One of my favorite things about visiting Arizona is how many free and cheap things you can find there. To begin with, museum tickets aren't as expensive than NYC or LA. But even better...you can visit completely free on certain days. Lets dive in.
I flew into Phoenix on a first Friday in June because several museums I wanted to visit are completely free on first Friday of each month. The cheapest flight I could find from Austin, TX to Phoenix was with Frontier for $78. The cheapest car rental I could find was $36/day plus fees. But since PHX Sky Train was free and once connected to Valley Metro Rail, I could ride for $4 all day long, I decided to not rent a car.
On my day of arrival, first Friday...
- Heard Museum: Since I arrived on a first Friday in June, my timing was perfect. I was able to get in for free. If you’re curious about Native American history and art, you’ll love it too. You can visit for free every first Friday from 6 to 10 p.m. (except in March) or every third Saturday in summer from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.—I recommend both if you’re in town.
- My second stop on this trip was the Phoenix Art Museum which was also completely free on first Friday. You could go here first since it closes at 8pm. You’ll find everything from classic to contemporary works. If can go for free on a Wednesday between 3 and 8 p.m., or the first Friday of the month from 5 to 8 p.m
- If you are traveling with kids under 10, head to Children’s Museum of Phoenix for free instead. It's also free the first Friday of the month from 5 to 9 p.m. All three museums are part of First Friday Art Walks in Phoenix.
- I was happily tired after visiting two great museums completely free so I treated myself to a room at Rise Uptown Hotel which has an outdoor pool. Since June is low season, I got a room for just $117. The pool was still open (Open 10am - 10pm Daily) so I went for a free swim. I had a light room service dinner and went to bed to get ready for next day.
Day Two, Saturday
- Ok, so Desert Botanical Garden wasn't free to enter on Saturday but as a garden lover I was more than happy to pay $16.95 admission. The garden opens early (hours are 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.) so I got an early start. I’ve strolled those trails more times than I can count. If you are able to visit on the second Tuesday of the month, admission is free here then. I was only in town for a night so I wasn't able to wait until Tuesday this time.
- After the garden, I took the Valley Metro bus to Penske Racing Museum. Admission here is actually always free so you don't have to time it.
- My next stop? Mesa Arts Center. I've been recommending Mesa Arts Center for ages. It’s Arizona’s largest arts center, and the Contemporary Arts Museum inside is always free. I took a tram back to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and headed home.
- If you have more time, Arizona Capitol Museum is always free and a worthy stop. You can walk through educational exhibits under a real copper dome.
- Another free favorite of mine is ASU Art Museum in Tempe. It’s packed with excellent contemporary art and always free!! You can take the bus from Phoenix.
Best Free & Affordable Things to Do in Arizona (Phoenix & Beyond)
Step Into Arizona’s Past at the Arizona Capitol Museum in Phoenix. I visited a few times and admission is always FREE.
I was genuinely surprised by how much history was packed into one beautiful building.
I found more than 20 fascinating displays, including moving artifacts from the USS Arizona. Admission is always FREE.
1700 W Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Need a place to eat? Try the midday bite at Serafina Coffee Roasters in Downtown Phoenix. I had an iced vanilla oat latte and their roasted veggie panini with basil aioli. Light but satisfying, and served in a sunny space that buzzed with locals. After diving into Arizona’s political history at the Capitol Museum, it was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect.
Celebrate Diverse Creativity at the Arizona Latino Arts and Cultural Center in Phoenix. Admission is always FREE.
Also in Phoenix...if you’re looking to connect with Arizona’s vibrant Latin American heritage, I really recommend spending time at the Arizona Latino Arts and Cultural Center.
I walked through their beautiful Galeria 147 and got to admire art created by talented local and regional Latinx artists. It's completely free to visit!
147 E Adams St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
If You Love Contemporary Art, Explore the Arizona State University Art Museum in Tempe. It's complete FREE.
Just 20 minutes away in Tempe, I was amazed by the variety in the Arizona State University Art Museum collection.
You can find over 12,000 pieces covering everything from historic to cutting-edge contemporary art. I think you’ll be glad you checked this one out.
51 E 10th St, Tempe, AZ 85281, Phone: 480-965-2787
My highlight? The creative lunch at Café Lalibela, just a few blocks from campus. I ordered the vegetarian sampler with injera and lentil stew—spiced, colorful, and comforting. The cozy, art-filled interior echoed the vibe of the museum itself. It was the kind of meal that lingers in your memory just like a favorite painting.
Rev Up History at Buddy Stubbs Historical Motorcycle Museum in Phoenix. I was seriously impressed by how much history was packed in here. It's complete FREE.
If you’ve got even the slightest interest in motorcycles—or just love cool vintage collections—I really recommend stopping by the Buddy Stubbs Historical Motorcycle Museum in Phoenix.
