Phoenix Art Museum

Mesa, Arizona, offers a vibrant mix of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and entertainment, making it a great destination for travelers looking for a bit of everything. Whether exploring the beautiful desert landscape or enjoying its local attractions, Mesa has something for everyone.

One of the most popular things to do in Mesa is exploring the Superstition Mountains, a hiker’s paradise with trails for all skill levels. The Peralta Trail is especially favored for its stunning views of Weaver’s Needle, a tall rock formation rising from the desert floor. Visitors can also explore the Lost Dutchman State Park, where legends of hidden gold and stories of the Wild West come to life. For a scenic drive, Apache Trail offers dramatic views of rugged cliffs and desert valleys.

For family-friendly fun, the Arizona Museum of Natural History in Mesa offers an exciting journey through time. From dinosaurs to ancient Native American civilizations, the exhibits are both educational and entertaining. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the dinosaur skeletons, ancient fossils, and interactive displays that bring Arizona’s rich history to life. The museum also features exhibits on paleontology, archaeology, and Arizona’s gold-mining history.

Mesa is a hotspot for baseball fans in the spring. It’s home to the Chicago Cubs’ spring training at Sloan Park, the largest stadium in the Cactus League. Spring training season, running from late February through March, offers visitors a chance to watch their favorite teams up close in a relaxed, intimate setting. Sloan Park itself offers a great game-day experience, with plenty of food, drink, and fun for the whole family.

A short drive west from Mesa brings you to the Phoenix Art Museum, one of the largest art museums in the Southwest. The museum houses an extensive collection of over 20,000 works, including contemporary and classic art from around the world. The museum’s interactive exhibits, photography, and seasonal shows keep the experience fresh with every visit. Beyond the galleries, visitors can enjoy lush outdoor sculpture gardens and take in art films or lectures, making it a must-visit for art lovers.

Mesa and its surroundings offer a wealth of activities, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Whether enjoying a hike, exploring history, or catching a baseball game, visitors are sure to find something special in this Arizona gem.