Potter and Tioga Counties in Pennsylvania are the newest vacation hotspots in the USA in the fall season. The fifth position in the 2025 USA TODAY 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Destination for Fall Colors has further brought this into the limelight.
Hiking the canyon rims, watching the stars at the Cherry Springs, live entertainment, and great local food make Potter and Tioga stand out.
On the other hand, USA Today has recently named Mackinac Island the Best Place to Visit for Fall. Since 2023, it has been placed in the top three destinations in the list of USA Today as one of the best places to travel in October in the USA.
Tim Hygh, the executive director of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, has shared his thoughts with MLive.com.
“Fall on Mackinac Island is a remarkable experience, from the tranquil atmosphere to the brilliant fall colors, and we are incredibly honored to receive this recognition.”
So, are you ready to enjoy the whiff of the fudge in the air in Mackinac Island? Or, do you want to explore more places to travel in October in the USA? Here is a complete travel guide.
What Is The Leaf-Peeping Season In The USA? Why Is It So Special?
With the leaves of the trees turning orange and golden yellow, and the earth getting covered with dry leaves, Autumn announces the season of Thanksgiving and Halloween.
Furthermore, it is the season of apple picking and pumpkin harvesting.
Mid-September to early November is the leaf peeping season in the USA. However, the peak season for the foliage color reaches different parts of the country at different times in the month.
Parts in the USA
Leaf Peeping Season
West, the Aspen Groves in Colorado and Utah
• Late September • Early October
Midwest
• October
Blue Ridge Mountains and the Southern Part of America
• Late October
Northeastern America, such as Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire
• October
The Leaf Peeping Season In The USA In The Current Year
In the current year, the fall season has officially set in on 6th October. However, because of a pretty dry season since late July, the fall colors seem to be less visible in different parts of the country till now.
Furthermore, due to the “Urban Heat Island Effect,” the urban areas are likely to have less vibrant fall colors, and the ocean influences in the coastal areas will also impact and delay the change of foliage colors.
So, in the current year, we will have to wait till mid and late October for the leaf peeping season to reach its full glory. Even in the northeast, the drought stress since the end of August and a consistent temperature of around 80°F will delay the arrival of fall colors.
Having said that, Hudson Valley, New Jersey, and some other locations in the northwestern region have already started showing mild colors. In addition, a wet beginning to summer and the long dry spell afterward have created a favorable condition for apple and pumpkin harvesting, two other major attractions of the fall season, along with the change of leaf colors.
Moreover, the species of the trees (Red Maple Trees offer red foliage and ash trees offer yellow foliage) and their locations impact the fall colors. Trees at higher elevations and near lakes and ponds show better colors.
What Are The Best Places To Visit In October In The USA?
Have you seen the painting, Four Seasons, by Egon Schiele? The 1917 painting beautifully captures the spirit of the fall season with the shades of golden yellow and red. The “Autumn” painting of Helmer Osslund is another amazing depiction of the season, where nature sheds the old and gets ready for the new.
Some places in the USA are nothing short of these iconic paintings in the fall season. Let’s find out what special they have in store for us.
1. New England Region
Average Temperature: 3-17 °Celsius
The New England Region covers states such as Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts.
The crisp air and silent roads with trees in golden, orange, and red shades make the region an ideal choice for autumn vacations.
Vermont
Average Temperature: 5-15 °Celsius
Vermont is the quintessential autumn destination you need to visit in the USA. The scenic drive along Route 100 and the views of the Green Mountains are breathtaking, with the leaves changing their colors.
You can also visit the apple orchards and pumpkin farms for a first-hand harvesting experience.
New Hampshire
Average Temperature: 5-12 °Celsius
Home to the White Mountains, New Hampshire is one of the best places to travel in October in the USA. You can explore the state parks and enjoy the iconic ride on the Mount Washington Cog Railway.
The small towns here are ideal for experiencing the autumn festivities.
Known as the Witch City, Salem is associated with the Infamous Witch Trials of 1692. You can be a part of the month-long Haunted Happening Festivals in October in Salem. The festivities include ghost tours and parades.
Also, visit the Salem Witch Museum for a somber and eerie experience.
2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Bordering North Carolina And Tennessee
Average Temperature: 9-21 °Celsius
Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers the most amazing views of the fall foliage with its diverse elevation.
