With gorgeous hiking against mountainous backdrops and tons of historical sites, Phoenix is an excellent destination for those on a budget.
The Valley of the Sun provides free and cheap things to do that will suit just about any interest.
So, for your next adventure in the American Southwest, here are 10 free things to do in Phoenix:
1. Dixie Mountain
Nothing says free quite like a hike out in nature.
The Dixie Mountain Loop is the perfect moderate hike for outdoor lovers of all experience levels. Located in Phoenix's Sonoran Desert Preserve, this 4.6-mile loop trail offers stunning views of the area's wild cacti and other distinctive desert plants. Plus, it’s dog-friendly, so you won’t have to leave your furry friend at home.
2. Free Museum Days
Phoenix is home to over a dozen world-class museums. Unfortunately, most of them charge an admission fee to get in. However, several of the biggest ones offer free days on a weekly and monthly basis.
Among these are the Phoenix Art Museum, the Heard Museum, and the Children’s Museum of Phoenix.
The Phoenix Art Museum features more than 20,000 objects across a vast array of collecting areas, including European art, fashion design, and Western American art. It is free to visit every Wednesday from 3 - 7 PM as well as the first Friday of every month.
Similarly, the Heard Museum and the Children’s Museum of Phoenix offer free access on the first Friday of every month. The Heard Museum is a bastion for the preservation and celebration of Native American art and material culture, particularly that of the Akimel O’otham Indians who lived on the land that later became Phoenix. The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is an interactive institution brimming with exhibits that help kids learn, collaborate, and use their imaginations.
3. Arizona Capitol Museum
Visiting the Arizona Capitol Museum is a great way to learn about Arizona’s political and cultural history, making it one of the best free things to do in Phoenix. Here, visitors can explore interesting artifacts and wonderful exhibits that chronicle the rich history of the Grand Canyon State. From ancient Indigenous pottery to yesterday’s state political memorabilia, there's something unique to discover in each section of the museum. Plus, the building itself is stunning.
It was constructed with local materials designed to withstand the heat of the Arizona desert. The building’s architectural style is classically inspired, flanked by Ionic columns and a copper rotunda with an imitation of the Winged Victory of Samothrace at the top.
4. South Mountain Park and Preserve
The South Mountain Park and Preserve offers vibrant natural beauty about 20 minutes south of Phoenix. Here you’ll find plenty of hiking options with stunning summit views.
Dobbin’s Lookout provides, perhaps, the best view of the city of Phoenix available. From the summit of this hike, you’ll be able to take in sweeping vistas of Phoenix and its surrounding metro region as well as other natural features.
5. Street art at Roosevelt Row
Roosevelt Row in Phoenix is known for its vibrant street art. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a local, stepping off the light rail and into this artistic hub can be an inspiring experience. You'll find walls covered in geometric shapes, abstract designs, modern art installations and much more. Each artist has their own unique style, which is evident once you take a closer look at each individual piece of art. Best of all, a stroll around this part of town is absolutely free. It's no wonder Roosevelt Row is widely celebrated by artists and visitors alike – it's a stunning display of urban beauty that truly needs to be seen to be believed.
6. Old Town Scottsdale (Wild West)
Old Town in neighboring Scottsdale looks like it was ripped out of a pioneer storybook. The district is built to resemble an 1800s frontier town, replete with saloons, shops, and restaurants. Luckily, you won’t find any ornery cowboys or shootouts in the street here today. But you will find a vibrant town filled with arts, history, and nightlife!
7. Encanto Park
Encanto Park is a great spot to explore if you’re looking for free things to do in Phoenix! Located by Midtown, it offers visitors beautiful scenery, like the Encanto Lagoon and Palm trees. The park also provides recreational activities such as fishing, golf and tennis, along with a playground and walking trails. With events created for both kids and adults throughout the year, there's always something new to experience at Encanto Park. And if you're looking for events to join on your visit, make sure to check out their upcoming list. Whether you're looking for outdoor fun or just some quiet time outside, visiting Encanto Park is sure to be a memorable experience!
8. Phoenix Bat Cave
One of the hidden secrets of Phoenix, this free opportunity is one that you do not want to miss when visiting Phoenix.
The Phoenix Bat Cave offers a unique opportunity to get an up-close read on wildlife. Here you can actually see thousands of bats actively occupying their daytime resting grounds and going out in search of food at night. It's truly amazing to watch them soar in and out until the sky is filled with them. To witness this remarkable sight, late September to early October is the best time to visit – though you're still likely to catch some exciting activity even outside of that window. Whether it's during peak season or not, make sure you don't miss the chance to observe nature in action at the Phoenix Bat Cave!
9. Camelback Mountain
Visiting Camelback Mountain in Phoenix is like a rite of passage for hikers, nature lovers, and thrill-seekers alike. The mountain's summit offers breathtaking vistas of the Sonoran Desert and the surrounding urban sprawl of downtown Phoenix. Whether you are seeking an adrenaline rush on the trails or some amazing photo ops, Camelback Mountain has got you covered. Only a little over 20 minutes from downtown Phoenix and 10 minutes from Scottsdale, this is a very accessible day hike when visiting Phoenix.
10. Papago Park
Papago Park is a sprawling green space inside the city of Phoenix. It’s home to some of the best attractions that the city has to offer, including the Phoenix Zoo, Desert Botanical Garden, and the Japanese Friendship Garden. But it also has free sites, such as the Hole in the Rock hiking trail. Take a stroll around Papago Park for a relaxing afternoon in Phoenix.
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