The Budget Friendly Stay In Phoenix
This is a hotel where you can have your cake and eat it too. Yep I’m talking about The Clarendon Hotel and Spa by Green Tree. This is a 4 star hotel with 2,217 reviews on Google that has a Spa, full bar, outdoor pool area, and lots of bright vibrant color. There are bikes to rent from the hotel lobby to help get you sustainably around the city. There are Cabanas poolside in case you wanted to stay in . If you are visiting during the cooler months in Arizona, then the pool is heated.
Spas are a big deal in Phoenix and Scottsdale area because before there was treatment for Tuberculosis, patients were often sent to dry areas to help with lung function. Tuberculosis Spas popped up because of this, and now that there is treatment of it, these businesses pivoted and now offer a plethora of luxurious services. The spa at Clarendon Hotel offers waxing, massages, microneedling, dermaplaning, facials, and eyebrow lamination.
Things To Do In Phoenix Arizona: Penske Racing Museum
The Penske Racing Museum is dedicated to displaying the history of automobile racing and is home to an outstanding collection of cars, trophies, and racing memorabilia chronicling the career of the Penske Racing dynasty. Boasting over 40 years of racing experience and over 300 major race wins, including 15 Indianapolis 500-mile race victories, Penske Racing is a world-renowned name in the sport, and the museum offers a behind-the-scenes look at the brands rise to fame.
Located in the Scottsdale 101 Auto Collection, the museum features a variety of racing-related objects, including replicas of cars that won major races, including the 1963 Riverside 250 and 2009 Indy 500. The museum also has a boutique store where racing merchandise and memorabilia can be purchased and a casual café.
7125 E Chauncey Ln, Phoenix, Arizona, Phone: 480-538-4444
Weekend getaways, top 10 things to do, places to visit near me, East, West, North, South, cheap family vacation activities for birthday, hot tub, whirlpool, public transport by train, local bus, mountains, waterfalls, lakes, relaxing parks, coffee near me: Carlsbad restaurants, Things to Do in West Virginia, Ocean Shores, Long Beach
Dont Miss: Syracuse Ny To Do
Wander Through The Street Art At Roosevelt Row
Roosevelt Row in the downtown neighborhood is a trendy spot to grab drinks or check out some street art. The mission of the area is to advance arts-focused initiatives for artists, entrepreneurs, and residents by cultivating a creative, sustainable space for growth, opportunity, engagement and art advocacy. Take a walk and enjoy the dozens of murals and the various locally owned shops, bars, and restaurants all throughout the arts district. If youre willing to spend a few bucks, head up to From the Rooftop at Cambria Hotel Downtown Phoenix. This bar, with a sweeping view of the city skyline, serves half-priced food during happy hours on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Recommended Reading: Fun Things To Do In Cleveland With Kids
Don’t Miss: Fun Things To Do In Mystic
Dobbins Lookout South Mountain
This scenic observation point offers the best views of the Phoenix area. It is the highest point you can drive to, with an elevation of over 2,000 feet. It is located in South Mountain Park and Preserve, which is one of the largest municipal parks in the country.
On any given day you will see people hiking and biking on more than 51 miles of trails in this scenic desert park.
If you want to see some other amazing hikes in and around Phoenix, scroll on down to #6 or click here. There are a ton of mountains in and around the valley offering a wide range of hikes and views. You can even conquer a camel .
The Dobbins Lookout is located at 10919 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042. There is no cost to see it and you have the option to drive to the top of the mountain or hike up. If you do drive, there is a short, uneven walk to get to the Lookout. The park is open from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. Please check the South Mountain Park website for any information about road closures before you go.
Ratchets R Us Az Takeover

TimeFri Jun 24 2022 at 08:00 pm to Sat Jun 25 2022 at 01:00 am
Club Silverado, 6108 North 27th Avenue, Phoenix, United States
About this Event
Tickets for Ratchets R Us AZ Takeover can be booked here.
