“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
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!
With vaccines and testing becoming more easily accessible, traveling is starting to look like something we can safely do again. When traveling, there are lots of tips and tricks will to want to know.
One common place travelers will find themselves are at hotels. There are many different things you need to know when staying at hotels, especially when and how you should tip the employees.
Do you know when you should tip while staying at a hotel while traveling? Most people don’t! That’s why we’ve put together a hotel tipping guide.
Be sure to keep reading for our ultimate hotel tipping guide so you can learn more on the subject.
Tipping the Valet
Arriving at your hotel will help start to give you hotel tipping guidelines. Pulling up to your hotel and seeing a valet will mean that your hotel is upscale, and you'll want to have some money set aside to tip the employees.
Valet service will park and retrieve your car anytime you want to go anywhere. It is up to you if you want to tip when they're parking your car, but you should tip when they bring your car back. Anywhere between $2-$5 is the best hotel tipping advice for valet services.
Tipping the Concierge
Another valuable member you will meet at a hotel is the concierge. A concierge service is there to provide you with knowledgeable information about your hotel or the area.
Since a concierge is there to give you advice and recommendations, you should be tipping them anywhere between $5-$50.
A great way to prepare yourself for hotel tipping is to see what the hotel offers beforehand. Checking out a hotel's website, such as one like the death valley hotels, will provide you with information on hotel amenities and even dining options. There you can gauge who and how much you will want to tip each employee you encounter on your stay.
Tipping Housekeeping
Even if you're not staying in a luxurious resort, the number one employee you should consider tipping is the housekeeping staff. Housekeeping turns down your room throughout your stay and cleans up after you when you leave. That can be a big job, depending on how messy you are while traveling!
It can be best to leave a few dollars each day while you're out for the person that makes your bed and takes out your trash as a good gesture. Once you leave your hotel, you should leave anywhere between $2-$7 for the housekeeping staff for cleaning up after you.
The Ultimate Hotel Tipping Guide
As you can see, there is a lot that goes into whether or not you should tip while staying at a hotel. Be sure to refer to our hotel tipping guide the next time you plan to travel for business or pleasure. Remember to always stay safe while traveling!
If you’re ready to get out there and explore, you’re going to want to check out our blog first. Be sure to keep scrolling, so you can see some of the ultimate places to visit on your travels.
Read Also:
Top 10 Hotels In India
10 Best Places To Visit In Europe
Tourism in New Orleans, Louisiana, is growing. We have the latest data from the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism. The data says that in September 2024, the hotel occupancy in Louisiana was 2.1% more than in September 2023.
Now, the places to visit and activities here have always helped tourism to this part of the world. If you are aware, New Orleans is a melting pot of jazz music, historic architecture, Cajun cuisine, brass bands, and so much more!
However, traveling to New Orleans has always been a little expensive, and we often overlook it as a tourist destination for kids. So, when someone thinks of a kid-friendly destination or traveling on a budget, New Orleans is probably not the first choice.
So, with this Tour and Travel guide of free things to do in New Orleans with kids, we want to bridge that gap. Here, you will discover New Orleans as a budget-friendly tourist destination for kids.
Free Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids | Traveling On A Shoestring | Traveling Like A Local
January to March is the best time if you want to explore the free things to do in New Orleans with kids. The average temperature in these months ranges between 45-70 degrees F. Further, these months are the season of festivity in New Orleans.
Of course, you have the New Year celebrations. However, a friend of mine there says that Tet is the festival you must attend in New Orleans. An important festival for the Vietnamese population in the city, it demonstrates the perfect fusion of Eastern and Western cultures.
Furthermore, the Carnival Season in New Orleans begins on 6th January. The last day of the festival, Mardi Gras is in mid-February or early March. Moreover, the city celebrates Black History Month with great sincerity. The Black History Month will be celebrated from 1st February to 1st March 2025.
So, if you explore the free things to do in New Orleans with kids during this time, they will learn about the history and culture of the city from these festivities.
The Economic Modeling Specialist International or EMSI data shows how inclusive New Orleans is as a city. According to the 2021 data from EMSI, 59% of the population in the city is black. In the other 41%, the city has white Latinos, non-white Latinos and Asians. So, visiting New Orleans can be a great thing to learn about inclusivity for a child with a sensitive heart and an impressionable mind.
