Extend your trip to explore Mesa's top attractions and unique desert experiences.
Whether you arrive before Tourism Academy or stay after, be sure to schedule time to explore Mesa. This incredible desert city is overflowing with arts and culture, unparalleled experiences, and exhilarating outdoor adventures. Check out these top attractions and activities during your extended stay.
Spend time outdoors on a paddleboarding excursion on Arizona's Salt River. Rent a board from No Snow Stand Up Paddleboards on Friday night to join their BYOB happy hour excursions and see a beautiful view of the sun setting over mountains. Or, rent a clear board from Desert Paddleboards and hit the water earlier in the day for the chance to spot fish swimming beneath you.
Hike, bike, or go horseback riding on the trails at Usery Mountain Regional Park for spectacular vistas of the surrounding plains. Reach new heights as you hike up the mountain on the Wind Cave Trail and enjoy incredible views, photo-worthy scenery, and easy access to Tonto National Forest.
Visit the beautiful estate of Queen Creek Olive Mill for an educational and hands-on tour and outdoor dining experience. Take the Olive Oil 101 tour to learn how olive oil is made, how to taste it, how to use it in the kitchen, and more. Then, enjoy farm-to-table dining on the outdoor patio at Del Piero Kitchen.
The Mesa Arts Center is a hub of creativity, featuring four performance theaters, the Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum (MCA) comprised of five exhibition galleries, and artist studios. Immerse yourself in awe-inspiring artworks with free admission to MCA or check the event calendar and catch a live performance at one of the theaters.
Those hoping to explore the history of the area should plan a visit to the Arizona Museum of Natural History. Stroll through extensive exhibits and admire the massive fossil collection while learning about dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, natural history, and so much more.
Extend your trip an extra day to celebrate Cinco De Mayo in Mesa! Just one day after Tourism Academy, Cinco De Mayo is a great opportunity to sample the city's incredible Mexican restaurants that are serving up mouthwatering tacos and expertly crafted margaritas.
See Mesa in a whole new way with an invigorating morning run!
Indulge your senses with locally sourced ingredients and chef-driven dinners treasured by Mesa...
Enough About the Agenda . . . What About The Parties?
Is it time to have fun yet? Here's an overview of Tourism Academy's evening entertainment and...
