Things To Do
in Mesa
Mesa is a city located in Arizona, United States, just east of Phoenix. Known for its warm climate and abundant outdoor recreational activities, Mesa attracts visitors and residents alike. The city is home to cultural attractions such as the Mesa Arts Center and the Arizona Museum of Natural History.
Mesa also boasts a thriving economy with a strong focus on education, healthcare, and technology industries.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $180
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Usery Mountain Regional Park, where you can hike the scenic trails. Enjoy the stunning desert scenery and watch for local wildlife.
Head to Red Mountain Park for a picnic lunch and some leisurely time by the lake. You can also rent a paddleboat to enjoy on the water.
Finish the day with a stroll through the nearby Downtown Mesa, exploring local shops and eateries. Try a delicious dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area.
Visit the Mesa Arts Center to appreciate local art and catch a performance if available. The architecture itself is worth the visit.
Explore the Arizona Museum of Natural History to learn about the state's dinosaurs and Native American history. Engage with interactive exhibits for a fun experience.
Dine at a nearby restaurant offering local cuisine. End your day with a visit to a local coffee shop for dessert and coffee.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm climate with plenty of sunshine year-round
- Affordable housing options compared to other parts of the U.S.
- Strong community and family-oriented environment
- Access to outdoor recreational activities such as hiking and biking
- Growing job market and economic opportunities
- High temperatures during summer months can be uncomfortable
- Limited public transportation options
- Potential for traffic congestion due to increasing population
- Dust storms and monsoon seasons can affect outdoor activities
- Cultural and entertainment options may be limited compared to larger cities
Best Activities in Mesa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails and enjoy beautiful views of the desert landscape.
Paddle along the picturesque lake and take in the surrounding mountain vistas.
Ride through a network of diverse trails suitable for all skill levels.
Challenge yourself on the rugged cliffs while overlooking the river below.
Tours
Uncover the best of Mesa with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Mesa
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Phoenix valley, great for photography enthusiasts.
Provides a picturesque backdrop with its lake, playgrounds, and green spaces, ideal for capturing outdoor scenes.
Features a beautiful lake and a variety of scenic spots perfect for capturing peaceful, natural landscapes.
Food in Mesa
Mesa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local favorite, this bacon-wrapped hot dog is topped with pinto beans, grilled onions, fresh tomatoes, jalapeño salsa, mayo, mustard, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese. Experience this delicious creation at local food trucks like El Caprichoso or Sonoran Mexican Grill.
Must-Try!
A seasonal specialty, these tamales are made with fresh, sweet corn and are steamed in corn husks. They can be found at various Mexican restaurants throughout Mesa, such as Mucho Más and Rancho de Tia Rosa.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Mesa better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience a vibrant array of street food offerings from diverse vendors at the annual Mesa Food Truck Festival. Indulge in a variety of cuisines, from gourmet burgers to unique dessert creations, all in one lively event.
Head to this bustling market to explore fresh produce, artisanal food products, and a selection of food trucks offering everything from wood-fired pizzas to authentic street tacos.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Mesa, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially in public spaces.
Punctuality is valued in Mesa, so it's important to arrive on time for appointments and meetings.
Mesa is a diverse community, so it's important to show respect for different cultures, beliefs, and backgrounds.
Greet others with a handshake and maintain eye contact, especially in formal or business settings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Mesa with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Mesa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Mesa, United States, particularly in restaurants and for services such as haircuts, taxi rides, and hotel stays. The typical tip is around 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment in Mesa, United States, is primarily done using credit or debit cards, with cash also being widely accepted. Mobile payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular for convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Mesa.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
One of the best times to visit Mesa, with mild temperatures and blooming desert flora. It's perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and golfing.
Another great time to visit Mesa, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. It's an ideal time for exploring the city's downtown area and enjoying outdoor festivals.
Mesa experiences mild winters, making it a popular destination for snowbirds seeking refuge from colder climates. It's a great time for outdoor activities and admiring holiday lights.
While summer in Mesa can be hot, it's a good time to take advantage of indoor attractions and water activities to beat the heat. Also, summer evenings often bring cool breezes, perfect for outdoor dining and strolls.
Mesa at Night
Hiking in Mesa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
This park features stunning desert landscapes and has various trails suitable for beginners to advanced hikers. The Wind Cave Trail offers scenic views and an interesting rock formation.
Located in the Superstition Mountains, this park offers various hiking trails, including the popular Peralta Trail, which leads to breathtaking views of the iconic Camelback Mountain.
A beautiful spot for hiking, surrounded by saguaro cacti and stunning lake views. The area offers trails that are great for both hiking and biking.
Although primarily known for its water activities, Tempe Town Lake has surrounding trails perfect for hiking and enjoying the lakeside scenery.
A vast urban preserve that offers numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty. Enjoy views of the city and desert plants while walking through the well-maintained trails.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Mesa through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Mesa by plane.
The main airport serving Phoenix and Mesa, located approximately 20 miles northwest of Mesa, providing extensive domestic and international flights.
Located about 20 miles southeast of downtown Phoenix, this airport serves as a secondary airport for the area and focuses on low-cost carriers and regional flights.
Located about 115 miles south of Mesa, Tucson International Airport offers both domestic and international flights.
Approximately 175 miles southwest of Mesa, Yuma International Airport offers limited commercial service and is primarily used for military and private flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant population group in Mesa, reflecting the diverse cultural heritage and background.
A large demographic group that includes individuals of European descent.
A smaller yet important demographic group contributing to the cultural diversity of Mesa.
Includes various sub-groups with origins from Asia, contributing to the multicultural community.
Represents Indigenous peoples with historical ties to the region.
Individuals identifying with multiple racial backgrounds, reflecting growing diversity.
Consists of individuals not classified in the above categories, contributing to the city's diversity.
The Soul of Mesa
Discover the essence of Mesa through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is a popular sport in Mesa, especially with the Cactus League spring training, where several Major League Baseball teams hold their training camps.
American football has a strong following in Mesa, with local high school teams and community leagues contributing to its popularity.
Soccer is increasingly popular in Mesa, with youth leagues and clubs promoting the sport.
Basketball is widely played in schools and local leagues in Mesa, contributing to its popularity within the community.
Softball is a popular recreational sport in Mesa, with many leagues available for different age groups and skill levels.
Golf is a favored pastime in Mesa, with numerous golf courses and tournaments attracting many players year-round.
Swimming is a popular activity due to the warm climate, with many community pools and swim teams available.
Tennis is played frequently in Mesa, with various public courts and local leagues available for players of all ages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mesa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Mesa's dining scene accommodates vegetarians and vegans with a range of options that showcase fresh vegetables, grains, and plant-based proteins. Many restaurants, such as Tocaya Organica and The Cutting Board Bakery and Café, offer dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus.
Individuals with gluten sensitivities can find a variety of gluten-free dishes at establishments like Republica Empanada, which clearly labels gluten-free options on its menu, ensuring a safe and delicious dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Mesa with these cultural adventures.