Arizona Land and Farm

The art of the trade is something that merchants have done for centuries. That tradition is still at the heart of the Mesa Market Place Swap Meet. Every weekend, hundreds of bargain hunters convene at this popular market which features over 1,600 vendors that bring an incredible selection of merchandise. Admission is free and the parking is, too. There are various restaurants available to offer you a quick bite before you get back to the serious business of bargain hunting and swapping.

While it's obvious that when you spend time in Mesa, you're in the Arizona desert, that doesn't mean that you can't cool down in a really fun way by experiencing the fun of Salt River Tubing. Drift along the river through the Tonto National Forest to experience some truly amazing and breathtaking scenery. The duration of your tube-oriented adventure varies and depends on where your starting point is as well as the current of the river. Children must be at least eight years old and four feet tall to enjoy this attraction. One convenient fee covers the cost of parking, tube rental and shuttle service. A deposit may be required. Also, don't forget to bring snacks, sunglasses and sunscreen!

Get an amazingly unique historical perspective of Mesa and its surrounding area when you book your spot on the Apache Trail Tour. The excursion features a rollicking jeep ride that moves along the rugged trail into the Superstition Mountains. The basic tour lasts about two hours but there are longer packages available that include gold panning and even full day adventures that allow you to spend more time in some of the area's most beautifully scenic landscapes.

Parents often instruct their children not to touch anything, but the I.D.E.A. Museum encourages kids to reach out and touch as much as they want. This art center is designed for children and offers a range of exhibits and attractions that are frequently changed, so you can visit often and always discover something new. It is one of only two facilities in the country, making it the perfect place to foster your children's creativity. The museum offers hands-on activities, art exhibitions for kids of all ages, and programs for the entire family. Its mission is to inspire visitors to see the world differently. Therefore, it promotes early learning, nurtures creative thinking, and engages families in quality experiences.