Day Trips from Mesa
← All Mesa day tripsDay Trips from Mesa: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Mesa, AZ. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Mesa
Scenic Lookout
AZ 85119, USA
Just 1 hr 9 min from Mesa, rated 4.9 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic View
Jerome, AZ 86331
Just 2 hrs 12 min from Mesa, rated 4.9 stars by 160 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Oak Creek Scenic Overlook
Sedona, AZ 86336
Just 2 hrs 11 min from Mesa, rated 4.9 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Gates Pass Scenic Lookout
Tucson, AZ 85745
Just 1 hr 52 min from Mesa, rated 4.9 stars by 354 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook at Trail #340
Buckeye, AZ 85396
Just 54 min from Mesa, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Babad Do'ag Scenic Overlook
AZ 85749, USA
Just 2 hrs 19 min from Mesa, rated 4.8 stars by 622 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Inspiration Point Interpretive Overlook
Roosevelt, AZ 85545
Just 1 hr 36 min from Mesa, rated 4.8 stars by 153 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic View
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
Just 48 min from Mesa, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Buena Vista Lookout
Phoenix, AZ 85042
Just 49 min from Mesa, rated 4.8 stars by 147 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic overlook
Sedona, AZ 86336
Just 2 hrs 10 min from Mesa, rated 4.8 stars by 160 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
AZ 85173, USA
Just 52 min from Mesa, rated 4.8 stars by 139 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Dobbins Lookout
Phoenix, AZ 85042
Just 47 min from Mesa, rated 4.8 stars by 5,533 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Mesa
What are the best scenic drives near Mesa, AZ?
The best scenic drives near Mesa include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Mesa?
Most scenic drives near Mesa range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Mesa?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Mesa, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Mesa?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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