Mesa

A short history of Mesa

Mesa, a city located in Maricopa County, Arizona, has a fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. The area was originally inhabited by the Hohokam people, who built an extensive canal system for irrigation. European settlers arrived in the late 19th century, and Mesa was officially incorporated as a town in 1883. Over the years, it has grown into a thriving city known for its cultural heritage, outdoor recreation, and vibrant community.

FAQ for Mesa

What is the best way to get there?

Mesa is easily accessible by air, with Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport being the closest major airport.

What is this city famous for?

Mesa is famous for its rich Native American history, vibrant arts scene, and stunning natural landscapes.

What are five interesting facts about the city?

Mesa is the third-largest city in Arizona.

It is home to the Mesa Arts Center, one of the largest arts and cultural complexes in the Southwest.

Mesa is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, including the Superstition Mountains and Usery Mountain Regional Park.

The city hosts the annual Mesa Arts Festival, showcasing local artists and musicians.

Mesa is known for its excellent golf courses, attracting golf enthusiasts from around the world.

How did this city get its name?

Mesa derived its name from the Spanish word for "tabletop" due to its flat-topped mesas that dominate the landscape.

What are some travel tips for the city?

Make sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, as Mesa experiences hot desert temperatures.

Explore the downtown area, which offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Mesa Grande Cultural Park, a significant archaeological site.

Do I need a visa?

If you are a foreign visitor, please check the visa requirements for your country before traveling to Mesa.

When is the best time to visit the city?

The best time to visit Mesa is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant.

Are there local customs I should know for i.e. Drinking, Greetings, Public transit?

When greeting someone, a handshake is the most common form of greeting in Mesa.

Public transit options include buses and light rail, which provide convenient transportation throughout the city.

What is the time zone for the city?

Mesa operates on Mountain Standard Time (MST), which is UTC-7.

What are the voltage/plug types?

The voltage used in Mesa is 120V, and the plug type is Type A and Type B.

What is the currency?

The currency used in Mesa is the United States Dollar (USD).

Are ATMs readily accessible?

ATMs are readily available throughout the city, making it easy to access cash.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Mesa, including major international brands.

Can you use ApplePay and Google Pay?

Yes, many businesses in Mesa accept ApplePay and Google Pay as convenient payment methods.

How much do I tip in Restaurants/bars, Hotels, Taxis, Tour guides, etc.?

In restaurants/bars, it is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill.

For hotels, it is common to tip hotel staff, such as housekeeping, around $2-5 per day.

For taxis, a tip of around 10-15% of the fare is customary.

For tour guides, a tip of $5-10 per person per day is recommended.

City Information for Mesa

Founded	Population	Elevation
1878	512,498 Source	1,241 feet

Average temperatures for Mesa

Season/Month	Temperature (Celsius)	Temperature (Fahrenheit)
Spring (March to May)	20-30°C	68-86°F
Summer (June to August)	30-40°C	86-104°F
Fall (September to November)	20-30°C	68-86°F
Winter (December to February)	10-20°C	50-68°F