Ultimate Guide for Visiting Mesa, Arizona

Ready to swap your usual surroundings for the sun-baked hues of the desert? Then Mesa, Arizona, might just be your next travel jackpot. Packed with outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and enough culinary delights to tantalize any palette, Mesa is a vibrant city that begs to be explored. Whether you’re keen on hiking through the rugged landscapes of the Superstition Mountains or indulging in the city's rich arts and museum scene, this top-notch guide has got you covered. We’ve rounded up the top recommendations for your Mesa itinerary, ensuring that your Arizona escape is nothing short of spectacular. Strap on your comfiest walking shoes and slap on some sunscreen because Mesa is waiting to wow you with its southwestern charm!

Pecan Lake Entertainment, Queen Creek Olive Mill, Level 1 Arcade Bar, Boyce Thompson Arboretum, Desert Botanical Garden, Lost Dutchman State Park, Salt River, i.d.e.a. Museum, Sloan Park, Goldfield Ghost Town and Mine Tours Inc., Organ Stop Pizza, The Dolly Steamboat, Desert Belle Cruises, Arizona Museum of Natural History, Mesa Grande Cultural Park, Mesa Historical Museum, Golfland Sunsplash, Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum, Riverview Park, Usery Mountain Regional Park, Mesa Arts Center

• Pecan Lake Entertainment in Queen Creek, United States

  
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  Set amongst the beautiful pecan groves overlooking Pecan Lake, we offer a safe environment where visitors of all ages can come and escape from life's stressors for a while. We cordially invite you to join us and create new memories that will last a lifetime!

• Queen Creek Olive Mill, United States

  
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  Our Italian inspired Eatery features old world family recipes. We use local and garden-sourced ingredients to create our healthy and delicious cuisine and showcase how extra virgin olive oil can be used best in your kitchen. Lunch features award winning sandwiches, panini, soups and salads, and fresh baked goods including our EVOO cupcakes. Don't miss our artisan wood-oven pizza nights on Friday and Saturday! We also offer a hearty original breakfast served daily and join us on Sunday all day for a special Brunch Menu.

• Level 1 Arcade Bar in Mesa, United States

  
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  Phoenix New Times Best Arcade Bar 2022 Level 1 Arcade Bar is the new hotspot in Downtown Mesa!

• Boyce Thompson Arboretum, United States

  
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  Experience the lush beauty of the Arizona Upland Sonoran Desert at the state's oldest and largest botanical garden. With spectacular views of Picketpost Mountain, Boyce Thompson Arboretum is located in scenic Queen Creek Canyon, just 30 minutes from Mesa, Arizona. Featuring plant collections from the world’s deserts, historic buildings and hidden gardens along miles of trails, the Arboretum is on the National Register of Historic Places. A haven for wildlife, the Arboretum has been called "the most enchanting" Audubon Important Birding Area in Arizona.

• Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, United States

  
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  Discover the tranquil vibrancy of 50,000 desert plants nestled amid the red rocks of the Papago Buttes at Desert Botanical Garden. An Arizona icon for 84 years, the Garden has grown into a compelling attraction and desert conservation pioneer, offering worldly plants, vibrant trails, world-class exhibitions, festive events and so much more.

• Lost Dutchman State Park, United States

  
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  Named after the fabled lost gold mine, Lost Dutchman State Park is located in the Sonoran Desert, at the base of the Superstition Mountains, only 40 miles east of Phoenix. Several trails lead from the park into the Superstition Mountain Wilderness and surrounding Tonto National Forest. Take a stroll along the Native Plant Trail or hike the challenging Siphon Draw Trail to the top of the Flatiron.

• Salt River, United States

  
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  Spend time exploring the waters of Tonto National Forest and the Salt River for a chance to spot some of Mesa's wild horses. Watch as the horses wade through water, graze along the riverbank, and run across the riverbed.

• i.d.e.a. Museum in Mesa, United States

  
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  The i.d.e.a. Museum features abundant hands on, multi-sensory exhibits, classes, and workshops designed to encourage kids up to age 12 to have fun while learning about science, technology, engineering, art and math, and embracing creative thinking.

• Sloan Park in Mesa, United States

  
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  Catch on of the many Cactus League games and the Chicago Cubs spring training at Sloan Park. The fun continues after spring training season is over with many different events and festivals throughout the year and two exciting playgrounds and a splash pad for kids to enjoy at Riverview Park.

• Goldfield Ghost Town and Mine Tours Inc., United States

  
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  A historic Wild West-themed attraction near Apache Junction offering tours of a former gold mine, gunfights, zipline, and shops.