You can hike or go for scenic drives in the national park. You can even explore nearby small towns such as Pigeon Forge.
3. Aspen, Colorado
Average Temperature: -1 to 13 °Celsius
With the aspen trees turning golden yellow in October, Aspen looks beautiful, and the Rocky Mountains create the perfect backdrop.
Furthermore, the Maroon Bells in Colorado, one of the most photographed mountains in America, looks stunning with the changing colors of foliage.
4. Boston
Average Temperature: 10-17 °Celsius
Beacon Hill and Back Bay are some of the most popular neighborhoods in Boston to see autumn foliage.
Furthermore, visit the Boston Common and Public Garden to enjoy a beautiful urban landscape in autumn.
5. New Orleans
Average Temperature: 20-25 °Celsius
Known for its Voodoo culture, New Orleans is most alive in the Halloween Season. Take a tour of the local cemeteries and the French Quarter to soak in the eerie vibe.
6. Orlando, Florida
Average Temperature: 18-29 °Celsius
Be a part of the Halloween Horror Nights festival in Orlando. It is one of the scariest festivals in the USA, with scare zones, haunted houses, and live acts inspired by popular horror movies and TV shows.
7. Savannah, Georgia
Average Temperature: 14-25 °Celsius
One of the most haunted cities in America, Savannah is a must-visit in October. A tour of the historic district of the city is spooky.
Also, you can enjoy the changing colors of autumn foliage.
8. San Francisco, California
Average Temperature: 12-21 °Celsius
Home to the notorious Alcatraz Island and prison, San Francisco is one of the most prominent locations for dark tourism in the USA.
Also, if you want to see autumn colors, you can visit Golden Gate Park.
Asheville, in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is one of the most scenic locations in October. The trees in the mountains change their colors faster, and you can take a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway to see the colors.
Also, visit the Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in America.
10. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Average Temperature: 4-14 °Celsius
Santa Fe shows a beautiful fusion of Native American and Spanish culture. In October, you can be a part of the Santa Fe Harvest Festival and go hiking in the Sangre De Cristo Mountains.
The leaves of the aspen trees in the mountain trails turn golden yellow in the season.
11. New York City
Average Temperature: 14-18 °Celsius
Central Park is the epicenter of seeing fall colors in New York City. You can also be a part of the Halloween Parade in Greenwich Village, which is the largest in the country.
Otherwise, you can just chill at the outdoor cafes and enjoy the Broadway shows.
12. Leavenworth, Washington State
Average Temperature: 7-18 °Celsius
With the charm of a Bavarian-style village, Leavenworth is just another small town in the USA that turns magical in October.
The small town hosts an Oktoberfest. It is a German-style celebration with great food and music. Furthermore, the entire town is decked up in fall foliage, pumpkins, and everything autumn.
13. Lake Tahoe: California And Nevada Border
Average Temperature: 10-21 °Celsius
Surrounded by mountains, Lake Tahoe is one of the most serene places to travel in October in the USA. With the summer crowd gone, the foliage in the mountains and around the lake starts changing colors.
You can do kayaking and hiking here. Or, you can just relax by the lake for some tranquility.
14. Chicago
Average Temperature: 4-21 °Celsius
Chicago bustles with energy in October as it hosts many renowned festivals. It is the month of the Chicago International Film Festival and the Lincoln Park Autumn Harvest.
Also, with the nip in the air, it is the best time to try the signature deep-dish pizzas.
15. Zion National Park, Utah
Average Temperature: 4-20 °Celsius
Hike through the famous trails such as the Narrows and Angels Landing in Zion National Park and witness how the fall foliage creates a contrast against the red rock canyons in the park.
The views are dramatic, and with the summer crowd gone, the ambiance is peaceful.
Blessed by the Appalachian Mountains, Potter and Tioga Counties have the most amazing forests and verdant hills. So, the autumn vistas here are quite dramatic.
Furthermore, the Pine Creek Gorge, or the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, is at the epicenter of the autumn attractions here.
Moreover, you can do horse riding, hiking, or biking through the Pine Creek Rail Trail for an unforgettable experience.
Autumn on Mackinac Island is captivating. Enjoy a ride in the bikes or horse-drawn carriages to see the changing fall colors. It is famous for its car-free lifestyle.
Also, don’t forget a visit to the Mackinac Island State Park, famous for limestone arches, woods, and trails.
