Family Visiting from out of state, things to do in Tempe? (Phoenix: restaurants, shop)

[Bluejay55]

Hi all,

My parents are visiting from out of state and I am also new to the area. They wanted to get a sense of the phoenix area so I've taken them to the botanical gardens and the Phoenix Art Museum. They are at the Musical Instrument Museum today. I am thinking of taking them to Tempe tomorrow but have never been. Is it worth a day trip? We would like a nice downtown to walk around and my dad is into astronomy so I thought we'd go check out the astronomy department at ASU. Any suggestions for things to do and see in Tempe, or any restaurant recommendations for lunch? We like all kind of food just want to find a restaurant you'd consider worth a visit.

Thank you!

[Bungle]

I'd suggest just walking around Mill Ave and checking out the restaurants and other shopping. I really enjoyed the food at Handlebar when I had lunch there recently. It's a really nice open place and the weather should be perfect to be outdoors tomorrow

[observer53]

I don't know what is available during the day tomorrow in terms of the astronomy department at ASU. Here's a link, it looks like shows are Wed evening and Sat afternoon. Scan down to "public programs". http://sese.asu.edu/outreach There are some interesting restaurants downtown, not all of them chains.