing sunlight which meant sunset time was near and gobbled down this Mexican chocolate atole custard with mini churros at Westin Tempe. That meant it was time to head to the rooftop!

Located on the 18th floor, Skysill Rooftop Lounge is the valley’s tallest open-air rooftop bar. It’s pretty rad seeing the 180-degree panoramic views of Phoenix and Tempe all sprawled out. Once that sun sets, I’m sure this party gets poppin’ as the temps cool down. Peep the website to keep up to date with weekly programming, live music, events and more fun in the sun.