Visiting The Best Places To Travel In October In The USA: A 7-Day Itinerary
Are you in the USA this autumn? Try this 7-day itinerary to explore the best places to travel in October in the USA.
Days
Location
Activities
Day 1
Salem
• Drive from Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Salem • A Visit to the Witch House and Walking through the Historic Streets
Day 2
Boston
• Walking through the Freedom Trail and Exploring Places such as Boston Common, Paul Revere House, and Faneuil Hall. • A Visit to Boston Common and Enjoying a Boat Ride. • Walking through Beacon Hill
Day 3
Boston to Vermont
• Foliage Drive from Boston to Vermont for 4-5 Hours. • Stopping by the Woodstock Town to See Fall Colors. • Trying Maple Syrup at a Sugar House.
Day 4
Vermont and New England
• Hiking in the Green Mountain National Forest for Foliage Views • Shopping at Vermont Country Store • Afternoon Drive in the Berkshires
Day 5
Vermont to New York City
• A Drive for Around 5 Hours • Exploring Central Park • Visiting the NYC Landmarks such as Rockefeller Center and Times Square
Day 6
New York City
• Visiting the Metropolitan • • Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) • Brooklyn Bridge Walk • Visiting the 9/11 Museum
What Is The Cost Of A 7-Day Fall Vacation In October In The USA?
Here is the estimated cost of a 7-day fall vacation in the USA in October. The budget range here is wide because I have considered budget, mid-budget, and high-end traveling and their various options.
Types of Cost
Estimated Budget
Notes
Accommodation
$600-2100
• Hostels • Budget Inns • Boutique Hotels • B&Bs
Transportation
$200-600
• GasTolls • Parking • Subway • Rental CarTrain
Food and Drink
$350-1000
• Quick • Service • Groceries • Restaurants
Attractions
$150-450
• Entry Fees • ToursTickets
Total
$1300-4150
• (Excluding flight tickets to the USA)
A Calendar Of October Festivities In The USA
In October, try being a part of these nationwide and local festivals.
Time of Month
Festivals
Details
2025 Dates
Early October
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
• The Largest Hot Air Balloon Festival in the World • Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico
4th to 12th October 2025
First Two Full Weekends in October
National Apple Harvest Festival
• Visit Biglerville, Pennsylvania.
4th and 5th October and 11th to 12th October
13th October
Columbus Day
• A Federal Holiday Celebrating America’s Past
13th October
Month-Long Activities
Salem Haunted Happenings
• Visit Salem, Massachusetts
N/A
Mid-October
Fall-Foliage Festivals
• Visit Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maryland
N/A
31st October
Halloween
• Nationwide Celebration with Themed Parties and Spooky Tours
31st October
Best Places To Travel In October In The USA: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the best places to travel in October in the USA.
1. What Is The #1 Place To Vacation In The US?
New York City, the Yellowstone National Park, and Los Angeles are some of the most popular places for a vacation in the USA. However, if you want to enjoy a vibrant nightlife, you can visit Las Vegas or Reno. Also, Orlando is the place to be for theme park fun.
2. What Is The Cheapest Vacation Destination In The USA?
Oklahoma City, known for its distinct cowboy culture, is one of the cheapest vacation destinations in the USA. You can visit the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, the Oklahoma City Zoo, and the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum here. Furthermore, the cost of living in the city is way below the national average.
3. Where To Take Kids For Fun In The US?
With the presence of Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort, Orlando is the most coveted location for kids visiting the USA. However, if your little one loves nature and wilderness, Yellowstone National Park, Olympic National Park, and the Dry Tortugas National Park are some of the best places to be.
Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!
Saving money with your trips can be your plan for the last five years, but you may have missed the opportunity all the time. Well, this might not be true for your condition but sure you have tension with travel costs for your next trip.
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We love to travel, and no doubt we want it as much as possible. Unfortunately, we do not get many long leaves in a singular calendar year. However, work is permanent, and we cannot skip it.
Thinking of skipping work is dangerous as it may lead to mental frustration and a lack of dignity. By considering your skills and expertise, it's better to be agile with your working process.
We cannot skip our working process and daily boring life, but we can take a break from it.
How?
Traveling to your favorite places by taking leaves once or twice a year can be a fundamental choice for your professional career without stress. Here, we will focus on your savings while traveling and have already considered one trick for you.
