Things to do in and around Mesa, Arizona

Arizona is well-known for its balmy weather, refreshing swimming pools and award-winning golf courses, but what people don’t know about Arizona, is that it’s a great place to spend quality time with the family. Not only are there hundreds of wonderful sights to see and outdoor activities, but there are many indoor attractions to escape the heat. Check out the list of attractions to visit while in Arizona.

1. 

   Arizona Mills

   It is a well-known fact that Arizona has some of the best and most affordable shopping in almost all the United States. Mesa, being close to both Tempe and Phoenix, leaves no shortage of outlets and malls. Arizona Mill’s is ranked as one of the best shopping districts in all of Arizona and is a place to check out. Including an Amazon pop-up shop, a Disney outlet, Dress Barn, Gap Factory, lids and a plethora more of stores, it has something for the entire family. The mall also includes a variety of dining options including The Rainforest Café to a Wetzel’s Pretzels.

   For more information, visit the Arizona Mills website.

2. 

   Golfland Sunsplash

   This is your one-stop shop for fun! With mini golf, video games, laser tag, arcade games, bumper cars, water slides, bumper boats, race tracks and wave pools, there is no better place to spend a day with your family. This facility also offers a variety of food options, which makes for a great day of fun. General admission for Golfland Sunsplash is only $30 for general admission, and you can even save $5 if you book online.

   For more information, check out Golfland Sunsplash online.

3. 

   Papago Park

   Just minutes from downtown, Papago Park has excellent hiking and mountain biking routes as well as running paths. The park also offers a wide array of recreational activities including an archery range, fishing, baseball complex, hall of fame museum and golf course.

   For more information, visit Papago Park online.

4. 

   Arizona Museum of Natural History

   Open every day except Monday; this museum is not only accessible but affordable. For only $12 per adult and $7 per child, you can view the public art, natural history collections, geology collections focusing on archeology and paleontology. The Arizona Museum of Natural History surely lives up to its name. With so many exhibits to explore, you can easily blow through the day.

   For more information, check out the Arizona Museum of Natural History online.

5. 

   Mesa Arts Center

   The Mesa Arts Center focuses on visual arts, performing arts and music. It includes exhibitions, classes, live music, concerts, shows and tons of other exciting events. Some events include American Idol Live, Ry Cooder, Gabriel Royal Luma: Art in Darkness and John Oates and The Good Road Band. This International award-winning facility is a must-see when you visit Mesa, Arizona.

   For more information, check out Mesa Arts Center online.

6. 

   Superstition Mountain Museum

   This museum is an incredibly inexpensive way to spend a couple of hours. Admission for adults is only $5 per person and children under 17 are completely free. Superstition Mountain Museum features many different exhibits including the Jacob Waltz “Lost Dutchman” exhibit, Native American exhibit, Geological exhibit and Ted Degrazia’s Prospectors and Pack Animals exhibit.

   For more information, visit the Superstition Mountain Museum website.

Written by Amy Schimpf