Read All About Things to Do in Manila! 

Mar 29, 2025

Last Updated on: Nov 24, 2025

Travel Guides

With the beautiful Spanish culture spread across Manila, there are a lot of places to visit. There are a lot of things to do in Manila which I will highlight in this blog so that you can plan your trip accordingly.  

Starting from contemporary museums to art scene, the place is the home of the oldest Chinatown across the world. Let me share with you several elements that will help you explore the place, both the old and the new.  

I think Manila is one of the best places to visit in February especially because the weather is dry and pleasant. You can easily explore the city during this time.  

Read All About Things to Do in Manila!  

Read All About Things to Do in Manila!

If you are wondering about the things to do in Manila, let me share with you some of the coolest places to visit. The nightlife is good here, but I am more of a museum and art scene girlie. It is the home of several parks and museums that will express history to you.  

Several elements will make you feel that you have come to a previous era. Additionally, several places offer entertainment and fun to people of all ages.   

Rizal Park  

Rizal Park

A beautiful park, open from Monday to Sunday. It is mostly open from 5 am to 10 am and 11 am to 8 pm. When you visit the park, entry is completely free. There are several gardens, laws, and other outdoor events organized across the 57-hectare park.  

There is also a statue of hero Jose Rizal, commemorating him, and the name of the park is given. The hero has contributed to the wellbeing of the city hence, you get to see a lot of him and his commemoration in and around the city and places to visit.  

There are a lot of places where you can go shopping once you explore the city. Henceforth, if you are traveling alone, carry the best travel credit card you possess.  

Fort Santiago  

Fort Santiago  

It is a landmark in Manila which is open from Monday to Sunday, from 8 am to 11 pm. The place is a defensive fortress which has a museum exhibiting many arts and sculptures. The national hero, Jose Rizal is commemorated through the exhibits of the museum.  

In 1571, the Spanish governor and navigator, Miguel Lopez de Legazpi built the castle or the citadel. The city of Manila was newly established by then and is currently one of the oldest fortifications.  

National Museum of Fine Arts  

National Musuem of Fine Arts

A massive museum, the place is a collection of fine art, botany, natural history and archaeology related to Filipino culture. The museum is open from Sunday to Monday from 9 am to 6 pm.  

As the home of 29 galleries and exhibitions in the hallway, it comprises national artists and Filipo masters of the 19th century.  

San Agustin Church  

San Agustin Church

A beautiful place to visit, this historic place was constructed in the 16th century. The San Agustin Church is open from Monday to Sunday from 8 am to 5 pm. The ceilings are vaulted while the church exhibits detailed frescoes.  

It is a Roman Catholic church which is located in the intricate walled city of Intramuros in Manila. The church functions under the auspices of the Order of Saint Augustine. Furthermore, when you visit you get to see Baroque art in the church.  

Manila Ocean Park  

Manila Ocean Park  

More of an aquarium if you ask me, the Manila Ocean Park is open from Sunday to Monday from 10 am to 6 pm. The theme park is owned by China Oceanis Philippines Inc. and it has evolved into the perfect holiday destination for tourists.  

It is an aquatic theme park which you will have both fun and knowledge when you check it out. Additionally, it is a perfect place for you, if you are traveling with your kids. It is one of the best places to travel with kids.  

It is also an educational facility that features live shows, an oceanarium, and hands-on activities. There are all-star Bird shows, Sea lion shows and many more giving you the perfect experience and offering you the thrill of the ocean.  

Intramuros  

Intramuros

The meaning of the term, Intramuros, is the “Walled City” which is the oldest district in Manila. It looks like a fortified city which was one of the most important places for Spanish governor during earlier times of colonial times.  

If you are a lover of history, this is the place for you. The culture of the place has been heavily influenced by the colonial rule and the impact it has on ordinary people.   

Paco Park  

An urban park which offers you serenity when you visit it between 6 am to 5 pm from Monday to Sunday. The park has been developed on a cemetery site which is walled of course. There are shaded paths for people to walk along with areas dedicated for gardens.  

