Explore Phoenix on a budget with a plethora of free activities. Dive in to discover the best ways to experience this bustling desert city without opening your wallet.
Here’s What’s Covered in This Article
- 20 Free Things to Do in Phoenix
- Stay Updated in Phoenix: Weather and Events
- Simple Solutions for Booking Hotels and Renting Cars in Phoenix
20 Free Things to Do in Phoenix
Here are the free activities you should try in Phoenix:
- Hike Camelback Mountain
- Visit Phoenix Art Museum
- Wander Through Desert Botanical Garden
- Explore Papago Park
- Walk Around Roosevelt Row
- Enjoy First Friday Art Walk
- Visit Heard Museum
- Stroll Along Tempe Town Lake
- Visit Arizona State Capitol Museum
- Attend a Downtown Phoenix Farmers Market
- Explore South Mountain Park
- Visit Pueblo Grande Museum
- Walk Around Heritage Square
- Visit Phoenix Public Library
- Explore Japanese Friendship Garden
- Visit Phoenix Children’s Museum
- Walk Around Asu Tempe Campus
- Explore Phoenix Mountain Preserve
- Visit Phoenix Trolley Museum
- Walk Around Encanto Park
1. Hike Camelback Mountain
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Sky Harbor Airport and Camelback Mountain at Night by
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Hiking Camelback Mountain is a rewarding adventure that offers breathtaking views of Phoenix. This popular outdoor activity will challenge your physical stamina while giving you an opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning desert landscape.
- Location/Address: Camelback Mountain, Phoenix, Arizona, 85018.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The trail is accessible from sunrise to sunset. However, the best time to hike is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday heat.
- Nearby Landmarks: Echo Canyon Recreation Area, Cholla Trail, and Paradise Valley.
- Tips: Stay hydrated and wear sun protection due to the intense desert sun. Also, good hiking shoes are recommended for the rocky trail.
2. Visit Phoenix Art Museum
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Park Howell by
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Immerse yourself in a world of creativity at the Phoenix Art Museum, an enriching and budget-friendly activity in Phoenix. Here, you can explore an extensive collection of visual arts from all around the globe, spanning various periods and styles, all for free.
- Location/Address: Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM from Wednesday to Sunday. The best time to visit is on Wednesdays, when admission is free from 3 PM to 7 PM.
- Nearby Landmarks: Margaret T. Hance Park, Japanese Friendship Garden.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the museum is quite expansive and involves a substantial amount of walking.
3. Wander Through Desert Botanical Garden
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Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix by
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Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Sonoran Desert at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix. Here, you can explore a stunning array of native plants and cacti, spread across five thematic trails. The garden offers a unique insight into the rich biodiversity of the desert, making it an educational and enjoyable outing.
- Location/Address: 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The garden is open from 7 AM to 8 PM daily. Early mornings or late afternoons are best to avoid the heat.
- Nearby Landmarks: Papago Park, Phoenix Zoo.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during your exploration.
4. Explore Papago Park
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Papago Park in Phoenix by
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Papago Park is a captivating outdoor destination in Phoenix, offering a unique blend of nature, history, and scenic views. Here, you can hike through the desert landscape, marvel at the distinctive red rock formations, or explore the intriguing Hole-in-the-Rock.
- Location/Address: Papago Park, 625 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The park is open from 5 AM to 11 PM daily. For cooler temperatures and less crowded trails, consider a visit early in the morning or just before sunset.
- Nearby Landmarks: Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix Zoo.
- Tips: Bring plenty of water and wear sun protection as the desert sun can be intense, especially during the summer months.
5. Walk Around Roosevelt Row
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Roosevelt row graffiti by
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Roosevelt Row is a vibrant, walkable arts district in downtown Phoenix. Known for its creative spirit, you can explore a variety of street art, galleries, boutiques, and local restaurants. This is a wonderful, free way to experience Phoenix’s urban culture and art scene.
- Location/Address: Roosevelt Row, Phoenix, AZ 85004.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: Roosevelt Row can be visited anytime, but the best time to explore is during the monthly First Fridays Art Walk from 6 PM to 10 PM.
- Nearby Landmarks: Phoenix Art Museum, Arizona State University Downtown Campus.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking a lot, and check out the local boutiques for unique Phoenix-made goods.
6. Enjoy First Friday Art Walk
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Immerse yourself in Phoenix’s vibrant arts scene on the First Friday Art Walk. This free event allows you to explore multiple galleries and art spaces, meet local artists, and even enjoy live performances and food trucks.
