Posted By Visit Mesa Team
August 26, 2024
10 Free Things to Do in Mesa Right Now!
Who said you had to spend money to have a good time?
Mesa has many attractions that don't require a pretty penny. Here are our top 10 favorite things to do in Mesa for free!
1. Stop and Smell the Roses
Visitors can take a free self-guided tour of the Rose Garden at Mesa Community College. This rose garden is the Desert Southwest’s largest and hosts nearly 9000 rose bushes!
2. Take a Scenic Drive
Visitors will want to set time aside to take a drive on the Apache Trail, as you won’t want to miss out on the stunning canyons, desert flora and lake views that are visible throughout the drive. Tip: Embark on this road trip in March to see the beautiful wildflowers that have bloomed!
3. Get Artsy
The Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum at Mesa Arts Center holds five galleries that are always changing to showcase the art of emerging and internationally recognized contemporary artists. Admission is always free, and the exhibits are visually stunning!
4. Get Active with Friends & Family
Before you check out Mesa Riverview to dine and shop, you can tire out the little ones by taking them to Mesa Riverview Park to play. Here there is a 50-foot-tall climbing tower, 60-foot-long caterpillar mesh rope climbing structure, and two playgrounds to keep the kids busy! Parents can sit in the shaded picnic areas or hang out by the Urban Fishing Lake!
5. BYOB to the Salt River
Bring your own board! If you already own a paddleboard, kayak, or tube, then head on out to the Salt River! It’s a convenient day trip for Mesa visitors and a great way to spend a refreshing spring day. You’ll have to dish out some money if you don’t have your own equipment, or if you would like to fish, as a fishing permit is required. To rent a tube to float down the river, check out Salt River Tubing. If you'd rather kayak down the river, head over to Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch and get setup for a perfect cruise down the river.
6. Sculpture Scavenger Hunt
If you haven’t been downtown yet (or even if you have) the best way to get around is by following the sculptures! After you find all of them, let us know you’re favorite. Personally, we love the Humpty Dumpty, he’s just a classic. Oh! And when you’re done spotting all the different features of art, you can admire all of the murals that adorn the walls of downtown businesses.
7. Take a Tour of an International Award-Winning Facility
Mesa Arts Center is the largest and most comprehensive performing, visual and educational arts center in Arizona and offers free public tours of its international, award-winning facility. Tours are an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes and include all theaters and art studios on the first level, the shadow walk, and the Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum. Tip: Wear comfy walking shoes!
8. Browse the Swap Meet
Enjoy free admission, free parking, and free live entertainment as you browse the Mesa Market Place Swap Meet! There is more than a mile of small businesses offering a variety of products to browse or purchase. The Mesa Market Place is open year-round for your enjoyment. Make sure to share the fun and tag your photos with #VisitMesa and #MesaCityLimitless!
9. Check Out the Vendors at Downtown Mesa's Sunset Market
Every Saturday (starting in September), visitors and residents alike can enjoy the sunshine and local vendors right in the heart of Downtown Mesa. Stroll with family, friends or take a solo trip to check out delicious foods, treats and one-of-a-kind trinkets and gifts.
10. Take a Hike
Mesa is full of beautiful hiking trails and walking paths that are great for exploring. Start at Usery Mountain Regional Park or Lost Dutchman State Park and find a trail that meets you and your guests' abilities. Check out more hikes here!