Mesa is the third largest city in Arizona and is one of the fastest growing cities in the United States. It is a part of the Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale Metropolitan Area and is the second largest suburban city in the US. Founded in 1878 by Mormon pioneers, the current population is about one-tenth Mormon. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has its oldest temple in Mesa, which attracts many of the Latter-Day Saints to gather in Mesa for worship and community events. An elaborate Easter Pageant takes place there each year.
The Chicago Cubs do their spring training in Mesa, which is always a great attraction for sports fans. For fans of the arts there is the Mesa Arts Center, which is the largest arts center in Arizona. With five galleries and fourteen visual and performing art studios alongside informal performance venues and outdoor gardens, there is something for all art enthusiasts here.
Music fans will delight in the Mesa Amphitheater-- this open air venue attracts large main-stage attractions as well as day-long music festivals. With a convenient location just fifteen minutes from Phoenix and a well-cared for tiered lawn, this is a premium venue for viewing your favorite bands. Other nearby attractions include the Mesa Historical Society and Museum, the Mesa Southwest Museum and the Sirrine House, a fully restored Victorian Era home.
