Mesa, Arizona Travel Guide

Discover Mesa, Arizona – a vibrant blend of desert adventure, cultural richness, and family-friendly activities, set against the stunning backdrop of the Sonoran Desert.

Mesa, located in the heart of Arizona, is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern attractions. As the third-largest city in Arizona, Mesa provides a diverse range of activities and experiences for tourists. From its stunning desert landscapes to its thriving arts scene, there's something for everyone. The city's backdrop is the picturesque Sonoran Desert, which offers endless outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the desert's flora and fauna through hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The nearby Tonto National Forest and the Superstition Mountains are perfect for those seeking adventure and breathtaking views. Mesa is also a cultural hub, boasting numerous museums, galleries, and theaters. The Mesa Arts Center is a must-visit, offering world-class performances and exhibitions. History enthusiasts will enjoy the Arizona Museum of Natural History and the Mesa Historical Museum, where they can learn about the region's rich heritage. Food lovers will delight in Mesa's diverse culinary scene, which features a mix of traditional Southwestern cuisine and international flavors. The city's many farmers' markets and food festivals provide a taste of local produce and artisanal goods. In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Mesa is home to a variety of family-friendly activities. The city offers numerous parks, golf courses, and recreational facilities, making it an ideal destination for all ages. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors, immerse yourself in local culture, or simply relax, Mesa has something to offer every visitor.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mesa.

Visit the Mesa Arts Center for a mix of performing arts, visual arts, and educational programs.
Explore the Superstition Mountains early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the best views.
Check out the local farmers' markets for fresh produce and unique artisanal products.
Make time for a visit to the Arizona Museum of Natural History for a fascinating look at the region's past.
Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen when exploring outdoor attractions, as Mesa's desert climate can be intense.
Take a guided tour of the Tonto National Forest for an in-depth understanding of the local ecosystem.

Neighbourhoods in Mesa

Las Sendas

Downtown Mesa

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Mesa

Explore Mesa: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Mesa

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Best Attractions

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Phoenix Zoo

Explore the Phoenix Zoo, a family-friendly destination showcasing over 1,400 animals and dedicated to wildlife conservation and education.

4.5

Desert Botanical Garden

Discover the serene beauty of the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, Arizona, showcasing stunning desert flora and vibrant seasonal events.

4.8

State Farm Stadium

Discover the excitement of State Farm Stadium, a premier destination in Glendale, Arizona, for sports and entertainment events of all kinds.

4.6

Papago Park

Explore Papago Park in Phoenix, Arizona: A breathtaking destination for outdoor enthusiasts featuring stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and cultural attractions.

4.7

Best landmarks in Mesa

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Governor Hunt Tomb

Discover the historic Governor Hunt Tomb in Phoenix, Arizona, a serene site honoring the state's first governor amidst beautiful desert landscapes.

4.6

Apache Trail

Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of the Apache Trail, a stunning scenic route through Arizona's majestic landscapes.

4.5

Mesa Arts Center

Experience world-class performances, stunning exhibitions, and engaging arts education at the Mesa Arts Center in downtown Mesa, Arizona.

4.7

Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum

Explore military aviation history at the Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum. See iconic warbirds, experience exhibits, and honor the legacy of American aviation.

4.8

Best restaurants in Mesa

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Organ Stop Pizza

Discover the joy of delicious pizza accompanied by captivating live organ music at Organ Stop Pizza in Mesa, Arizona.

4.6

In-N-Out Burger

Savor the iconic taste of In-N-Out Burger in Mesa, Arizona - where quality meets fast food perfection.

4.6

The Cheesecake Factory

Discover culinary delights at The Cheesecake Factory in Mesa - a family-friendly restaurant known for its vast menu and irresistible cheesecakes.

4.4

Bobby-Q BBQ Restaurant and Steakhouse

Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Bobby-Q BBQ Restaurant and Steakhouse in Mesa—where flavor meets hospitality.

4.5

Best bars in Mesa

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The HUB Grill and Bar

Experience the perfect blend of sports and dining at The HUB Grill and Bar in Mesa, Arizona, where great food meets exciting game day vibes.

4.4

The Monastery

The Monastery: A lively grill and pub in Mesa, Arizona, offering delicious food, beach volleyball, and live entertainment.

4.3

Local Legends Bar & Grill

Experience the vibrant flavors and welcoming atmosphere at Local Legends Bar & Grill in Mesa, Arizona - a true culinary gem.

4.2

R.T. O'Sullivans Sports Grill

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of R.T. O'Sullivans Sports Grill, an Irish pub and sports bar serving delicious food and drinks in Mesa, Arizona.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Mesa

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The Monastery

Discover The Monastery in Mesa, Arizona: a grill, pub, and beach volleyball haven offering delicious food and lively entertainment.

4.3

The Trough

Experience the best of Mesa dining at The Trough, where grilled delights and refreshing drinks meet a vibrant atmosphere.

4.0

Roosters Country

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Roosters Country, Mesa's favorite bar and live music venue with a welcoming atmosphere and fantastic performances.

4.4

Las Sendas Golf Club

Discover the breathtaking beauty and premium golfing experience at Las Sendas Golf Club in Mesa, Arizona.

4.4

Best shops in Mesa

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Tempe Marketplace

Explore Tempe Marketplace, where shopping meets dining and entertainment in a vibrant outdoor setting in Arizona.

4.6

Scottsdale Fashion Square

Discover luxury shopping combined with exceptional dining experiences at Scottsdale Fashion Square, Arizona's premier shopping destination.

