15 Fun Things To Do In Mesa, Arizona
Mesa, Arizona, is a dynamic city that offers a blend of outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, and family-friendly activities. Just minutes from Phoenix, Mesa provides a perfect getaway for travelers looking to explore the beauty of the Sonoran Desert while enjoying top-notch arts, history, and recreation. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature at Usery Mountain Regional Park, relax with a scenic cruise on Saguaro Lake, or stroll through the stunning Mesa Grande Cultural Park, home to ancient Native American ruins.
For art and history lovers, Mesa Arts Center and the Arizona Museum of Natural History showcase the city’s rich cultural offerings, with exhibits and performances that captivate all ages. Families will find endless fun at Riverview Park, with its expansive playgrounds, splash pads, and serene fishing spots, while shopping enthusiasts can explore Dana Park Village Square and the bustling Mesa Market Place Swap Meet.
With a variety of activities, from thrilling desert hikes to unique local museums, Mesa, Arizona offers an unforgettable experience for everyone. This guide to Mesa’s top attractions covers the best things to do in Mesa, AZ, highlighting the city’s unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and rich cultural heritage.
1. Visit the Mesa Arts Center
📍 Location: 1 E Main St, Mesa, AZ 85201
Fun Fact:
Mesa Arts Center is the largest arts campus in Arizona, spanning more than seven acres with theaters, galleries, and studios.
The Mesa Arts Center is a must-visit for art lovers and culture enthusiasts in Mesa, AZ. As Arizona’s largest arts complex, it spans over seven acres, housing four theaters, five art galleries, and 14 art studios. The first time I visited with a friend who’s a painter, we were both impressed by the stunning architecture and vibrant exhibitions. From classical masterpieces to contemporary installations, the art here always has something new and exciting to offer.

The center’s diverse events calendar features everything from Broadway-style musicals to indie concerts and community theater productions. Locals rave about the workshops and classes where you can try pottery, painting, or even the intricate art of glassblowing. One friend who took a class said it made her feel like a real artist, and she even walked away with her own creation.
For anyone who enjoys the arts, the Mesa Arts Center captures Mesa’s creative spirit in one beautifully designed space.
Important Information:
- Opening Hours: Tues–Sat, 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.; performance times vary
- Accessibility: Fully ADA accessible
- Parking: Free garage and street parking nearby
- Amenities: Art museum, performing arts theaters, gift shop, art classes
- Tips: Check the event calendar for festivals, Broadway shows, and community workshops
2. Explore Usery Mountain Regional Park
📍 Location: 3939 N Usery Pass Rd, Mesa, AZ 85207
Fun Fact:
Home to the iconic Wind Cave Trail, Usery offers some of the best desert hikes with views of the Goldfield Mountains and Phoenix Valley.
For those drawn to the outdoors, Usery Mountain Regional Park offers a scenic retreat in the heart of the Sonoran Desert. Spanning over 3,600 acres, the park is known for its variety of trails, including the popular Wind Cave Trail, which leads hikers to a unique cave with sweeping valley views. I hiked this trail with a couple of friends last spring, and reaching the top was like being rewarded with a panorama of endless desert beauty.

Usery Mountain isn’t just for hiking; it’s also a popular spot for mountain biking, horseback riding, and archery. Families enjoy picnics and exploring the Nature Center, where kids learn about the area’s fascinating plants and animals. Park rangers are always around, happy to share their knowledge, which adds an educational touch to any outdoor adventure.
The breathtaking scenery and engaging activities make Usery Mountain Regional Park a go-to spot for experiencing Arizona’s unique landscape.
Important Information:
- Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Accessibility: Limited; some picnic areas are ADA accessible
- Parking: $7 per vehicle day-use fee
- Amenities: Hiking trails, archery range, picnic areas, restrooms
- Tips: Visit early in the day to avoid heat; Wind Cave Trail is a favorite for moderate hikers
3. Discover the Arizona Museum of Natural History
📍 Location: 53 N Macdonald, Mesa, AZ 85201
Fun Fact:
This museum has the largest collection of dinosaur fossils in Arizona—including a life-sized animatronic T. rex and a walk-through ancient Arizona exhibit.
The Arizona Museum of Natural History is a captivating journey through time, showcasing everything from Arizona’s dinosaurs to its Old West heritage. My nephew and I had a blast here; he was especially thrilled by the “Dino Mountain,” an immersive exhibit featuring life-size, roaring dinosaurs set against a three-story mountain waterfall.

