Located in the heart of the Greater Phoenix area, Tempe, Arizona is the home of Arizona State University. Pulsating with the energy you would expect from a lively college town, the City of Tempe is packed with the type of charming attractions you would expect from a first-rate vacation destination. Today, Tempe boasts a steady local economy based on technology, commerce and tourism, as well as one of the most popular moving destinations.
History:
Mexican settlers founded two towns, San Pablo and Hayden's Ferry. Both settlements grew rapidly and soon formed one city. In 1879, that town was named Tempe. Constructed in the late 1880s, the Maricopa and Phoenix Railroad intersected the Salt River at Tempe, linking the town to the country's growing transportation system. In order to sell land in the budding town, the Tempe Land and Improvement Company was formed. Not long after, the City of Tempe became one of the most significant business and shipping centers of the area.
Following World War II, the city began expanding quickly as veterans and other settlers moved to the western city. The last of the local farms quickly disappeared, and the City of Tempe grew into a modern city. The city's small teachers college also grew, and in 1958, the institution became Arizona State University.
Economy:
Tempe boasts one of the nation's most diverse business communities. Hosting a large number of businesses within the city, Tempe has created a solid local job market for residents to enjoy. The city's largest economic producer is in advanced business services, such as investment banking, credit and mortgage sales. These businesses are fundamental to the local economy, and help keep the community maintained. Tempe's accessibility to freeways and the Sky Harbor International Airport make the city a choice location for nearly any business. There are more than 3,000 finance, insurance and real estate companies and over 7,000 advanced business service companies bringing in over $7 million annually to the city's local economy. Top business services providers in the city include the regional headquarters for Chase Manhattan Bank, Edward Jones and Wells Fargo Loan Services. In addition, Arizona State University provides a steady flow of educated employees to the city's local workforce.
Tourism:
Outdoor recreation options such as hiking, biking and kayaking are always close by in Tempe. Take in one of the city's many amateur, collegiate and professional sports. From its baseball spring training sites to the Ford Ironman Tempe triathlon, Tempe offers something for every sports fanatic. Next, head over to Arizona State University where you and your group will enjoy more than 20 free museums and galleries. The city's nightlife offers blocks of happening hot spots to enjoy: Visit Tempe Marketplace, Mill Avenue and the streets surrounding the college for bars, late night dining options dueling pianos and interesting street performers. Before the night ends, consider catching a flick, shop at one of city's unique boutiques or enjoy a nice quiet diner at one of the city's late night restaurants.