Club Silverado, 6108 North 27th Avenue, Phoenix, United States
Stay tuned with the most relevant events happening around you. Attend, Share & Influence!
E.g. Jack is first name and Mandanka is last name.
Don’t Miss: Mystic Places To Visit
Peruse The Phoenix Art Museum
Offering free admission on Wednesdays from 3pm to 9pm, theres no better time or place to get your culture on than the Phoenix Art Museum. The United States largest art museum for visual art, explore art with a special emphasis on American, Asian, European, Latin American, modern and contemporary influences.
Great Arizona Puppet Theatre
This wonderful theatre is devoted to all things puppets and is for both children and adults alike. Housed in a lovingly restored old church, the venue includes a birthday party room, gift shop, and puppet library. Shows for children occur mostly in the mornings and afternoons, with adult shows on Friday and Saturday nights. With over 60 shows in the repertoire and all types of puppets, there is always something fresh for the kids to see and kids under 2 are free with the purchase of another child ticket. Open again for shows Wednesdays through Sundays
Also Check: Family Things To Do In Cleveland
Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium
16501 W Northern AveLitchfield Park, AZ 85340 232-8741
No list of the best family activities in Phoenix is complete without the inclusion of Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium. After all, it boasts the largest and most diverse collection of exotic creatures in the state of Arizona.
For a memorable and fun visit, make sure to catch sight of the exotic white tiger and the charming penguins in their aquatic habitat. And, dont forget to check out arapaima, arowana another Amazon River Monsters in this enormous aquarium. Other attractions here include kid-friendly rides, animal feedings, a petting zoo and a childrens carousel.
Kids of all ages will love this zoo.
What To Do In Downtown Phoenix If You Only Have One Day
If youre wondering what to do in downtown Phoenix, Ive got you. I recently went to Phoenix and was blown away by all the fun things to do in Arizonas capital. Its the perfect weekend getaway from the Pacific Northwest, particularly because flights are as low as $165 roundtrip. Plus, its a great way to escape the dreariest times of year up here in Washington.
So heres your itinerary for how to spend one day in Phoenix. It includes where to stay, fun places to eat, a checklist of what to do in downtown Phoenix, and some ideas for exploring the surrounding area if you have time.
You May Like: What Is There To Do In The Adirondacks
Enchanted Island Amusement Park
1202 W Encanto BlvdPhoenix, AZ 85007 254-1200
With classic flair food and an array of attractions, the Enchanted Island Amusement Park offers a memorable outing for the whole family. Plus, it has 9 rides that kids will surely love.
Get a chance to experience Arizonas oldest operating carousel: Encanto Carousel. Afterward, hit the Parachute Tower, and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Phoenix area skyline. Kids will also love the parks other child-friendly rides and attractions, including the Dragon Wagon, Kiddie Cars and C.P. Huntington Tower.
The Enchanted Island Amusement Park is the ultimate experience for children ages 6 and up.
Phoenix, AZ 85008 286-3800
Bears, tigers, lions and a ton of other charming creatures will entertain and amuse your family for the whole day at Phoenix Zoo.
Try to visit the zoo in the warmer months, so you can experience its splash pads. The zoo also boasts a few special attractions, including train rides, animal feedings, a childrens carousel and a tropical bird aviary. Make your family visit even more memorable and fun by gazing at the exotic white tiger and massive aquarium.
A visit to this wildlife haven is truly one of the top things to do in Phoenix for kids of all ages.
Recommended Hotel Nearby:Hotel Valley Ho
Pueblo Grande Museum And Cultural Park
Rangerdriver94 / Shutterstock
Dont let the desert fool you one of the best things Arizona has to offer is its view.
The state is packed full of amazing sights that will blow the mind, and you can see some of them in the Pueblo Grande Museum and Cultural Park.
This National Historic Landmark is home to the largest archaeological site in Phoenix the preserved ruins of an ancient abandoned Hohokam village.
These days, visitors driving in from Phoenix will find the grounds of this small museum to be a well-maintained spot that is chock full of historical sites.
