18 Affordable (and Free) Activities in and Around Phoenix, Arizona

The vast city of Phoenix, Arizona, may exude an expensive metropolitan atmosphere in its downtown area, yet it also offers a wealth of free or budget-friendly outdoor, artistic, adventurous, and cultural experiences.

Throughout the Valley of the Sun, you'll find numerous museums, trails, markets, and historic landmarks that are inexpensive to explore. Whether you're a seasoned visitor or a first-timer, here’s how to enjoy the highlights of Phoenix and its surroundings without breaking the bank.

1. Discover Phoenix's Contrasts at Heritage Square

Heritage Square is a collection of late-Victorian and early-20th-century homes that starkly contrast with the towering modern skyline of downtown Phoenix. This block is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and many of the buildings have been thoughtfully repurposed, allowing you to peek inside several.

Planning Tip: Not everything is free. If you wish to visit the elegant and well-restored Rosson House Museum, be prepared to pay a $15 admission fee.

2. Explore the Arizona Capitol Museum

The Arizona Capitol Museum stands as a testament to the state’s rich and vibrant history. Visitors can enjoy a variety of educational experiences – all for free – that provide insights into the governmental, political, social, and cultural narratives of Arizona.

3. Plan Your Visit to the Phoenix Art Museum Wisely

The Phoenix Art Museum is Arizona’s leading collection of fine art, showcasing masterpieces by artists such as Claude Monet, Diego Rivera, and Georgia O'Keeffe. On 'Pay-What-You-Wish Wednesday,' admission is based on voluntary donation after 3 PM. Don’t miss AfterHours, which offers free evening access to the museum with live music and entertainment – these events occur four times a year. Family FunDays are also held four times a year on Sundays, featuring free entry and activities designed for art lovers of all ages.

Planning Tip: Head straight to the Western Gallery to see how the breathtaking Arizona landscape has influenced artists from early pioneers to modern creators.

4. Tackle the Challenging Trails of Camelback Mountain

Camelback Mountain is renowned as one of the best hiking spots in the nation. This 2,704-foot twin-peaked mountain is located right in the heart of Phoenix. The two primary trails are extremely challenging, featuring significant elevation changes, rugged terrain, and paths exposed to the elements, so be sure to bring plenty of water and take regular breaks as you make your way to the summit.

The Echo Canyon Trail (4925 E McDonald Dr) is brief yet steep, featuring a 1,264-foot elevation gain over just 1.2 miles (each way) with plenty of hands-on bouldering. It’s an excellent workout that culminates in breathtaking views of the Valley of the Sun.

5. Enjoy Free Admission at the Heard Museum on the First Friday of Most Months

The remarkable, historic Heard Museum highlights the culture, lifestyle, and art of American Indian tribes from the Southwest. Visitors can explore art galleries, ethnographic exhibits, films, a creative space for kids, and an unparalleled collection of Hopi kachinas (elaborate spirit dolls, many donated by Presidential nominee Barry Goldwater).

Planning Tip: On the first Friday of every month (excluding March), admission to the Heard Museum is free from 4–8 PM. Be sure to check for special events that enliven the grounds, such as Indian fairs and stunning hoop dancing competitions. Overall, guests can easily spend two to three hours exploring the exhibits.

6. Participate in a self-guided art walk on First Fridays

Phoenix's First Friday event takes place every first Friday of the month from 6–10 PM, making it one of the largest self-guided art walks in the country. Visitors can explore a wide array of artworks at over 70 galleries, event venues, and art spaces throughout the city – a fantastic way to discover Phoenix's cultural scene.

Planning Tip: Utilize the light rail that travels through downtown Phoenix to easily connect the different art districts.

7. The Desert Botanical Garden hosts a free Community Day each month

The Community Day at the Desert Botanical Garden invites visitors to explore the desert's beauty for free every second Tuesday of the month (be sure to reserve tickets ahead of time). The garden spans 55 acres and features thousands of cactus, trees, and flowers from around the globe. With vibrant blooms like bluebells and Mexican gold poppies appearing from March to May along the Desert Wildflower Loop Trail, this meticulously cared-for garden offers a serene escape to connect with nature while discovering desert flora. Looping trails showcase a variety of desert species, organized by themes including a Sonoran Desert nature loop and an edible desert garden.

Planning Tip: To maximize your experience, plan your path through the garden ahead of time. It’s a stunning location to visit year-round, but spring, when the flowers are in full bloom, is particularly vibrant and busy.

8. Engage at one of the finest children's museums in the US

The Children's Museum of Phoenix is celebrated as one of the top three children's museums in the country. Tailored for children up to 10 years old, it encourages hands-on engagement, allowing kids to touch, explore, create, and be inspired. With over 300 interactive play experiences across three floors, the museum is open for free on the first Friday of each month from 5–9 PM on a first-come, first-served basis.

