Mesa Celebrates America 250

We are proud to participate in the nationwide celebration of America’s 250th anniversary! This historic milestone marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and we invite you to join us as we honor our nation's past, present and future.

As part of this effort, Mesa’s local events and heritage sites connect to the broader Arizona and national America250 celebrations—learn more at America250.org and through the Arizona America250 Commission. 

Arizona Celebration of Freedom Fireworks

Main Street - 1966

Veterans Day Parade Downtown Mesa

Arizona Celebration of Freedom - Military Zone

1940's City Hall and Fire Dept.

Lehi Days

Veterans Day Parade

Historic Photo at Falcon Field Airport

Mesa Police - 1930's

Veterans Day Parade

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Explore Mesa’s History and Heritage

As part of America250, Mesa invites residents and visitors to discover the places where our community’s story comes to life. From aviation history to local museums, Mesa offers unique opportunities to connect with the past and celebrate our shared heritage.

Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum
This volunteer-run nonprofit museum near Falcon Field brings more than 100 years of aviation history to life. Visitors can explore restored combat aircraft, interactive exhibits, and stories of aviation heroes. Hours vary.

Arizona Museum of Natural History
Mesa’s first City Hall building is now home to the Arizona Museum of Natural History. Visitors can explore exhibits ranging from Arizona’s mining heritage and territorial jail to paleontology and archaeological discoveries.

Falcon Field Airport
Located in northeast Mesa, Falcon Field is a general aviation airport owned and operated by the City of Mesa. Established in 1941 as a military training base for American and British Royal Air Force pilots during World War II, the airport was deeded to the City in 1948 for public use. Today, visitors can enjoy two aircraft viewing areas offering close-up views of planes and helicopters.

Mesa Historical Museum
Housed in the historic Old Lehi School building in North Mesa, the Mesa Historical Museum features rotating exhibits on the city’s rich past. Originally founded in the 1940s and incorporated by Mesa citizens in 1966, the museum continues to preserve and share the stories that shaped our community. Hours vary.

Mesa Historic Preservation Program
Mesa’s Historic Preservation Program helps protect and celebrate the buildings, landmarks, and neighborhoods that tell our community’s story. From early homesteads and mid-century homes to significant civic structures, these preserved places connect Mesa’s past to its present. Learn how Mesa identifies and safeguards historic sites — and explore the city’s growing list of designated landmarks — through the Historic Preservation Program.

Mesa Gateway Airport
Once Williams Air Force Base, a major training facility for U.S. Army Air Forces pilots during World War II and the Cold War era, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport has become one of the region’s busiest commercial and cargo airports. Today, it serves millions of travelers each year while still honoring its military heritage. Visitors can stop by the airport’s public viewing area to watch commercial jets and other aircraft take off and land up close.

The Mesa Room at the Main Library
The Mesa Room is a curated collection of historical and contemporary materials that showcase the many dimensions of Mesa’s history. Available for in-person visits by appointment only.