20 Incredible Free Tourist Attractions in the West
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
11. Scottsdale McDowell Preserve
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Another beautiful hiking oasis in the Sonoran desert, Scottsdale McDowell preserve, deserves a place on your Southwestern bucket list. First off, it’s one of the country’s largest parks and features over 200 miles of trails. Second, it’s easily accessible from major cities like Phoenix and Tucson. Third, there are a variety of trails for everyone, from novice hikers to the most advanced. Whether you are seeking an easy nature stroll or a multi day adventure, you will find a beautiful option here. All hikes feature fabulous views of the diverse cacti and gorgeous mountain ranges – that is one thing you can count on! Advanced hikers will want to pursue the Tom’s Thumb challenge – a vigorous 2.5 mile climb featuring 1300+ft elevation gain. It’s strenuous but rewards with incredible vistas.
Scottsdale McDowell hiking guide
12. Golden Gate Bridge
Location: San Francisco, California
Walking across the 1.7 mile long Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic experience. This is a wonderful detour on the famous PCH coastal drive. Walking tours are available, however, you can simply enjoy a self guided tour and take in the beauty of the Bay area. While there are many dazzling bridges throughout the country, the Golden Gate Bridge is the most photographed in the world. Bridge construction began in January of 1933 and the bridge opened to the public in 1937.
Read more unique facts about the Golden Gate Bridge
13. Marvin Braude Strand bicycle path/SoCal beaches
Location: Southern California
As far as scenic exercise destinations go, the iconic Marvin Braude (“the Strand”) bike path in L.A. is hard to top. 22 miles of pure beauty and excitement can be enjoyed on this most famous stretch of pavement. From volleyball hotspots Redondo and Torrance Beach, to the historic Manhattan Pier, to the eclectic street performers of Venice, to Muscle Beach where Arnold Schwarzenegger once trained, to the lively Santa Monica Pier, there is so much beauty & history to explore here. The views are gorgeous, the people watching always entertaining, and the access to top notch L.A. attractions (without dealing with traffic) super convenient. So get in some exercise, enjoy the lack of traffic and congestion, and spend the day exploring L.A.’s best beach towns. I lived in Southern California for a brief 6 month stint and this path is what I miss the most!
14. Griffith Observatory
Location: Los Angeles, California
L.A. is home to many wonderful museums – The Getty, La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art to name a few. The best of the all is the wonderful Griffith Observatory where you will be able to observe the night skies, explore space exhibits, and hike a variety of trails in the Santa Monica mountains. At the Griffith, you can explore various space related exhibits, see shows at the Samuel Oschin Planetarium (extra fee), and observe the night skies through public telescopes. Philanthropist Griffith J. Griffith donated the land for public use for all to enjoy. What sets Griffith aparts from other museums are the outstanding views of the L.A. skyline and Hollywood sign. A number of trails are available, many featuring amazing views of the most iconic sign of the entertainment industry.
More must-dos in Southern California
15. Bellagio Conservatory & Fountain show
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
The Bellagio is still one of the nicest resorts on The Vegas Strip, despite the recent addition of many luxurious 4 and 5 star resorts. Even if you are not staying at the property there are a number of great attractions to enjoy. The free Bellagio Fountain show is a spectacular display incorporating music and light with over 1000 fountains. It’s one of the Strip’s best freebies, and thus, draws big crowds so get here 15 minutes prior to the show to ensure a prime spot! The Bellagio Conservatory, which changes along with the seasons, is a gorgeous 14,000 square foot botanical garden featuring thousands of manicured plants and flowers. The Christmas display is the most enchanting as it features thousands of colorful poinsettias, polar bears made of carnations, and festive holiday displays.