• Organ Stop Pizza in Mesa, United States

  
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  Organ Stop Pizza in Mesa, Arizona offers a unique dining experience for couples seeking an unconventional date night with a musical twist. As home to the world's largest Wurlitzer theater organ, guests can enjoy a delightful meal accompanied by the enchanting sounds of classic tunes and popular hits played live by skilled organists.

• The Dolly Steamboat, United States

  
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  Scenic cruise experience offering tours of Canyon Lake amidst the Superstition Mountains, showcasing Arizona's wildlife and nature.

• Desert Belle Cruises in Mesa, United States

  
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  Desert Belle Cruises offers an unforgettable way to explore the natural beauty of Saguaro Lake, nestled in the Tonto National Forest, just a short drive from Mesa, Arizona. Their narrated tours provide insights into the desert ecosystem, the local flora, and the history of the region, making it an essential experience for any visitor looking to enjoy the picturesque landscapes of Arizona from a unique vantage point on the water. Whether you're a nature lover, photographer, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, a cruise on the Desert Belle is one of the top 10 must-dos on any ultimate guide to visiting Mesa.

• Arizona Museum of Natural History in Mesa, United States

  
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  The Arizona Museum of Natural History stands out as a premier destination in Mesa, offering a fascinating journey through time with immersive exhibits on dinosaurs, Native American culture, and the natural world. As a highlight in Visit Mesa's top 10 ultimate guide, the museum beckons families, history buffs, and curious travelers to explore Arizona's rich geological and cultural past. Interactive displays, including a real paleontology lab and an indoor waterfall, provide an educational and fun experience for visitors of all ages.

• Mesa Grande Cultural Park in Mesa, United States

  
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  Mesa Grande Cultural Park offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Hohokam civilization, serving as a prominent feature in Visit Mesa's top 10 ultimate guide for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts alike. Here, visitors can explore the impressive ruins of a ceremonial mound, a massive structure that dates back to the 11th century, highlighting the rich prehistoric legacy of the area. This archeological site not only educates guests on the ancestral peoples of the region through its interpretive signage and educational programs but also provides a unique opportunity to experience the serene ambiance of a historic treasure nestled within the modern cityscape of Mesa, Arizona.

• Mesa Historical Museum in Mesa, United States

  
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  The Mesa Historical Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of Mesa, Arizona, from its agricultural roots to its development into a thriving modern city. As part of your ultimate guide to visiting Mesa, a trip to the museum is a must for history buffs and those curious to discover the local heritage and culture through well-preserved artifacts and engaging exhibits. It's a perfect stop to round out a top 10 list of attractions, providing context and depth to the story of Mesa and its people.

• Golfland Sunsplash in Mesa, United States

  
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  Golfland Sunsplash is a premier family entertainment destination in Mesa, Arizona, offering a dynamic blend of excitement for all ages. Visitors can experience thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and an extensive arcade at Sunsplash, or enjoy miniature golf, go-karts, and laser tag at Golfland. As an essential part of any top 10 ultimate guide to visiting Mesa, this fun-filled park provides hours of amusement and is a must-see attraction for families and adventure-seekers alike.

• Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum in Mesa, United States

  
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  The Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum is an aviation enthusiast's treasure nestled in Mesa and a highlight in the top 10 ultimate guide to visiting the city. Here, visitors can explore an impressive collection of fully restored WWII aircraft and engage with living history through educational exhibits and hands-on experiences. This unique museum offers not just a glimpse into the past but also the thrilling opportunity to fly in one of the vintage warbirds, making it a must-visit for history buffs and adventurers exploring Mesa, Arizona.

• Riverview Park in Mesa, United States

  
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  Mesa's newest city park. Offers Urban Fishing as well as family activity area.

• Usery Mountain Regional Park in Mesa, United States

  
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  Usery Mountain Regional Park is a sprawling 3,648-acre park nestled in the rugged Superstition Mountains of Mesa, Arizona, known for its distinctive archery range and more than 29 miles of trails for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. Visitors can marvel at the ancient petroglyphs carved into the rocks and savor panoramic views of the Valley of the Sun from the scenic Wind Cave Trail. Ranked as a top attraction for outdoor enthusiasts in Visit Mesa's ultimate guide, the park offers a serene desert escape with campgrounds and picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for both adventure and relaxation.

• Mesa Arts Center in Mesa, United States

  
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  Mesa Arts Center is a cultural jewel in the heart of downtown Mesa and a must-visit destination in any top ten guide to the city. This architectural masterpiece dazzles with its four theaters, five art galleries, and 14 art studios, offering a diverse array of live performances, art exhibitions, and educational programs. Whether you're looking to catch a Broadway show, learn a new craft, or simply enjoy the vibrant energy of the arts, a trip to Mesa isn't complete without experiencing the creativity and community at Mesa Arts Center.