Visitors can wander down an interpretive trail that leads you through reconstructed and furnished buildings, giving modern tourists a chance to step back into the past.
Once it gets too hot, visitors can also duck into the museum to check out the recovered artifacts.
The museum is also home to many other activities, such as workshops, demonstrations, talks, markets, and even auctions!
Address: 4619 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85034, United States
Don’t Miss: Kid Friendly Things To Do In Cleveland
Maricopa County Parks Guided Events
The Maricopa County Parks and Recreation department offers a wide array of different guided events in which visitors and locals alike can participate in throughout the week, year-round. Guided events range from fitness activities to animal encounters, and much more. Morning on the Mountain is one such event, during which participants can join a guided hike through the Estrella Mountains at the Estrella Regional Park. The Animal Flashlight Walk gives guests a chance to try and see some of the nocturnal desert animals along a one-hour walk down the Merkle Trail, while Lunch with the Locals features animal feedings.
You are reading “25 Best Free Things to Do in Phoenix Year Round” Back to Top or More weekend getaways, what to do near me, must see attractions, stuff to do near me
Places to eat near me, coffee shops, flea, farmers market, tropical honeymoon trip finder, wedding venues near me, lunch, brunch, restaurant near me, RV camp, cruise, hotel, where to stay, sandy beach by car: Things to Do in Louisville, Best Places to visit in the Bay Area, Best Aquariums, TX Glamping, NY, FL, CO
Things To Do In Phoenix Outdoor Activities

Phoenix has a lot to offer when it comes to outdoor activities. The area is surrounded by mountains and the desert and three digit temperatures are not uncommon in the summer months. When you head out insummer, drink a lot of water and always keep yourself hydrated. Also,apply copious amount of sunscreen. Do not leave your hotel/house without hat and sunglasses.
Humidity can be low in summer months and high temperature coupled with dehydration can raise your body temperature very quickly. A good rule of thumb is to carry one liter water for each hour of outside activity. If possible, enjoy the outdoor activities in early morning or after sunset. There are some parks which offer guided moonlight hikes and golf games after the sunset.
Recommended Reading: Kid Friendly Things To Do In Cleveland Ohio
Things To Do In Phoenix Dining
Phoenix is heaven for foodies. Whether you want to try Indian, Chinese, Mexican, Italian, Vietnamese or the delicious local delicacies, there are a number of restaurants serving various cuisines. There are also a growing number of restaurants serving ethnic delights such as Ethiopian, Salvadoran and many others for fine dining or quick snacks. Gorgeous warm weather all year round also gives you the option of enjoying food under the stars all year long.
World Championship Hoop Dance Contest
Paul B. Moore / Shutterstock
The World Championship Hoop Dance Contest is an extremely fascinating event that is basically the top competition of its kind across the globe.
Audience members get to see an interesting form of art where dancers use hoops in order to make various symbols, backed by upbeat and thematic music.
Judgment is made based on creativity, speed, rhythm, showmanship, and precision.
The competition lasts for two days and has five different age categories.
Those under five and over 40 are on the far end of each spectrum.
More importantly, the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest honors traditions from Native Americans and First Nation Canadian tribes.
In those cultures, these hoop dances are big parts of healing ceremonies.
Sure, its not technically something you can consider among the places to visit in Phoenix, as its an event that happens in February at the famous Heard Museum, but thats no reason it shouldnt be on this list!
Address: 2301 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
Also Check: Things To Do In Syracuse Ny For Kids
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix
4243 W Pinnacle Peak RdGlendale, AZ 85310 201-2000
Looking for exciting things to do in Phoenix this weekend with kids? Experience a world of family fun in Phoenix by exploring the renowned Six Flags Hurricane Harbor. With a host of thrilling attractions and water slides, this family-themed experience is one of the top, must-try things for kids to do in Phoenix.
Make your visit unforgettable by hitting Maximum Velocity. With this one-of-a-kind coaster ride, youll get to race in a pair of tubes down a couple of slide tracks with more than 800 feet of curves and drops. Even better, the park offers a plethora of kid-friendly water attractions, such as Tiny Typhoon and Went n Wild Jr.
