What to see and do in Mesa
Park of the Canals
Step back in time at Park of the Canals. Here you’ll see ruins of canals that are believed to date back to 300 BC when they were built by the Hohokam people. There’s a beautiful botanical garden so load the rental car with a picnic, take a seat and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Hot air balloon ride
Fancy seeing Mesa and the Sonoran Desert from above? Then take a hot air balloon ride to see Arizona from the skies. Most rides take place early in the morning so you can see the spectacular desert sunrise.
Golfland Sunsplash
Cool down with thrilling water rides at Sunsplash – there are 30 rides and attractions including wave pools, Double Dare and the Cauldron. Then, indulge in miniature golf or go-karting at Golfland.
Sloan Park
Baseball fans won’t want to miss this stadium – it’s one of the largest in the USA. The Chicago Cubs train here during the spring season and local teams use the stadium year-round. If there isn’t a game during your visit, check out nearby Hohokam Stadium.
Where to eat and stay in Mesa
Organ Stop Pizza
In this unique pizzeria, you’ll be entertained while you eat with a musical performance on a Wurlitzer theater organ. This was originally built for Denver Theater in 1927 and is now played each night in the restaurant.
Osaka Japanese Steakhouse
There’s a wide range of cuisine available in Mesa. At Osaka Japanese Steakhouse, which boasts Far East decor in a rustic dining room, you can sample teppanyaki-style grilled meats alongside homemade sushi. Be sure to save room for Japanese style ice cream, which comes in flavors including green tea.
Sheraton Mesa Hotel at Wrigleyville West
This four-star Marriott hotel is located close to Sloan Park – ideal for baseball fans. After a busy day, head back here for a swim in the outdoor pool or a massage at the spa. There are several restaurants including La Plancha, which serves burritos, enchiladas and tacos. There’s a place for the rental car, too, since parking is free.
DoubleTree by Hilton Phoenix / Mesa
You’ll receive a warm chocolate chip cookie when you check in to this three-star hotel just off the US Route 60. It’s situated next door to a nine-hole golf course and has an outdoor heated pool, hot tub and fitness center. Book dinner at The Resident to choose from dishes including steak, pizza and pasta.
Best day trips from Mesa
Phoenix
Mesa is just a half hour from the capital of Arizona which is brimming with southwestern culture. There are art galleries and museums, plus the famous zoo in Papago Park – choose the Arizona or the Africa Trail to see everything from bobcats to tigers.
Apache Trail
Make the most of your Mesa rental car by driving the Apache Trail, which takes you from Goldfield Ghost Town to Roosevelt Dam. On the way you’ll pass the Tortilla Flat, Canyon Lake and Superstition Mountains. It’s around 40 miles, much of which is on a gravel road.
Tonto National Forest
This is one of the largest National Forests in the USA and the largest in Arizona. It’ll take you from desert to mountains and then into forest. Follow the hiking trails or head to the lakes with a canoe or kayak.
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