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Mesa Grande Cultural Park: Echoes of the Hohokam

Explore ancient Hohokam civilization at Mesa Grande Cultural Park, an archaeological treasure in Mesa, Arizona.

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Explore the Mesa Grande Cultural Park in Mesa, Arizona, an 82-acre archaeological site showcasing the remnants of the Hohokam civilization, who thrived in the area between 1100 and 1450 AD. Discover a preserved platform mound, ballcourt, and museum exhibits that offer insights into this ancient culture.

A brief summary to Mesa Grande Cultural Park

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat, especially during the summer months.
  • Check out the informative exhibits in the museum to gain a deeper understanding of the Hohokam civilization.
  • Bring water and snacks, as amenities are limited within the park.
  • Consider joining a guided tour for a more in-depth exploration of the site's historical significance.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Mesa Arts Center (1 E Main St), walk to the nearest bus stop at Main St & Center St. Board Valley Metro bus route 61 heading north. Stay on the bus for about 10 minutes and get off at the stop at N Date St & E 1st Ave. From there, walk north on N Date St for about 5 minutes to reach Mesa Grande Cultural Park at 1000 N Date St. A single ride on Valley Metro is $2.

  • Walking

    If you are near downtown Mesa, start at the Mesa Convention Center (263 N Center St). Head north on Center St until you reach E 1st Ave, then turn right (east) and walk until you reach N Date St. Turn left (north) onto N Date St and continue walking for about 15 minutes until you arrive at Mesa Grande Cultural Park located at 1000 N Date St.

  • RideShare

    For a convenient option, use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. Simply enter '1000 N Date, Mesa, AZ 85201' as your destination. Depending on your starting location within Maricopa County, expect to pay between $15 to $30 for a ride from central Mesa. Check the app for exact fare estimates before you book.

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Discover more about Mesa Grande Cultural Park

Mesa Grande Cultural Park is an important archaeological site in Mesa, Arizona, preserving the legacy of the Hohokam people who inhabited the Salt River Valley from approximately 1100 to 1450 AD. The park spans 82 acres and features the ruins of a Hohokam village, offering visitors a glimpse into their advanced civilization. The centerpiece of the park is the Great Platform Mound, an enormous earthen structure that stands about 27 feet high. Constructed over several generations, the mound was likely used for ceremonial and community gatherings. Visitors can also explore a Hohokam ballcourt, used for social and religious activities, similar to those found in Mesoamerica. The park's museum houses an extensive collection of Hohokam artifacts, providing a tangible connection to the past. Interpretive signs and guided tours offer detailed information about the Hohokam's irrigation systems, agricultural practices, and unique architectural techniques. Mesa Grande Cultural Park is not only a historical site but also a place of reverence and respect for the Hohokam people and their descendants.

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