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We participated in the Great Mesa Mayhem. Here are the exciting activities we tried!

When I first moved to Mesa, I’ll admit I was worried it might be a snooze-fest filled with dusty old buildings and historical markers. But boy, was I wrong as I learned that this city is bursting with life beyond its historical sites and traditional architecture. 

From vibrant arts scenes to thrilling outdoor adventures, Mesa offers a treasure trove of activities to keep you entertained and engaged. It provides everything from adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities to cultural experiences, leaving you in awe. 

In this guide, I’ll share my favorite local spots, tips, and insider secrets to make your visit unforgettable. So, embrace the Mesa mayhem and experience the city like a local!

1. Hike the Superstition Mountains

Address: Apache Junction, AZ 85119 

The Superstition Mountains offer a blend of rugged beauty and historical intrigue. With towering sandstone formations and hidden trails, the area provides a breathtaking escape from city life.

The Superstitions are renowned for their diverse flora and fauna, including iconic desert species like saguaro cacti and bighorn sheep. The area is characterized by a maze of canyons and ridges, creating a challenging yet rewarding environment for hikers.

Pro tip:
Visiting the Superstition Mountains is not complete without hiking the Peralta Canyon Trail. This popular trail offers stunning views of the mountains and leads to the Fremont Saddle, a scenic overlook with panoramic vistas.

2. Drive the Scenic Apache Trail

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Address: 151 W Superstition Blvd, Apache Junction, AZ 85117 

Contact details: +16025296891

The Apache Trail is a stretch of highway winding through the Superstition Wilderness Area. This historic route, once used by Native Americans and early settlers, offers breathtaking landscapes and a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. 

As you traverse the trail, you’ll be greeted by towering saguaro cacti, rugged mountains, and picturesque canyons. Along the way, you’ll encounter historic towns, ghost towns, and mining sites that glimpse the region’s past. 

Pro tip:
Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks, as the trail can be remote and hot. Visit the Lost Dutchman State Park to hike to the Lost Dutchman Mine, a legendary gold mine that has captivated treasure seekers for centuries.

3. Explore the Arizona Museum of Natural History

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Website: http://arizonamuseumofnaturalhistory.org/

Address: 53 N Macdonald, Mesa, AZ 85201 

Contact details: +14806442230

Operating hours: 10 AM–5 PM

The Arizona Museum of Natural History showcases the Southwest’s rich natural and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore recreated historical settings, examine ancient artifacts, and even pan for gold in the interactive History Courtyard.

One of the museum’s most notable features is its extensive collection of dinosaur fossils, including a towering replica of a Tyrannosaurus Rex. Children will marvel at the sheer size of these prehistoric creatures while learning about their lives.

Pro tip:
For an even more enriching experience, plan your visit around one of the museum’s special events or workshops. For breathtaking views of the surrounding area and the night sky, visit the museum’s rooftop observatory.

4. Join a Tour at the Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum.

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Website: https://www.azcaf.org/

Address: 2017 N Greenfield Rd, Mesa, AZ 85215 

Contact details: +14809241940

Operating hours: 10 AM–4 PM

The Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum, or Airbase Arizona, is a haven for aviation enthusiasts. This unique museum houses a collection of restored historic aircraft, many of which are the last of their kind. 

Visitors can take a guided tour inside the aircraft, learning about their mechanics and the stories behind their missions. For the ultimate adventure, consider booking a flight in one of these vintage planes, soaring through the skies just as pilots did decades ago.

Pro tip:
Arrive early to ensure you have enough time to explore the museum and catch any scheduled air shows. Take a guided tour inside a vintage aircraft to gain a deeper appreciation for their engineering and history.

5. Unleash Your Creativity at the i.d.e.a. Museum

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Website: http://www.ideamuseum.org/

Address: 150 W Pepper Pl, Mesa, AZ 85201 

Contact details: +14806442468

Operating hours: 9 AM–4 PM

The i.d.e.a. Museum offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors of all ages. Its interactive exhibits and engaging workshops provide hands-on learning and spark creativity.

Visitors are encouraged to participate actively in the creative process. The emphasis on interactive learning allows visitors to explore, experiment, and develop problem-solving skills while discovering new ideas.

