Parks
46 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.
- Escobedo Park Playground0.3 mi from downtown
- Candlelight Park1.8 mi from downtown
- Whitman Park Playground1.9 mi from downtown
Good days out in Mesa don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.
Libraries
Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.
- Mesa Public Library64 E 1St St
- Dobson Ranch Library2425 S Dobson Rd
- City Of Mesa Red Mountain Library635 N Power Rd
Historic places
25 landmarks on the National Register, many easy to see on a walk.
- Buckhorn Baths Motel
- Mesa Grande
- Mesa Historical MuseumBuilt 1987
Hiking
Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.
- WestWorld15 mi north
- Sierra Estrella Wilderness28 mi southwest
- Quartz Peak Trail29 mi southwest
Wildlife viewing
Birding and nature watching on public land.
- Quartz Peak Trail29 mi southwest
- Riverside Campground (AZ)29 mi north
- Black Canyon National Recreation Trail38 mi northwest
Around town
Get a feel for the city
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
📍Arizona Museum of Natural History Mesa, AZ
A local activity Short shared by thekeenecrew.
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Places I take my friends when they visit Mesa, AZ
A local activity Short shared by Meredith Johnsen.
Watch on YouTube ↗Questions
What are free things to do in Mesa?
Parks, Libraries, Historic places, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.
Are there free events in Mesa this weekend?
Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.
Do I need a library card to use the library?
No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.