Phoenix, AZ 85004 257-1880
The Phoenix Art Museum, home to over 18,000 pieces from all over the world, is the largest of its kind in the Southwest region. From Frida Kahlo to Diego Rivera, this treasure trove has a stellar permanent collection that delights all kinds of art lovers.
Kick-start your family visit by grabbing a Scavenger Hunt guide from the facilitys front desk. Soon after, check out the famous Thorne Miniature Collection. For a fun family pit-stop, let your kids join the youth-oriented activities organized by this institution.
This fun art heaven is a great place to visit in the greater Phoenix area for children ages 3 and up.
Its Free To Hike The Challenging Trails At Camelback Mountain
Camelback Mountain is considered one of the nations top hiking destinations. This 2704ft twin-humped mountain sits smack in the center of all the Phoenix action. The two main trails are rated extremely difficult and subject hikers to elevation gains, uneven terrain, and a path that is unprotected from the elements, so make sure you bring plenty of water and take adequate rests on the way to the top. The Echo Canyon Trail , is short but steep, with 1264ft of elevation gain over a mere 1.2 miles and lots of hands-on scrambling over boulders. Its a great workout followed by stellar views of the Valley of the Sun.
Don’t Miss: Things To Do In Baytown Tx For Free
Camping Spots Near Phoenix
I typically use the Dyrt App to plan out my camping trips wherever I go, because it not only tells you the price and availability but also tells you amenities that are available. If you do plan to camp in Arizona, I highly suggest you do not do so during the heat of the summer, even with air conditioning your A/C units may not be able to keep up with the summer heat.
Try to go camping in Phoenix in the Spring or Winter, and avoid the monsoon season . The top places that Visit Phoenix recommends to pop up that tent or RV is the Estrella Mountain Regional Park, Usery Mountain Regional Park, Cave Creek Regional Park, and the Coon Bluff Campground. It looks like they all have the best views with the best amenities nearby, but just double check they have what you may need for your own camping preferences before going.
Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour
The Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour dont just make great cocktails they make award-winning cocktails. The parlour has an old-world décor and atmosphere, but a completely modern take on mixology. Even the ice-cubes they use in the drinks are handcrafted. Now thats dedication to your profession.
Book a table at this bar on West Jefferson or get there early, this bar is usually full to overflowing five minutes after its opened, even then, you may still find yourself on the waiting list to get in.
Go for a Porn Star Martini or a simple Old Fashioned. You wont be disappointed.
Also Check: Moonshine Canton Ct
Downtown Phoenix This Coming Weekend
Hi All,
My husband and I arrive in Phoenix this coming Sunday around 11am. We are coming into town to see Cubs/Diamondbacks game Monday night and then off to Tucson.
We are staying at the Springhill Suites on E Van Buren. I understand that they offer an airport shuttle. My question is….. Can we find enough to do Sunday during the day – evening without a car? I did read that there is bus transporation. We are fine with that – do it all the time in Downtown Chicago. I’ve read where there are sketchy people hanging around downtown. Should we get a car?
Also, I believe I read that the bus can be taken to Downtown Tempe – which would be fun to run around and have drinks – Thanks in advance for your hlep!
We need a car or no?
It would be best to get a car. In Downtown Phoenix, when there’s not a sporting event, it gets pretty sparse. Plus, it’s crazy hot this time of year.
You’re correct about the bus running to Downtown Tempe. It’s the Red Line and it’s on Jefferson/Washington, about two blocks south of Van Buren. However, for drinking, it really doesn’t work because it stops running so early, especially on Sundays. There are bars in Downtown Phoenix that you could walk to, but there’s a chance that they won’t even be open. The Hard Rock is always a sure thing though.
Head to Tempe during the day and either have lunch, or stay into the evening and have dinner. But, even then, you won’t find a whole lot to do.
You may want to repost in the Tucson forum to get more feedback.