Pro tip:
Explore the ArtVille exhibit, a special area designed for young children. Here, little ones can let their imaginations run wild as they play with colorful blocks, dress up in costumes, and create their masterpieces. 

6. Witness the Majestic Creatures of the Phoenix Zoo

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Website: https://www.phoenixzoo.org/

Address: 455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008 

Contact details: +16022863800

Operating hours: 7 AM–1 PM

The Phoenix Zoo is a haven for animal enthusiasts and nature lovers. It is home to over 3,000 animals representing hundreds of species.

The zoo’s commitment to conservation and education is evident in its interactive exhibits and informative signage. The Desert Exhibit showcases the diverse flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert, allowing visitors to learn about the adaptations of desert wildlife.

Pro tip:
For a truly unforgettable experience, consider booking a guided tour with a knowledgeable zookeeper. Don’t miss the opportunity to encounter the majestic elephants in their spacious habitat. 

7. Embark on a Scenic Cruise Aboard the Dolly Steamboat

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Website: http://www.dollysteamboat.com/

Address: 16802 AZ-88, Apache Junction, AZ 85119 

Contact details: +14808279144

Dolly Steamboat is a unique attraction in Mesa that offers a delightful blend of nature, history, and relaxation. Imagine gliding across Canyon Lake on a vintage steamboat, surrounded by breathtaking desert landscapes. 

The vessel, designed to resemble a classic American riverboat, evokes a nostalgic charm that transports you to a bygone era. As you cruise along, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including bighorn sheep and bald eagles, that inhabit the surrounding areas. 

Pro tip:
Consider booking a private charter for the best views and a more intimate experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to capture stunning photos of the scenic surroundings. 

8. Hike the Wind Cave Trail at the Usery Mountain Regional Park

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Website: http://www.maricopacountyparks.net/park-locator/usery-mountain-regional-park/

Address: 3939 N Usery Pass Rd, Mesa, AZ 85207 

Operating hours: 7 AM–2 PM

Usery Mountain Regional Park offers various outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and stargazing. The park’s Wind Cave Trail leads visitors through a narrow passageway into a hidden alcove with lush hanging gardens.

The park is home to diverse desert flora and fauna, such as saguaro cacti, creosote bushes, and various bird species. During outdoor adventures, visitors might also glimpse wildlife like javelinas, jackrabbits, and the elusive desert tortoise.

Pro tip:
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the desert climate can be hot and dry. Don’t miss the opportunity to catch a breathtaking sunset from the summit of Pass Mountain. 

9. Feed the Friendly Farm Animals at Superstition Farm

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Website: https://superstitionfarmaz.com/

Address: 3440 S Hawes Rd, Mesa, AZ 85212 

Contact details: +16024326865

Operating hours: 9 AM–6 PM

Superstition Farm is a working dairy farm and petting zoo. Its charming atmosphere is filled with bleating sheep, clucking chickens, and mooing cows.

At the petting zoo, visitors can interact with various adorable animals, from miniature donkeys and potbelly pigs to friendly goats and fluffy bunnies. The zoo also offers a glimpse into the daily operations of a dairy farm, allowing guests to witness the milking process.

Pro tip:
Be sure to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and plenty of water to stay hydrated. Don’t miss the opportunity to bottle-feed a baby calf.

10. Float Down the Salt River on a Leisurely Tubing Adventure

Website: http://saltrivertubing.com/

Address: 9200 N Bush Hwy, Mesa, AZ 85215 

Contact details: +14809843305

Operating hours: 9 AM–6:30 PM

The Salt River in Mesa, Arizona, offers a unique tubing experience amidst breathtaking desert landscapes and towering saguaro cacti. Thanks to its gentle current, you can relax and soak up the natural beauty at your own pace.

You’ll encounter the famous Salt River Wild Horses as they roam freely along the riverbanks. Salt River tubing also provides a chance to connect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allowing for relaxation and reflection.

Pro tip:
Pack plenty of sunscreen and water to stay hydrated in the Arizona sun. Keep your eyes peeled for the Salt River Wild Horses, a truly unforgettable sight.
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