Business Details
Your Gateway to Adventure in Mesa, Arizona
Visit Mesa serves as the storyteller for a destination that defies expectations. We connect visitors to authentic experiences in a city where wild horses run beside kayakers, springtime means baseball, and every sunset invites exploration. As stewards of culture and curators of moments, we amplify Mesa's spirit through passionate advocacy for a community strengthened by tourism. Our work focuses on creating meaningful connections between travelers and the rich array of outdoor adventures, cultural offerings, and culinary experiences that define Mesa.With values centered on passion, integrity, excellence, inclusivity, and determination, we position Mesa as a globally recognized, accessible destination with limitless opportunities for every visitor.
Services
Outdoor Activities
Arts & Culture
Water Recreation
Sports Events
Culinary Tourism
Accessibility Services
Event Planning
Agritourism
Entertainment
Visitor Information
Highlights and features
- We offer access to 500+ annual events and 300+ days of sunshine for outdoor adventures
- Our team curates authentic experiences across 130+ cultural attractions and 200+ dining options
- We provide specialized accessibility resources as the world's first Autism Certified City
- Our local experts create customized itineraries for sports enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers
- We connect travelers with award-winning breweries and the Fresh Foodie Trail culinary experiences
Associations and certifications
- Autism Certified City
Services
Outdoor Activities
Explore the Sonoran Desert through hiking, kayaking, and horseback riding. Experience unique desert adventures at Revel Surf's artificial wave park or scenic waterways like the Salt River. Our outdoor experts help visitors discover Mesa's natural beauty through guided tours and self-guided excursions across 22 parks and recreation areas.
Arts & Culture
Immerse yourself in Mesa's vibrant arts scene at the award-winning Mesa Arts Center. Discover public murals, historic sites, and cultural institutions like the Arizona Museum of Natural History. We curate cultural experiences that showcase local talent through galleries, performances, and interactive exhibits that tell Mesa's unique story.
Water Recreation
Enjoy desert water activities at nearby lakes and rivers. From kayaking on Canyon Lake to fishing at Saguaro Lake, we connect visitors with premier water recreation opportunities. Our guides provide information about boat rentals, seasonal activities, and family-friendly water parks like Flowrider for wakeboarding and paddleboarding experiences.
Sports Events
Experience Major League Baseball Spring Training with the Chicago Cubs and Athletics. We facilitate access to premier sports facilities including the largest youth sports complex in North America. Our sports event planning services help groups organize tournaments and special events at Mesa's world-class athletic venues.
Culinary Tourism
Savor Arizona's flavors through the Fresh Foodie Trail and Asian District eateries. We offer curated culinary experiences including farm-to-table dining, brewery tours, and cooking classes. Our food inclusion initiative connects visitors with unique dining opportunities from local farms to award-winning restaurants across Mesa's diverse culinary landscape.
People
Christopher Glover
President and CEO
Brings extensive tourism and economic development experience to lead Visit Mesa's strategic initiatives. Focuses on promoting Mesa as a premier destination while strengthening partnerships with local businesses and community organizations to enhance visitor experiences.
Julie Herman
Chief Financial Officer
Manages financial operations with a CPA background and deep understanding of tourism economics. Ensures fiscal responsibility while supporting strategic growth initiatives that align with Visit Mesa's mission to strengthen the local visitor economy.
Alison Brooks
Vice President, Marketing & Destination Experience
Leads marketing efforts to showcase Mesa's unique attractions through digital campaigns and experiential promotions. Develops destination experiences that highlight Mesa's outdoor adventures, cultural assets, and culinary offerings to attract diverse traveler segments.
Questions
What outdoor activities are available in Mesa?
Mesa offers hiking, kayaking, horseback riding, and hot air ballooning. Explore Superstition Mountains, paddle the Salt River, or visit Revel Surf's artificial wave park for water activities.
What cultural attractions does Mesa have?
Visit the Mesa Arts Center, Arizona Museum of Natural History, and public art installations. Experience cultural festivals, theater performances, and historic sites that showcase Mesa's heritage and creativity.
How accessible is Mesa for visitors with autism?
As the world's first Autism Certified City, Mesa offers specialized resources including sensory-friendly maps, trained staff, and accommodations across attractions, restaurants, and events to ensure inclusive experiences.
What sports events can visitors attend in Mesa?
Experience MLB Spring Training with the Chicago Cubs and Athletics at Sloan Park. Attend youth sports tournaments at the premier sports complex or watch college athletics at local universities.
What culinary experiences are available in Mesa?
Explore the Fresh Foodie Trail, Asian District restaurants, and agritourism experiences. Enjoy farm-to-table dining, brewery tours, cooking classes, and seasonal food festivals showcasing Arizona's local flavors.
How do I get to Mesa from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport?
Mesa is 12 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Travel options include rental cars, ride-sharing services, and taxi cabs. The drive typically takes 25-35 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
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