Spooktacular Places and Activities in Mesa

Mesa Historical Museum

History: Mesa Historical Museum opened its doors to the public in 1987. The Museum operates out of the Old Lehi school building and is dedicated to preserving regional heritage. The original Lehi School, built on land donated to the Lehi Settlers by the Rogers family in the 1880s, was a one-room adobe building. The photo below shows the replica school that is located in front of the museum.

History: For more than 115 years, Goldfield Ghost Town has welcomed travelers from all over the world to discover the charm and history of this authentic gold mining town. In its heyday, Goldfield was a busy, bustling outpost perched atop a hill between the Superstition Mountains and the Goldfield Mountains.

The first gold-strike was made in 1892, taking a little under a year for the town to come to life. Today, visitors can walk down Main Street, explore the many shops and historic buildings, and tour the historic Mammoth Gold Mine and Goldfield Superstition Historical Museum. Popular attractions for kids and adults include panning for gold and hopping aboard Arizona's only narrow-gauge train.

History: Lost Dutchman was named after a legendary gold mine, worked on by a lone prospector named Jacob Waltz, who left no records of its location. It is believed to be located somewhere near Weaver's Needle in the Superstition Mountains and is one of the mysterious 'lost mines' of the West. According to legend, Waltz shared the exact location with his caregiver on his deathbed, but despite this, no one has been able to find the mine in thousands of years.

The Superstition Mountains offer a variety of hiking trails, varying in distance and elevation. One of the most popular is the Peralta Trail, which provides stunning views of the iconic Weaver's Needle. Many believe that the true treasure of the Superstitions lies in its magnificent scenery and the mountain's enchanting aura. But what do you think—could the legendary gold still be hidden there?

Williams Air Force Base

Today what is known as Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport was once a WWII Base. On this land, there have been several reports of haunting encounters. Several claims have been made stating that a male ghost roams the halls, while others reported to have heard voices while standing in the old Officers Club.

Jarrod's Coffee, Tea & Gallery

109 W University

Rumor has it, Jarrod's new coffee shop location is haunted. But who's to say? Grab yourself a coffee and find out for yourself, but beware!

The Nile

105 W Main St

Mesa's top rock and roll venue and art gallery has a history that dates all the way back to the 1920s. While the faint scent of stale beer and musty cigarettes linger, these aren't the only things that makes the venue extra eery. A "shadow person," a leftover spirit from the venue’s old days, is often seen after closing, puffing on his favorite brand of cigarette. Stop by and see if you can feel that particular spooky chill in the air!

Nash Vintage Collective

58 W Main St

According to local legend, a maze of mysterious tunnels runs beneath the streets of Mesa, said to have been used by bootleggers during Prohibition. Over time, these hidden passageways have given rise to spine-chilling stories of restless spirits and eerie creatures. One of the most infamous tales centers around Nash Vintage, where some claim the basement is haunted by the ghost of a dog, a lingering presence that adds an extra layer of intrigue to the shop’s history.

Arizona Museum of Natural History

Rydables

World-Famous (Midnight) Ghost Tour: Buckle in as you ride your own 'Day of the Dead' Rydable for this immersive tour through historic Downtown Mesa, AZ! Hear haunting tales from the late 1800's to present, witness audio and video paranormal evidence recorded in the area as you are guided through some of the oldest buildings and basements in the state. You could say this is tour is…to die for!

If you so choose to book this tour, please keep in mind that this is a LIVE investigation and the tour guides have no control over the paranormal evidence or occurrences that could take place during this event.

Sanctum of Horror

Located right next to Superstition Springs, this spooky experience is full of haunts and surprises. Buy your tickets (if you dare) online and expect to enter a fully immersive spooky adventure.

If the dark, haunted experience isn't for you, feel free to check out the "Lights On" family-friendly portion. Tickets are sold separately.

Scarizona

Located off of Alma School, this haunted house type of experience is one that keeps thrill seekers coming back. Be sure to purchase your tickets online and get ready for the scare of a lifetime.

US Ghost Adventures

If you're looking for further research and more spooky Mesa history, check out US Ghost Adventure's Mesa, AZ section here: Mesa's Scariest Ghost Tours.

Tag us in all of your spooky adventures on Instagram and TikTok @visitmesa!