Best Ways To Save Money On Your Trip
Traveling can be expensive, but it doesn't have to be. With the right planning and a few simple tricks, you can save money on your trip without sacrificing fun or comfort. Whether you are a budget traveler or simply looking to cut costs, there are plenty of ways to save on everything from flights and accommodations to food and activities.
Here, we will try to explore some of the best ways to save money during your trip and make the most of your travel budget.
Save Money On Flight Booking
Though we have already shared this idea with you earlier, let's explore it in detail. So, you have to plan ahead for your trip no matter how busy you are with your work.
The more you plan, the better you can manage things on your budget. Well, if you are still not decided on your budget, consider it right now. We know that no one can ensure any particular budget right now, but at least you can go with the estimation.
You must consider the advance deal if you want to go for a perfect trip without any headaches.
However, it's crucial to prioritize safety alongside saving money. Opt for reputable airlines that prioritize passenger safety through investment in aircraft maintenance, whether it is by purchasing equipment like aircraft jacks or investing in rigorous maintenance schedules and procedures. Additionally, consider flight timings, layovers, and the airline's reputation to ensure a smooth and secure travel experience. While saving money on flight bookings is beneficial, it shouldn't come at the expense of compromising safety and comfort.
Go For Rental Cars
If you want to save money on your next trip, renting a car might be a good option. It can be more cost-effective than taking taxis or ride-sharing services and gives you more flexibility and freedom to explore your destination at your own pace. With a rental car, you can avoid the hassle of public transportation and the costs associated with parking in big cities.
Additionally, you can make spontaneous stops and detours whenever you want without worrying about schedules or routes. So, if you are planning a trip soon, consider renting a car to make the most of your experience while keeping your budget in check.
Avoid Hotels And Consider Airbnb
Yes! You have heard it right. Hotels will give you rooms on the count, but if you get the whole house of a person? What about that?
Well, Airbnb offers better houses at almost the same price as hotels. Apart from that, you will also get a caretaker while you are there at the house.
How did it become possible?
Well, people who often get out of their homes try to consider Airbnb for their house on rent while they are not home for a long time. This will allow you to search for a better property to stay within and also enjoy a home-like interior and care.
It will save you money because you are paying for the whole house with rooms depending on the size, and that will fit all your members in the travel group.
Travel During Off-Peak Seasons
It is a no-brainer to understand that off-peak seasons come with cost-less visits. The more you pick these seasons, the better you can do more on a budget. Everything will be cheaper than you have imagined, from hotel prices to transport.
Plan ahead and plan for the off-season tours. The more you try to indulge yourself in planning in advance, the better you can ensure budget-friendly trips.
Don’t Be Afraid To Haggle
When planning a trip, it's important to keep costs in mind. One way to save money is by haggling with vendors for a better price. Don't be afraid to negotiate, as it's a common practice in many countries. You may be surprised at how much you can save simply by asking for a lower price.
Just be respectful and polite in your approach, and you may end up with a great deal on your trip expenses.
Stay Off The Beaten Path
When planning a trip, most people tend to stick to popular tourist destinations, which can often come with a high price tag. However, if you are looking to save money on your next adventure, it may be worth considering straying from the beaten path.
By exploring lesser-known destinations, you not only have the opportunity to experience a more authentic and unique trip, but you may also find that prices for accommodations, activities, and food are significantly lower. Plus, you will likely encounter fewer crowds and have a more peaceful and relaxing vacation.
To find these hidden gems, research online or ask locals for recommendations. Consider traveling during the off-peak season, as prices for flights and accommodations tend to be lower. And don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and explore areas that may not be as well-known. You never know what amazing experiences you may discover.
Overall, staying off the beaten path can be an excellent way to save money and have a more memorable travel experience.
So why not give it a try on your next trip?
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If you feel like it’s time for a vacation in your life, you need to choose the best travel destination to make the most out of your respite. So why don’t you opt for a premier travel destination like California that attracts millions of tourists annually? That popularity is well-deserved, considering how much California has to offer!
For one thing, nature lovers find their havens here in different aspects of natural beauty, from high mountains to stunning beaches! While you may find alluring landscapes in many tourist spots, the interesting thing about California is that the entire state is full of unique landscapes.
Full of stunning natural beauty, historical sites, and theme parks like Disneyland, it’s no wonder that travel and tourism account for a significant part of California’s economic progress.