- Location/Address: Roosevelt Street and Grand Avenue, Downtown Phoenix, AZ.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The Art Walk takes place on the first Friday of every month, from 6 PM to 10 PM.
- Nearby Landmarks: Roosevelt Row, Phoenix Art Museum.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the event involves quite a bit of walking.
7. Visit Heard Museum
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Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Native American art at the Heard Museum. Here, you can appreciate an impressive collection of traditional and contemporary art pieces, artifacts, and exhibits that perfectly capture the spirit of Native American communities.
- Location/Address: Heard Museum, 2301 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The museum is open from 10 AM to 4 PM, Tuesday to Sunday. The first Friday of every month offers free admission from 4 PM to 8 PM.
- Nearby Landmarks: Phoenix Art Museum, Margaret T. Hance Park.
- Tips: Check out their events calendar before your visit, as they often host free public programs, lectures, and art demonstrations.
8. Stroll Along Tempe Town Lake
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Ocotillo Power Plant at Night by
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Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Phoenix by taking a leisurely stroll along Tempe Town Lake. This man-made lake offers panoramic views of the city’s skyline and surrounding mountains, giving you a chance to take in the stunning scenery while enjoying a dose of tranquility within the city.
- Location/Address: 80 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The lake is open 24 hours, but the best time to take a stroll is during sunrise or sunset when the views are particularly breathtaking.
- Nearby Landmarks: Mill Avenue District, Sun Devil Stadium, Tempe Beach Park.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes to make the most of your stroll and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated in the desert climate.
9. Visit Arizona State Capitol Museum
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Anthony Kern by
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Step into Arizona’s vibrant past at the Arizona State Capitol Museum. This free attraction allows you to delve into the state’s unique legislative and cultural history through four floors of exhibits and displays. You can explore everything from the restored office of Governor Hunt to the USS Arizona silver service.
- Location/Address: 1700 W Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85007.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The museum is open from 9 AM to 4 PM, Monday through Friday. It’s least crowded in the early morning.
- Nearby Landmarks: Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza, Phoenix Art Museum.
- Tips: Take advantage of the free guided tours to get a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits.
10. Attend a Downtown Phoenix Farmers Market
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Farmer’s Market by
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The Downtown Phoenix Farmers Market is a vibrant hub of activity that embodies the local spirit of Phoenix. Here, you can explore a diverse range of fresh produce, homemade goods, and artisanal crafts, all while interacting with the city’s friendly local vendors.
- Location/Address: 721 N Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85004.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The market is open every Saturday from 8 AM to 1 PM. Early morning is the best time to visit for the freshest produce.
- Nearby Landmarks: The market is just a short walk from Roosevelt Row and the Arizona Center.
- Tips: Bring your own reusable bags to carry your purchases and support the market’s commitment to sustainability.
11. Explore South Mountain Park
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Take a refreshing break from the bustling city life and explore South Mountain Park in Phoenix. This vast urban park offers you a chance to immerse yourself in nature, with miles of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding desert from Dobbins Lookout.
- Location/Address: 10919 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042, United States.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: South Mountain Park is open from 5 AM to 11 PM. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon to avoid the desert heat.
- Nearby Landmarks: Mystery Castle, South Mountain Environmental Education Center.
- Tips: Ensure you bring plenty of water and wear sun protection, as the Arizona sun can be quite harsh especially in the middle of the day.
12. Visit Pueblo Grande Museum
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Phoenix-Pueblo Grande Ruin-Museum by
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Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Southwest at the Pueblo Grande Museum. Here, you can explore the ruins of a 1,500-year-old Hohokam village, wander through an impressive gallery of pre-Columbian artifacts, and enjoy the tranquil scenery of the museum’s desert botanical garden.
- Location/Address: 4619 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85034.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The museum is open from 9 AM to 4:45 PM, Tuesday to Saturday. The best time to visit is during a cooler part of the day to fully enjoy exploring the outdoor archaeological site.
- Nearby Landmarks: Phoenix Zoo, Papago Park.
- Tips: Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing lots of walking around the site.
13. Walk Around Heritage Square
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Heritage Square is a charming, historic heart of Phoenix that takes you back in time. As you stroll around, you can explore beautifully restored Victorian-era homes, quaint shops, and unique architecture at your own pace. This vibrant area also offers a peek into the city’s vibrant past.
- Location/Address: 113 N 6th St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: Heritage Square is open to the public from 10 AM to 4:30 PM. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler.
