Tempe Town Lake is a destination and recognized as a top attraction for the state. It's not really a "lake," it is the Salt River that was dammed up in 1911. Walking across the historic Mill Ave bridge offers some beautiful views of the Tempe skyline and downtown Phoenix 20 miles to the west. The Tempe Center for the Arts is here, and is a masterpiece in and of itself. The light rail bridge bursts into colors with the LED light show. There is a baseball field, volleyball courts, hills for jogging and biking and skating, a splash playground, a marina, and public art. Lots of open space to throw a frisbee or play catch. A riparian habitat has been established on the west end past the Arts Center. How can one NOT like Town Lake? There is so much to do.
I walk my dogs here a few times each week and my only complaint is that there is no fenced off dog park.
You can walk from Rural Road to Priest, cross the bridge on Priest and walk all the way back to Rural Road without ever having to stop for a car, or a red light. If you love being outside and enjoying the beautiful Arizona weather then this is the place to be. Take the light rail to 3rd St and Mill and walk north and you'll see the entrance to this historic park. (Oh yeah, did I mention Tempe Beach Park has been around since the 20s?)