To add to all that, we also have Hollywood there! People don’t want to miss the chance to get an autograph from one of their favorite stars. Given all this, it’s quite understandable why research has predicted international visits to California to increase by 31 % in 2023.
Here Are Six Best Places To Visit In California
If you ever make up your mind to travel there, you need to be familiar with some of the best tourist spots. The list below can help you with just that.
1. San Diego
San Diego is called America’s Finest City for a reason. Living here, you get the chance to experience all four seasons! And to complement the beautiful weather, it has several beaches! You can enjoy the pleasant climate either lying at the beach or swimming and surfing on the coastal waves. If you feel this place calling you, San Diego long distance moving companies can help plan your vacation without delay!
A unique feature of a vacation here is that you won’t have to worry about your pet while traveling. Many attractions like Mission Beach and Pacific Beach allow dogs during certain hours of the day. So, you can enjoy a tour with your furry friend without worrying that you’ll have to leave him behind.
But water sports aren’t the only attraction here. The coastline also offers possibilities for cycling and hiking if you have an adventurer’s spirit. And there’s more yet! If you love wildlife, San Diego Zoo has got you covered. If you want to learn about the past, you can do a little time travel to one of the museums. And the best part is that you can take a day trip to Mexico with ease thanks to its proximity to San Diego.
2. Big Sur
Another great spot for hiking and enjoying breathtaking views, Big Sur lives up to its name. These huge rocks stretching along the California coastline appeal to anyone who spots them from a distance. In fact, many roadside travelers end up taking a detour to these spiky cliffs. The rocks and beaches here are the epitome of mysterious natural beauty. If you stay at Post Ranch Inn, you can enjoy cozy evenings sitting by your window looking at the ocean. When you’ve had enough peace and quiet, you can then plan a trip to the hiking trails.
3. Yosemite National Park
This national park provides multiple unique attractions for millions of visitors annually. Anyone who visits the park should not miss out on significant attractions like the Glacier Point and Yosemite Museum.
Without a view of the Yosemite valley or an experience of the historical sites like LeConte Memorial Lodge, you can’t hope to get the most out of your visit. For those keen on sight-seeing, the park has the Yosemite Falls and Half Dome in addition to many cliffs, lakes, and streams. Moreover, outdoor sports nerds may want to try out everything from hiking and rock climbing to horse riding and camping in the Curry Village.
4. Palm Springs
This is the perfect spot for you to relax in the sun and renew your strength in natural hot springs. The weather is never too cold here, so you can always remain sun-kissed. Aside from natural amenities, almost every building here, from houses to business offices, is a treat for anyone with a keen eye for architectural design.
Whether it’s their buildings made in twentieth-century architectural style or celebrations like Modernism Week reflecting their spirit, the popularity of the architecture in this place cannot be denied. And of course, the nearby desert is always available if you want to go hiking.
We all have some dreams as kids that get lost on the path of life somewhere. And a vacation is the best time to live some of those dreams! Palm Springs gives a chance to many who have always longed for exploration and adventure. The mighty mountains and many museums will definitely leave you feeling like an explorer!
5. Laguna Beach
While other attractions are prominent in the nature and history departments, this seaside resort city is a perfect place for art lovers. In addition to the marvelous luxury beaches offering vibrant natural scenery, the community here is significantly contributing to the artistic world. They regularly hold art festivals to celebrate the talent of local artists. What’s more, their houses and streets filled with art galleries and sculptures are also a reflection of their enthusiasm and love for art. Aside from participating in art festivals, outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, cycling, and even scuba diving are available.
6. Channel Islands
This archipelago of eight beautiful islands has much in store for you. Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, you can unleash your wild and free spirit and connect with life under the sea. Over 2000 species of plants and animals are found on these islands, so you’ll never get bored here. There is always something new to see!
To experience the marine life closely, you can get into one of the glass bottom boats and explore the reefs and years-old shipwrecks. And if you want to add a little educational touch to your tour, the Catalina Island Museum can enlighten you with the history of the island and its citizens.
Conclusion
With so many attractions for all kinds of people, California deserves a spot on your list of must-visit states. Whether you’re interested in history or have a knack for hiking, whether you long for some quiet in the company of nature or wish to see your favorite celebrities in person, you will probably find something to your liking here!
