Downtown Phoenix has so much to offer valley residents and tourists alike. From concerts, sporting events, family shows, art shows, and restaurants offering fine dining to casual eats, there is no shortage of things to do.
Yet, like most large cities finding adequate parking can be difficult and finding a free spot? That is a real treasure! While it may be tough to find a free parking spot, there are some tips and tricks that may help you obtain free parking in downtown Phoenix.
Whether you’re looking for something to do for date night or you’re entertaining out of town guests, there’s always something going on in downtown Phoenix. Because there’s always so much going on, including areas around Chase Field or Talking Stick Resort Arena, traffic can be heavy and the likelihood of finding a free and open parking spot narrows. However, you might just get lucky by being ahead of the game with a few little-known parking secrets.
Where Can I Park For Free in Downtown Phoenix?
Free Lots
While seldom, there are a few lots downtown that offer free parking. One such lot is located between 5th and 6th Avenue, off of Madison Street. Enter off of 5th Ave. Others do exist. Do your research ahead of time to locate a free parking lot before you head downtown.
Light Rail or Park and Ride
Parking a few blocks away from downtown close to a light rail station is also a common parking secret. Leave your vehicle in one of the designated areas and enjoy a quick ride downtown.
On-Street
Depending on the time of day you plan on being downtown, you may be able to score free street parking. According to the City of Phoenix, metered on-street parking is free overnight from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM. Additionally, there are still several on-street parking spaces that are not metered in the downtown area. This includes side streets on south Central Ave and Lincoln street that are less than a mile walk to nearby venues.
Parking Apps
Sometimes parking apps can be a huge help. Parking apps like SpotAngels, Parkwhiz, and others may help you locate free parking and in some cases reserve your spot ahead of time.
Connections
Are you employed at a business or government building in downtown Phoenix? You may be able to use your employer’s lot after hours. Similarly, if you have a membership to one of the many downtown gyms or the local YMCA, you may be able to take advantage of their parking lots. Check their parking rules ahead of time, however, you don’t want to return to your vehicle only to find it has been towed away.
Parking For First Fridays
Artlink’s First Friday is a free monthly self-guided tour of galleries, studios, and other businesses showcasing art from local, national, and international artists, that occurs on the first Friday of every month from 6:00 to 10:00 PM. The Phoenix Art Museum offers Free Parking and a complimentary shuttle service.
When you head downtown for a fun-filled evening to watch a sporting event, dancing, or to take in some local art, be aware of No Parking signs or other areas such as dirt lots where parking may be prohibited. You certainly don’t want a parking ticket to put a damper on your fun evening.
