Mesa, Arizona is a vibrant and growing city located just east of Phoenix. Known for its warm climate, stunning natural scenery, and rich cultural history, Mesa offers visitors a wide range of exciting attractions and activities to explore. Whether you are interested in outdoor adventures, arts and culture, or simply soaking up the sun, there is something for everyone in Mesa. In this article, we will highlight some of the best tourist attractions in Mesa, Arizona.
Mesa Arts Center: The Mesa Arts Center is a world-class performing and visual arts complex that offers a wide range of exhibitions, events, and performances throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy everything from Broadway shows to jazz concerts, as well as art exhibits, workshops, and classes.
Usery Mountain Regional Park: Usery Mountain Regional Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering miles of hiking trails, biking paths, and scenic picnic areas. Visitors can explore the unique geological formations of the Sonoran Desert, as well as spot local wildlife such as javelinas and desert tortoises.
Arizona Museum of Natural History: The Arizona Museum of Natural History is a fascinating and educational attraction that showcases the natural and cultural history of Arizona. Visitors can explore exhibits on dinosaurs, ancient Native American civilizations, and Arizona’s mining and ranching industries.
Mesa Grande Cultural Park: Mesa Grande Cultural Park is a historic archaeological site that preserves the ruins of an ancient Hohokam village. Visitors can explore the site and learn about the culture and daily life of the Hohokam people, who inhabited the area over 1,000 years ago.
Salt River Tubing: Salt River Tubing offers a unique way to cool off during the hot summer months. Visitors can rent tubes and float down the Salt River, enjoying the scenic desert landscape and refreshing water.
Golfland Sunsplash: Golfland Sunsplash is a family-friendly amusement park that offers a wide range of attractions, including mini-golf courses, water slides, and laser tag. Visitors can spend a fun-filled day enjoying the rides and attractions, as well as the park’s many dining and shopping options.
Mesa Market Place Swap Meet: The Mesa Market Place Swap Meet is a popular outdoor shopping destination that features over 1,600 vendor stalls selling everything from clothing and jewelry to arts and crafts. Visitors can browse the stalls and enjoy live entertainment and delicious food.
Tonto National Forest: Tonto National Forest is a vast and beautiful wilderness area that offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Visitors can explore the forest’s numerous hiking trails, fishing streams, and scenic drives, as well as camp and picnic in designated areas.
Commemorative Air Force Museum: The Commemorative Air Force Museum is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts, featuring a collection of vintage aircraft and exhibits on the history of aviation. Visitors can tour the museum and even take a flight in a historic warbird.
Superstition Mountain Museum: The Superstition Mountain Museum is a unique attraction that celebrates the legends and lore of the Wild West. Visitors can explore exhibits on cowboy culture, mining history, and the famous Lost Dutchman gold mine.
Mesa Historical Museum: The Mesa Historical Museum is a small but informative attraction that showcases the history and development of Mesa and the surrounding area. Visitors can learn about Mesa’s early settlers, its growth as a farming and mining town, and its role in the development of the Southwest.
Desert Botanical Garden: The Desert Botanical Garden is a stunning oasis in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, featuring over 50,000 plants from around the world. Visitors can explore the garden’s numerous trails and exhibits, as well as attend special events and classes.
There are several other cities located near Mesa that offer a range of tourist attractions.
Goodyear Ballpark is a premier sports venue located in Goodyear, Arizona. It is home to the Cincinnati Reds and the Cleveland Indians during spring training. The ballpark offers a range of amenities, including a playground, picnic areas, and a beer garden. It is a must-visit destination for sports fans and offers a unique experience for visitors to the area.
Scottsdale Fashion Square is a premier shopping destination located in Scottsdale, Arizona, just a short drive from Mesa. The mall features more than 200 stores, including high-end retailers like Neiman Marcus and Gucci. It also offers a range of dining options, including celebrity chef restaurants like Nobu and Toca Madera. Scottsdale Fashion Square is a must-visit destination for fashionistas and offers a unique shopping experience for visitors to the area.
Camelback Mountain is a popular hiking destination located in Phoenix, Arizona, just a short drive from Mesa. It is known for its stunning desert views and challenging hiking trails. The mountain is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and offers a unique experience for visitors to the area.
Downtown Phoenix is a vibrant city center located just a short drive from Mesa. It offers a range of attractions, including museums, galleries, and theaters. Visitors can explore the Phoenix Art Museum, catch a show at the Orpheum Theater, or visit the Arizona Science Center. Downtown Phoenix is a must-visit destination for culture lovers and offers a unique experience for visitors to the area.
Taliesin West: Taliesin West is a historic landmark located in Scottsdale, Arizona, just a short drive from Mesa. It was the winter home and studio of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright and is now a museum and educational center. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds and learn about Wright’s life and work. Taliesin West is a must-visit destination for architecture enthusiasts and offers a unique experience for visitors to the area.