The cemetery is under the maintenance of municipality, and it was built by the Dominicans. During the Spanish colonial period, it was built and filled within it are interred remains of city figures.  

Ayala Museum  

Another amazing museum that you must visit if you are going on a trip to Manila is Ayala Museum. It is open from Sunday to Monday from 10 am to 6 pm. The museum has a modern touch exhibiting Filipino archeological exhibits.  

Starting from history to modern and cultural artifacts and exhibits are available here. There is also a research library that is quite important for you if you are writing a research paper on the history of Spanish colonial period.  

The place is run by the Ayala Foundation privately. It houses several ethnographic, archaeological and cultural exhibits and art. You will be fascinated to know that the place exhibits the Surigao treasure of the indigenous tribe?  

Arroceros Forest Park  

Another urban park that you must visit is Arroceros Forest Park as things to do in Manila. There are a wide variety of plants and trees in the park along with a riverside walkway and a fishpond! A perfect combination of nature and modern practices will enhance your overall experience.  

The park is open for you to visit from Sunday to Monday from 8 am to 5 pm. The lush green forest is filled with greenery. Did you know this place is also known as “Last Lung of Manila”? Spread across 2.2 hectares, the park is a home of many flora and fauna species.  

Casa Manila  

Casa Manila

The Casa Manila is a house that now serves as a museum which is open from Sunday to Monday from 9 am to 6 pm. The house was built in the 1850s and is not restored to exhibit art, architecture, and colonial furniture of the Spanish colonial rule.  

It is often called the living museum which features the way a well to do affluent Filipino family will live. The lifestyle of this family is depicted through the arrangements of furniture, art and architecture.  

The colonization had severely impacted Manila and this is how we can see when we enter the museum. It is a must-do list of things to do in Manila.  

Wrapping Up!  

In conclusion, now that you have gone through the things to do in Manila, I am sure you are already planning on what to do. When you visit the place, I am sure you will experience the ancient practices and instances of the Spanish colonization of the Philippines.  

Comment below on which place is your favorite to visit when you to Manila. You also need to share with us if you think we have missed something on the things to-do list. 

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READ MORE How to Choose the Perfect Yacht for Your Charter

