Hey there, broke college students! If you’re looking for ways to save money and have some fun in Phoenix without breaking the bank, look no further! We’ve got a list of free things to do in Phoenix that will help you make the most of your time and money. From hiking and biking trails to museums and art galleries, there’s something for everyone on this list. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring!
Join in Phoenix’s First Fridays fun
Phoenix First Fridays is a city-wide event that takes place every month. It’s a perfect opportunity to discover the vibrant culture of downtown Phoenix. The streets fill up with music from local DJs and bands, while merchants offer delicious food from all over the world, and you can even catch some street performances. Whether it’s for a date night or an unforgettable evening out with friends, First Fridays is an experience you won’t want to miss!
Additionally, many of the museums in downtown Phoenix open their doors for free to visitors. From exploring ancient artworks at the Phoenix Art Museum to learning about local culture at the Heard Museum, there are plenty of incredible activities that won’t cost you a dime (more on museums below). Take advantage of your free access and learn something new at these amazing institutions!
Visit the Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix is a stunning oasis of cacti and succulents located in Papago Park. Here, you can find a range of Arizona’s native vegetation ranging from saguaro cacti to chollas to wildflowers, all beautifully intermingled amongst trails and walkways. So, whether you’re looking for an educational experience or simply wanting to explore nature at its best, it’s definitely worth visiting the Desert Botanical Garden. Best of all, entrance is free on every second Tuesday of the month.
Attend free concerts or events
Phoenix is an exciting place for college students to attend free events and concerts. Popular venues for free music include the Crescent Ballroom, The Rhythm Room, and The Rebel Lounge. These popular establishments specialize in hosting both public and private events featuring mainstream music genres such as rock, hip-hop, pop, and more.
Additionally, Phoenix hosts a variety of outdoor events such as the McDowell Mountain Music Festival that offer concerts by acclaimed artists without the high prices of major festivals. With a variety of dance clubs, bars, concert halls, and festivals available to college students in Phoenix – it’s easy to stay connected with the local music scene without breaking the bank!
Get to know Phoenix by visiting one of its many museums
For those looking to explore the history of Phoenix, a great place to start is by visiting one of its many cultural attractions. All around the city are numerous museums, featuring exhibits and experiences that range from groundbreaking scientific research to the traditional art and crafts of Native American cultures.
Whatever option you explore, there’s something for everyone in Phoenix. And best of all, you can experience these museums for free as follows:
Arizona State University Art Museum
The ASU Art Museum is an amazing place to visit, not just for the art it has on display but also for the fact that admission is always free. The museum features works from a variety of different times and places; you can view ancient artifacts, traditional Japanese screens, and 20th-century masterpieces all in one visit. With its ever-changing exhibits and displays, there is always something new to explore at the ASU Art Museum!
Arizona Capitol Museum
The Arizona Capitol Museum is a great place to learn more about the history of the state of Arizona. The museum offers free admission and boasts an impressive collection of historical artifacts and documents that tell the story of how Arizona was shaped over the years. From Native American relics to political memorabilia, you can find something interesting no matter what your background or interests are. A trip to the Arizona Capitol Museum really allows you to appreciate the unique history of this great state!
Heard Museum
The Heard Museum is a wonderful place to visit if you’re looking to learn more about the history and culture of American Indian tribes. Admission is always free on the first Friday of each month (except March) from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., so it’s a great way to experience art, culture, and history without spending any money. Furthermore, American Indians are granted free admission with a tribal ID or CIB, while students receive discounted admission with their ID.
Whether you want to explore the permanent exhibits, attend special events, or take part in guided tours led by experts, the Heard Museum has something for everyone.
Phoenix Art Museum
The Phoenix Art Museum is a great place for college students to explore the world of art. On Wednesdays, there is free general admission from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., so it’s easy for students to check out all that the museum has to offer. Plus, several times a year, on select Fridays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., visitors can enjoy free admission with the PhxArt AfterHours program, making it even more accessible for students on a budget. In addition, be sure to take advantage of Family Fun Days with free admission all day for visitors of all types and ages — perfect for families and groups of friends visiting the museum together!
Penske Racing Museum
The Penske Racing Museum is a must-visit for NASCAR and car racing fans! Located in Phoenix, the museum offers a unique look into the world of auto racing. From interactive displays to historic race cars on display, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Plus, admission to the museum is always free, so no matter what your budget is, you can explore the world of car racing. The Penske Racing Museum offers an educational and thrilling experience — all without costing you a penny!
Mesa Arts Center
Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum is a great place to visit, and the best part is that admission is always free! The museum is dedicated to promoting contemporary, visual art through its collections, exhibitions, programs and events. Visitors can explore the galleries and discover inspiring works of art by local, national and international artists. There are also educational programs available for those interested in learning more about art and the creative process. Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum truly has something for everyone, so be sure to check it out!
Check out local street art and graffiti around town
Phoenix is a canvas for talented street artists and graffiti writers alike. From alleys in the urban core to the outlying suburbs, local street art and graffiti bring vibrancy and creative expression to Phoenix. You can check out vibrant murals at Grand Avenue Arts and Roosevelt Row, or take a stroll through downtown in search of colorful tags. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore all corners of the Valley, seeking out hidden gems like unreachable rooftops or off-the-beaten-path alleys. Street art and graffiti are abundant — there’s something to discover around every corner.
