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Mesa Grande Cultural Park: Echoes of the Hohokam

Discover the ancient Hohokam civilization at Mesa Grande Cultural Park, a historical treasure in the heart of Mesa, Arizona.

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Explore the Mesa Grande Cultural Park in Mesa, Arizona, an 82-acre archaeological site preserving the remnants of the Hohokam civilization, who thrived in the Salt River Valley from 1100 to 1450 AD. See the impressive platform mound and ballcourt, and learn about their advanced irrigation systems and unique culture.

A brief summary to Mesa Grande Cultural Park

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (October to May) for a more comfortable experience, as the park offers seasonal access during this time.
  • Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Bring water and snacks, as amenities within the park are limited.
  • Consider taking a guided tour for a deeper understanding of the site's historical and archaeological 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. Take 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. Check Valley Metro for schedules and fares. A single ride fare is typically $2.00.

  • Walking

    If you're 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 at 1000 N Date St.

  • Rideshare

    Use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Enter '1000 N Date, Mesa, AZ 85201' as your destination. Depending on your starting point in Maricopa County, expect to pay $15-$30 for a ride from central Mesa. Check the app for exact fare estimates.

  • Car

    From US-60 E, take exit 177 for Mesa Dr toward Mesa. Turn left onto N Mesa Dr and continue until you reach E Main St. Turn right onto E Main St and continue for approximately 1.5 miles. Turn left onto N Date St, and Mesa Grande Cultural Park will be on your right at 1000 N Date, Mesa, AZ 85201. Free parking is available on-site.

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Discover more about Mesa Grande Cultural Park

Mesa Grande Cultural Park offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of the Hohokam people, who inhabited the Salt River Valley centuries ago. This 82-acre park showcases the preserved ruins of their village, including a towering platform mound and a ballcourt, offering insight into their advanced civilization. The Hohokam were skilled agriculturalists, known for their extensive irrigation systems that allowed them to cultivate crops in the arid desert environment. The Mesa Grande site was a significant social and ceremonial center for one of the largest Hohokam communities. The platform mound, constructed from layers of soil, clay, and caliche, stands as a testament to their architectural prowess. Visitors can explore the park's trails, taking in the informative displays that detail the Hohokam's history, culture, and way of life. The ballcourt offers a glimpse into their recreational and religious practices, while the museum houses a collection of artifacts unearthed at the site. Mesa Grande Cultural Park provides a unique opportunity to connect with the past and appreciate the legacy of the Hohokam people.

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