Get to know Phoenix regardless of your budget!
It’s true, sometimes traveling and sightseeing are expensive. However, there are always good options for locals and tourists who travel on a budget; you have to be creative and open to different plans. Phoenix is a great city to get to know with a small budget, so don’t worry, we’re sure you’re in for a treat.
We’ve made a list of the best free things to do in Phoenix.
1. Desert Botanical Garden
Learn more about desert plans at this beautiful 140-acre garden. They offer free admission for everyone on the second Tuesday of every month.
Where: đź“ŤPapago Park 1201 N Galvin Pkwy
2. Goldfield Ghost Town
Visit an old abandoned mining town just 45 minutes away from Phoenix. Most of the attractions are $10 or free. You’ll even be able to witness an Old West gunfight.
Where: đź“Ť4650 N Mammoth Mine Road
3. Phoenix Art Museum
The Phoenix Art Museum has different programs to make culture and art accessible to all. They have the Pay-What-You-Wish program on Wednesdays, where General Admission is free, but you’re welcome to donate money to the museum. On the other hand, First Fridays are held every month, with live music, dance performances, and art-making activities all included with a Free Admission Ticket.
Note: Special exhibitions require a ticket.
Secret tip: Buy tickets online and skip the line during popular visitor times.
Where: đź“Ť1625 N Central Avenue
4. South Mountain Park
The perfect option for nature lovers. This park is full of trails, wildlife and the best spot to look at panoramic city views. Plan a hike, bicycle ride, picnic, or dog walk. Don’t forget your camera!
Where: đź“Ť10910 S Central Avenue
5. Children’s Museum of Phoenix
This museum includes three floors of fun, a climbing structure, and various rooms, including reading nooks, exhibits, and a nursing room. Explore it for free during the first Friday night of most months. Check their calendar for more information.
Where: đź“Ť215 N 7th Street
6. Tomb of Arizona’s First governor
The Hunt’s tomb is a small white pyramid at the top of a hill within Papago Park. George W.P Hunt was Arizona’s first governor and had the tomb built in 1931 for his wife. Three years later, he was placed there too.
Where: đź“ŤPapago Park
7. The Phoenix Police Museum
This museum is always FREE! They feature Phoenix’s law enforcement history over the past 130 years with photographs, equipment, and real stories that will bring everything to life.
Where: Maricopa County Courthouseđź“Ť Historic City Hall, 17S 2nd Avenue
8. Roosevelt Row Arts District
Take a walk through Roosevelt Row, home to art galleries, restaurants, bars, and boutique shops surrounded by all types of colorful street art.
Where: đź“Ť333 E Roosevelt Street
Featured image by Chris Hardin @liquid_living.