Beyond dinosaurs, the museum features Native American artifacts, Old West displays, and hands-on activities like gold panning and fossil digging. It’s a place where the past truly comes alive, appealing to visitors of all ages. The museum’s dedicated staff is passionate about sharing Arizona’s rich history and geological wonders, creating an experience that’s both educational and entertaining.
From ancient artifacts to interactive exhibits, the Arizona Museum of Natural History offers a unique and memorable way to learn about Arizona’s past.
Important Information:
- Opening Hours: Wed–Sat, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; Sun, 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Accessibility: Fully ADA accessible
- Parking: Free street and lot parking nearby
- Amenities: Exhibits, paleontology lab, museum shop
- Tips: Don’t miss the indoor waterfall and the interactive “Pan for Gold” station for kids
4. Relax at Riverview Park
📍 Location: 2100 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Mesa, AZ 85201
Fun Fact:
Located next to Sloan Park (spring training home of the Chicago Cubs), this park has one of Arizona’s tallest playground climbing towers.
Riverview Park is the perfect place in Mesa, AZ for families and friends to enjoy a day outdoors. This modern park features a large splash pad, shaded playgrounds, and a massive 50-foot climbing tower for some added adventure. I often visit with friends, and there’s nothing better than a leisurely afternoon under the shaded ramadas, enjoying a picnic while watching kids play in the water area.

Sports fans love Riverview Park’s proximity to Sloan Park, the spring training stadium for the Chicago Cubs. During baseball season, the area comes alive with fans enjoying the park’s amenities before or after games. The park also features a scenic lake with fishing spots and walking paths, offering a peaceful retreat in the middle of bustling Mesa.
Important Information:
- Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Accessibility: ADA playground and restrooms
- Parking: Free on-site parking
- Amenities: Splash pad, shaded picnic areas, walking trails, fishing lake
- Tips: Great for families—bring towels and snacks for a full afternoon of play
5. Tour the Mesa Historical Museum
📍 Location: 2345 N Horne, Mesa, AZ 85203
Fun Fact:
Housed in a former school building, the museum showcases Mesa’s agricultural roots and the evolution of its community over the last century.
For a glimpse into Mesa’s history, the Mesa Historical Museum offers a fascinating look at the city’s journey from a small agricultural settlement to a vibrant urban center. Located in a former 1913 schoolhouse, the museum’s exhibits cover topics like Mesa’s farming roots, early settlers, and even its spring training baseball history.

One of the museum’s highlights is its collection of artifacts related to the Hohokam people, who developed sophisticated irrigation systems long before European settlers arrived. These canals played a crucial role in Mesa’s agricultural development and are still visible today. My history-buff friend visited the museum recently and was particularly impressed by the agricultural tools and memorabilia, which tell the story of Mesa’s pioneering spirit.
Important Information:
- Opening Hours: Wed–Sat, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Accessibility: ADA accessible
- Parking: Free lot on-site
- Amenities: Historic exhibits, seasonal displays, local archives
- Tips: Ask about the Arizona Spring Training exhibit—it’s a hit with baseball fans
6. Enjoy the Desert Belle Cruise on Saguaro Lake
📍 Location: 14011 N Bush Hwy, Mesa, AZ 85215
Fun Fact:
This narrated 90-minute boat cruise offers breathtaking views of desert canyons, bald eagles, and wild horses in Tonto National Forest.
Taking the Desert Belle Cruise on Saguaro Lake is a serene way to enjoy the beauty of Arizona’s desert landscape from the water. The narrated tour provides interesting facts about the lake’s geology, local wildlife, and history. My experience on the Desert Belle was unforgettable—watching the sun reflect off towering cliffs and spotting a bald eagle soaring overhead was magical.

The cruise offers both open-air and air-conditioned seating, making it comfortable even on hotter days. There are themed cruises, like live music and sunset cruises, which add a unique twist to the trip. Many visitors find the sunset cruises particularly stunning as the warm colors of the Arizona sky transform the lake into a canvas of light and shadow.
Important Information:
- Opening Hours: Cruises daily; check website for schedule
- Accessibility: ADA accessible boarding available
- Parking: Free parking at Saguaro Lake Marina
- Amenities: Snack bar, open-air and shaded seating
- Tips: Book in advance, especially for sunset cruises—bring a camera and light jacket
7. Experience the Superstition Mountain Museum
📍 Location: 4087 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85119 (about 30 mins from Mesa)
Fun Fact:
The museum explores the lore of the Lost Dutchman Mine and Superstition Mountains, and features old west buildings and a replica Apacheland movie set.
The Superstition Mountain Museum sits at the base of the breathtaking Superstition Mountains, offering an in-depth look at the legends, history, and folklore that surround this mysterious area. This museum dives into the famous tale of the Lost Dutchman Gold Mine, a legendary hidden treasure rumored to be buried somewhere in the mountains. My friend, who’s a history enthusiast, loved wandering through the museum’s exhibits on Native American culture and pioneer life, which bring the area’s vibrant history to life.

