Phoenix, Arizona, is home to many fun and interesting attractions, such as the Phoenix Zoo, Desert Botanical Gardens, Arizona Science Museum and Chase Field baseball park. Most of these attractions require admission fees, but there are plenty of free activities as well. In addition to the activities listed below, be sure to check local newspapers or websites for any free festivals or concerts that may be taking place in the Phoenix area, since these are frequent events.
For those who live in the Phoenix area, a Culture Pass is an ideal way to access the city's attractions for free. The cards are available at libraries in Phoenix, Glendale, Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale and Tempe, and are issued on a first-come, first-serve basis. Simply visit one of the libraries and ask to check out a Culture Pass. The pass can be used at the Phoenix Zoo, Children's Museum of Phoenix, Phoenix Art Museum and the Phoenix Science Museum, among other attractions. You can keep the card for seven days, during which you and four additional people have unlimited access to the attractions it covers.
On the first Friday of the month, Artlink Phoenix, a nonprofit organization of artists and art lovers, organizes a free "art walk," featuring tours of 70 Phoenix art museums and displays. Artlink provides free shuttle service, along with a map of all art museums.
Papago Park, a desert landscape in the middle of the city, features many hiking trails and picnic areas, as well as fishing lagoons and bike trails. Adjoining the park is the Phoenix Zoo, and the Desert Botanical Gardens are located in the park. These attractions require a fee, however.
The Phoenix Mountains dominate the city skyline, and provide thousands of acres of hiking and free outdoor activities. Trails range from easy to strenuous, with scenic picnic areas. The Reach 11 Recreation Area features many mountain and desert hiking trails, as well as the Arizona Horse Lovers Park, which provides facilities for horseback riders.
