Tempe is for Trendsetters | A Guide
It’s no secret that Tempe is for Trendsetters. Tempe is brimming with creativity and inspiration for writers, artists, fashionistas, and musicians alike. I went to visit a few spots that capture the heart of the Trendsetter in Tempe, in collaboration with Tempe Tourism.
Get into character with a twist on tea at Drink Me! Tea Room
Drink Me! Tea Room is owned by the lovely Melissa Harlan. It's an Alice in Wonderland themed tea room that’s perfect for grabbing tea with your girlfriends. The tea room captures your imagination, with classic literature littering the room and the walls. The “Full Afternoon Tea” comes complete with savories, scones, sweets, and a pot of tea.
Choose your favorite Alice in Wonderland character-themed tea to get in the mood. I chose the Mad Hatter, an organic black tea with passion fruit flavor and hints of floral. Simply add cream and two cubes of sugar for the perfect cup of tea!
Dive into a book at Changing Hands Bookstore
Changing Hands Bookstore has been around since 1974, and hosts over 300 author events per year. June is Pride month, and they have lots of books to Read with Pride including One Last Stop, Hola Papi: How to Come Out in a Walmart Parking Lot and Other Life Lessons, and The Ex Girlfriend of My Ex-Girlfriend Is My Girlfriend: Advice on Queer Dating, Love, and Friendship.
I always find treasures while exploring Changing Hands. I found used versions of Mindy Kaling’s books, Why Not Me? and Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? For under $10! I also picked up a new book by local author Amy Shah, I’m so Effing Tired: A Proven Plan to Beat Burnout, Boost Your Energy, and Reclaim Your Life - and even purchased a signed copy!
Get a trendy, thrifty outfit at Rocket A Go-Go
Rocket A Go-Go is celebrating its 10-year anniversary this year, and I couldn’t be more excited. The trendy, thrifty boutique is co-owned by Stormy Love, and this local women-owned shop is all about spreading rockabilly vibes and body positivity vibes everywhere. Whether you find a piece for re-sale or a vintage item from the 1950s, you’ll be sure to rock an outfit that’s unique and colorful. If you haven’t visited Rocket A Go-Go this year, be happy to know they’ve expanded their space - there’s even more room to shop!
I found a ‘90’s blush colored velvet dress, a Rolling Stones t-shirt dress, and a rainbow colored fanny pack. Though it was hard to choose, I finally decided to go for the rainbow colored fanny pack, and am so happy I did!
Catch a live show at Yucca Tap Room
Yucca Tap Room is Tempe’s original, live music venue, and has been around for over forty years. The bar is a hangout spot for creatives and musicians alike. They have plenty of local, craft beers to choose from, have an outdoor patio, and have an arcade area complete with vintage pinball machines. What else do you need? Their kitchen is in partnership with Bao Chow, and when you go, you must always order the Bangkok Fries - a delicious concoction complete with kimchi and bulgogi on top. If you time your visit right, you can even catch action at the low-key tiki bar, located in the farthest arcade room. Order the Pinkiller, and let the rum, coconut, pineapple, and orange, take the pain away. And of course, check out the live bands. I saw both Tempe Sour (at the Early Show) and Snailmate at Yucca, and the shows were a blast.
Blast to the past at Double Nickels Collective
Blast to the past at Double Nickels Collective. Pick up an old record or a VHS tape for your listening and viewing pleasure. I found records by DJ Jazzy Jeff, David Bowie, and more. There’s even a stack of $1 records if you’re a new collector, like myself. It’s perfect for trying out old music and discovering hidden gems.
Check out street art at Danelle Plaza
If you’ve already visited Rocket A Go-Go, Yucca Tap Room, and Doubles Nickels Collective, stay a while longer and visit the murals of Danelle Plaza. Danelle Plaza itself has lots of history, dating back to the 1960s, when Tempe was undergoing major changes as an urban to suburban center. The touches of mid-century architecture can still be seen, but it has always been a place to go against the mainstream.
There are many local artists that have helped make Danelle Plaza a cultural hub, and I love the pieces each of them creates. My favorite especially is the Golden Radial Series by Kyllan Maney.
Party on a Bike at The Madison Improvement Club Tempe
Lights, music, action. This is not your grandma’s cycling class, in fact, The Madison Improvement Club Tempe, transforms into a nightclub once you’re in the saddle for one of their notorious Party on a Bike classes. Go to one of their artist-themed classes with popular artists playing and curated by their badass cycling teachers. I just recently attended the Alan Walker, Don Diablog, & Kygo class, and went to Martin Garrix vs. Dua Lipa. The class was more than levitating.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for inspiration at off the beaten path locations with interesting people, look no further than Tempe. Tempe is for Trendsetters. Are you one of them?
