If there were a religion devoted to fun, Phoenix devotees would chant a whole litany of thrilling things to do in their city. From lively cultural events to breathtaking natural landscapes, Phoenix promises non-stop excitement and beauty at every turn.
Fondly called the Valley of the Sun, it's no wonder Phoenix has captured the hearts of outdoor enthusiasts. As the fifth-largest city in the U.S. and the capital of Arizona, Phoenix is a hotspot for adventure and luxury, offering top-tier service and relaxation.
But here's the best part — while there are many things to do in Phoenix, AZ, some of the most enjoyable experiences won't cost you a dime.
Let’s explore some of the best attractions in Phoenix, highlighting both free and paid options.
One of the absolute must-dos in Phoenix is hiking Camelback Mountain.
This iconic peak is a favorite among locals and visitors. It offers challenging trails, such as Echo Canyon and Cholla Trail, which lead to breathtaking views of Phoenix and Scottsdale.
What you want to do here is to start your hike early in the morning or later in the afternoon to beat the heat — the Phoenix desert heat can sometimes be unbearable.
Then, you also want to catch the sunrise over the valley. It's a sight you and your camera won't forget, so remember to bring one.
Cost: FREE
What cacti are to deserts is precisely what the Desert Botanical Garden is to Phoenix.
Here’s a fact: any Valley of the Sun adventure is incomplete without exploring this garden.
Do you know what makes it even better? You get to see both the typical desert cacti among trees and flowers. Talk about an 'arid, fertile land!'
Although the garden is open all seasons for those who prefer their nature experiences to be a bit more relaxed, visiting during spring yields the most satisfying views.
But before you start your Phoenix trips, try to get the best movers in Phoenix, AZ to organize a visit to this 140-acre garden. They will even help you set up your things for any event you want to engage in here.
Cost: $24.95 for adults, $14.95 for kids (3-17), FREE for children under 3.
Art lovers shouldn't miss the Phoenix Art Museum, where you can wander through galleries filled with over 20,000 pieces of art. With art pieces ranging from classic European paintings to contemporary masterpieces.
The Phoenix Art Museum is one of the best places to visit in Phoenix for artists. Creativity thrives here, and it's a cultural experience you won't want to skip, just like the Thorne Miniature Rooms in the museum.
If you happen to be visiting on a Wednesday between 10 AM and 9 PM, admission is free or, more precisely, on a pay-what-you-wish basis.
Cost: $23 for adults, $20 for seniors, $18 for students, $5 for youth (6-17), FREE for children under 6.
If there's anything about the Heard Museum to tell, you probably know that it's where you should be as a history buff.
Loaded with lots of Native American Art, you get to glean the life and culture of this tribe of the Southwest through exhibits.
Even more?
You can grab a quick coffee at the venue before dashing off to admire the outdoor sculpture garden here.
Note: if you visit around March, keep your ears open for the annual Indian Fair and Market. It's one of the top activities in Phoenix, and you can buy authentic Native American art and crafts there.
Cost: $20 for adults and $17 for seniors, FREE for children under 6, and members for tickets purchased online. For walk-up tickets, it's $23 for adults and $20 for seniors.
Any sports fan will tell you a visit to a new destination is not complete if the signature stadium of the city isn't captured.
But even more than those beautiful pictures, you will love catching a game at Chase Field, home of the Arizona Diamondbacks.
It's an affordable way to enjoy America's favorite pastime (baseball) in a stadium with a retractable roof — it ensures a great experience no matter the weather.
For a more unique timeout in the area, check out the pool suite, where you can watch the game while lounging in a pool.
Cost: $20 for adults, $16 for seniors, and $14 for children 12 and younger.
You'd be grossly mistaken if you believe the zoo to be an educational place for only children.
With over 3,000 animals, there's no way you won't find the Phoenix Zoo attraction educational and even exciting. You could tread past the cheetah cages and experience the awe of Asian elephants and three-toed box turtles.
Or perhaps, the Mexican gray wolves thrill you the most! It's almost like Noah’s ark here — different creatures from all over the world, including endangered species.
Cost: $39.95 for adults, $29.95 for kids (3-13), FREE for children under 3.
If you've only lived in modern cities, an oasis will sound like a natural phenomenon in a distant country inaccessible to you. But for a first-hand view of an oasis, you should visit Papago Park right in your backyard.
In this natural space, you'll find hiking trails and many scenic spots where you can picnic with your family. Right in this park, you also get to see the spectacular Hole-in-the-Rock formation.
A hike of this formation will render stunning views of the city skyline.
Historians believe the Hole-in-the-Rock formation helped natives track the position of the sun during the Hohokam civilization.
Cost: Absolutely FREE!
Phoenix has a museum for everything!
The Musical Instrument Museum is a testament to this, offering a one-of-a-kind experience.
Not only are there instruments from around the world, numbering more than 8,000, but there are also interactive exhibits and a Conservation Lab.
In the lab, musical instruments are preserved and restored.
Cost: $20 for adults, $15 for teens, and $10 for kids
As mentioned earlier, Phoenix is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts.
With over 50 miles of trails, South Mountain Park is one of the largest municipal parks in the United States.
The park supports a host of things to do in Phoenix, AZ, including mountain biking and even horseback riding. With hiking paths that allow access to the Dobbins Lookout summit,
The park's scenic drives and lookouts provide some of the best views in Phoenix, especially at sunset.
If you want access to a scene that looks like someplace out of a Sci-Fi, the Arizona Science Center has got you covered.
A wide range of topics, from the human body to outer space, are presented. Plus, the science center also offers hands-on exhibits that make learning fun.
Generally, it's a great place to be if you're traveling with curious kids.
Cost: $29.95 for adults, $27.95 for seniors, and $19.95 for children aged 3 to 17.
Phoenix offers a diverse range of activities to suit every interest and budget.
You could hike up to the breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain and the Hole-in-the-Rock formation. Or revel in the historical and cultural richness of the Heard Museum.
Not to forget the Musical Instrument Museum and its eclectic collection of instruments. The marvel doesn't even stop at the Desert Botanical Garden. But one thing is sure: there are an abundance of things to do in Phoenix, AZ.
So, grab what you can and let your Phoenix adventure begin. Just don't forget your pack of sunscreen.