How to Choose the Perfect Yacht for Your Charter

BY  Sibashree Jan 16, 2025

Renting a perfect yacht for your charter is a thrilling opportunity to enjoy luxury, freedom, and adventure. Travel on the surface of the blue ocean is unlike anything you want to experience during the holidays. The different amenities available on the board give you an experience unlike anything else. You can charter an airplane for a fun and joyful ride. But there’s something else when it’s a yacht.  However, selecting the ideal yacht can seem overwhelming, with so many options available.  Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-time renter, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose the perfect yacht for your trip.  1. Define Your Vacation Style Think about the type of experience you want. Are you looking for a romantic escape, a family-friendly adventure, or a lively party with friends? Your vacation style will guide you in selecting the right type of yacht.  Sailing Yachts: Ideal for those who love the authentic experience of navigating with sails. Motor Yachts: Perfect for luxury, speed, and comfort. Catamarans: Spacious and stable, great for families or groups. Gulets: Traditional wooden vessels, perfect for laid-back cruising with a touch of charm. At 12 Knots Yacht Rentals, you’ll find a variety of yachts tailored to your preferences. Choosing the best yacht for your vacation depends on your cruising style and how you want to sail. The type of luxury experience you want depends on your desire and the experience you are looking for. You’ll choose the perfect yacht for your charter depending on that. So, first, set your expectations and the above parameters should help you identify what you are looking for in the yacht.  2. Consider Your Group Size How many people will join you? Yachts come in different sizes, from intimate vessels for two to spacious yachts that can accommodate large groups. Ensure there’s enough room for everyone to sleep, dine, and relax comfortably. There are different sizes of yachts, and each size has a capacity to accommodate a specific number of people.  Get a small yacht, and you can have 4 to 12 people onboard. Now, if you want a grand and luxury wedding on a yacht, you’ll need from 100 to 300 people. That’s when you need a large yacht. Also the need for safety guides and features also change with the number of people you want to have onboard for the charter.  3. Choose the Right Destination The destination often influences the type of yacht you should choose. For example: In the Caribbean, a catamaran might be ideal for shallow waters and island hopping. For the Mediterranean, a motor yacht provides the speed and style needed to explore glamorous coastal towns. A luxury yacht in the Maldives ensures you travel comfortably across atolls. So, choosing the right destination for a yacht charter is also an integral part of finding what works for you. Think of the location you want to visit on your yacht and choose accordingly.  Visit 12 Knots to explore available yachts by destination.  4. Decide on Crew vs. Bareboat Crewed Yachts: Perfect for a hands-off, luxurious experience. The crew handles everything from navigation to meals, leaving you free to relax. Bareboat Charters: Great for experienced sailors who want full control of the yacht. You’ll need the appropriate certifications to rent these. If you want the experience of charting a yacht, it’s great to go for a bareboat charter. If you are a skilled sailor and have significant experience handling a yacht in the ocean, nothing is stopping you from getting a bareboat charter. You must have the necessary certifications and licenses for charting bareboat yachts. So, keep your personal safety and legal procedures in mind when deciding between a crew or a bareboat charter.  5. Set a Budget Yacht rentals often have significant differences in pricing depending on the size, type, and location. Keep in mind additional costs, such as fuel, docking fees, and provisioning. Many charters offer transparent pricing, making it easier to stick to your budget.  But, typically, in the budgeting part, the key areas of consideration come down to the charting fees and the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance).  The advance provisioning allowance for the additional expenses such as drinks, food, delivery, re-delivery fees, and the average cost for smaller yachts.  Depending on your requirement for a luxury yacht charter, you’ll have to spend a specific amount. A small yacht chartering will cost you $10,000 per week. On the other hand, a large sized luxury yacht will cost $150,000 per week. So, set your budget depending on whatever type of experience you are looking for.  6. Check the Amenities Think about the facilities you’ll need: Spacious cabins and bathrooms Air conditioning Onboard kitchen or chef Wi-Fi and entertainment systems Equipment for water sports like snorkeling, paddle boarding, or jet skiing Explore yachts on 12 Knots to compare amenities and find your ideal match. 7. Understand the Season Different destinations have peak seasons. For example, the Mediterranean is best in summer, while the Caribbean shines in winter. Booking in advance ensures you get the yacht you want at the best price. 8. Read Reviews and Consult Experts Look for reviews from past renters and seek advice from yacht rental professionals. At 12 Knots, their experienced team is ready to help you make the best choice for your trip. Several listing websites online allow you to comparent types of yachts and luxury riding experiences.  You can compare prices, features amenities on those websites before making a decision. In addition, different clients also leave their own reviews and testimonials about specific rentals. You can check those before making a decision.  Conclusion  Renting a yacht is a fantastic way to elevate your vacation, but the key to an unforgettable experience is choosing the right yacht. You can ensure a seamless and enjoyable trip by considering your vacation style, destination, group size, and budget. You can take the advice we have given in this article to make your selection a worthwhile one. On the other hand, if you are a travel enthusiast, read other articles we have on our website.  Ready to start planning? Explore the best yachts for your dream destination at 12 Knots Yacht Rentals and embark on the adventure of a lifetime! Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.

