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Things to Do in Mesa

Things to Do in Mesa

Mesa Arizona, USA Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures in Mesa

Mesa's desert landscape has an exciting playground for various outdoor activities, from serene nature walks to adrenaline-pumping sports.

Hiking & Trekking Routes

Usery Mountain Regional Park

Offers numerous trails suitable for various skill levels. Find easy possibilities such as Merkle Trail or Wind Cave Trail. More moderate routes like Pass Mountain Trail present longer distances plus varied terrain.

Superstition Mountains Lost Dutchman State Park

Venture into the Superstition Mountains for more challenging hikes. The Siphon Draw Trail, ending in the Flatiron, is a strenuous climb. The park also features more moderate options with stunning views.

Hawes Trail System

A popular network of trails for both mountain biking and hiking, offering varied terrain and scenic views of the East Valley.

Water Sports & Wildlife Encounters

  • Salt River Tubing: A popular seasonal activity (typically May-September) for a relaxing float.
  • Kayaking/Paddleboarding: Enjoy on the Saline River and lakes like Saguaro Lake and Canyon Lake. Rentals are often available.
  • Boating/Jet Skiing: Larger lakes like Saguaro Lake are popular for motorized water recreation.
  • Salt River Wild Horses: Viewing opportunities along the riverbanks to see these animals in the wild.

Adventure Sports

  • Rock Climbing/Bouldering: Opportunities in the Superstition Mountains.
  • Requires experience or guide.
  • Off-roading/ATV Tours: Companies offer desert tours.
  • Explore rugged terrain exhilaratingly.

Birdwatching

  • Usery Mountain Regional Park: Excellent spot for birdwatching.
  • Riparian areas along the Salt River.
  • Home to various desert and migratory bird species.
  • Have binoculars for best viewing.

Cycling & Biking

  • Road Cycling: Many paved roads with dedicated bike lanes.
  • Mountain Biking: Usery Mountain Regional Park, Hawes Trail System, Gold Canyon.
  • Various skill levels.
  • Greenbelts: Multi-use paths for casual rides.

Safety Warning for Outdoor Activities

Always bring a lot of water, wear appropriate sun protection, and tell someone your travel plans, especially for longer or more strenuous outdoor excursions in Mesa's desert environment. Summer heat can be extreme.

Cultural Immersion & Wellness

Engage with Mesa's cultural side and find opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Workshops & Cultural Events

  • Mesa Cultural Center: Offers a wide range of classes and workshops for all ages in visual arts (painting, pottery), performing arts (dance, theater), and crafts.
  • I.d.e.a. Museum: Furnishes workshops and creative activities for children and families, focusing on art and innovation through hands-on engagement.
  • Cultural Performances: Mesa Arts Center hosts a wide selection of concerts, theater productions, and dance performances.
  • Cultural Festivals: Mesa hosts various events like the Mesa Arts Festival (December) and the Día de los Muertos Festival (October).

Relaxation & Wellness

Spa & Wellness Centers

Many hotels and resorts in Mesa (e.g., Delta Hotels, Sheraton) offer spa services. For more extensive luxury spa experiences, consider visiting neighboring Scottsdale, known for its world-class resort spas.

Hot Springs & Natural Therapy

No natural hot springs directly in Mesa. Several resorts in the broader Phoenix area offer mineral pools or specialized spa treatments that incorporate natural therapies.

Yoga & Meditation Retreats

Some local studios in Mesa offer drop-in yoga classes. Dedicated yoga and meditation retreats are more commonly found in scenic Arizona locations like Sedona.

Traditional Healing

Limited availability specifically in Mesa. Some Native American communities in Arizona present traditional healing experiences, but these are typically distinct from general tourist offerings and require respectful engagement.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Many hotels and resorts in Mesa feature large pools, some designed with resort-style amenities like cabanas and poolside service. Public pools can be also available seasonally for cooling off.

Language Learning

Spanish language classes might be available through local community colleges or language schools in the broader Phoenix area, presenting a chance to learn or improve your Spanish skills.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Mesa offers entertainment options ranging from live music and theater to casual bars and late-night gaming.

Live Music & Performance Spaces

  • Mesa Center For the arts: Hosts a variety of the country's and international musical acts across numerous genres, from classical to contemporary.
  • Local Bars/Restaurants: Some establishments in Downtown Mesa and other areas feature live music, often on weekends, presenting a more intimate setting.
  • Organ Stop Pizza: Offers a unique live organ music experience nightly, making it a family-friendly entertainment spot.
  • Theater & Performance: Mesa Arts Center is home to several theaters that host a diverse schedule of plays, musicals, dance performances, and comedy shows.

