City’s History in Brief in Mesa, Arizona, United States
1. Mesa Historic Museum
Discover Mesa's rich history through exhibits on early settlement, agriculture, and Native American culture. Learn about the city's transformation from farming community to bustling metropolis.
- Pioneer Exhibit: Features artifacts and stories of early settlers who helped shape Mesa.
- Agriculture Gallery: Highlights the importance of agriculture in Mesa's development.
- Native American Artifacts: Showcases artifacts from local Native American tribes, including the Hohokam and Pima.
2. Mesa Temple
Explore this impressive temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It's a significant architectural and religious landmark in Mesa.
- Architectural Design: Features unique, ornate architecture that combines Greek and Egyptian styles.
- Religious Significance: Serves as a sacred place of worship for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours for visitors to learn more about its history and significance.
3. Arizona Museum of Natural History
Learn about the natural and cultural history of Arizona through various exhibits. Discover artifacts from prehistoric times to present-day.
- Dinosaur Exhibit: Features dinosaur fossils and interactive displays.
- Native American Gallery: Highlights the rich history and culture of Arizona's Native American tribes.
- Space and Astronomy Exhibit: Explores the fascinating world of space and astronomy, with exhibits on planets, stars, and constellations.
4. Mesa Arts Center
Experience a variety of art forms at this multi-disciplinary arts center. Watch live performances, visit galleries, and participate in workshops.
- Live Performances: Offers a wide range of live theater, dance, music, and comedy performances.
- Galleries: Features rotating exhibits by local, regional, and national artists.
- Workshops and Classes: Provides opportunities for visitors to learn new art techniques and create their own masterpieces.
5. Historic Homestead
Step back in time at this historical farmstead. Learn about the daily lives of early Mesa settlers and experience hands-on activities like corn grinding and butter churning.
- Historical Demonstrations: Features demonstrations of traditional farming and homemaking skills.
- Historic Buildings: Includes several historic structures, such as the original homestead cabin and barn.
- Garden Tours: Offers guided tours of the vegetable garden, orchard, and rose garden.
6. Fiesta Bowl Museum
Celebrate the spirit of college football at this museum dedicated to the Fiesta Bowl. Learn about the history of the game and its impact on Mesa.
- Interactive Exhibits: Features interactive exhibits, including a virtual reality experience.
- Fiesta Bowl Trophies: Displays the actual trophies from past Fiesta Bowls.
- Game Footage and Memorabilia: Offers game footage and memorabilia from iconic college football games.
7. Mesa Grande Cultural Park
Learn about the Hohokam culture at this archaeological site. Explore ruins, artifacts, and interactive exhibits.
- Ruins: Includes several well-preserved Hohokam structures.
- Artifact Gallery: Displays pottery, tools, and other artifacts from the Hohokam culture.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers hands-on activities and interactive displays to help visitors learn about the Hohokam.
8. Queen Creek Olive Mill
Learn about olive oil production at this historic mill. Sample various oils and enjoy a delicious meal in the restaurant.
- Olive Oil Tours: Offers tours of the olive mill, explaining the process of olive oil production.
- Tasting Room: Allows visitors to sample different types of olive oils and vinegars.
- Restaurant: Serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes using the mill's own olive oil.
9. Wrigley Mansion
Visit this beautiful mansion built by chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr. Enjoy a meal in the restaurant or take a tour of the historic home.
- Historic Home Tour: Offers guided tours showcasing the mansion's stunning architecture and art collections.
- Restaurant: Serves contemporary American cuisine in a beautiful setting.
- Garden Tours: Provides guided tours of the beautiful gardens surrounding the mansion.
10. Mesa Historical Society Archives
Delve into Mesa's past at this archive center. Research local history and genealogy or attend a lecture on a historical topic.
- Historical Records: Holds an extensive collection of documents, photographs, and artifacts related to Mesa's history.
- Genealogy Research: Offers resources for researching family history in the Mesa area.
- Lecture Series: Hosts lectures on various historical topics, with experts sharing their insights and knowledge.
11. Mesa Community College Planetarium
Explore the universe at this state-of-the-art planetarium. Watch star shows, learn about astronomy, and participate in educational programs.
- Star Shows: Offers live, laser, and digital star shows.
- Educational Programs: Provides educational programs for all ages, including summer camps and workshops.
- Astronomy Club: Hosts an astronomy club for members interested in learning more about the cosmos.
12. Mesa Amphitheatre
Enjoy outdoor concerts and performances at this popular venue. Check the schedule for upcoming events.
- Concerts and Shows: Hosts a variety of concerts, shows, and events throughout the year.
- Seating Capacity: Accommodates over 20,000 spectators, making it one of the largest outdoor venues in Arizona.
- Location: Located in a beautiful park setting, with nearby amenities like restaurants and shops.
13. Mesa Verde Park
Relax and enjoy nature at this scenic park. Explore walking trails, picnic areas, and a lake for fishing and boating.
- Walking Trails: Offers several walking trails for enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
- Lake Activities: Provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming in a picturesque lake.
- Picnic Areas: Features picnic areas for enjoying a meal while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
14. Superstition Mountain Museum
Discover the legends and history of Superstition Mountain at this museum. Learn about the area's gold rush, Native American culture, and local folklore.
- Gold Rush Exhibits: Features exhibits on the area's gold rush, including artifacts from miners.
- Native American Culture: Showcases the rich history and culture of the local Native American tribes.
- Superstition Mountain Legends: Explores the many legends and myths surrounding Superstition Mountain, including the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine.
15. Tempe Town Lake Park
Enjoy outdoor activities and beautiful views at this popular lake park. Rent boats, go for a run, or relax by the water.
- Boat Rentals: Offers boat rentals for kayaking, paddleboarding, and rowboats.
- Running Trails: Features running trails along the lake's edge, with scenic views of the water and surrounding city.
- Events and Concerts: Hosts events and concerts throughout the year, including the Ironman Arizona Triathlon.