4.6

Mesa Riverview

Discover a shopping paradise at Mesa Riverview, where retail therapy meets delightful dining and entertainment options in sunny Arizona.

4.4

Superstition Springs Center

Explore the dynamic Superstition Springs Center in Mesa, AZ, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.3

Explore Mesa on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Mesa, mapped for you.

Mesa Essentials

Mesa, Arizona, is easily accessible by air, road, and rail. The nearest major airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), located about 20 miles west of Mesa. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use ride-sharing services to reach Mesa. If you're driving, Mesa is conveniently located along U.S. Route 60 and is also accessible via Interstate 10 and Interstate 17. Amtrak trains also serve the nearby city of Phoenix, providing another travel option.
Mesa offers a variety of transportation options for getting around the city. The Valley Metro Light Rail system connects Mesa to Phoenix and Tempe, making it easy to travel between these cities. Buses operated by Valley Metro cover most areas within Mesa and are a convenient and affordable option. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available. For those who prefer to drive, car rental services are plentiful, and the city's road network is well-maintained and easy to navigate.
The official currency in Mesa, as in the rest of the United States, is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, so withdrawing cash is easy. However, it is always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and street vendors that may not accept cards. Tipping is customary in the U.S., typically 15-20% in restaurants and for other services.
Mesa is generally a safe city for tourists, but it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and always be aware of your surroundings. Areas such as West Mesa have been known to have higher crime rates, so exercise caution when visiting these neighborhoods. Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas or when using public transportation.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Mesa has several hospitals and urgent care facilities available for medical emergencies. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and other unexpected situations. For minor health issues, pharmacies are widely available and offer over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and according to the weather, which can be hot in summer. Casual clothing is generally acceptable. Avoid overly revealing clothing in public spaces. Religion: Do respect local religious practices and places of worship. Remove hats when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers and give up your seat to the elderly or disabled. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. A friendly 'hello' or 'hi' is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Southwestern cuisine, including Mexican food and BBQ. Don't forget to tip your server.
To experience Mesa like a local, visit the Mesa Farmers Market and Flea, held every Saturday, where you can buy fresh produce and unique crafts. Explore the Mesa Arts Center for a taste of local culture and performances. For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking in Usery Mountain Regional Park or taking a walk along the Salt River are popular activities. Dining at local favorites like T.C. Eggington's for breakfast or Organ Stop Pizza for a unique dining experience with live music from a massive Wurlitzer organ is highly recommended.

When is the best time to visit Mesa?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Mesa

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Mesa. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [hou-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see yuh lay-ter]
- YesYep
  [yep]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [please/yur wel-cum]
- Thank youThanks a bunch
  [thanks uh bunch]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [ex-kyoos me/sor-ee]
- How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [hou yall doo-in]
- Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [fine and yoo]
- Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [yall speak ing-glish]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
  [kan eye chek out the men-yoo]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'll take the check, please
  [I'll take the chek, please]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Get outta here!
  [get out-uh here]
- Call the Police!Call the Cops!
  [call the cops]
- Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [call a doc]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy]
- I'm just lookingI'm just looking
  [I'm just looking]
- How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [how much duhz it cost]
- That's too expensiveThat's too pricey
  [that's too pry-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can you lower it?
  [can yuh low-er it]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats the time]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [Half past (10)]
- MorningMorning
  [Morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

History of Mesa

Long before European settlers arrived, the Mesa region was home to the Hohokam people, who inhabited the area from roughly 200 to 1450 AD. They were known for their advanced irrigation canals, which made the desert landscape arable and supported a thriving agricultural society. These canals formed the basis for Mesa's modern irrigation system and are a testament to the ingenuity of the Hohokam civilization.
In 1878, Mormon pioneers led by Daniel Webster Jones established a settlement in the region, which they named 'Lehi.' A few years later, Mesa was founded in 1878 by a group of Mormon settlers from Utah, who built an organized grid for the city. The Mormon Temple, built in 1927, stands as a prominent symbol of the city's rich religious heritage and continues to be a central landmark.
Mesa's fertile lands and irrigation systems laid the foundation for a booming agricultural industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Crops such as citrus fruits, cotton, and vegetables thrived, attracting more settlers and contributing to the city's growth. Agriculture remained a major economic driver until the mid-20th century.
The Mesa Grande Cultural Park preserves the ruins of a Hohokam platform mound that dates back to the 13th century. This archaeological site offers valuable insights into the Hohokam way of life and their sophisticated societal structures. The site is now a protected area, offering educational tours and exhibits to the public.
The arrival of the railroad in the early 20th century was a transformative event for Mesa, facilitating the easier transport of goods and people. This development spurred economic growth and connected Mesa more closely with the broader region, helping it transition from a small agricultural town to a more diversified economy.
Following World War II, Mesa experienced rapid growth and suburbanization. The establishment of Williams Air Force Base in 1941 (later converted to Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport) played a significant role in this expansion, bringing new residents and fostering economic development. The post-war period saw the integration of modern infrastructure and amenities, shaping Mesa into a contemporary urban center.
Over the decades, Mesa has evolved into a culturally diverse city. This is reflected in its vibrant arts scene, numerous cultural festivals, and a variety of ethnic restaurants and markets. The Mesa Arts Center, opened in 2005, is a testament to the city's commitment to fostering cultural enrichment, offering a wide array of performances, exhibitions, and educational programs.
Today, Mesa is the third-largest city in Arizona and a thriving hub of education, technology, and healthcare. Home to Arizona State University’s Polytechnic campus and several other higher education institutions, the city continues to evolve while honoring its rich history. Mesa's blend of historical landmarks and modern amenities makes it a unique place to explore and experience.