Spring break on a budget

Spring break is here, folks, and we want you to have a good time regardless of your budget. So whether you pinched pennies or don’t have a penny to spare, we have ideas for you. You don’t need to spend a lot to have fun — just promise us you won’t stay inside and watch Netflix every single day.

For the person who tends to get lost in museums:

If you’re interested in getting your culture on during break, check out ASU and Phoenix Public Libraries for culture passes (also known as FREE admission to select museums and gardens). Check out one of these interesting exhibits going on over break:

• The Musical Instrument Museum: Congo Masks and Music: Masterpieces from Central Africa

• Desert Botanical Garden: Spring Butterfly Exhibit

• Phoenix Art Museum: [Re]purposed  

For the get-out-and-explore-nature type:

Here are three nearby hikes for you to consider. Take advantage of the great weather and bring plenty of water.

• Hidden Valley, via Mormon Trail at South Mountain (Bonus: Go early and when you’re finished, grab lunch at the Farm at South Mountain.)

• Dreamy Draw Loop at Phoenix Mountain Preserve

• Peralta Trail at the Superstitions

For the Taco-Tuesday aficionado:

Here are five taco joints that bring flavor and savings, every Tuesday.

• Joyride Taco House. Try the fish tacos and the pork adobada — in Phoenix and Gilbert.

• Los Taquitos. Try the carnitas and pastor tacos — in Phoenix, Chandler, Arcadia and Ahwatukee.

• Barrio Queen. Try the carne asada y huevo or the cochinita pibil — in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe and Gilbert. 

• Anaya’s Fresh Mexican Restaurant. Try the carnitas and asada tacos — in Glendale.

For the person who sings “Life is a Highway” every time they get behind the wheel:

Here are four day-trip destinations.

• Honestly, if you haven’t been to the Grand Canyon yet it’s time to stop putting it off. Especially if you’re only in Arizona for a few years — you don’t want to miss this wonder.

• Sedona is always a hit. Enjoy the red rocks, go shopping, and participate in ever-popular ritual of vortex hunting.

• Check out Kartchner Caverns (south of Tucson). Not only is it a beautifully unique “living” cave, but the guided experience is super impressive.

• Even if you just head to Tucson there is plenty to do. Check out Biosphere 2 and the Airplane Boneyard, and grab some awesome tamales.

For the people who love living where other people vacation:

Here are three touristy activities to check out during your stay-cation.

• Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, spring training games are the place to be. Plus, there are stadiums all over the valley. Find your team and grab tickets on the lawn for the best deal. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen!

• Travel back in time to the Arizona Renaissance Festival. You can get a discount on tickets at any Fry’s Food Store.

• Enjoy the amazing weather at the annual Aloha Festival at Tempe Beach Park. It’s a great event with free admission and amazing dancing, vendors and food.