Nightlife & Late-Night Options

Nightclubs & Dancing

Mesa generally has a more subdued nightlife compared to Scottsdale or Tempe. Whereas some bars offer DJ nights or dance floors, dedicated nightclubs are fewer. For a more intense club scene, consider traveling to nearby Tempe or Scottsdale.

Bar Districts & Pub Crawls

Downtown Mesa features a growing number of breweries, wine bars, and pubs, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. You enjoy a casual evening hopping between these local establishments.

Late-Night Entertainment

Casinos, like Casino Arizona and Talking Stick Resort (both in nearby Scottsdale), offer 24/7 entertainment. This comprises gaming, diverse dining options, and live shows, presenting late-night activity.

Shopping & Markets

Traditional Markets

The Mesa Farmers Market and Flea (seasonal) offers local produce, prepared foods, and a variety of artisan goods and flea market finds. A good place to discover local products.

Artisan Workshops & Crafts

Mesa Arts Center Store features works by local artists and artisans, presenting an opportunity to purchase unique, handcrafted items. Explore smaller independent galleries in Downtown Mesa for more artisan crafts and artwork.

Souvenir Recommendations

Look for Native American crafts (pottery, jewelry, baskets), Southwestern-themed items, local art, Arizona-themed apparel, and gourmet foods (chile products, local honey). These items make for authentic and memorable souvenirs.

Luxury Shopping & Ethical Guidelines

Explore shopping subtleties from high-end options to conscious consumer choices and practical shipping details.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

  • Luxury Shopping: Limited in Mesa. For high-end luxury and a wider selection of boutique shops, travelers typically visit Scottsdale.
  • Superstition Springs Center: A large indoor mall featuring major retail chains.
  • Downtown Mesa: Features some independent boutique shops.

Ethical Shopping & Shipping

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

This promotes ethical tourism.

Shipping & Customs Information

Standard U.S. Customs regulations apply for international shipping. Major carriers like USPS, FedEx, and UPS are available throughout Mesa for shipping purchases home.

International Considerations

Be aware of any import restrictions or duties that might apply to your home country for items shipped from the U.S.

Authenticity

For Native American crafts, seek out items with authentic artist signatures or tribal certifications.

Shipping Ease

Use established carriers to mail larger purchases or gifts home, especially for delicate or valuable items.

Planning Your Retail Experience

Market Day Tips
  • Look at seasonal operating times for the Mesa Farmers Market.
  • Bring cash for smaller vendors and unique finds.
  • Carry reusable shopping bags for your purchases.
Navigating Shopping Areas
  • A car is suggested for reaching major malls and larger shopping centers.
  • Downtown Mesa's boutique shops are walkable.
  • Look for sales and special deals, especially during off-peak seasons.

Your Mesa Experience

Mesa has a range of activities, from outdoor adventures and cultural explorations to relaxing wellness retreats and diverse shopping experiences. Whether you're looking for thrills in the desert, cultural immersion, or simply an evening out, Mesa has something to offer every traveler.

Activity Planning Summary

Tailoring Your Itinerary

  • Outdoor Adventures: Prioritize cooler months (Oct-Apr) for hiking, biking, and rock climbing. Summer is ideal for water sports like tubing and kayaking on the Salt River.
  • Cultural Immersion: Check the Mesa Arts Center for workshops and shows. Look for seasonal cultural festivals for unique local experiences.
  • Relaxation & Wellness: Utilize hotel spas or consider a trip to Scottsdale for luxury spa resorts. Yoga efficiency apartments in Mesa offer drop-in classes.
  • Events & Festivals: Consult local calendars for events like the Mesa Arts Festival or Día plural) Muertos, which blend culture, food, and entertainment.

Practical Considerations

  • Transportation: A rental car is suggested for flexibility across Mesa's sprawling landscape and to reach remote outdoor areas.
  • Bookings: For tours and activities, consider using platforms like GetYourGuide to secure spots and often skip lines.
  • Weather Awareness: Always check forecasts. Desert temperatures can fluctuate significantly, and sun protection and hydration are paramount.
  • Safety First: When engaging in outdoor activities, wear appropriate gear, be aware of your limits, and inform others of your plans.