Explore Military Aviation & Organ Music in Mesa
Tips on renting in Mesa
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Welcome to Mesa, Arizona, a vibrant destination where family adventures unfold at every turn. Begin your day at the Arizona Museum of Natural History, where animatronic dinosaurs roar and ancient gems sparkle, captivating children and adults alike. Nearby, the i.d.e.a. Museum invites young minds to explore creativity with interactive art and science exhibits designed to inspire. For those seeking outdoor excitement, Usery Mountain Regional Park’s Wind Cave Trail offers a scenic three-mile hike, rewarding families with sweeping desert views, fragrant blooming cacti, and the sounds of native wildlife.
In the heart of the city, Riverview Park provides a refreshing oasis featuring a three-acre fishing lake and a thrilling 50-foot climbing tower, perfect for energetic kids. The nearby Mesa Arizona Temple, with its storied history and stunning architecture, is surrounded by tranquil gardens ideal for a peaceful family stroll. For a taste of local flair, the Mesa Market Place Swap Meet entices visitors with handcrafted treasures and live music, creating a vibrant shopping experience.
As the sun sets, embark on the Desert Belle Cruise across Saguaro Lake, where the serene waters and colorful sky provide a magical backdrop for family memories. With a population surpassing 500,000, Mesa stands as Arizona’s third-largest city, seamlessly blending urban sophistication with natural wonders to create the ultimate family retreat.
Nearby cities
Chandler
Explore Chandler and experience the vibrant Ostrich Festival, a unique celebration of local culture and family fun.
Phoenix
Experience Phoenix where the vibrant Desert Botanical Garden bursts with colorful blooms and unique desert plant life year-round.
San Tan Valley
Explore San Tan Valley and hike the scenic San Tan Mountain Regional Park trails for breathtaking desert views.
Arizona City
Make Arizona City your next lakefront escape with scenic views at Paradise Lake and peaceful desert surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Mesa has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The Commemorative Air Force Airbase Arizona Museum stands out as a top attraction in Mesa due to its extensive collection of military aircraft, including iconic planes like the B-17 Flying Fortress and B-25 Mitchell. Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours, interact with knowledgeable docents who share personal experiences, and even take cockpit tours or flights in genuine warbirds. The museum’s engaging exhibits, which include artifacts from World War II and active restoration hangars, make for an unforgettable experience that is both educational and immersive.
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For a seamless and enjoyable boating experience at Saguaro Lake near Mesa, Arizona, head to Saguaro Del Norte Day Use & Motorized Boat Launch. This site, just 31 miles northeast of Mesa, offers convenient boat launching facilities, picnic areas, and access to the stunning Sonoran Desert landscape. Alternatively, Saguaro Lake Marina provides additional amenities, including covered slips, dry storage, a full-service fuel dock, and a restaurant, making it an ideal spot to launch your boat and explore the lake’s 22 miles of pristine shoreline.
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Dogs are warmly welcomed on many hiking trails in Mesa, Arizona. At Usery Mountain Regional Park, you and your furry companion can explore the scenic Merkle Trail or other diverse trails offering stunning views. For a shorter, leisurely hike, the 0.8-mile Desert Trails Park Loop is ideal, winding around the Desert Trails Bike Park with beautiful desert vistas, while Bulldog Saddle Trail offers a more challenging 2.8-mile out-and-back hike with sweeping views of the Tonto National Forest. Remember to keep your dog on a leash no longer than 6 feet and clean up after them.
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For a scenic hike with breathtaking views of the Superstition Mountains near Mesa, Arizona, head to the Lost Dutchman State Park, where trails like the Treasure Loop and Prospector’s View offer moderate hikes with stunning vistas. Alternatively, explore the Boulder Canyon Trail along the Apache Trail (SR-88), a 5-mile out-and-back hike that rewards you with dramatic views of the Superstition Wilderness and Canyon Lake. Be sure to carry at least one gallon of water per person, especially during the hot summer months.
