Best Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Road Trip from Buckeye to Mesa

Are you planning to hit the road in Arizona and want to discover the best museums, parks, and landmarks? Buckeye to Mesa is a perfect road trip route for those fond of exploring stunning landscapes, fascinating cultural sites, and historical spots. With several must-visit destinations on the way, you are sure to have a memorable vacation.

Fun Fact: Did you know that Buckeye is named after a canal system project, which was supposed to create an oasis in the middle of the desert? The project never saw the light, but the name remained.

Halfway Point: Phoenix, AZ

Phoenix, located just halfway between Buckeye and Mesa, is a bustling metropolis and the capital of Arizona. It has tons of tourist attractions, nightlife, and restaurants for visitors to enjoy. But if you want to stay on track with the road trip, we suggest you stay here for a few hours and visit Desert Botanical Garden, which is a 40-minute drive from the city center.

Length of the Trip

The distance between Buckeye and Mesa is approximately 45 miles, and it takes about an hour to cover. However, we recommend that you take your time, explore all the destinations, and stay overnight at some of the locations to make the most of your road trip.

Top Five Must-Visit Places

1. White Tank Mountain Regional Park (Waddell, AZ)

White Tank Mountain Regional Park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with its stunning mountain ranges, miles of hiking trails, and diverse flora and fauna. The park is rich in history and culture, with ancient petroglyphs and artifacts from the Hohokam civilization. Visitors can explore the Visitor Center, camp and picnic in the park, and join ranger-led programs.

Point of Interest Recommendation: Don't miss the Waterfall Trail, a moderate 2.9-mile hike that rewards you with a 30-foot seasonal waterfall.

2. Heard Museum (Phoenix, AZ)

If you're interested in learning about the Native American culture and art of the Southwest, the Heard Museum is unmissable. Founded in 1929, the museum houses a vast collection of art, textiles, jewelry, pottery, and other artifacts. Visitors can enjoy the outdoor courtyards, exhibitions, performances, and workshops to get a deeper understanding of Arizona's rich cultural heritage.

Point of Interest Recommendation: Make sure to visit the "Home: Native People in the Southwest" exhibit, which showcases various traditional dwellings and architecture.

3. Salt River (Mesa, AZ)

The Salt River is a pleasant escape from the bustling city life, where visitors can relax, hike, swim, or float the river. The Lower Salt River is perfect for tubing, kayaking, and fishing, while the Upper Salt River is more suitable for rafting and fly-fishing. The river offers stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and thrilling adventure.

Point of Interest Recommendation: Keep an eye out for the wild horses that roam free along the river banks. They are a popular sight for both tourists and locals.

4. Superstition Mountain Museum (Apache Junction, AZ)

Superstition Mountain Museum is a fascinating museum that showcases the history, folklore, and myths surrounding the Superstition Mountains. The museum's exhibits include mining, military, and Native American artifacts, as well as the famous Lost Dutchman's Mine story. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the Elvis Memorial Chapel and the Apacheland Movie Ranch, which were once used in Western movies and shows.

Point of Interest Recommendation: Visit the museum's Goldfield Ghost Town, a restored 19th-century mining town with shops, tours, and events.

5. Mesa Arts Center (Mesa, AZ)

The Mesa Arts Center is a world-class visual and performing arts venue that hosts a wide range of shows, concerts, and exhibitions. The center's facilities include a theater, studios, galleries, and classrooms that cater to different art forms and skill levels. Visitors can also participate in workshops, festivals, and community events to immerse themselves in Arizona's arts and culture scene.

Point of Interest Recommendation: Check out the annual Mesa Arts Festival, a two-day event with over 100 artists, food vendors, and live entertainment.

Conclusion

The road trip from Buckeye to Mesa offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers, from natural wonders to cultural gems. With several must-visit destinations along the way, you can customize your itinerary to suit your interests and time. Whether you want to hike a mountain, explore a museum, or float a river, Arizona has something to offer. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and start your adventure now!