Desert Excursions: Exploring Mesa on a Budget

Experience Mesa's desert beauty without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Mesa, located in Arizona, provides a range of affordable options for travelers on a tight budget. One can take a hike at Usery Mountain Regional Park or visit the Mesa Grande Cultural Park for free. Staying in budget-friendly accommodations such as Airbnb or chain motels can help save on lodging expenses.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Desert Adventures

  • Check into the affordable Mesa Mezona Hotel and start the day with a hearty breakfast at the nearby Matta's Restaurant.
  • Get your adrenaline pumping with a hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert, followed by a zipline adventure at the Usery Mountain Regional Park.
  • Take a break for a late lunch at the quirky Organ Stop Pizza, where you'll be entertained by the world's largest Wurlitzer organ while enjoying a tasty pie.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the Mesa Arts Center, featuring a variety of exhibits and live performances.
  • End the day with a relaxing dinner at the farm-to-table restaurant The Farm at South Mountain, surrounded by lush gardens and twinkling lights.
Day 2

Nature and History

  • start your day with breakfast at The Breakfast Joynt, known for their delicious pancakes and friendly staff.
  • Visit the Mesa Grande Cultural Park to learn about the ancient Hohokam civilization and their impressive canals and ruins.
  • Next, take a hike in the stunning Superstition Mountains, stopping for a picnic lunch with scenic views.
  • Head to the Arizona Museum of Natural History to see dinosaur bones, Native American artifacts, and a replica of a mine shaft.
  • Wrap up your Mesa adventure with a sunset paddle on Saguaro Lake with boat rental from Desert Belle Cruises, followed by a seafood dinner at the nearby Lakeshore Restaurant.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Mesa, United States by plane is to fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and then take a 20-minute drive to Mesa.

Car

Driving to Mesa is easy if you are coming from major cities like Phoenix and Scottsdale. You can take one of the major highways like I-10, I-60, and Loop 202 to get to Mesa.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no train station in Mesa, so it is not possible to get there by train.

Boat

Mesa is not accessible by boat as it is an inland city located in Arizona.

Bus

One of the best options to get to Mesa by bus is by taking the Greyhound bus service, which has regular services from different cities to the Mesa Greyhound Station.

Destination

Mesa

Welcome to the land of cactus, cowboy boots, and colorfully decorated margaritas. Mesa is the place where you can ride into the sunset, or at least into a really nice sunset-colored shopping mall.

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

4 Days of Budget-Friendly Fun in Mesa!

Mesa, situated in the state of Arizona, offers a great getaway experience for tourists on a limited budget. Visit the Mesa Grande Cultural Park, a historical site that will take you back in time, and hike through the breathtaking Tonto National Forest. Also, don't forget to grab authentic southwestern cuisine at affordable prices at local food trucks and markets.

Mesa Magic: The Ultimate 2-Day Family Adventure!

Mesa, located in the heart of Arizona, offers an incredible family-friendly trip with an array of activities for all ages. Start your adventure by exploring the fascinating Arizona Museum of Natural History, where you can witness impressive dinosaur displays and learn about the state's rich history. Then, head to Golfland Sunsplash, a thrilling amusement park complete with water slides, mini-golf, and arcade games that promise endless fun for the whole family. Finally, end your trip by experiencing the breathtaking desert scenery at the Usery Mountain Regional Park, which offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the Sonoran Desert.

5 days of adventure in Mesa on a budget

Explore the natural beauty of Mesa with budget-friendly activities such as hiking in the Superstition Mountains or visiting Usery Mountain Regional Park. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Mesa Arts Center or Mesa Market Place Swap Meet. Enjoy affordable dining options at local favorites like Los Dos Molinos or Organ Stop Pizza.

Escape to Romantic Mesa: A 4-Day Adventure

Mesa in United States is an ideal destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. The city offers scenic views of mountains, desert landscapes and a plethora of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, and hot air ballooning. Mesmerizing sunsets, fine dining experiences, and luxurious accommodations add to the charm of a romantic trip to Mesa.