Free Things to Do in Phoenix with Kids
Phoenix is a stellar kid-friendly vacation destination, and it’s easy on the budget, too! You don’t have to look far to find free things to do in Phoenix with kids. Outdoor adventures, free museum days, and plenty of splash pads round out unforgettable getaways. Want to know what to do in Phoenix for free? Keep reading!
We rounded up 11 free things to do in Phoenix, plus travel-tested tips for saving more on your next trip to the Valley of the Sun.
1. Phoenix Art Museum
The Phoenix Art Museum free day is every Wednesday 3-9 p.m., the first Friday of each month 6-10 p.m., and every second Sunday 12-5 p.m., so you have lots of opportunities to see great art!
2. North Mountain Trails
Slather on the sunscreen for a kid-friendly hike up North Mountain. This trail is great for small kids, and there are stroller- and wheelchair-accessible paths as well. Hiking is best during the cooler months, and bringing extra water is always a good idea.
3. Splash Pads
Ask a local and they’ll tell you that staying cool is one of the most important family activities in Phoenix. Fortunately, that’s super easy, thanks to over 40 free splash pads in the Valley—yep, 40. When you’re downtown, check out SplashPad at CityScape, open 7 days a week.
4. The Children’s Museum of Phoenix
Build self-esteem and creativity with hands-on exhibits and experiences that are as fun as they are educational. Check out the Children’s Museum of Phoenix, and get in free every first Friday of most months from 5-9 p.m.
5. First Friday Downtown Art Walk
On the first Friday of every month, the city comes alive with art and culinary treats from local talents. It’s fun for adults and features plenty of unique things to do in Phoenix with kids.
6. Scottsdale Trolley Tour
Tour historical Scottsdale on the Old Town Trolley year-round, 7 days a week (except certain holidays). It’s a great way to discover a new and beautiful city for free.
7. The Heard Museum
Explore the region’s Native American heritage and culture when you visit the Heard Museum. Admission is free 5-10 p.m. every first Friday of the month. During the summer, you can get in free every fourth Sunday.
8. Chandler Symphony Orchestra
In the nearby city of Chandler, you can experience world-class music for free. Check the CSO website for a schedule of open rehearsals and free family performances at the Chandler Center for the Arts.
9. Summer Training Games
The Arizona Cardinals have open practice games each summer before football season starts. Check the Cardinals’ training schedule if you plan to be in Phoenix for a pre-season trip.
10. Phoenix Botanical Garden
There’s lots of beautiful flora and fauna in the Sonoran Desert. The Phoenix Botanical Garden is brimming with biodiversity and lots of family-friendly events. The second Tuesday of each month is free, and kids 3 and younger are always free.
11. Coyotes Training Camp
September in Phoenix is still pretty hot, so join one of the Arizona Coyotes’ open training sessions before hockey season starts up! Check the Coyotes’ website for more scheduling information.
What are fun things to do in Phoenix, AZ? Check out these tips for saving money on your next trip to Phoenix:
- Cool off at a community pool. There are several in each city throughout the Phoenix area, and many charge entrance fees under $5.
- Phoenix takes First Fridays very seriously, as you can tell. Many cultural venues stay open late and offer free activities, even beyond downtown Phoenix.
- See the Apache Trail on a steamboat tour with discounted child rates.
- Book a hotel with free breakfast and airport shuttle, because those amenities can add up fast.
- Capture your memories with a local photographer in Scottsdale
- Visit November through April—travel rates are low and the weather is at its best!
Check out more Phoenix attractions (and ways to experience Phoenix on a budget) and let us know your favorite free activities for kids in Phoenix!
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