Mesa, Arizona, perfectly positioned within the Valley of the Sun, serves as an excellent base for exploring the diverse landscapes and myriad attractions the region has to offer. Whether you're a resident looking for a quick getaway, a newcomer looking into Mesa real estate, or a visitor eager to experience the many wonders of Arizona, there are numerous day trip destinations within easy reach. From urban adventures to natural wonders, here’s your guide to the best day trips from Mesa, AZ, each promising an unforgettable experience.
Phoenix: A Blend of Urban Charm and Desert Oasis
Just a short 19-mile drive from Mesa, Phoenix, the state's capital, beckons with its unique blend of urban sophistication and rugged natural beauty. Begin your exploration at the Desert Botanical Garden, where the rich splendor of desert flora is on full display. Art enthusiasts will revel in the world-class collections at the Phoenix Art Museum and the vibrant street art that adorns the Roosevelt Row Arts District. For those seeking outdoor adventures, the trails of South Mountain Park and Preserve offer stunning views and a chance to immerse yourself in the Sonoran Desert's tranquility.
Gilbert: A Suburban Retreat with Rustic Flair
Make your way seven miles south of Mesa to Gilbert. This charming town, once known as the "Hay Shipping Capital of the World," has transformed into a lovely suburban retreat, boasting an array of outdoor adventures and a vibrant culinary landscape.
The 110-acre Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, a birdwatcher’s paradise, offers peaceful walking paths and a floating boardwalk amidst ponds and wildlife. Downtown Gilbert, or the Heritage District, is the heart of the town's dining and entertainment scene, where you can savor farm-to-table cuisine, artisanal coffee, and craft beer. Don’t miss the downtown Gilbert Farmers Market on Saturday mornings for local produce and handmade goods.
The 110-acre Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, a birdwatcher’s paradise, offers peaceful walking paths and a floating boardwalk amidst ponds and wildlife. Downtown Gilbert, or the Heritage District, is the heart of the town's dining and entertainment scene, where you can savor farm-to-table cuisine, artisanal coffee, and craft beer. Don’t miss the downtown Gilbert Farmers Market on Saturday mornings for local produce and handmade goods.
Tempe: A Lakeside Escape
Tempe, home to Arizona State University Tempe Campus, is a lively college town just seven miles from Mesa that offers a perfect blend of attractions, shopping, and outdoor recreation. Tempe Town Lake, the city’s centerpiece, provides opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and enjoying the scenic views along its shores.
The Tempe Center for the Arts, set by the lake, presents a diverse lineup of performances and engaging exhibitions. For a dose of retail therapy, the open-air Tempe Marketplace and Mill Avenue District feature an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
The Tempe Center for the Arts, set by the lake, presents a diverse lineup of performances and engaging exhibitions. For a dose of retail therapy, the open-air Tempe Marketplace and Mill Avenue District feature an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Chandler: A Friendly Destination with a Historic Touch
A short journey from Mesa, Chandler is a welcoming city that combines modern amenities with a touch of its agricultural heritage. The Arizona Railway Museum offers a glimpse into the region's railroading history, while the Chandler Fashion Center caters to shoppers with its wide selection of over 180 retailers.
For outdoor fun, the 113-acre Veterans Oasis Park, with its fishing lake, equestrian riding trails, and picnic spaces, is a go-to spot for excursions in the great outdoors. Chandler's incredible dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, promise a true culinary experience.
For outdoor fun, the 113-acre Veterans Oasis Park, with its fishing lake, equestrian riding trails, and picnic spaces, is a go-to spot for excursions in the great outdoors. Chandler's incredible dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, promise a true culinary experience.
Scottsdale: Luxury and Leisure in the Desert
Scottsdale, known for its upscale resorts, world-class golf courses, and vibrant nightlife scene, is a thriving destination that epitomizes luxury and leisure just 12 miles from Mesa. Wander through the streets of Old Town Scottsdale to discover art galleries, boutiques, and southwestern architecture. The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art showcases cutting-edge works in a minimalist space downtown. For a taste of the Old West, the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park and the Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West offer engaging insights into the area's history and growth. Plus, nature lovers can venture to the beautiful McDowell Sonoran Preserve for hiking and mountain biking amidst stunning desert landscapes.
The areas surrounding Mesa, AZ, offer a wealth of incredible experiences for day-trippers seeking adventure or relaxation. Each destination presents its own unique charm and attractions, from the urban allure of Phoenix to the luxurious desert lifestyle of Scottsdale.
The areas surrounding Mesa, AZ, offer a wealth of incredible experiences for day-trippers seeking adventure or relaxation. Each destination presents its own unique charm and attractions, from the urban allure of Phoenix to the luxurious desert lifestyle of Scottsdale.
These day trips from Mesa showcase the endless beauty of Arizona, inviting explorers to discover new facets of the Grand Canyon State. Whether you’re drawn to outdoor escapades, historic journeys, or culinary delights, adventures abound just a short drive from Mesa. If life in Mesa sounds like the perfect fit, consult the Shar Rundio Team to begin your journey in Mesa real estate.