The museum grounds include a reconstructed Western town, with buildings like an old chapel, stagecoach shop, and blacksmith, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. There’s also a section dedicated to early filmmaking in the Superstition Mountains, as the area was a popular spot for classic Western films. It’s an interactive experience that blends history, mystery, and entertainment, perfect for those intrigued by Arizona’s legendary Wild West roots.
Important Information:
- Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Accessibility: ADA accessible exhibits and grounds
- Parking: Free on-site lot
- Amenities: Outdoor displays, gift shop, interpretive center
- Tips: Great stop before a hike or scenic drive through the Superstition Mountains
8. Stroll Through the Mesa Market Place Swap Meet
📍 Location: 10550 E Baseline Rd, Mesa, AZ 85209
Fun Fact:
This massive open-air market spans over 55 acres with more than 1,500 vendor spaces—selling everything from local crafts to fresh roasted nuts.
The Mesa Market Place Swap Meet is a lively open-air shopping experience featuring over 1,500 vendor spaces. It’s a treasure trove for bargain hunters, with vendors offering everything from handmade crafts and jewelry to fresh produce and vintage collectibles. I often go with friends to browse unique finds, and it’s always a fun experience with live music and an energetic atmosphere.

In addition to shopping, the swap meet offers an impressive variety of food stalls where you can sample local snacks or grab a refreshing drink as you wander through. The shaded seating areas provide a nice break to rest and chat while enjoying the local vibes. With its friendly vendors and festive setting, the Mesa Market Place Swap Meet is an authentic local experience that captures Mesa’s community spirit.
Important Information:
- Opening Hours: Fri–Sun, 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (seasonal hours may vary)
- Accessibility: Fully ADA accessible
- Parking: Free lot with plenty of space
- Amenities: Food courts, rest areas, shaded walkways
- Tips: Wear comfy shoes and arrive early for the best finds
9. Attend a Performance at the Hale Centre Theatre
📍 Location: 50 W Page Ave, Gilbert, AZ 85233 (10–15 mins from Mesa)
Fun Fact:
This family-run theater-in-the-round offers high-quality productions in an intimate 350-seat venue where every seat feels front row.
The Hale Centre Theatre in Mesa, AZ, is renowned for its high-quality productions and intimate stage-in-the-round setting, which offers an immersive theater experience. From musicals to comedies and classic dramas, the Hale Centre Theatre’s seasonal lineup has something for every theatergoer. A close friend of mine, an avid theater fan, swears that every performance here feels personal due to the theater’s unique layout and close proximity to the actors.

The productions are known for their talented casts, professional set designs, and flawless production quality. Locals appreciate that the Hale Centre Theatre focuses on family-friendly shows, making it an ideal outing for all ages. With its dedicated staff and talented performers, it’s no surprise the Hale has become a beloved cultural fixture in Mesa.
Important Information:
- Opening Hours: Performance-based; box office open Tues–Sat
- Accessibility: Fully ADA accessible
- Parking: Free street and lot parking nearby
- Amenities: Concessions, restrooms, ticket counter
- Tips: Book early—this popular venue sells out often, especially during holiday shows
10. Explore the Mesa Grande Cultural Park
📍 Location: 1000 N Date St, Mesa, AZ 85201
Fun Fact:
This ancient Hohokam archaeological site features a platform mound built over 1,000 years ago—once a major ceremonial and cultural center.
Mesa Grande Cultural Park is an archaeological site that offers a fascinating look into the lives of the Hohokam people, who inhabited this area over a thousand years ago. The site includes remains of large platforms, ancient canal systems, and other structures used by the Hohokam for ceremonial and practical purposes. I visited Mesa Grande with a history-loving friend, and walking among these ancient ruins was like stepping into a different time.

