Best Instagram Spots in Tempe for ASU Students
Read Time: 4 Min
Best Instagram Spots in Tempe for ASU Students
If you live at The Carmin (or anywhere near ASU), you’re in one of the easiest cities to take good photos without planning a whole “photo day.” You’ve got a quick hike with skyline views, a lake that always looks good at golden hour, a legit historic bridge, and a modern arts center that gives clean, editorial backdrops.
1) Hayden Butte Preserve (A Mountain)
“A” Mountain is the quick-win hike that makes your camera roll look like you actually had plans. It’s short, it’s close, and once you’re up there you get downtown Tempe, ASU vibes, and the lake all in one view. It’s especially worth it when the sun’s low and the city starts glowing.
Where: Mill Ave. and 5th St., Tempe, AZ 85281.
Get the Perfect Shot!
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•The classic “top of Tempe” wide shot where you look tiny and the city looks huge
•A sunset silhouette with the skyline behind you
•A quick reel: start at the base, hiking clips, then the reveal view at the top
2) Tempe Town Lake
Tempe Town Lake is perfect when you want photos that look good but feel casual. It’s easy to walk, jog, or bike around, and the water reflections make even simple outfit pics look cleaner. You can show up for 20 minutes, get content, and still make it back before your next class.
Where: In the heart of Tempe, running from west of McClintock Road to east of Priest Road, between Rio Salado Parkway and Curry Road.
Get the Perfect Shot!
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•Golden hour portraits with the water behind you
•Blue hour shots right after sunset when lights reflect on the lake
•A simple “walk with me” reel using the path as a leading line
3) Tempe (Old Mill Avenue) Bridge
This is the Tempe landmark that instantly makes your photos feel more “city” than “campus.” It’s not just a pretty bridge either. It’s a historic spot that’s been in continuous use since it was built, so it has a real story behind the shot.
Details you need
Where: Mill Ave & Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281.
Get the Perfect Shot!
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•Wide shot across the water with the bridge centered
•Night shots when the lights make everything look cinematic
•Walking candid on or near the bridge for that “downtown Tempe” vibe
4) Tempe Center for the Arts (TCA)
If you want clean, modern backdrops that make your photos look polished, TCA is the easiest win. The building lines, walkways, and the lake nearby give you that “editorial” look without needing a fancy location or props.
Where: 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, AZ 85281.
Get the Perfect Shot!
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•Outfit shots with the clean architecture as your background
•Wide shots with the building and lake in the same frame
•Close-up “details” shots of lines, shadows, and textures for variety
FAQ
Q: What are the best Instagram spots near ASU?
A: Popular spots include Hayden Butte Preserve (A Mountain), Tempe Town Lake, Tempe (Old Mill Avenue) Bridge, and Tempe Center for the Arts.
Q: Where can I take skyline photos in Tempe?
A: Hayden Butte Preserve (A Mountain) offers skyline views of downtown Tempe, ASU, and Tempe Town Lake.
Q: What’s the best place for golden hour photos in Tempe?
A: Tempe Town Lake is ideal for golden hour and blue hour photos thanks to water reflections.
Q: Where can I take modern, clean-looking photos near ASU?
A: Tempe Center for the Arts is perfect for modern, editorial-style photos.
Q: Are these Instagram spots close to ASU?
A: Yes, all of these locations are in Tempe and are easily accessible from the ASU campus.