- Nearby Landmarks: Arizona Science Center, Children’s Museum of Phoenix.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and consider bringing a hat or umbrella for shade during the hotter months.
14. Visit Phoenix Public Library
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Green shelving – Palo Verde Library, Phoenix Public Library by
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Immerse yourself in a world of knowledge and discovery at the Phoenix Public Library. From captivating books and multimedia materials to engaging educational programs and workshops, you can quench your thirst for learning without spending a dime. It’s the perfect spot for book lovers, lifelong learners, and curious minds alike.
- Location/Address: 1221 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The library is open from 9 AM to 5 PM from Monday to Saturday, and 1 PM to 5 PM on Sundays. Check their online schedule for upcoming events and workshops.
- Nearby Landmarks: The Heard Museum, Phoenix Art Museum.
- Tips: Take advantage of the library’s free Wi-Fi and comfortable reading spaces to maximize your visit.
15. Explore Japanese Friendship Garden
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Japanese Friendship Garden with Mom and Emma by
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Immerse yourself in tranquility at the Japanese Friendship Garden in Phoenix. Here, you can wander through meticulously landscaped paths, soak in the serene ambiance, and learn about Japanese culture and aesthetics.
- Location/Address: 1125 N 3rd Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: Open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 4 PM. The most tranquil time to visit is early morning when the crowds are thinner.
- Nearby Landmarks: Margaret T. Hance Park, Phoenix Center for the Arts.
- Tips: Check the events schedule before your visit, as the garden occasionally hosts tea ceremonies and other cultural events.
16. Visit Phoenix Children’s Museum
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Indian School exhibit, Heard Museum, Phoenix by
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Phoenix Children’s Museum is a vibrant, interactive space perfect for young explorers. It offers a wealth of fun, educational exhibits that fuel creativity and imagination. Here, you can let your children learn through play, sparking curiosity that lasts a lifetime.
- Location/Address: 215 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85034.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The Museum is open from 9 AM to 4 PM, Tuesday through Sunday. Mornings tend to be less crowded.
- Nearby Landmarks: Heritage Square, Arizona Science Center.
- Tips: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes as most of the exhibits are interactive and hands-on.
17. Walk Around Asu Tempe Campus
Explore the heart of Arizona’s learning hub at the ASU Tempe Campus. This sprawling university offers a variety of architectural styles, art installations, and peaceful green spaces. You can stroll around and soak up the academic atmosphere, all for free.
- Location/Address: Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The campus is open 24 hours, but a daytime visit (especially between 10 AM and 4:30 PM) allows you to see the campus in full swing.
- Nearby Landmarks: Sun Devil Stadium, Gammage Auditorium.
- Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes as the campus is expansive. And try to visit during the week when classes are in session to get a true feel of the university life.
18. Explore Phoenix Mountain Preserve
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City of Wonder, Sedona, Arizona by
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Phoenix Mountain Preserve is a scenic haven right in the heart of the city, offering a variety of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. With its stunning desert landscapes and panoramic views of Phoenix, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure and relaxation.
- Location/Address: Phoenix Mountain Preserve, Phoenix, AZ 85028.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The Preserve is open from 5 AM to 11 PM daily. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
- Nearby Landmarks: Dreamy Draw Recreation Area, Piestewa Peak.
- Tips: Make sure to wear suitable footwear for hiking and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
19. Visit Phoenix Trolley Museum
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Immerse yourself in Phoenix’s rich historical tapestry at the Phoenix Trolley Museum. Here, you can enjoy an engaging journey through the city’s public transportation history, exploring vintage trolleys and fascinating exhibits.
- Location/Address: 1117 Grand Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The museum is open from 10 AM to 4 PM on Saturdays. The best time to visit is in the morning when it’s less crowded.
- Nearby Landmarks: Arizona State Capitol, Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix.
- Tips: Check their website for any special events or exhibits taking place during your visit.
20. Walk Around Encanto Park
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Encanto Waterfall (Night) by
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Encanto Park is a refreshing oasis in the heart of Phoenix offering a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. You can lose yourself in the lush greenery, take a leisurely stroll around the lake, and enjoy the park’s picturesque scenery.
- Location/Address: 2605 N 15th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007, United States.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The park is open from 5:30 AM to 10 PM, but the best time to visit is during the cool early mornings or late afternoons.
- Nearby Landmarks: Encanto Golf Course, Phoenix Art Museum, Heard Museum.
- Tips: Don’t miss the chance to feed the ducks at the lake – bring some bread or grains. Always remember to wear comfortable shoes for walking.
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