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“People love Arizona, and our economy is growing because of it. Tourism supports critical services for Arizonans, and our work to build an Arizona for everyone translates to more visitors and more jobs for our great state.” Katie Hobbs, Governor of Arizona.
You will find an echo of the governor’s words in the statement shared by Lisa Urias. She is the CEO of the Arizona Office of Tourism. She has mentioned that Arizona’s diversity, amazing beauty, and hospitality are behind the growth of the tourism industry in the state.
Now, there is enough market data to corroborate the claims of the governor and the CEO of the Arizona Office of Tourism. In 2023, 86% of the tourists in Arizona were repeat visitors, and the $1.15 billion tourism tax collected in 2023 was 10% of the state’s operating budget.
Phoenix, of course, plays a crucial role in the state’s tourism development. Along with unique desert beauty, Arizona has the best urban landscapes and the warmth of southwest culture.
In addition, the cheap and free things to do in Phoenix, Arizona, make the city a popular tourist destination.
So, do you want an overview of Phoenix, Arizona’s free and cheap tourist attractions? Let’s explore.
You Can’t Miss These Free And Cheap Things To Do In Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix, Arizona, has a pricey vibe. However, don’t be fooled by that vibe as a tourist. Participating in cultural activities is one of the best things to do in Phoenix, Arizona, for free. Also, people in Arizona are perennially in love with outdoor activities.
You just need to set your itinerary right to enjoy a mix of outdoor pursuits, cultural tours, and more.
Did You Know?Phillip Duppa, an Englishman, was a friend of Jack Swilling. Now, Jack Swilling was one of the city’s founding fathers, and Phillip Duppa named the city Phoenix.The city was named to symbolize rebirth. The idea was that Phoenix would rise from the ashes of the natives and it would become prosperous in the land of irrigation.
1. Explore The Heritage Square
https://www.instagram.com/heritagesquarephx/p/DCkFissSSXY/
Downtown Phoenix bustles with modern vibes. However, Heritage Square is a place that complements its modern vibes with its old-world charm from the Victorian era.
Also, the Heritage Square is known as the “National Register of Historic Places.” Many of the buildings here are restored, and exploring the interiors of these buildings is one of the cheapest but meaningful things to do in Phoenix, Arizona.
For example, the Rosson House Museum stands here, and you just need to pay a fee of $15 for admission.
Heritage Square, Phoenix, BuildingsThe Burgess Carriage HouseThe Thomas HouseThe Stevens HouseThe Burgess Carriage HouseThe Rosson House Musuem, etc.
2. Visit Arizona Capitol Museum
Open Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM, Saturday, 10 AM to 2 PM
With an “Entry is Always Free” promise, the Arizona Capitol Museum is a big draw in the state. Let me put it directly. If you want to know about the history and culture of the state, you have to visit the Arizona Capitol Museum.
The museum also offers in-depth insight into the state’s political scenario.
Further, if you plan to visit Arizona in a few days and have included a visit to the Arizona Capitol Museum as one of the best things to do in Phoenix, Arizona, you must not miss the new Merci Train Exhibition.
The museum now celebrates the 75th anniversary of the train’s arrival. Some of the most prominent exhibits at the museum are:
USS Arizona: Flagship of the Fleet
Arizona Takes Shape
The Struggle for Universal Sufferage – Voting Rights Timeline
The U.S.S Arizona Artifact Collection, etc.
You can even be a part of the “Arizona Capitol Museum Guided Tour Survey” for educational purposes.
3. Hike At Camelback Mountain
Before I get into the details of hiking at Camelback Mountain, I must tell you that it’s difficult and very strenuous. So, if you are not a seasoned hiker at the peak of your fitness, this is not one of the best things to do in Phoenix, Arizona, for you.
Still, Camelback Mountain and its Cholla and Echo Canyon trailheads have millions of visitors every year. The current trailhead hours are from sunset to sunrise.
Further, this 2704 feet mountain gets its name from its double humps. Its terrains are uneven with boulders, and the elevation gains are difficult to cope with.
However, once you reach the summit, you will get the best views of the Valley of the Sun.