Guided tours are available to provide deeper insights into the Hohokam culture, including how they ingeniously used canals to irrigate crops in the desert. The park’s exhibits highlight the advanced engineering and complex society of the Hohokam people, making it a must-see for history buffs and anyone interested in the ancient cultures of the Southwest.
Important Information:
- Opening Hours: Seasonal; typically open Oct–Apr, Sat–Sun only
- Accessibility: Partial ADA access on gravel paths
- Parking: Free parking available
- Amenities: Interpretive signs, walking paths, small visitor center
- Tips: Combine with a visit to the Arizona Museum of Natural History for full context
11. Visit the i.d.e.a. Museum
📍 Location: 150 W Pepper Pl, Mesa, AZ 85201
Fun Fact:
Designed to spark imagination through STEAM (science, tech, engineering, art, and math), this interactive museum is geared toward kids 0–12.
The i.d.e.a. Museum in Mesa, AZ is a family-friendly destination designed to inspire creativity and imagination in children through hands-on exhibits and interactive learning. From STEM activities to artistic expression, each exhibit is thoughtfully curated to engage young minds. I brought my niece here, and she couldn’t get enough of the art studios where she got to create her own masterpieces.

The museum’s rotating exhibits focus on various themes, encouraging kids to explore science, technology, engineering, and art in new ways. The hands-on approach keeps kids entertained while providing valuable educational experiences that leave a lasting impact. The i.d.e.a. Museum is a fantastic choice for families looking for a fun, interactive environment that balances play with learning.
Important Information:
- Opening Hours: Tues–Sat, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.; Sun, 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Accessibility: Fully ADA accessible
- Parking: Free lot and street parking
- Amenities: Hands-on exhibits, play zones, sensory-friendly areas
- Tips: Time your visit for early morning or naptime to avoid crowds
12. Golf at the Longbow Golf Club
📍 Location: 5601 E Longbow Pkwy, Mesa, AZ 85215
Fun Fact:
This award-winning desert course is consistently ranked among the best public golf courses in Arizona, with scenic views and a challenging layout.
Longbow Golf Club is a favorite among golf enthusiasts visiting Mesa, AZ. Known for its challenging course and stunning desert scenery, Longbow offers an exceptional golfing experience. The course’s layout includes well-maintained fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and beautiful views of the surrounding Superstition Mountains. A friend of mine, an avid golfer, considers it one of the best courses in the region for its perfect mix of difficulty and beauty.

Beyond the greens, Longbow’s clubhouse provides a relaxing atmosphere where players can enjoy a meal or drink after their game. The club also hosts tournaments and events, making it a hub for local golf culture and community.
Important Information:
- Opening Hours: Daily, sunrise to dusk
- Accessibility: ADA compliant carts and clubhouse
- Parking: Free on-site parking
- Amenities: Pro shop, practice range, restaurant
- Tips: Book tee times in advance, especially in winter—twilight rates offer good value
13. Shop and Dine at Dana Park Village Square
📍 Location: 1744 S Val Vista Dr, Mesa, AZ 85204
Fun Fact:
This upscale outdoor shopping center offers boutique stores, chain retailers, and a mix of casual and fine dining with lush landscaping and fountains.
Dana Park Village Square is one of Mesa’s premier shopping and dining destinations, combining upscale boutiques, specialty stores, and a diverse selection of restaurants in a beautifully designed open-air setting. Strolling through Dana Park feels like stepping into a stylish town square, with fountains, lush landscaping, and shaded seating areas perfect for relaxing. A friend and I often meet here for a shopping day, grabbing coffee at one of the charming cafes and exploring the unique stores.

