We all like free things don’t we? Here are 10 free things to do in Phoenix, either while you’re on vacation or if you live here and haven’t explored Phoenix enough!
#10 South Mountain
South Mountain is a 16,000-acre park filled with wildlife, hiking trails, and fabulous views of Phoenix. South Mountain is a city park and visitors are welcome to hike, picnic, take amazing photos and so much more. Spend a few hours or spend a full day, you won’t be disappointed. Be sure and check out Dobbins Lookout, the view is spectacular.
#9 Camelback Mountain
While we are talking about mountains, let’s talk about Camelback. This mountain is one of the most challenging mountains in the state. Hiking Camelback is free, but don’t underestimate this mountain, you don’t want to leave in a rescue helicopter. Take plenty of water and know your limits and you will enjoy hiking Camelback Mountain.
Photo by Chris Tingom on Unsplash
#8 ASU Art Museum
The motto of The ASU Art Museum is Arte para todos, meaning Art for all! Admission to the museum is free and there is free parking also. Exhibits rotate often so there is always something new to see. Take some time and explore the museum and enjoy the free cultural experience.
#7 Papago Park
Papago Park is another amazing outdoor attraction. The mountain is known for the hole in the rock scenic view. The climb to the hole in the rock isn’t too difficult, just be sure to have water with you. You will dehydrate faster here in the desert.
#6 Museums
Phoenix is home to many museums. From art museums to toy museums and everything in between, Phoenix has you covered with any museum you could want to see! While most museums are not free, many have a certain day of the week that admission is free. Do some research and find the designated free day and go check out one of these amazing museums.
Some of my favorites are Desert Botanical Gardens, Musical Instrument Museum, Children’s Museum, and Arizona Science Center.
#5 Sahuaro Ranch Historic District
Sahuaro Ranch Historic District is a park in Glendale, Az. Listed on the National Register of Historical Places and known as the “Showplace of the Valley,” the Historic Sahuaro Ranch offers activities, exhibits, and guided tours—keeping the history of early settlement in the Valley alive. The ranch is free, except for some special events, just check the calendar before you visit to see if there are special events taking place when you want to visit.
The park has picnic areas, Ramadas, playgrounds, orchards, and even peacocks! It’s a nice place to take a break and enjoy nature and learn more about the history of the area.
#4 Roosevelt Row
Roosevelt Row affectionately known as “RoRo” is an art district in downtown Phoenix. The area is known for public art, live music performances, art galleries, eclectic boutiques, independent businesses, and much more. Several festivals are held in the area including First Fridays, Chili Pepper festival, Pie Social, to name a few. Rosevelt Row gives artists from all backgrounds a place to showcase their art.
#3 McCormick-Stillman Railway Park
The McCormick-Stillman Railway Park, commonly known as The Railroad Park, is a great place to take the kids to play and have some fun. The park itself is free, but they do have a carousel, and train rides that cost a small fee. The railroad museum on the property is free to all visitors.
#2 Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shop
Cabela’s in Glendale and Bass Pro Shop in Mesa are outdoor sporting good stores that have museum-like animal displays and aquariums. Each store offers various free activities within the store to entertain guests of all ages. The stores also host family nights with crafts and activities for kids.
#1 Apache Trail
Apache Trail is also known as Route 88 and is one of the most scenic drives in the state. Apache Trail is 40 miles of canyons, geologic formations, desert plants and trees, desert and lake views, and seasonal wildflowers blooming at certain times of the year. As beautiful as this drive is it is best to avoid it on windy days, rainy days, or excessively hot days.
10 Free Things to Do
As you see most of the best free places in Arizona are outside. The great Arizona weather makes it perfect to explore these places year-round. While there are more than 10 free things in Phoenix to do, these 10 will give you a great start as you explore this great city.