“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.
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, Buildings The 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 Highlight
Camelback 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 Mountains
The 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.
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, Arizona
Phone Number
DoubleTree by Hilton Phoenix North
+1 602-997-5900
Great Wolf Lodge, Scottsdale
+1 480-948-9653
Best Western North Phoenix Hotel
+1 602-395-0900
Hotel Valley Ho
+1 480-376-2600
The Clarendon Hotel and Spa
+1 602-252-7363
The Scottsdale Resort and Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton
Sibashree is a travel, culture, and leisure writer who has been writing since the age of 12 and professionally since 2014. With more than a decade of travel writing experience and journeys across India and several parts of the world, she brings a deeply personal and thoughtful perspective to her work. A student of English Literature and Mass Communication, Sibashree has always viewed travel as more than movement — for her, it has been a way of understanding people, cultures, and herself. Her passion for spiritual exploration has also led her to many unusual and meaningful destinations over the years. Outside of writing, Sibashree enjoys watching European cinema, reading about global politics, and reflecting on the stories hidden within everyday places.
One of the most enjoyable jobs on the planet is being a tour guide. If you love to travel and enjoy sharing that love with others, as well as the knowledge you have gleaned about the destinations you are guiding them to, then you should consider building a career based on that passion, and become a tour guide!
There are lots of options out there, walking guides for the city sights, cruise and bus tour guides, and museum or special attraction guides. Finding work is fairly easy as there is always a demand, and when that tour operator payment gateway sends you your reward you will feel great knowing you earned it doing something that brought a smile to people's faces!
The best tour guides have a certain set of skills in place that suit their profession, here are some of the most important:
Knowledge –
A tour guide needs to know a lot about where they are taking their group, and what they are showing them. They should have an in-depth knowledge of the area and its attractions that they can share with their group in order to give them the best experience possible. They are always prepared to answer unexpected questions, and ready to give pertinent insights and recommendations. A knowledgeable tour guide is one the tourist never forgets, and they will recommend you to their friends.
Communication –
t's important for tour guides to have excellent communication skills, they should be able to speak clearly and informatively, with proper pronunciation in order to facilitate easy-to-understand directions and information sharing, and to avoid any potential misunderstandings. They should also have a loud enough voice to carry across a crowd without the aid of a microphone or bullhorn and be able to command the attention of many people at the same time.
Charisma –
Being a tour guide is very much a people-oriented profession, one must be able to share their passion for the experiences they are guiding people to, share information in an informative yet fun and engaging manner, and build a cheerful rapport with their group. A successful tour guide has enough charisma to bring repeat customers back, not just to see the sights again, but for the pleasure of their company!
Understanding And Empathy –
People sometimes experience difficulties, even when they are out on a pleasant excursion. A tour guide must be sensitive to the individual's needs, and be able to handle any problems their charge is having with sincerity, kindness, and grace, as well as be accommodating as possible. The best tour guides are quite simply put, nice people!
Flexibility -
Things don't always go as planned, and in the event of a course change, the tour guide has to be able to think on their feet and make adjustments on the fly. Always have a Plan B in place!
Check out the Tourism Australia website for more useful information for both guides and tourists. Good luck with your tour guide career
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If you are planning a vacation soon, then let me tell you about a wonderful destination for you to visit, which is British Columbia, Canada. This wonderful stretch of crystal clear blue, glacier-fed, water that is about fifty miles or 80 km long, is called Chilko Lake.
The meaning behind name Chilko is derived from an Indian term called Chilcotin, which means ochre river. The lake is situated in the Ts’yl-os Provincial Park, with a lot of natural diversity of both flora and fauna present around.
So now that you seem quite interested in Chilko Lake, then let’s know a bit more about it, and maybe then you can decide whether you are going or not.
Overview Of Chilko Lake
Image Source: www.uniqhotels.com
If you are dreaming of a peaceful getaway from the noise of the city, then that way you can take a tour along the 65km long Chilko Lake British Columbia. The peaceful and mesmerizing atmosphere is the reason why it is one of the most beautiful places in Canada, if not the World.
This stunning visually appealing stretch of water, located in the wilderness of British Columbia, is the best place for you to visit. The lake is surrounded by beautifully colored volcanic mountains, jagged peaks, vast ice fields, and wide alpine meadows.
The beautiful blue color of the crystal clear water of Chilko Lake and the stunning greenery that is surrounding the beautiful Chilko Lake.
Things To Do Here In Chilko Lake
You might think that there won’t be much to do in Chilko Lake, but that is where you are wrong, there is a lot to do here. So if you are planning to visit Chilko Lake then keep on scrolling down below.
