Did you know that Mesa is the 37th largest city in the U.S.? Being so large, there are almost too many things to do in Mesa, but we’ve got you covered! From Downtown Mesa to Eastmark located in the southeast region of the Valley, below is a list of our favorite things to do and places to eat to help you get started exploring this town!

Downtown Mesa

The vibrant atmosphere of Downtown Mesa continues to expand, catering to both local residents and visitors alike – there’s something for everyone.

Things to do in Downtown Mesa 

• The Arizona Museum of Natural History is an attraction that provides plenty of fun for the kids and parents to enjoy! Take a trip back in time and explore the natural and cultural history of the American Southwest. You can look at the dinosaurs or pan for gold in the archaeological dig. There are opportunities for fun and education at every corner of this museum!
• The i.d.e.a. Museum in Downtown Mesa is full of hands-on activities for kids of all ages. While it’s designed as a children’s museum, there is lots to enjoy for adults as well. It focuses on arts, imagination, and creativity and strives to help visitors learn something new while having a good time. It is open Tuesday through Sunday and offers take home activities as well as in-person classes.
• If you’re looking to treat yourself, Wake and Wellness is an up and coming event hosted at The Downtown Mesa Farmers Market. Enjoy a health-inspired Saturday morning with programs including kids yoga, aerial yoga, and dance classes!

Places to Eat in Downtown Mesa

• The mid-century architecture of República Empanada is a contrast to the brick row of Main Street in Downtown Mesa. The building is not the only thing setting this restaurant apart from the rest of the places to eat. República Empanada is home to Arizona’s largest selection of empanadas and provides the perfect menu of Latin American comfort food. 
• If you’re looking for a local brewery, 12 West Brewing Co. is your go to! The Downtown Mesa location is the first, and original location! Guests can enjoy a full kitchen, craft beers, two levels of indoor and outdoor seating, and more. Not to mention, the patio is dog friendly so be sure to bring your furry friends! 
• Fruitlandia is the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth after a long hot day. They work with local suppliers to serve the freshest ingredients. The menu is inspired by Mexican desserts and ranges from a cotton candy milkshake to bowls of chopped fresh fruit. 

Eastmark

Located in southeast Mesa, Eastmark is home to a number of beautiful neighborhoods, award-winning schools, beautiful parks, and more!

Things to do in Eastmark

• The ‘Mark, known as the Eastmark Visitor and Community Center, is one of the best family-friendly things to do in Mesa. This resident-only center is equipped with the community pool, shuffleboard, skee ball, and a giant Scrabble wall! Stick around and ask one of the friendly community representatives about their favorite  Mesa, Arizona attractions for a tailored experience just for you. 
• When you’re looking for a fun activity, be sure to check out The Eastmark Great Park! This attraction provides perfect space for families to mingle and is equipped with a splash pad, event pavilion, urban playground known as the “Orange Monster,” and more! 
• One of Mesa, Arizona’s attractions is the luscious amount of green space. Eastmark has over 40 neighborhood parks and they all reflect the innovation of the new neighborhood. After you find a place to eat in Mesa, enjoy a walk around one of the many parks where you can relax by a fire pit or in the shady groves and gardens.
• If you’re looking for things to do in Mesa that will help you break a sweat, you should definitely try out The Barre Academy in Eastmark! It is a boutique fitness center offering classes to help you improve strength, balance, flexibility, and recovery. 

Places to Eat in Eastmark

• The Handlebar Diner is a vintage themed restaurant brought to Eastmark from Colorado. Handlebar Diner’s chef Adam Allison has been on the Food Network’s show “Chopped” and he works with  local farmers to get some of the freshest ingredients. The 50’s theme makes this place not only a fun dinner spot, but also a great Mesa, Arizona attraction.
• Steadfast Farm is a two acre commercial farm located right by the Eastmark Visitor Center. While this isn’t a sit-down restaurant, you can enjoy farm fresh ingredients by joining the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) or shop  local by buying produce at the Farm Store, open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. They also offer their food at one of the best downtown Mesa events, the farmers market! 
• Voted best in the Valley by the East Valley Tribune, Boca Taqueria serves up tasty tacos, burritos, chimichangas, stuffed quesadillas, and more! Boca Taqueria offers two places to eat in Mesa, with one being right in Eastmark. You can also rent a taco truck for your next event or fiesta!

Whether you’re in Downtown Mesa or in Eastmark, there are plenty of things to do and places to eat in and across Mesa. Whether you’re looking for a fun morning with the kids or to improve your health and wellbeing, there is something for everyone to enjoy! 

To find P.B. Bell communities located in and close to Eastmark or Downtown Mesa, check out our communities page!