There is no place like Tempe.
How to experience a college football game day at Arizona State, like a true fan
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When it comes to visiting major college spots in the United States there are pros and cons to each of them, but rarely do you have the chance to mix the cultures of an intimate campus feel with that of a modern metropolis.
Part of the luxury of Tempe is that you can fly straight into it from most major airpots and don’t have to worry about the trek to a small college town (with all due respect to those). Upon arrival you will be greeted with Sun Devil vibes which is part of the magic.
From a food standpoint there are places all over the spectrum worth checking out.
- The Chuckbox: It is important to note that this is cash only, part of the lore, but it is well worth that sacrifice as they are arguably the best burgers you will ever have in your life. It is among the most Tempe-like experiences you can have from a dining perspective.
- Four Peaks Brewing Company: This is a great place to hang out, throw back a few cold ones, and enjoy the scenery that life in Tempe offers you. Watching Sun Devils athletics from here is obviously great, but if you are in town for an actual game then this is a great spot to hit for a different game on tv throughout your visit.
- Otto Pizza and Pastry: This definitely offers a local feel and vibe. While the pizza is great because pizza is never bad, the pasta is totally worth trying if you have some time to sit down and aren’t grabbing a pie to walk around campus with.
- El Pollo Supremo: If you are looking for some great Mexican food then this is absolutely up your alley. Make sure to plan accordingly as it can get a little crowded, but if you do you will be pleased in the end.
It should be noted that these spots are incredible in Tempe, but Scottsdale is right up the road and full of all sorts of dining options. There is a reason that so many people choose to live in the area and food is just one of them.
There are certainly activities galore, though. As it is a major area there are a number of activities for the college-aged audience as well as families of all sizes.
You can get out for a hike and experience the Arizona scenery firsthand. “A” Mountain is a popular hiking trail where participants can see the iconic gold “A” (it is painted white ahead of the first football game and back to gold right after).
There are all sorts of professional sporting events happening in the area outside of non-football Sun Devil ones, too. Depending on when exactly you are visiting you can check out the Arizona Diamondbacks, Phoenix Suns, or Phoenix Mercury. It is a unique area as noted in that all of these things are possible in a college town.
When it comes to football though, ASU certainly stands out. They are the defending Big 12 Champions and becoming more and more nationally recognize for their on-field success and unique environment of support. If you find yourself attending a game make sure to get to Mountain America Stadium early so you can experience the “Devil Walk” where players are heading into the field with crowds cheering them on.
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