Riverview Park
Nestled along the banks of the Salt River is Riverview Park, a beautiful oasis that out-of-towners rarely realize exists. The star of the park is undoubtedly Riverview Lake, where you can spend a day boating with the serene surroundings of emerald waters and palm trees. Along with its scenic lake, Riverview is also home to botanical gardens and archeological wonders like petroglyphs and ancient ruins left behind by the Hohokam people. Hike along the trails in Coon Bluff to catch a glimpse into the Valley’s rich history or relax with a picnic as the river’s steady current creates the perfect ambiance.
Address: 2701 N Dobson Rd, Mesa, AZ 85201
Phone: (480) 644-2352
Arizona Museum of Natural History
Think natural history, think snarl of a t-rex, right? While the Arizona Museum of Natural History does boast towering skeleton displays, its treasures span well beyond standard dinosaurs. More than 60,000 square feet of immersive exhibits lead visitors through billions of years of evolution across the globe. Don’t miss the Museo Territoriale, an innovative experience plunging you into Arizona’s past with digital systems and interactive shows. Other highlights include gemstones from around the world, Hohokam structures dating back 700 years, and even a life-size cave you can explore. It’s a journey through time right in Mesa!
Address: 53 N Macdonald, Mesa, AZ 85201
Phone: (480) 644-2230
Mesa Arts Center
By day, it’s home to four theaters capable of hosting Broadway tours, ballets, children’s programs, and more. By night, contemporary art exhibitions and galleries abound through the expansive facility. Talk about versatile! The iconic Mesa Arts Center complex is a true gem, whether you want to catch the latest production or spend an evening admiring its museum-quality modern works. Don’t skip a visit to the Arts Center during any visit to Mesa. You’ll find fun new cultural experiences around every corner of Arizona’s largest multidisciplinary arts center.
Address: 1 E Main St, Mesa, AZ 85201
Phone: (480) 644-6500
Southwest Shakespeare Company
We had you at “Shakespeare,” didn’t we? But this isn’t the dusty bard you remember from English class. The Southwest Shakespeare Company brings works like Hamlet and Romeo & Juliet into the modern age with edgy, innovative performances that entertain even the theater-averse. Founded in 1994, this acting troupe has been delighting audiences throughout the Valley for decades. Their creative new takes on classic tales are a refreshing escape into drama, romance, and even comedy. It’s the perfect way to experience the brilliant mind of the world’s most influential playwright like never before.
Address: 1600 S Terrace Rd, Mesa, AZ 85209
Phone: (888) 810-0872
Mesa Grill
Tempe may get all the publicity for its epic food scene, but did you know Mesa can also satisfy foodies with its delightfully diverse global eats? Your first stop on a Mesa food crawl should be the aptly named Mesa Grill. This local staple has earned rave reviews for its authentic Mexican cuisine—we’re talking crispy chile relleno, thick mole sauce, and tender handmade tamales. Whether you’re in the mood for cheesy enchiladas or refreshing ceviche, every item on the extensive menu is made from scratch daily. Great margaritas and a lively vibe only add to the Grill’s fiesta-worthy atmosphere!
Address: 6837 E Brown Rd, Mesa, AZ 85207
Phone: (480) 924-3013
Western Destinations
Best described as an “Old West experience you can walk through,” Western Destinations has understandably earned national recognition as one of Arizona’s most unique attractions. Ramble through an authentic 1800s-style western town, complete with costumed townsfolk moseying around and saloons swinging open their wooden doors. You’ll be transported back to the frontier days through vivid recreations of a livery stable, blacksmith shop, hotel, and more. Did we mention the four-acre property also boasts stunning mountain views of the Valley’s raw desert landscape? It’s your ticket to a real-life wild west adventure!
Address: 811 N Westwood, Mesa, AZ 85201
Phone: (480) 644-2324
Usery Mountain Regional Park
Hiking is basically a religion in the Southwest. Join the Valley’s devoted trail trekkers at Mesa’s own Usery Mountain Regional Park. Dramatic rock formations against endless blue skies are all part of the everyday backdrop at Usery. But this beauty isn’t only meant to be admired from afar. The park’s 29 miles of scenic trails will take you across the rugged landscape, introducing you to the park’s native flora and fauna along the way. From leisurely jaunts to strenuous mountain climbs, Usery has a path perfectly suited for every adventurer’s ability level.
Address: 3939 N Usery Pass Rd, Mesa, AZ 85207
Phone: (480) 984-0032
i.d.e.a. Museum
Hands-on, interactive, immersive—those are just a few words that barely scratch the surface of what the i.d.e.a. Museum has to offer families and kids of all ages. Play is the name of the game at this one-of-a-kind children’s museum, inviting youngsters to explore the wonders of art, science, and imagination through sensory exhibits, building challenges, and mind-bending optical illusion spaces. Cool displays like the life-sized kaleidoscope and Art-o-Mat vintage art dispensers help make learning insanely fun. If you have little ones, putting the i.d.e.a. Museum at the top of your Mesa itinerary is a no-brainer!
Address: 150 W Pepper Pl, Mesa, AZ 85201
Phone: (480) 644-2468
Plan Your Trip With Mesa Party Bus Company
Now that we’ve opened your eyes to the hidden side of Mesa, it’s time you started planning a visit to explore these incredible gems first-hand. Save yourself from getting lost or stuck in traffic and let Mesa Party Bus Company handle all of your group transportation. Our fleet of luxury party buses will keep your group comfortably together as you hit all the top spots in Mesa and across the Valley of the Sun. Every bus rental comes with premium amenities like flatscreen TVs, booming sound systems, stocked coolers, and plush seating to make the ride part of the experience. Give Mesa Party Bus Company a call today at (602) 338-9088 and let’s get your unforgettable Mesa adventure rolling! Our reservation specialists are available 24/7 to help you book the perfect party bus for your needs.