Free Things to Do in Phoenix, Arizona

The average cost of a seven-day trip to Phoenix, Arizona is $1,486 for one person. For families of four, a seven-day visit can cost $5,003 or more. So, finding some cheap or free things to do in Phoenix can be helpful to ensure you stick to your budget.

Free Things to Do in Phoenix

There are a plethora of low-cost things to do in Phoenix that can help you control how much you spend while you’re there. Below is a list of activities you may consider including in your itinerary.

Visit Local Mountains and Hiking Trails

If there is one thing Arizona is not low on it is natural hiking trails and mountains. There are so many places within a short drive to hike and explore. Research the trails nearby and see which might fit your hiking experience. The only thing you’ll need to spend money on is snacks for the trails.

Wells Fargo Museum

Visiting the Wells Fargo Museum is another activity in Phoenix that is free of cost. You can see local artists’ work, learn about Wyatt Earp, and see mine shafts. There are special events at the museum from time to time as well. Check to see if there are any shows or events happening prior to your visit.

St. Mary’s Basilica

St. Mary’s is a must-see while you are in Phoenix. It was built in 1902 and is open to the public seven days a week. If you visit, be sure to take note of the beautiful Spanish Colonial Revival-style architecture and beautiful decor.

Arizona Capitol Museum

Another one of the free things to do in Phoenix is to visit the Capitol Museum. You can learn more about Arizona’s capitol as well as gain knowledge about the state. Admission is free but donations to the museum are encouraged.

Desert Botanical Garden

If you are able to line your trip up with the second Tuesday of the month, you can get free admission to the Desert Botanical Garden. Although many people would not think about gardening in the desert, it is actually home to a lot of beautiful plants. All of which you can see at the botanical gardens in Phoenix.

Brass Armadillo Antique Mall

Phoenix is home to the Brass Armadillo Antique Mall as well. You don’t have to pay anything to walk through the mall and see some of the interesting things it holds. Who knows, maybe you’ll find the perfect souvenir while you’re there.

Phoenix Police Museum

The Phoenix Police Musem is relatively close to the Wells Fargo Museum and it is also free. Tour hosts at the facility are retired police. You can learn more about the history of the Phoenix PD in addition to the general history of the area.

Arizona Military Museum

You can see a collection of Arizona military history at the military museum. Admission is free and you can tour the facility to see pieces of Arizona military airplanes and other vehicles.

Phoenix Art Museum

While you’re in Phoenix, another great free thing to do is visit the art museum. You will see local artist’s work as well as historical information about the area. To get free admission, visit between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. on Wednesday.

Cheap Activities to Add to Your Itinerary

Of course, not everything on your trip can be free. You can consider some cheap activities to include in your daily event list though. Here are a few to take a look at…

Hall of Flame Fire Museum

Arizona and much of the western United States have a history of wildfires. The Hall of Flame Fire Museum takes a look at the history of fires in Phoenix and the history of the heroes who have fought them. Adult admission cost if $7 for a tour of the facility.

Goldfield Ghost Town

Goldfield is an actual ghost town from the gold rush era. Many of the attractions and activities are $10 or under. You can even pan for gold during your visit. It is a good cheap thing to add to your to-do list while you’re in Phoenix.

Chase Field Tours

Get a tour of Chase Field, the local ballpark. You can get information about the field and stadium that you might not have known. You’ll also get a view of the ballpark from exclusive seating angles.

Arizona Science Center

Self-guided tours through the Arizona Science Center in Phoenix are free if you are a member. If you are not a member, self-guided tours are $19.95 for adults; and $14.95 for kids. Guided tours are $11.95 for children and $14.95 for adults who are members. Non-members pay $34.95 per adult and $19.95 per child for guided tours of the center. The center is open Wednesday through Monday from 10:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.