Tour And Travel HighlightCamelback Culture Community, led by Jes Dobbs, is a local group of hikers. Under the leadership of Jes Dobbs, a graphic designer, the group is making an effort to make Camelback Mountain safer.They have launched a timely petition to improve the safety of the mountains in time, considering the death and rescue of three hikers from the Echo Canyon Trail. All of them died due to heat exhaustion.Phoenix experienced record heat waves this season, and the rising temperatures were additional perils for the hikers.Nevertheless, the Camelback Culture Community has made two demands in their petitions.Extension of Trail Hours ( With An Extended Timing Of 4 AM to 8 PM)Installation of Automated Gates At The Trailheads of Camelback and Other MountainsThe petition already has 1,900 signatures and in the words of Jes Dobbs,“I believe having trailheads with year-round, consistent opening and closing times will enable locals and visitors to hike in the cooler hours of the day legally and when their lives allow. Many hard-working people don’t have the option to take a midday hike. They deserve access to exercise and nature during their limited free time – before and after work.”
4. Visit Phoenix Art Museum
Thanks to the "Pay-What-You-Wish Wednesday," visiting the Phoenix Art Museum is one of the cheapest things to do in Phoenix, Arizona. Your entry fee is voluntary after 3 PM.
Further, the evening sessions or AfterHours are free, and you can enjoy entertainment events and live music. You can attend these events four times a year.
Family FunDays is another great event to visit the museum for, and it happens four times a year. These events take place on Sundays, and on these days, you can enter the museum for free and attend events for all ages.
Tour And Travel Tip
The Western Gallery is the highlight of this museum. Here, you will find artwork from the pioneers and some exemplary works by the modernists.
One thing is common in all these artworks. They show the prominent influence of the beautiful landscape of Arizona.
5. Visit The Historic Heard Museum
https://www.instagram.com/p/C7ceBsOsGff/
Does the life of American Indian tribes in the Southwest part of the country intrigue you? The Historic Heard Museum is your go-to destination. Along with the life of the tribes, you will also get to know about their culture and art.
When you are at the Historic Heard Museum, the following are going to be your highlights.
Films
Ethnographic Displays
Kids’ Exhibit
However, for me, the main attraction at this museum is Hopi Kachinas. It is an unbelievable collection of spirit dolls. Most of the dolls are gifts from Barry Goldwater, the Presidential nominee.
Visiting the Historic Heard Museum is one of the best things to do in Phoenix, Arizona. For free entry, you can plan a visit to the museum on the first Friday of every month (except March). The museum operates between 4 PM to 8 PM.
Furthermore, Indian fairs, hoop dancing, and competitions are some popular events taking place in the museum.
6. Visit The Desert Botanical Garden
Entry to Desert Botanical Garden in Arizona is free on the Community Day or every second Tuesday of the month. Spanning over 55 acres, this botanical garden has flowers, cactus, and trees from across the globe.
The best time to visit the botanical garden is between March to May. During these months, you will find Mexican gold poppies and bluebells in full glory throughout the Desert Wildflower Loop Trail.
The garden is well-maintained. Also, as you visit the desert denizens arranged according to theme, you learn a lot about the desert plantation.
Tour And Travel Tip
You have to book the tickets for Desert Botanical Garden in advance if you want to pay a visit on Community Day.
7. Take A Walk In Art Walk
Phoenix has the “First Friday Art Walk” on the first Friday of the month between 6 to 10 PM. It is one of the biggest self-guided art walks in the city. Further, you can take the light rail plying through downtown Phoenix and connecting to various art districts of Phoenix.
Also, as you explore the art spaces, galleries, and event venues of the city, you become familiar with the local vibe.
Artlink, a nonprofit organization, started this art walk, and it is still the organizer of the event. Today, this free art event has become the uniting space for people of all age groups.Artists, vendors, and musicians take part in this event to soak in the cultural vibe of Downtown Phoenix.
To explore the best free and cheap things to do in Phoenix, Arizona, you need to find comfortable accommodation first. The table below has the names and details of the best hotels in Phoenix, Arizona.
Hotels In Phoenix, ArizonaPhone NumberDoubleTree by Hilton Phoenix North+1 602-997-5900Great Wolf Lodge, Scottsdale+1 480-948-9653Best Western North Phoenix Hotel+1 602-395-0900Hotel Valley Ho+1 480-376-2600The Clarendon Hotel and Spa+1 602-252-7363The Scottsdale Resort and Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton+1 (480) 991-9000Arizona Biltmore, LXR Hotels & Resorts+1 602-955-6600Embassy Suites by Hilton Phoenix Scottsdale+1 602-765-5800Fairmont Scottsdale Princess+1 480-585-4848
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