I agree that Tolleson is not a premiere portion of the Valley.

I would recommend you go to Mill Ave area in Tempe. It is the adjacent to the ASU campus (and the stadium where the Cardinals used to play) There are a bunch of restauranrts, bars and shops. Good place to park the car and just walk around for the evening. It is about 20 miles or so from where you are staying but all highway.

Another option is the Old Town area of Scottsdale (Scottsdale Road and Indian School Road). Some decent restaurants and galleries. This may be 25 - 30 miles from Tolleson.