Moxy Phoenix Tempe/ASU Area is a design-led Marriott hotel at 1333 S Rural Road, Tempe, Arizona 85281, in the Arizona State University campus area near Apache Boulevard. Opened in 2016 as the first Moxy hotel in the United States, it trades conventional hotel formality for retro styling, a sociable lobby bar, games, and an outdoor pool. Travelers choose it for ASU visits, university events, and a casual base with streetcar access to downtown Tempe.
What to Expect at Moxy Phoenix Tempe/ASU Area
The experience centers on Bar Moxy, where the reception-and-bar concept makes arrival feel more like entering a neighborhood gathering place than a traditional hotel lobby. Communal seating, playful furnishings, and games encourage lingering outside your room. This is a contemporary conversion rather than a historic luxury property: the appeal lies in its informal atmosphere and proximity to campus. Expect more activity during football weekends, graduation, and other major ASU events.
Guest rooms continue the pared-back, retro-influenced design, with practical sleeping space rather than expansive resort-style layouts. Compare bed configurations and accessible-room descriptions when booking, especially for families or longer stays. The outdoor pool provides a break from sightseeing, while the fitness center supports a regular workout. Food and drink lean toward bar service and convenient snacks rather than a destination tasting menu; check current service hours and dietary options before relying on the hotel for dinner.
- Bar Moxy: The hotel’s social focal point combines drinks, conversation, and its distinctive bar-centered arrival experience.
- Outdoor pool: An open-air swimming area offers downtime between campus appointments and evening plans.
- Lobby games: Shared recreational spaces make the hotel particularly appealing to friends and sociable solo travelers.
- Fitness center: On-site exercise facilities add convenience for business trips and multi-night university visits.
- ASU location: The Rural Road address puts the eastern and southern portions of the Tempe campus within walking distance.
Moxy Phoenix Tempe/ASU Area at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 1333 S Rural Road, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States |
| Neighborhood / Area | ASU campus area, near Rural Road and Apache Boulevard |
| Operating Hours | Hotel reception operates 24 hours; check-in and checkout times appear on your reservation. Bar and pool hours vary. |
| Admission / Price Range | Paid overnight accommodation; $$, with date-dependent rates and additional parking charges |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 2 to 3 nights |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | Tempe Streetcar at Rural/Apache; Valley Metro bus Route 72 on Rural Road; paid on-site parking |
| Official Website & Phone | Official Marriott website; +1 480-968-3451 |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Reserve early for ASU commencement, family weekends, spring training, and home football games: these dates can substantially change the nightly rate. Compare the complete stay total, including taxes, parking, and any pet charges. For a quieter room, request a location away from the lobby and pool, recognizing that assignments depend on availability. Accessible guest rooms and elevators are available; specify the bathroom configuration and mobility features you need rather than simply requesting an accessible room.
The Rural/Apache streetcar stop is the most convenient rail connection, while Route 72 follows Rural Road. Valley Metro light rail’s University Drive/Rural station is farther north; use the streetcar connection when heat or luggage makes walking unattractive. Paid on-site parking suits drivers, but a car is unnecessary for every campus outing. Walk roughly 10 minutes to ASU’s Biodesign Institute area or around 15 minutes west toward ASU Gammage, Frank Lloyd Wright’s circular performing-arts building. Apache Boulevard’s nearby dining options provide another easy pairing. In summer, carry water and prioritize shaded routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the hotel open, and when should I visit?
The hotel operates year-round with round-the-clock reception, although individual amenities keep separate hours. November through April generally offers more comfortable walking weather; check ASU’s event calendar before choosing dates.
How much does a stay cost, and should I reserve ahead?
This is generally a $$ hotel, but rates rise with campus events and seasonal demand. Book through the official Marriott website for your dates, and review cancellation terms, parking charges, and any incidental authorization before arrival.
How long should I stay?
Two to three nights works well for a campus visit, performance, and time around Tempe. Add another night if you plan excursions into Phoenix or Scottsdale rather than concentrating on ASU.
Is Moxy suitable for families and guests with mobility needs?
Families can use the pool and shared games, though the bar-centered atmosphere favors travelers comfortable with an active social setting. Elevators and accessible rooms support mobility needs; contact the hotel about specific transfer, shower, and pool-access requirements before booking.
When planning your Tempe travel guide or comparing verified hotels and wedding venue in Tempe, pair this stop with standout local spots including Caffe Boa, Society, The Westin Tempe, and Board & Brew – Tempe (0.5 km away).