I wandered in one afternoon while exploring the area, and I was seriously impressed by how much history was packed in here. It's complete FREE.
13850 N Cave Creek Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85022, Phone: 602-497-1996
My highlight? The retro diner lunch at Noble Eatery, a casual spot known for bold flavors and artisan bread. I went with the prosciutto and arugula sandwich on fresh focaccia, with a blood orange soda. After checking out vintage Harleys and biker memorabilia, this stop added a modern, flavorful twist to a nostalgia-packed day.
Hike Iconic Trails at Camelback Mountain between Arcadia and Paradise Valley. Give yourself 90 minutes to three hours round-trip.
When I first saw its camel-shaped outline between Arcadia and Paradise Valley, I knew I had to tackle those Camelback Mountain trails.
You’ll feel the city fade fast as the red rock rises above you. Give yourself 90 minutes to three hours round-trip, pack plenty of water, and be ready for stretches that test you legs.
My highlight? The post-hike recovery at Echo Coffee in Scottsdale. I grabbed a nitro cold brew and a toasted breakfast burrito filled with eggs, avocado, and chorizo. After sweating it out on the Cholla Trail, the cool air, comfy seating, and solid fuel hit the spot. Bonus: great views if you sit by the window.
Find Spiritual Inspiration at The Chapel of the Holy Cross in Sedona. I found it peaceful, almost otherworldly.
If I had to recommend just one spot to you in Sedona, it's the Chapel of the Holy Cross.
Perched high in the red buttes, it feels almost carved from the rock itself.
780 Chapel Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336, Phone: 928-282-4069
My highlight? The peaceful lunch at Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill, perched on a bluff with red rock views. I had the grilled salmon with chimichurri and roasted sweet potatoes, paired with a glass of sangria. The setting felt just as sacred as the chapel itself—elegant, spiritual, and surrounded by natural beauty. A truly soul-soothing experience.
Affordable Kid-friendly Activities in Arizona:
If You Crave Scenic Adventures, Drive on the Coronado Trail National Scenic Byway, my favorite drive in Arizona. Free...
My favorite drive in Arizona? Hmmm...that's a tough one. I'd have to say the Coronado Trail National Scenic Byway.
I took this route between Springerville and Morenci one March morning. I was blown away by the winding curves and jaw-dropping views.
At its highest point near Hannagan Meadow, you’ll be cruising at nearly 9,400 feet above sea level. Just bring a driver along so that you can safely take in the views!
Experience Vibrant Culture at First Friday Art Walks in Phoenix. You’ll get to wander through dozens of art galleries, studios, and boutiques.
Back in Phoenix, don't miss the First Friday Art Walks (of course, you'll have to time it right!). The entire downtown was so nice and welcoming.
You’ll get to wander through dozens of art galleries, studios, and boutiques. Many of them offering FREE entry (and fresh monthly exhibits if you go for the second time).
Also in Phoenix, if you don't have time to see a performance, take a free tour at the Historic Orpheum Theatre on a on Tuesday afternoon.
I learned all about its history of operations. You also get to view its gorgeous historic architectural elements up close and personal.
203 W Adams St, Phoenix, AZ 85003, Phone: 602-262-6225
Cruise Through Americana on the Historic Route 66 All-American Road, My second favorite drive in AZ
My second favorite (Free other than gas) drive in Arizona is the legendary "Mother Road."
When I followed its preserved stretches alongside I-40, I felt like I was stepping straight into mid-20th century Americana.
You’ll spot quirky roadside attractions and you can even stay in old-school motels.
Jump to a Spot...
- • Step Into Arizona’s Past at the Arizona Capitol Museum in Phoenix. I visited a few times and admission is always FREE.
- • Celebrate Diverse Creativity at the Arizona Latino Arts and Cultural Center in Phoenix. Admission is always FREE.
- • If You Love Contemporary Art, Explore the Arizona State University Art Museum in Tempe. It's complete FREE.
- • Rev Up History at Buddy Stubbs Historical Motorcycle Museum in Phoenix. I was seriously impressed by how much history was packed in here. It's complete FREE.
- • Hike Iconic Trails at Camelback Mountain between Arcadia and Paradise Valley. Give yourself 90 minutes to three hours round-trip.
- • Find Spiritual Inspiration at The Chapel of the Holy Cross in Sedona. I found it peaceful, almost otherworldly.
- • If You Crave Scenic Adventures, Drive on the Coronado Trail National Scenic Byway, my favorite drive in Arizona. Free...
- • Experience Vibrant Culture at First Friday Art Walks in Phoenix. You’ll get to wander through dozens of art galleries, studios, and boutiques.
- • Also in Phoenix, if you don't have time to see a performance, take a free tour at the Historic Orpheum Theatre on a on Tuesday afternoon.
- • Cruise Through Americana on the Historic Route 66 All-American Road, My second favorite drive in AZ