READ MORE closest beach to Nashville

What Is The Closest Beach To Nashville? (10 Beaches With Guide)

BY  Sibashree Dec 8, 2022

I love beaches. But, also, I really love Nashville. So, you can guess the sad part here. The last time I went to Nashville, I had to come back dry and without a tan. But I thought there must be some beaches close to Nashville, right? Also, why stick to the same beaches in the Nashville area, or even in and around? Have you thought about venturing out to beaches a little farther away?  Additionally, you can also check out the closest beach to Nashville or even some of the closest beaches near Nashville. Additionally, Nashville is a popular tourist attraction on prestigious lists like the New York Times’ 52 Places to Go. Also, I must say that it has a colorful history, great heritage, and architectural excellence. However, if you want some coastal fun and some sultry sunbathing seasons, the beaches around Nashville will be your ultimate call!  What Is The Closest Beach To Nashville? Top 10 Beaches You Can Visit So here you are, searching for the closest beach to Nashville, TN! And here we are with a curated list featuring the best beaches near Nashville. Also, “The Music City” is the door to cool sand and water pursuits. Let’s check out the names.  1. Dauphin Island, Alabama:  Dauphin Island in Alabama is fairly close to Nashville, and it will take you about 7 hours to drive to Mobile since the island is located in the southern part of Mobile. You can also fly to Mobile. Spend time playing with the waves and collecting seashells, or take a ferry and visit the beautiful Fort Morgan to check out some dolphins. Also, you must not miss out on other prime tourist spots nearby, like: Fort Gaines,  Bird Sanctuary, and  The Estuarium.  So, it is quite idyllic and a family-friendly island with beautiful attractions such as the Alabama Aquarium, Mobile Bay Ferry, and others.  Additionally, excitement, wildlife, and southern culture are quite apparent in and around Dauphin Island, which has white sand and blue water.  Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville Spring (March-May), Fall (October-November) $350 to $1,000 560 miles  2. Gulf Shores, Alabama:  While looking for beaches near Nashville, TN, there’s no way you can forget about the Gulf Shores in Alabama. It’s pretty popular among tourists, especially Tennessee residents. Located only a seven-hour drive away from Nashville, the area boasts several lodging options, activities, and fresh seafood. The area has amusement parks, entertainment zones, shopping opportunities, and more. Plus, if you love educational activities and history, there’s much to do in this area. So just pack your bags already – because the beach awaits you!  With its warm and soothing water, Gulf Shores also has bright white beaches. You can perform daytime activities such as dolphin-watching, hiking, and scenic cruises.  There is an Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and a recreation center with bumper boats called The Track, where you can visit with your family.  Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville Fall (September to November) and spring (March to May) $210 7-8 hours  Gulf Shores is about to get a Goodwill Center. The 50,000-square-foot facility in Foley will offer job and employment training to the local people. With time, it will likely be developed as a community development center. The center is likely to open its doors in the fall of 2025. Then, it will be an added attraction to the places of interest. 3. Pensacola, Florida:  There are several beaches close to Nashville, but Pensacola, located in Florida, stands out because it will take you less than seven hours to drive from Nashville!  Popular for its charming historic culture and exquisite natural beauty, Pensacola is a must-visit. Spanning over eight acres, the historic village of Pensacola is timeless. From golfing and go-karting to other fun activities, there’s so much to do when you are bored with the beach.  Pensacola is also known as ‘the city of five flags’ since it was passed around in History – you will spot British, French, Confederate, American, and even Spanish flags all over this charming city.  The beach is in the panhandle of Florida, surrounded by coastline across 50-plus miles.  There are crystal clear bay areas and emerald-green Gulf of Mexico waters; thus, when you visit the beach, you can find a vibe that mixes a bustling metropolitan center and a relaxing beach town! Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) $340 6 hours 39 minutes  4. Destin, Florida:  Why aren’t you considering Destin, located in Florida? Driving to Destin from Nashville will take only around seven hours! Destin has been a prime vacation spot for families! There are several places to eat – you could check out the popular chain dining, Whataburger!  