Fishing
Image Source: www.tsylos.com
If you are an avid fisherman, then Chilko Lake is the best place for you to just sit down and go fishing for hours, who knows you might be able to catch 70cm of Bull Trout.
So if you are really excited about a day in the lake for fishing, then if you wanna test your hand at fishing then you are about to have a great time.
Paddle Sports
Image Source: images.squarespace-cdn.com
One of the best activity you can do here in Chilko Lake was different types of boating. On the clear blue crystal water, it is quite peaceful and tranquilizing to silently row around the Chilko Lake.
Boating, canoeing, and kayaking are one of the best ways you can row peacefully, this way you are going to have the perfect family outing.
Viewing Grizzly Bear Throwing
Image Source: images.squarespace-cdn.com
To gaze upon the true beauty of nature, the viewing of wildlife like grizzly bears in the wild. Here at Chilko Lake, you will be able to see these beautiful wild creatures, of course from a safe distance.
The Chilko River side estuary is a beautiful place where there is no barrier, platform, or viewpoint, but just nature and wildlife.
Hike
Image Source: landwithoutlimits.com
People who are very much into hiking, are going to love walking along the trails of Chilko Lake and walking around the pine forest, Chilko river, and beautiful mountain tops.
The walking trails are beautiful to just sit down and even have a beautiful picnic out in the open. There you can have a grand time just spending quality time with your partner.
ATV Riding
Image Source: stevesatvrentals.com
With just the extra power of 420CC ATVs, you can have all the thrill-seeking adventure days you want.
You can spend your whole day exploring the backwood trails of Chilko Lake and view some of the amazing viewpoints along the trails. But something you should be counting on is having dirty and muddy clothes and a high adrenal rush.
Horseback Riding
Image Source: images.squarespace-cdn.com
To get the full cowboy experience you just cannot miss out on Horseback riding. With the optimum climate, if you are lucky, you are going to have a great time horseback riding up the trails with a wonderful view of the beautiful Tatlayoko valley.
Archery
Image Source: www.outdoorlife.com
There is no way in the city where you can really learn archery and actually enjoy it. But here at Lake Chilko, you can easily learn and even brush up your skills in archery. There are full ranges, with instructors available here.
Mediation + Yoga
Image Source: images.squarespace-cdn.com
While there are a lot of options here for an adrenaline junky if you just wanna relax and calm yourself and your nerves down. Then the best activity for you will be to sit down and meditate and do a bit of yoga.
Wrapping Up!
So now that you are well aware of the beautiful surroundings of the Chilko Lake in British Columbia. The rigged wilderness, the lush greenery, and the sterling blue crystal blue water are just beautiful.
So if you wanna know more about the beautiful Chilko Lake, then give us a like and comment down below to know more about the lake.
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The food scenario in New Orleans is vibrant and from Paris to Congo, the influence on New Orleans food is eclectic.
Further, New Orleans offers the best southern hospitality. Moreover, Louisiana's tourism and economy depend majorly on the hotel and hospitality industry.
So, the city has many luxurious hotels and accommodations for the tourists.
Here, I have curated the most popular hotels which are ideal for family vacations.
Top Luxury New Orleans Family Hotels | A Brief Guide
The hospitality industry of New Orleans had some of the biggest highlights in 2024. Moreover, it hosted the Pastry World Cup and Bocuse d’Or for the first time in New Orleans in 2024.
Moreover, the New Orleans & Company hosted the continental selections of North and South America.
So, this time, you visit New Orleans, make it a point to stay at any of these New Orleans family hotels and indulge in the most luxurious experience. The names enlisted are approved by Yelp rating and recommendations of the local experts.
1. The Celestine
Address: 727 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States
Contact No: +1 504-332-2200
You ask me about the New Orleans family hotels and I recommend The Celestine. It has been hailed as one of "The Best New Hotels in the World" in Condé Nast Travelers' 2024 Hot List.
Today, The Celestine has ten European-style luxury rooms, and with eclectic influences, the overall interior of the hotel will take you back to the 1950s.
2. Hyatt Centric French Quarter
https://www.instagram.com/p/C7XEkakMwUb/?img_index=3
Address: 800 Iberville St, New Orleans, LA 70112
Contact No: +1 504-586-0800
As one of the topmost New orleans family hotels, Hyatt Centric French Quarter offers you the ultimate luxury and the chance to soak in the vibrancy of French Quarters.
The hotel has classic architecture and its location is convenient for exploring the city hotspots like Art District, Garden District, jazz clubs, and historical monuments.
3. Hotel Saint Vincent
https://www.instagram.com/p/DAT2GTVJY9b/?img_index=4
Address: 1507 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Contact Number: +1 504-350-2450
Hotel Saint Vincent, as its name suggests, stands with historic architecture. However, it has all the modern amenities and luxurious experiences like the multiple dining venues and the heated pool.