Take a hike at one of the many trails in the area
Phoenix is a great destination for those looking to explore nature. The area around the city offers plenty of exciting trails where one can get an up-close view of incredible desert landscapes.
Echo Canyon Trail, Camelback Mountain
Hiking at Echo Canyon Trail on Camelback Mountain is a challenge like no other. With steep ascents and descents, the trail can test even the most experienced hikers. Along the way, you’ll find breathtaking views of nearby cities, meandering waterways, and miles of cacti and desert wildflowers. With some of the most dramatic terrain in the Phoenix area, this hike offers an unbeatable experience that will leave you invigorated and inspired.
Piestewa Peak
Standing at 2,608 feet, Piestewa Peak is the highest point within the Phoenix Mountains Preserve. It’s a great way to take in views of the surrounding desert landscape and get some exercise too!
Piestewa Peak has several trails of varying difficulty levels so there’s something for everyone. If you’re new to hiking, try taking Summit Trail. Although it’s 3.2 miles long and offers plenty of stunning scenery along the way, it also provides gentle terrain that can accommodate any skill level. Meanwhile, if you’re a seasoned hiker looking for a challenge, look no further than Hedgehog Hill Trail. Clocking in at 5.3 miles long with more challenging terrain and steep drops, it will certainly be no walk in the park!
No matter which trail you choose or how experienced of a hiker you are, conquering Piestewa Peak is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Tom’s Thumb Trail
If you’re looking for a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience near Phoenix, Arizona look no further than Tom’s Thumb Trail. Located in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, this 5-mile loop is sure to provide plenty of breathtaking views and incredible adventure along the way. With its winding paths and rocky terrain, Tom’s Thumb Trail offers an adrenaline-pumping challenge that even veteran hikers will find exciting. Along the way, stop and take in views of the sprawling desert landscape and rugged mountain terrain, as well as spot some local wildlife such as lizards, hawks, and javelina.
Pinnacle Peak
Pinnacle Peak is the perfect mountain for hikers looking for a challenge. With its steep inclines and rocky terrain, this peak offers an exciting journey for those in search of adventure. As you ascend, you will be surrounded by incredible views of the surrounding landscape and can even enjoy the chance to spot some local wildlife. The summit marks a great accomplishment and offers unparalleled views of your journey. So if you’re ready for a unique outdoor experience, why not take a hike up Pinnace Peak?
Lost Dog Wash Trailhead
The Lost Dog Wash Trailhead is a great place for adventurous hikers looking to explore the Sonoran Desert. Located north of Phoenix, the trailhead has several trails with varying levels of difficulty to choose from. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s something here for everyone. The Lost Dog Wash Trail offers an easy-to-moderate 3-mile round trip with stunning views and some mild elevation gains. If you’re feeling more daring, take on Javelina Canyon Trail–a 6-mile loop with some challenging terrain and plenty of mountain scenery along the way.
With crystal clear blue skies overhead and no shortage of beautiful plants and wildlife to see along the way, exploring the Lost Dog Wash Trailhead is a must-do if you find yourself in Phoenix!
Flatiron Summit via Siphon Draw
For the more experienced hikers, a visit to Flatiron Summit via Siphon Draw is an unforgettable experience. Starting at the base of the Flatiron Summit trailhead in Lost Dutchman State Park, you will ascend up a series of switchbacks through Sonoran Desert and mountain terrain. The journey ends at the summit where breathtaking views of the Superstition Mountains await you.
Not only is this hike rewarding physically, it’s also emotionally uplifting as you take in the beauty of nature from one of Arizona’s most iconic locations. Whether you’re a novice or experienced hiker, this adventure promises to be one for the books.
Mormon Loop Trail
The Mormon Loop Trail in Phoenix is a great option for hikers of all fitness levels. This easy and scenic loop offers stunning views of the city skyline and is perfect for anyone looking to spend some time outdoors. Along the way you will pass by wildflowers, cacti, and indigenous trees, as well as get a chance to spot some local wildlife such as deer, coyotes, and birds. Whether you’re looking for an enjoyable morning stroll or a more challenging trek with great reward, give the Mormon Loop Trail a try. You won’t be disappointed!
So no matter what your hiking level and preference is for exploring the outdoors, Phoenix has something for everyone! From easy hikes to more challenging trails, there’s plenty of opportunities to explore nature and appreciate the beauty of Arizona. And best of all, these activities are free — making it easy to stick to your budget while still getting out and enjoying the great outdoors.
Watch a movie at Pollack Tempe Cinemas
Pollack Tempe Cinemas is the perfect place for students on a budget! Not only do you get access to free holiday movies, but they also offer second-run movies at an unbeatable price of just $3.50. So grab your friends and head over to Pollack Tempe Cinemas for a night of entertainment – all on a student’s budget!
Conclusion
There are plenty of fun things to do in Phoenix without spending a lot of money. Next time you’re looking for something to do, consider one of these free activities. From hiking and biking to exploring museums and street art, there’s something for everyone in Phoenix.
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