At first glance, the trendy downtown area of Phoenix might make your wallet quiver. But fear not, there are tons of amazing free things to do in Phoenix for nature lovers, history fanatics, and people just looking for something fun to do in Phoenix.

The city lies spread across the Salt River Valley with the sun gleaming golden behind the distant mountain ranges. The unique flora and fauna, vibrant city culture, and dynamic vibe of Phoenix make it a fantastic city to visit, not to mention the slew of activities happening in and around the area.

Have a look at the 10 best free things to do in Phoenix.

Free Things to Do in Phoenix

Here is our top 10 list of the ten best things in Phoenix that money can’t buy, because they are FREE!

1. Papago Park

This municipal park has loads of great hiking trails with marvelous rock formations along the way.

Meander along the rocky landscape or cast a line in the fully stocked lagoon mere minutes from the Phoenix airport.

The Hole-In-The-Wall trail is one of the most popular in the area with the trail leading you to a grand cavern high above the city.

The cave mouth perfectly frames unbeatable views of Phoenix, the perfect place to bask in the warm glow of the setting sun.

Also, pay a visit to Governor Hunt’s Tomb. The first governor of the state of Arizona rests beneath an eye-catching white pyramid from where you can also enjoy marvelous views.

The Saguaro cactus bloom in the spring and May is your best chance to see Saguaro cactus in bloom around Phoenix

2. Mesa Arts Center

Mesa sits just east of Phoenix and is mostly known for its natural attractions, but it is also a treasure on the Arizona cultural scene.

The Mesa Arts Center is the biggest of its kind in the state and adds immeasurable value to Phoenix’s cultural realm.

Here you will find multiple theaters, art galleries, and workshops.

The Mesa Contemporary Art Museum is a free art museum that promotes the exemplary modern artists of Phoenix, and the Mesa theaters regularly host visiting performance groups.

3. Camelback Mountain

Camelback Mountain is the unmistakable mountain that rises in the middle of Phoenix.

Its elevation is close to 3,000 feet and it’s overrun with challenging hiking trails that are some of the best in the area.

Test your endurance with fast elevation gains, on uneven terrain, and maybe even some bouldering and rockclimbing.

There are also tons of small animals around so keep an eye out for reptiles basking in the sun or rabbits scurrying across the path.

There is also an abundance of desert flora decorating the arid landscape, offering an ever-changing beauty to your hike.

Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon hike Phoenix free things to do.

Camelback Mountain is popular for a good reason – the hiking is amazing!

4. South Mountain Park

South Mountain is one of the biggest parks in the country at more than 16,000 acres and close to 60 miles of roads for you to hike and bike to your heart’s content.

Also, pay a visit to the South Mountain Environmental Education Center to learn about the fascinating natural history of the park and the rest of Arizona.

You will also happen upon the Mystery Castle, a quirky building from the 1930s that features plenty of unexpected details.

If walking in the desert doesn’t appeal to you, there is always the ultra-scenic 5.5-mile Summit Road that takes you up to the most spectacular panoramic view of the valley.

The highest view in Phoenix is Dobbins Lookout and spotting all the most iconic landmarks of Phoenix from the shaded seating area is an excellent free activity.

5. Arizona Capitol Museum

Arizona’s former Capitol building is an impressive stone building that houses a fascinating collection from the state’s past.

Go on a journey through Arizona’s history and make sure to stop off at the USS Arizona exhibit if you are a WWII buff.

And the massive copper dome and zinc victory statue that tops the building is a special treat for architecture lovers.

Arizona has a long and diverse history, and this museum does an excellent job of providing educational info on the colorful cultures, complex politics, and social chronicles of the state.

It is by far one of the best free things to do in Phoenix and a must for anyone interested in history.

Arizona Capitol Museum in Phoenix - it is free to visit.

Admission is free to the Arizona Capitol Museum – a great place to spend a couple hours in Phoenix

6. Encanto Park

Since 1935, Encanto Park has been a haven in the heart of Phoenix.

The park has a pond at its center that is surrounded by palm trees, providing some much-needed shade from the desert sun.

Cross the quaint bridge into Enchanted Island Amusement Park which also offers free entrance, and you only pay for individual rides.

There is even a splash pad if you want to cool down or have kids that need to get rid of some energy.

7. Arizona State University Art Museum

The striking post-modern art museum on the Tempe campus of ASU is more than a pretty façade.

The angular icon houses over 12,000 contemporary art pieces with a strong focus on Latino and Arizona native artists.

There is also a Ceramics Research Center with around 3,500 ceramic pieces showcasing the phenomenal talent coming from the area.

8. Phoenix Farmers Markets

There is no better way to get to know a community than a visit to the local farmers market.

The Phoenix Farmers Markets offer various open-air and indoor markets with scores of local vendors, farmers, and businesses selling their wares.

You can find anything from fresh produce and meats to jewelry, art, and non-perishables.

Although the entrance is free, there is no guarantee you won’t want to buy something. The first whiff of tamales or fresh brewed coffee and your wallet might just want to make an appearance.

9. Phoenix First Fridays

This is a not-to-be-missed event if you want to begin to understand the vibrancy of Phoenix’s downtown area.

On the first Friday of every month, thousands flock to the city blocks in the downtown area that are closed to traffic.

Musicians set up in the streets to entertain the masses and businesses open their doors to visitors late into the evening.

Enjoy free entrance to many art-related spaces and take a free art walk to catch a glimpse of all the urban art decorating the neighborhood.

This is the biggest art walk in the country so make sure not to miss it.

Roosevelt Row Arts District becomes home to food trucks and art vendors that share their crafts with the public.

There are also free shuttles that transport you from place to place to make sure you see as many of the attractions as possible.

The Phoenix Art Museum also participates in the event (from 3 – 9 pm) and allows visitors to view amazing art plus live music and dance performances – general admission is free, but special exhibitions require a ticket.

10. Tempe Town Lake

Tempe is a charming city just east of Phoenix with an amazing lake where you can easily spend a day lazing at the waterside.

Although you can’t swim in the lake, you can fish if you have an Arizona fishing license. If you do want to spend a few bucks you can rent a boat, kayak, paddle board, or ride an e-bike and enjoy the scenery.

There are also various stunning art installations around the lake that you can enjoy on your walk on the mobility-accessible walkway.

Tempe Town Lake and 3 paddle boarders paddling past modern buildings in background.

Tempe Town Lake is a great outing from Phoenix, relax by the lake or get out on the water!

Final Thoughts on Free Stuff to Do in Phoenix

Arizona’s capital is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the state with a vibrant culture and tons to offer in arts and entertainment.

If you are traveling on a budget, it is a great destination too as there is tons to do for free, both indoors and outdoors.

With free hiking trails alone, you could stay busy for days! So point your compass in the Phoenix direction and take advantage of all the amazing free things to do in the Valley of the Sun.

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