On the Road: Top Places to See When Driving from Anaheim, California to Mesa, Arizona

Planning a road trip is a great way to explore and get away from the daily routine. Whether you are taking a trip alone or with friends and family, there's always something exciting about hitting the road. One of the best road trips in the United States is driving from Anaheim, California to Mesa, Arizona. This ride offers gorgeous views, breathtaking landscapes, and countless attractions. In this blog post, we have curated a list of the top places to see when driving from Anaheim, California, to Mesa, Arizona.

Take a Scenic Drive on Highway 111 in Palm Springs

Located at the foothills of the San Jacinto Mountains in Coachella Valley is the city of Palm Springs. This city is famous for its hot springs, modern architecture, and spectacular golf courses. Driving through Palm Springs on Highway 111 offers stunning views of the mountains, wind farms, and the high-dense palm trees. There are several quirky stores and cafes on this route where one can take a break and enjoy local crafts, delicious food, and drinks. If you have time, visit The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens that features exhibits full of animals and plants that are found in the deserts of North America and Africa.

Admire the Desert Landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park should be on top of your list when driving from Anaheim to Mesa. The park spans over 790,000 acres and features exuberant landscapes of the high and low desert. The park is home to fascinating rock formations, deserts, and Joshua Trees. Make sure to visit Keys View, a lookout that provides a panoramic view of the Coachella Valley, San Andreas Fault, and San Gorgonio Mountain. Some exciting activities in Joshua Tree National Park are hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, and camping.

Discover the Rich History of Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park

Located in Yuma, Arizona, the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region. The prison was built in 1875 and was once one of the most overcrowded and violent prisons in the West. Today, it's a museum that portrays the prisoner's life in the Territorial Prison. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the cells, guard towers, and the prison graveyard. The museum showcases memorabilia, photographs, and other artifacts that document prison life in the 19th century.

Take a Break and Visit the London Bridge in Lake Havasu City

Lake Havasu City is a famous destination for water sports enthusiasts, but did you know that it's also home to the London Bridge? Yes, the same bridge which was dismantled from London's River Thames and rebuilt in Lake Havasu City. The bridge is now a tourist attraction and symbolizes the city's spirit. The bridge connects a small island to the mainland and stands as a reminder of the city's rich history and scenic beauty. While you are there, make sure to take a stroll around the Bridgewater Channel, rent a kayak, or go for a boat ride.

Explore the Scenic Landscapes of Tonto National Monument

The Tonto National Monument is located near Roosevelt, Arizona, and is a fun place to explore for history enthusiasts. It consists of two cliff dwellings that were built by the Salado people in the 14th century. The cliff dwellings are situated within the Tonto National Forest and offer incredible views of the valley below. The monument has several hiking trails that lead to the cliff dwellings, and guided tours are available for visitors that are interested in learning more about the history of the monument.

Conclusion

Driving from Anaheim to Mesa is a fun and exciting road trip. The route offers the opportunity to witness natural wonders, explore rich history, and indulge in various activities. Our curated list of top places to see can guide you in planning your next road trip. So, pack your bags, gather your friends and family, and hit the road for an unforgettable adventure.