Some of the most daring moments of World War II can be revisited in a most spectacular way when you spend some time at the Arizona Wing CAF Aviation Museum. See attractions like some of the actual planes that were flown during the World War II era. While this facility features several noteworthy aircraft, the star of the show is one affectionately named “Sentimental Journey,” a fully restored B-17. These amazing planes have been so meticulously refurbished that many are still able to fly. Your visit will be augmented by several additional vintage memorabilia as well as photographs and a handful of exhibits.
Mom and dad are used to telling their kids to not touch anything. But when the whole family visits the i.d.e.a. Museum, the kids are actually encouraged to reach out and touch as much as possible. This child-oriented arts center features a program of exhibits and attractions that are changed quite frequently, so you can visit often and not encounter the same surroundings. This is only one of two facilities of its kind in the country, and that uniqueness is the perfect setting in which to foster your kids' creativity.
You can't be in Mesa without taking advantage of the opportunity of experiencing the Usery Mountain Regional Park. This is an impressive 3,400-acre urban park that is easily accessible from Mesa and is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy such activities as biking, hiking, archery and camping. The many hiking trails range from easy to fairly difficult as the elevation ranges from 1,700 to 2,750 feet. As you casually stroll through the park, you can enjoy the many plants and cacti, and even stargaze on special nights when the Parks Department hosts the event, complete with telescopes.
There's nothing quite like enjoying an electrifying live music performance. It is a seemingly surreal experience, when the band that is on stage seems to connect with everyone in the audience. Moments like that are more the norm than the exception when you check out the impressive schedule of concerts at Mesa's Nile Theater. Specializing in alternative music, the entertainment venue also presents folk and mainstream rock acts who prove to not only be electrified by the enthusiasm of Mesa audiences, they go on to turn in nothing less than unforgettably stellar performances.