Let’s check out what more the city has in store for them.
1. Visit The Audubon Nature Center
https://www.instagram.com/p/DCW-62VRd5M/?hl=en
Location: 11000 Lake Forest Blvd. New Orleans
Contact Number: (504) 861-2537
Hours Open: 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM (Sunday Closed)
Entry Fees: Free Entrance to the Interpretative Center and Nature Center Walking Trails (Tickets Needed For Entry to the Zoo and Aquarium)
Your to-do list of the free things to do in New Orleans with kids starts with a visit to the Audubon Nature Center. The aquarium, insectarium, and zoo are the prime attractions here. However, these three attractions do not allow free entry.
It is smart if you opt for a combo ticket. The combo ticket costs “$49.95 Adult / $44.95 Youth / $44.95 Seniors.”
Moreover, if your little one is interested in stargazing or astrotourism, you must visit the Audubon Louisiana Nature Center Planetarium and Nature Dome Theater. It is temporarily closed. However, it will resume its operations from February with new films and content.
2. Visit A New Orleans Public Library Branch | Best Free Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids
https://www.instagram.com/p/DAZrMeGpt1L/?img_index=1
Main Library Location: 219 Loyola Avenue. New Orleans
Contact Number: (504) 596-2610
Hours Open: 10 AM to 7 PM
If your little one loves to read, a visit to any branch of the New Orleans Public Library will be fulfilling to them. However, I especially recommend visiting the Children's Resource Center Library.
The Children's Resource Center Library is located at 913 Napoleon Avenue. You can reach out to them at (504) 596-2628. The library remains open from 10 AM to 7 PM. Further, it hosts regular events like Storytime, Craft and Lit, and Tween Chess Club.
I was exploring their Instagram page, and it’s so much fun! Particularly, one post drew my attention. It was a poster from a 2019 event where drag Queen Ariel Androgyny had a story-reading session. Further, the poster said that the event was about celebrating diversity.
Embed: https://www.instagram.com/arielandrogyny/p/B5-5IgJlu0d/?img_index=1
Events like these are great for teaching diversity and inclusivity to the children.
3. Explore Arnaud’s Mardi Gras Museum
https://www.instagram.com/p/DEVONpWRDC9/
Location: 813 Bienville Street, New Orleans
Contact Number: (504) 523-5433 And Toll Free: (866) 230-8895
If your kid is eager to know about the history and true spirit of New Orleans, a visit to the Mardi Gras Museum at Arnaud's Restaurant will be great.
It has two dozen Mardi Gras costume collections of Germaine Cazanave Wells. These are the costumes worn by queens during this high society extravaganza.
So, take your kids to the Arnaud’s Mardi Gras Museum and let them cherish their moments of fantasy and wonder.
4. Plan A Tour Of The Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve
https://www.instagram.com/p/DCHMeMbO72W/?img_index=1
Location: 419 Decatur Street, New Orleans
Contact Number: (504) 589-3882
Hours Open: 24 Hours
Do your little ones want some adventure, and you are looking for free things to do in New Orleans with kids? Take them to the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve. At this historical park, they will meet the native snakes and alligators.
Further, the Barataria Preserve is at the epicenter of a visit to the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve. This preserve consists of 26,000 acres of Louisiana Wetlands.
Other points of attraction in the park are Chalmette Battlefield, French Quarter Visitor Center, Prairie Acadian Cultural Center, etc.
5. A Visit To The LA Children’s Museum
https://www.instagram.com/p/DD2KljRieGh/?img_index=1
Address: 15 Henry Thomas Dr., City Park, New Orleans
Contact Number: (504) 523-1357
Entry Fee: Free Entry On The Second Sunday Every Other Month (11 AM to 4:30 PM)
Hours Open: Wednesday to Saturday (9:30 AM to 4:30 PM), Sunday (11:30 AM - 4:30 PM), Monday and Tuesday Closed
The Louisiana Children’s Museum has fun programs to boost the creativity of your children. Your little one can be a part of the camps. These camps offer interactive learning experiences in math, science, and nature.
Living with Water is another great program to learn about the survival and evolution in wetlands and wet environments.
Moreover, the museum hosts Sensory-friendly Playtime. If your child has sensory-specific needs, they can explore the museum at their own pace without noise and crowd.