Then there are so many outlet stores for you to visit if you love shopping. If you are traveling with kids, then you have to check out the following places,  The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park,  Local Zoo, and Big Kahuna Water Park (only if you travel to Destin during the summer!) Located in northwest Florida, the area of Destin Beach is called the Panhandle! There are natural trails through the dunes of Henderson Beach State Park. There are beautiful oak and pine trees that provide shelter for wildlife. Also, there are waterfalls, pools, tall slides, and Big Kahuna’s water park, so you can explore all these places. The emerald-green waters of the beach are breathtaking, and the geology is unique!  Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-November) $105 7 hours  5. Panama City, Florida:  It’s not like there are no beaches in Tennessee. Of course, Tennessee has beaches, but sometimes, venturing a little away from home feels so much better! And how can you ignore Panama City, located in Florida? Famed as a destination for Spring Break, it will take you about 7.5 hours to drive to Panama City from Nashville. You can also opt for direct flights.  The beaches span 27 miles, and Panama City has about a hundred public accesses.  While you are in Panama City, you must visit Pier Park – you will spot several restaurants, playing areas, bungee jumping opportunities, bumper boats, sky wheels, passenger trains, and plenty of places to shop. Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville Fall (September-November) and Spring (March-May) $106 7.5 to 8 hours  6. 30A, Florida:  People in the Middle Tennessee area either have or know others with bumper stickers with 30A on them. This is because 30A has now become perhaps one of the most well-known getaway spots for most residents of Nashville! And that too throughout the whole year. 30A is not your regular Nashville beach! Instead, it’s a pretty coastal highway with solid touristy spots, like,  Miramar Beach,  Rosemary Beach,  Santa Rosa Beach, and  Blue Mountain Beach. Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville Spring (March-May), Fall (October-November) $105 7 hours 25 minutes  7. Tybee Island, Georgia:  Tybee Island might not be the closest beach to Nashville, but that doesn’t mean it’s that far away – you can either drive to Tybee Island in the Savannah region or even directly fly to Savannah. If you drive, it will take you more than eight hours; if you take a flight, it will take a little less than two hours. An Atlantic getaway that’s historical – this is exactly what Savannah stands for! Steeped deeply in culture and history, there’s so much to see and do. Explore the local restaurants and shopping outlets at the lighthouse near Tybee Island to make the most of your stay here.  Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville Spring and summer $210 8 hours 6 mins  8. Gulfport, Mississippi:  While looking up the closest ocean beach to Nashville, TN, it’s impossible not to stumble upon Gulfport, located in Mississippi. The entire Mississippi coastline is unforgettable. It takes about seven hours to drive from Nashville, or you could also do something adventurous and fly to New Orleans – it will be worth the trip!  The area boasts miles of beaches known for their beautiful sand, fun attractions, and exciting water activities. Once you are done spending time on the beach, don’t forget to check out, The Gulfport children’s museum,  INFINITY Science Center, a space facility by NASA,  A famous aquarium,  Drag racing,  Waterparks, and  The railroad museum.  Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville March through May $200 1 hour 21 minutes  9. Charleston, South Carolina:  Move any beach in Tennessee over, because it’s time for Charleston to shine! Yes, it will take you more than 8 hours to drive to Charleston, located in South Carolina, or a flight of 1.5 hours, but who cares? It will be worth the journey. Another coastal town in the Atlantic steeped deeply in history, this place is perfect for visiting with your family, especially kids.  If you love visiting historical spots, you have to visit Fort Sumter. And that’s not all! Pamper yourself with some spa time and some golfing, while your kids can enjoy the children’s museum and the aquarium.  You will also get to see some world-class restaurants, sandy beaches, and cobblestone paths. The easiest way to enjoy South Carolina is to dip your toes in the white sand and enjoy the beautiful weather. It is perfect for frolicking, as you can walk across the sand and visit the lighthouses. The beaches are wild, you gotta have a towel and sturdy shoes to enjoy your best! Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville spring (March-May) and fall (October) $124.58 9-10 hours  10. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina:  It is not the closest beach to Nashville if you have a packed itinerary. It will take you about nine hours to drive to Myrtle Beach, but it’s so worth the drive. We say keep at least three to four days in hand while going to Myrtle Beach in South Carolina! From cheering the baseball team and Pelicans, riding the gigantic Ferris wheel, visiting New South Brewing MicroBrewery, or even having a night out at some local dinner theater, there’s so much to do here.  