9. Explore the street art at Roosevelt Row

Located in the downtown area, Roosevelt Row is a vibrant destination for street art enthusiasts. This area aims to promote arts-driven initiatives for artists, entrepreneurs, and community members by fostering a creative, sustainable environment for growth and artistic advocacy. Stroll through and admire the many murals, along with the unique shops, bars, and restaurants scattered throughout the arts district.

Planning Tip: If you're open to spending a little, visit From the Rooftop at Cambria Hotel Downtown Phoenix for a drink and stunning views of the city skyline.

10. Enjoy the picturesque loop around Tempe Town Lake

Walkers, cyclists, and runners will appreciate the picturesque 7-mile loop that wraps around Tempe Town Lake. Established as a reservoir in 1999, Tempe Town Lake is a recreational hub for the community of over 180,000 residents. The path runs along both the north and south shores of the lake, connected by bridges at Priest Dr and Mural Rd. If you wish to shorten your route, a pedestrian bridge near the Tempe Center for the Arts provides a convenient option. Along the walkway, you'll find various public art installations enhancing the scenic views on both sides of the lake.

11. Experience a challenging hike to Piestewa Peak

The hike to Piestewa Peak, adorned with saguaros, ocotillos, and teddy bear cholla, rewards you with stunning vistas from the second-highest point in the Phoenix Mountains, just below Camelback Mountain. This peak is named in honor of Lori Piestewa, a local American Indian soldier and the first American Indian woman to lose her life serving in the US Armed Forces during the Iraq War in 2003.

Planning Tip: The 1.1-mile hike to the 2,600-foot summit is quite demanding but remains extremely popular. Expect heavy crowds on winter weekends, so it's wise to plan your parking in advance.

12. Discover the expansive South Mountain Park and Preserve

Covering over 25 square miles (larger than Manhattan), this park ranks among the largest municipal parks in the nation. It offers excellent opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The 58-mile trail network (leashed dogs welcome) winds through canyons, over cacti-covered hills, and alongside granite formations, providing city panoramas and access to ancient petroglyphs.

Planning Tip: The main entrance is located at 10409 S Central Ave. Consider hiking to Dobbins Lookout, the park's highest peak at 2,330 feet, for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city once you reach the summit.

13. Enjoy running or biking at Papago Park

Famous for its towering buttes that shape the landscape, Papago Park features primarily sandstone terrain with trails that are relatively easy to navigate. It's a favored spot for running and mountain biking.

14. Enjoy a relaxed bike ride along the Tempe Bike Paths

Tempe boasts 175 miles of bikeways, including bike lanes, desert trails, and canal paths to discover. Routes encompass pathways around Tempe Town Lake, Mill Ave, and within Papago Park. The League of American Bicyclists has recognized Tempe as a Gold-Level Bicycle Friendly Community.

15. Explore the Wild West in Old Town Scottsdale

Nestled among Scottsdale's chic malls and restaurants is Old Town, a Wild West-themed area featuring historic structures, shaded sidewalks, boutique shops filled with souvenirs, and trendy eateries. You’ll also find a museum, public art installations, saloons, wine bars, and galleries.

16. Check out the diverse stalls at Phoenix Farmers Market

This expansive open-air farmers market showcases some of the finest fresh fruits and vegetables, local delicacies, delicious bread, spices, pastes, salsas, organic meats, BBQ food trucks, and much more. You'll also find jewelry, textiles, and personal care products. Even if you don’t make a purchase, it’s a feast for the eyes, and it's a wonderful chance to support local vendors if you can.

17. Enjoy free entry to Arizona State University's Art Museum any time

The Arizona State University's Art Museum embraces the motto 'Arte para todos. Art for all,' aiming to foster a brighter future through a focus on education in social justice and equity. Its exhibitions are free to explore and change frequently, ensuring that each visit offers new insights.

Planning tip: The museum welcomes visitors from Wednesday to Sunday.

18. Visit Hotel Westward Ho, a cherished Phoenix icon

The striking 16-story Westward Ho hotel has stood as a beloved Phoenix landmark since its inception in 1928, enduring many trials along the way. It held the title of Arizona's tallest building for over 30 years, until the Meridian Bank Tower claimed it in 1960.

Once a favorite among celebrities and politicians (JFK dined and delivered a speech here in 1961), Hotel Westward Ho fell into disrepair and closed in 1980. Recognized as a historic building by the National Register of Historic Places in 1982, it was converted into a low-income housing complex for seniors in 1981. The property underwent a multi-million dollar renovation in 2017, restoring some of its original facades, including a historic fountain.