The great thing about Phoenix is that the warm temperatures and sunshine make it so easy to get out and explore without breaking the bank.
Seriously, did you know that Phoenix gets about 3,872 hours of sunshine per year? That makes it one of the sunniest cities in the US. Plus, with short winters and long summers, finding what to do in Phoenix is very easy.
To make finding free things to do in Phoenix easy, we’ve put together this easy guide. Discover low-cost ways to enjoy Phoenix – let’s dive in!
Outdoor Adventures That Don’t Cost a Dime
Let’s explore some free and low-cost outdoor fun in Phoenix.
Hike the Desert Trails
Hiking enthusiasts love the ‘urban hiking’ opportunities in the Phoenix area. Urban hiking just means that no matter where you are in Phoenix, you’re not a far drive from a good hiking trail.
Here are a few of our favorite spots:
- Papago Park: Entry is free for beautiful Papago Park, and the light Double Butte Loop and Hole-in-the-Rock Trails are perfect for beginners or just for the days when you want to take it easy.
- White Tank Mountain Regional Park: Entry to this park is just $7 per vehicle, and the 1.8-mile Waterfall Trail is perfect for the whole family. You might just see the waterfall after it rains.
Stroll Through Desert Botanical Garden (Free Days)
In 2024 Vogue Magazine named the gorgeous Desert Botanical Garden, one of the best gardens in the US. Even better, the garden now offers free admission on the second Tuesday of every month.
Normally, admission for the average family of four would be $100, but this new initiative ensures that everyone can explore these iconic gardens.
Explore Phoenix’s Scenic City Parks
There are over 180 parks to choose from in Phoenix, and most of them are free or have a low entry fee.
Plus, there’s so much variety. Spend an afternoon at one of the several splash pads, dog parks, or skate parks. There are even parks dedicated to urban fishing and drones for the adventurists in your group.
Arts, Culture, and Local Flavor on a Budget
You won’t have any trouble finding free museums in Phoenix. Plus, the sunny city is full of galleries and theatres – and plenty of them are low/no cost.
Roosevelt Row Arts District
Feel like taking a self-led outdoor artsy stroll? The Roosevelt Row Arts District is host to plenty of art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and bars.
Check out Artlink’s First Friday Art Walk, a free and all-ages event that puts vendors, artists, and musicians into the spotlight. Held on the first Friday of each month, the art walk takes place from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm., and portions of the street are closed off to ensure food truck access and allow walkers to move freely.
Visit Free Museums and Galleries
One of the best free things to do in Phoenix is explore one of the many museums. Many have free museum days; here are a few you can try this week:
- Phoenix Art Museum: The Phoenix Art Museum offers free or “pay-what-you-wish” on Wednesdays from 3:00 pm – 8:00 pm and PhxArt First Fridays from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm, which includes live music, drinks, art tours, and sketching.
- Heard Museum: The Heard Museum showcases American Indian art and history and offers discounts for seniors, military members, and members of certain banking institutions and associations.
Discover Phoenix’s Local History at The Square PHX
Check out The Square PHX on Block 14 for a trip back to Phoenix’s Victorian roots. The museum offers a look into Phoenix’s past through guided tours.
Admission is only $15 for adults and $8 for children, and free for museum members. Plenty of discounts are available for seniors, military personnel, and members of various associations.
Fun and Affordable Activities for Families
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the sun and the warmth make Phoenix the perfect family-friendly destination.
Splash Pads and Playgrounds
Splash pads and playgrounds are lots of fun and, in most cases, free. Keep the kids cool and bring a picnic lunch, and you’ve got the perfect outing for a hot day. Here are a few we love around Phoenix:
- Altadena Park: An ADA-accessible playground and splash pad in one, Altadena Park is the perfect place to relax and cool off. Visitors love the well-appointed picnic tables, the shade, and the cleanliness. Note: There are no restrooms on-site.
- Dust Devil Park: Another playground and splash pad combo, Dust Devil Park also hosts a skate park. Visitors love the barbecues, picnic tables, shade structures, and basketball courts. Note: Bathrooms on-site have limited amenities.
Low-Cost Animal Encounters
Still wondering what to do in Phoenix? If you’re willing to take a bit of a drive to see some animals, Superstition Farm only charges $4 per head (over age 1) to see their rescue farm animals. The entry fee includes access to the petting zoo, games, and a walk through their garden.
While the animal crew does rotate, Superstition Farm states they usually have goats, donkeys, potbelly pigs, chickens, ducks, and more to enjoy.
Superstition Farm is about 26 minutes away from Phoenix, depending on traffic.
Cheap Eats and Local Treats
Phoenix is well-known for its southwestern cuisine options, with tacos, Sonoran-style hot dogs, fry bread, and chimichangas among its most popular offerings.
Explore Local Markets
Downtown PHX Farmers Market is a must-visit for visitors and locals alike who want to find fresh produce, local artisanal products like trinkets and jewelry, and delicious food trucks like Herculean Chicken and YO! DONUT.
Uptown Farmers Market is big on community and is a great way to get the family together without spending a ton. You’ll find chef demonstrations, excellent local produce, and delicious food to enjoy. Check out a complete list of vendors on their website.
Budget-Friendly Restaurants
Looking for an affordable sit-down dinner in Phoenix? Dig into these options:
- Los Reyes de la Torta: Three for $12 pollo tacos and affordable (and iconic) tortas? Sign us up. Award-winning and long-standing Los Reyes is known for their authentic Mexican dishes and excellent service.
- Oregano’s: Oregano’s has a heartwarming origin story and serves up hot portions of Italian-American food that remind you of Sunday dinners and red-checkered tablecloths. Affordable pasta and pizzas make this the perfect weekend dinner spot.
Make the Most of Phoenix
…Without spending too much.
With so many low-cost or free options, you’ll never run out of free things to do in Phoenix. It’s easy to enjoy everything Phoenix has to offer and still stick to your budget.
Visiting? Just moving in? Need some extra room to store your items? We’ve got a CubeSmart storage unit for that.