Further, you can enjoy your favorite drink at San Lorenzo and Paradise Lounge of Hotel Saint Vincent. So, you can have the best Italian cuisine with a New Orleans twist at the San Lorenzo Restaurant.
4. The Roosevelt
https://www.instagram.com/p/Cx8WU9LLRVc/
Address: 130 Roosevelt Way, New Orleans, LA 70112
Contact No: (504) 648-1200
If you want to soak in the vibrance of Jackson Square in New Orleans, you must plan a stay at The Roosevelt. Moreover, it is just 15 minutes away from Jackson Square, and it epitomizes timeless elegance.
In addition, it is close to the Louisiana Superdome, the French Quarter, and the Mississippi River Cruises.
5. Hotel Peter & Paul
https://www.instagram.com/p/C6EPtzgOSRX/?img_index=3
Address: 2317 Burgundy St, New Orleans, LA 70117
Contact No: +1 504-356-5200
Hotel Peter & Paul, near the French Market and the Historic Voodoo Museum, is a luxury family hotel with 71 guest rooms.
If you are especially planning a trip with your pets, Hotel Peter & Paul will be your go-to destination. Here, the pet fee is $25 per accommodation per stay. However, the fees for service animals are exempted.
6. Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans
https://www.instagram.com/p/DBM1MobN-KE/?hl=en&img_index=3
Address: 820 Poydras St, New Orleans, LA 70112
Contact Number: (504) 529-7800
The Cumberland Phone Building was transformed into the Drury Plaza Hotel, and today, it is one of the best luxury New Orleans family hotels. Moreover, all the rooms in the hotel have amenities like a microwave, free Wi-Fi, a hair dryer, an ironing board, etc.
Further, you cannot miss the free 5:30 Kickback® and breakfast at Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans.
7. Inn At The Old Jail
https://www.instagram.com/p/Ckdy0OCrPUm/?hl=en
Address: 2552 St Philip St, New Orleans, LA
Contact No: (504) 301-5743
So, are you looking for New Orleans family hotels with a touch of history? You must plan a stay at the Inn At The Old Jail.
This luxury hotel was formerly the NOPD police jail & patrol station. Then, it became a library and community center after Hurricane Katrina turned it into ruins.
Finally, it was restored and transformed into a historic boutique hotel in New Orleans.
8. Grenoble House
Address: 323 Dauphine St New Orleans, LA
Contact Number: (504) 325-2271
“The Charm of the Past with the conveniences of today.” This is what defines Grenoble House in New Orleans. Moreover, this luxury accommodation gets its name from the French City where the Dauphine family lived.
Furthermore, this hotel exudes quintessential New Orleans charm in its architecture.
9. Pelham Hotel
https://www.instagram.com/p/DBPAqwdvzsK/
Address: 444 Common St, New Orleans, LA
Contact: (504) 522-4444
A stone’s throw away from the French Quarter district and Harrah’s Casino, Pelham Hotel exudes quintessential European charm in its architecture.
Further, the Ruby Slipper restaurant of the hotel offers you the best breakfast and dining experiences in a casual ambiance.
10. The Haunted Hotel
Address: 623 Ursulines Avenue, New Orleans
Contact: (504) 373-9319
Unless you have toddlers with you, and if you are a family that loves to watch spooky movies together, The Haunted Hotel will be your go-to place.
So, the chances of eerie encounters at this hotel are high, and it has been associated with high-profile murder cases for centuries. After your booking confirmation at the Haunted Hotel, you will also receive the details of Ghost City Tour tickets via email.
11. Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans
Address: 2 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA
Contact: (504) 434-5100
World-class luxury meets quintessential southern hospitality at Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans. Further, located on Canal Street, Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans allows you to experience the palpable energy of the city life of New Orleans.
Further, the Heritage Icon Hotel looks over the Mississippi River. So, you can enjoy the best views of the river. Moreover, you can indulge in experiences like snorkeling at Audubon Aquarium and attending a Preservation Hall Jazz Band concert.
13. Lamothe House Hotel
Address: 621 Esplanade Ave New Orleans, LA
Contact: (504) 947-1161
Lamothe House Hotel infuses luxury with intimate experiences in the beautiful Faubourg Neighborhood. Moreover, the fact that it’s a boutique hotel ensures a more personalized experience here.
The luxurious antique suites in the hotel will cost you between $150-180. You can also opt for the luxury deluxe rooms at reasonable rates.
Overall, it is the opposite experience to the luxury hotel experiences at French Quarters.
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