Reaching New Orleans | Know This Travel Details Before Exploring The Free Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids
New Orleans is well connected to the other states of the USA and the rest of the world thanks to the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport and New Orleans Lakefront Airport.
Further, you can take the service of the Airport Shuttle New Orleans to reach your hotel or destination from the airport. Airport Shuttle New Orleans is located at 4220 Howard Avenue and you can reach out to them at +1 504-522-3500.
Also read
Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try.
Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit.
Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.
Traveling is an exciting and enriching experience that allows you to explore new places, and cultures, and create lasting memories. However, unexpected accidents and injuries can occur at any time, disrupting your travel plans and causing distress. Whether you're on a road trip, exploring a foreign country, or embarking on an adventure, it's crucial to be prepared for the unexpected. This guide outlines what to do if you are injured while traveling to ensure your safety and well-being.
Prioritize Immediate Medical Care:
As mentioned by the Cherry Hill personal injury lawyers, you should always seek medical care following an injury, even if you don’t think you need it. Your well-being should always be the top concern. If you are in a foreign country, call emergency services or go to the nearest hospital. If you are on a road trip or in a remote area, dial 911 or the local emergency number. Delaying treatment can worsen your condition, so don't hesitate to seek help.
Stay Calm And Assess The Situation:
In the chaos of an injury, it's essential to remain as calm as possible. Take a deep breath and assess the situation. Check for any immediate dangers, such as traffic or hazards, and move to a safer location if necessary. While waiting for help, keep the injured area still to prevent further harm. Calmly communicate with any travel companions and inform them of the situation.
Contact Your Travel Insurance Provider:
If you have travel insurance, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. They can guide you through the claims process and help you understand what expenses will be covered. It's crucial to have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical coverage, as it can save you from hefty medical bills and provide peace of mind during your travels.
Gather Important Documents:
In the event of an injury, while traveling, it's essential to have your important travel documents readily accessible. Make sure you have copies of your passport, travel insurance policy, any necessary identification, and medical records. Having these documents on hand will expedite the process when dealing with medical professionals and insurance providers.
Follow Medical Advice:
Once you receive medical care, follow the advice of healthcare professionals. Comply with prescribed treatments, medications, and rehabilitation exercises. Make sure to understand your condition, potential complications, and any necessary follow-up appointments. If you have questions, don't hesitate to ask your healthcare provider for clarification.
Communicate with Your Travel Companion:
If you are traveling with someone, keep them informed about your condition and treatment plan. They can provide valuable support and assistance during your recovery. Ensure they are aware of any medication schedules, dietary restrictions, and other specific requirements related to your injury.
Notify Family And Friends:
Inform your loved ones about your injury and status. This is especially important if you are traveling alone. Share your location and the details of the incident. Regular updates can provide reassurance to your family and friends and help them assist you from afar if needed.
Adjust Your Travel Plans:
In most cases, an injury while traveling will necessitate changes to your itinerary. Be prepared to adjust your plans to accommodate your recovery and medical needs. If you were scheduled to continue your journey, consider postponing or canceling activities until you are medically cleared to travel. Your health should be the top priority, and pushing yourself too hard can lead to complications.
Stay Organized:
Keep a record of all medical expenses, receipts, and communication with healthcare providers and insurance companies. This documentation will be crucial when filing insurance claims and seeking reimbursement for any out-of-pocket expenses. Staying organized can help alleviate the financial burden that often accompanies unexpected injuries while traveling.
Stay Positive And Patient:
Dealing with an injury while traveling can be emotionally challenging, but maintaining a positive attitude and patience is essential. Focus on your recovery and don't rush the healing process. Travel can resume once you are fully healed, so take the time needed to regain your strength and mobility.
Being injured while traveling can be a distressing experience, but knowing how to handle such situations can make a significant difference in the outcome. Prioritizing your health, seeking immediate medical care, and staying organized are key steps to ensure you receive the necessary assistance and support during your recovery. Remember, unexpected injuries are a part of life, but with the right preparations and actions, they don't have to derail your travel adventures completely.
Read Also:
Must Pack Business Travel Packing List Along With Tips
Traveling During Winter? Here Is A Winter Vacation Planning Checklist
Why Travel Trailers Are The New Vacation Norm
Related