For food lovers, Dana Park offers everything from gourmet dining to casual eateries, providing plenty of options to satisfy any craving. The vibrant atmosphere, friendly service, and scenic surroundings make it an enjoyable experience, day or night. With seasonal events and live music performances, Dana Park Village Square is more than just a shopping center; it’s a lively community hub that locals love.
Important Information:
- Opening Hours: Daily, typically 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Accessibility: Fully ADA accessible
- Parking: Free lot and valet on weekends
- Amenities: Dining patios, beauty services, fashion, holiday events
- Tips: Great for an afternoon stroll with coffee, brunch, or an evening out
14. Visit the Commemorative Air Force Airbase Arizona Museum
📍 Location: 2017 N Greenfield Rd, Mesa, AZ 85215
Fun Fact:
Home to one of the world’s largest collections of flyable WWII aircraft, including a B-17 bomber you can actually fly in.
The Commemorative Air Force Airbase Arizona Museum is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs in Mesa, AZ. Dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of WWII aircraft, the museum features a remarkable collection of vintage planes, from bombers to fighters. Visitors can explore the hangars, where volunteers work on restoring these historic aircraft to their original glory. My grandfather, a retired pilot, was fascinated by the museum’s restored B-17 bomber, one of the highlights of his trip.
For those looking for a truly unforgettable experience, the museum even offers flights in select WWII aircraft, allowing guests to feel what it was like to soar through the skies during that era. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into aviation history, wartime stories, and the heroic efforts of those who served.
Important Information:
- Opening Hours: Wed–Sat, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.; Sun, 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Accessibility: Fully ADA accessible
- Parking: Free on-site parking
- Amenities: Aircraft exhibits, flight rides, gift shop
- Tips: Book a flight experience for an unforgettable thrill—reserve early, especially for the B-17
15. Enjoy Outdoor Activities at the Salt River
📍 Location: Various access points near Mesa (Phon D Sutton, Coon Bluff, etc.)
Fun Fact:
The Salt River is one of Arizona’s best spots for tubing, kayaking, and spotting wild horses that roam the riverbanks.
The Salt River offers endless opportunities for outdoor fun, just a short drive from Mesa, AZ. The river’s scenic setting makes it a popular spot for tubing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, where visitors can float down the gentle waters surrounded by Arizona’s breathtaking desert landscape. I remember going tubing down the Salt River with friends last summer, an experience made even more exciting by sightings of the famous Salt River wild horses grazing along the shore.
During the warmer months, the Salt River is packed with locals and tourists alike, all soaking up the sun and enjoying the refreshing water. For those seeking a quieter experience, early mornings or late afternoons offer a peaceful time to paddle down the river and take in the natural beauty. The Salt River provides the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for anyone looking to enjoy Arizona’s great outdoors.
Important Information:
- Opening Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset
- Accessibility: Most access points are primitive; limited ADA facilities
- Parking: $12 Tonto Daily Pass or Interagency Pass required
- Amenities: Picnic areas, water access, some restrooms
- Tips: Tubing is seasonal (May–Sept); bring dry bags and plenty of water for river trips
Conclusion
Mesa is a vibrant destination that offers everything from stunning natural landscapes to a rich cultural scene. With its mix of outdoor activities, historical attractions, and unique local experiences, Mesa is a fantastic place for visitors of all interests.
The city’s dedication to preserving its history is evident in sites like the Mesa Historical Museum and the Commemorative Air Force Airbase Arizona Museum, while the arts thrive at the Mesa Arts Center and local theaters like the Hale Centre Theatre. Mesa’s vibrant shopping and dining options, including Dana Park Village Square and the lively Mesa Market Place Swap Meet, add a touch of excitement to the travel experience.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a solo trip, Mesa’s blend of attractions ensures there’s always something inspiring to discover. Planning to visit? Karta has some amazing deals on Mesa vacation rentals for you.
FAQ
1. What are the best outdoor activities in Mesa, AZ?
Mesa offers fantastic outdoor activities, including hiking at Usery Mountain Regional Park, tubing on the Salt River, and scenic cruises on Saguaro Lake with Desert Belle Cruises
2. Is Mesa, Arizona a family-friendly destination?
Absolutely! Families can enjoy Riverview Park’s splash pad and playground, explore the interactive exhibits at the i.d.e.a. Museum, and tour dinosaur exhibits at the Arizona Museum of Natural History.
3. What cultural attractions can I visit in Mesa?
Cultural highlights include the Mesa Arts Center, which hosts art exhibits and performances, and the Mesa Grande Cultural Park, an ancient archaeological site offering insight into Native American history.
4. What is there to do in Mesa at night?
Mesa has an active nightlife with performances at the Hale Centre Theatre, evening events at the Mesa Arts Center, and shopping and dining at Dana Park Village Square.
5. When is the best time to visit Mesa, AZ?
The best time to visit Mesa is from October to April, when temperatures are mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, golfing, and exploring local parks.
6. Are there any historic sites to visit in Mesa?
Yes, Mesa is rich in history. Key historic sites include the Mesa Historical Museum, which explores local history, and the Commemorative Air Force Airbase Arizona Museum with WWII aircraft exhibits.
7. Where can I go shopping in Mesa, AZ?
Mesa offers unique shopping experiences at the Mesa Market Place Swap Meet and upscale shopping at Dana Park Village Square, with its mix of boutiques and dining spots.
8. Can I see desert wildlife in Mesa?
Absolutely! At Usery Mountain Regional Park and along the Salt River, you can spot desert wildlife like coyotes, roadrunners, and the famous Salt River wild horses.