Myrtle Beach has a subtropical climate, with 86 golf courses and 1800 restaurants to visit. The Myrtle Beach Area Fact Sheet states that around 17 million people visit Myrtle Beach annually. If you plan to visit the beach, you can take your family to the Kingdom amusement park.  If you love adventure, the SkyWheel is the way to go, considering it is one of the tallest Ferris Wheels in the world.  Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville June through August $129 9 hrs 26 min  In 2024, Myrtle Beach was the top trending destination for the Memorial Day weekend in the USA, according to Booking.com reports. TripAdvisor also featured it as the second-most coveted destination for the Memorial Day weekend 2024.  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Check out the most frequently asked questions related to the closest beach to Nashville, mentioned below. 1. What is the closest beach to Nashville by car?  The beach that would be closest to Nashville would be Panama City Beach, Florida, and would take about 450 miles. A car ride would take around 7-8 hours, and this beach would be the most preferred by people from Nashville.  2. Are there any ocean beaches within driving distance from Nashville?  Yes. Even Nashville, which is a mainland city, has some Gulf Coast Beaches within a day’s drive. These places include Panama City Beach, Destin, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach, and can be reached within a time frame of 7-9 hours. 3. Why is Panama City Beach the best option from Nashville?  What’s also distinct about Panama City Beach is that it offers: • Shorter transport time to the beaches • White sand beaches and warm Gulf waters • Numerous options of places to visit, as well as accommodations, that are suitable for families • Easy access by major highways All these features make this a most preferable spot for people in Nashville who love to visit beaches.  4. What is the closest beach to Nashville that one could go to over a weekend?  Concerning a weekend getaway, Panama City Beach is the most accessible destination in terms of the drive. Furthermore, others prefer the Gulf Shores in Alabama because of its longer drive to the destination.  5. Are there any beaches in Nashville that are not close to an ocean? Yes. If you like lake beaches, then you find that you are in the Nashville area, so you do have some options, such as Percy Priest Lake and Old Hickory Lake. There are sandy beaches and swimming areas. Dawkins 6. How far is Destin, Florida, from Nashville?  Destin is about 470-480 miles from Nashville. It will take about 8 hours to drive there. Destin is well-known for its "emerald-green waters." It also has a lot of activities for families.  7. What is the best beach for families in the Nashville area?  Panama City Beach and Destin: These are also ideal destinations to consider when traveling with family. The destinations are famous for their calm waters, amusement parks, dolphin tours, and the availability of resorts and vacation homes.  8. Is there a less crowded beach near Nashville?  Yes. Alabama: Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer fewer visitors than some popular beaches in Florida, especially during the regular year. This would be an awakening for visitors looking for an uninhabited vacation spot.  9. Do you have the option of flying from Nashville to a beach location as opposed to driving?  Absolutely. The Nashville International Airport (BNA) offers flights to neighboring beach resorts, these being Pensacola, Destin-Fort Walton Beach, and Panama City. It takes a considerably shorter time compared to traveling by road.  10. What is the best time to come and enjoy the beaches in and around Nashville?  The period that is considered the best time to visit the Gulf Coast Beaches in Alabama is late spring, which comprises April and May, and early autumn, which comprises September and October.  11. Gulf Coast beaches - safe for swimming?  In general, yes. Most of the Gulf Coast beaches have quiet waters; they're ideal locations for swimming. Also, it must be remembered at all times that 'flag warnings' as well as weather be disregarded.  12. Why do people in Nashville like the beaches of Florida or Alabama instead? The beaches of Florida and Alabama are preferred because of the following reasons:• Reasonable Driving Distance• Warm tropical water, beautiful white sandy beaches. • World-class tourist facilities• Top class packages for family & group holidays 

READ MORE things to do in Phoenix Arizona

Free And Cheap Things To Do In Phoenix, Arizona | Phoenix Travel Guide On A Shoestring

BY  Sibashree Nov 21, 2024

“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 Also read Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit. Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.