Tempe’s history of hospitality dates back to the pre-statehood era, with historic sites such as the 1899 Casa Loma Building on Mill Avenue. This historic landmark stands on the site of The Atwood Hotel, Tempe’s first hotel, which was the main attraction for tourists and provided the best in overnight accommodations for the next four decades, according to the City of Tempe. Today, Tempe Mission Palms carries in that tradition, celebrating 40 years of Tempe hospitality while also serving as a popular staycation and vacation destination.
Not only did this elevated hotel change the landscape in terms of hosting groups and events; it is also a trailblazer on the hospitality front, paving the way for the experiences and amenities that greet visitors and locals today.
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Continuing a legacy in Tempe hospitality
From the grand opening of Tempe Town Lake on Nov. 7, 1999, to the debut of the Tempe Streetcar in 2022 — and beyond — Tempe Mission Palms has been welcoming local staycationers and visiting guests with the warm hospitality and exquisite amenities.
Located adjacent to Arizona State University’s (ASU) Tempe campus and in the heart of downtown, Tempe Mission Palms is a highly sought-after AAA Four Diamond Rated property. This celebrated retreat features 303 modern Arizona-designed guest rooms, 6 upscale suites, lobby and 30,000 square feet of meeting and event space.
“First-time guests always comment on the courtyard when they arrive,” says Melanie Volkers, director of sales, marketing and events for Tempe Mission Palms. “They comment on how unexpected it is in a downtown setting. The palm trees, citrus trees and flower-lined walkways let guests know that we are not a traditional downtown hotel.”
The hotel also features gorgeous fountains that accentuate the lush courtyard and its desert-inspired serenity.
Summer in Tempe
This summer, guests are invited to experience a piece of Tempe’s history with a discounted staycation at Tempe Mission Palms as part of Tempe Tourism’s Summer in Tempe campaign.
For the first time ever, Tempe Tourism launched Summer in Tempe. This season-long promotion pairs hotel package deals with a discounted summer dining series. The promotion includes incredible deals available at 19 hotel properties — including Tempe Mission Palms — redeemable before Aug. 31.
“Tempe Tourism is inviting locals and visitors to rediscover our city this summer,” says Michael Martin, president and CEO of Tempe Tourism. “We’re collaborating with some of our best hotel properties to invite locals and visitors to reimagine their summer staycation possibilities and reacquaint themselves with what Tempe has to offer.”
Rooftop views and onsite dining spots
As the first Tempe property to debut a rooftop pool, Tempe Mission Palms is home to a pool deck oasis that includes free cabanas and stunning front-row views of the city’s most captivating landmarks.
“Our pool deck is [a] favorite spot at the hotel because the views tell the story of Tempe,” Volkers says. “Looking to the north, you’ve got the Hayden Flour Mill and Tempe Town Lake in the distance. That view also showcases a lot of the new development and the businesses that have made Tempe home in the past few years.”
While admiring rooftop views, guests can order tacos, handhelds and salads along with an inventive variety of blended drinks, craft cocktails and beer at Cabana Bar & Grill. Other onsite restaurants include Mission Grille restaurant and Harry Place Lounge.
“Harry’s Place got a bit of a refresh earlier this year, and it looks great,” Volkers explains. “[It’s] a comfortable spot where guests and locals can gather at the communal table or on the patio to relax and unwind while reflecting on the day with a glass of wine and some great food.”
Book your next stay
At Tempe Mission Palms, the Summer in Tempe deal includes 15% off your stay, $25 daily food & beverage credit at Mission Grille, Harry’s Place, Cabana Pool, or in-room dining and one complimentary cabana during your stay.
To find out more on Tempe’s hottest summer deals as well as participating hotels and restaurants, visit SummerInTempe.com.
