Mesa, Arizona, may be known for its desert landscapes and outdoor activities, but it also offers a surprising variety of tours that cater to different interests. Whether you’re craving a thrilling off-road ride, a relaxing raft trip, or a sweet cookie-making session, Mesa’s diverse options promise memorable experiences. We love the Build Your Own Cookie Experience for its fun, interactive flair that appeals to all ages, and the Four Peaks Wilderness Off-Road Tour for its breathtaking views of the mountains and wildlife. These tours stand out for their unique appeal and the chance to see Arizona from different perspectives.
If you’re planning a trip to Mesa, consider what kind of adventure or activity fits your style—are you looking for family-friendly fun or a rugged outdoor challenge? Our list below highlights four of the best tours in the area, each offering something different and memorable.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a variety of tours to suit different interests and activity levels. For those with a sweet tooth, the Build Your Own Cookie Experience offers a creative treat (see more here). Outdoor lovers will appreciate the Bulldog Canyon Off-Road Tour, which combines scenic views with a rugged drive (details here). For a longer adventure, the Four Peaks Wilderness Off-Road Tour takes you through forested terrain with wildlife sightings (more info here). Lastly, those interested in a relaxing outdoor activity can enjoy a guided rafting trip on the Lower Salt River, spotting desert wildlife along the way (see details here).
Now, let’s explore each of these tours in detail to help you decide which one fits your trip best.
1. Build Your Own Cookie Experience
Starting our list is the Build Your Own Cookie Experience at Eclipse Cookies. For just $10 per person, you get a chance to get creative with bakery treats that are as delicious as they are Instagram-worthy. Although the rating is 1/5 based on 2 reviews, it’s clear this is more of a fun, lighthearted activity rather than a gourmet culinary tour.
Here, you’ll watch talented bakers craft giant 6″ cookies, cheesecakes, and cupcakes, then participate in an interactive cookie decorating session suitable for all ages. This is a perfect activity if you’re traveling with kids or love sweet experiences that involve a hands-on component. The sense of community and fun is what makes this stand out—making memories while indulging in sweet treats. Plus, trying the secret flavor of the month adds an element of surprise.
While the price is modest and the duration is a full week of access, keep in mind that the reviews are limited. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy creative, casual activities that turn dessert into an interactive experience.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, playful option perfect for families or cookie enthusiasts wanting a memorable sugar fix.
$10 per person
2. Bulldog Canyon Off-Road Tour Scenic Superstitions
At number 2, the Bulldog Canyon Off-Road Tour takes you into a rugged side of Mesa’s surroundings. For $150 per person, this 3-hour adventure offers a mix of adrenaline and scenery. Although it currently has no reviews listed, its detailed description promises an authentic off-road experience through forest roads, winding washes, and mountain passes.
Your professional driver will navigate remote terrains, giving you ample opportunities to enjoy scenic views of the Superstition Mountains and the city below. Unlimited water keeps you hydrated during the trip, which makes it suitable even on warmer days. This tour is perfect for those who want to see the desert’s wild side without the hassle of planning the route themselves. It’s also a great choice for travelers who appreciate a guided experience in nature, with the thrill of dirt roads and mountain vistas.
The main appeal here is the blend of adventure and scenery, making it a good pick for outdoor adventurers or families with older kids. The absence of reviews makes it a bit of a gamble, but the detailed itinerary suggests it could be a rewarding experience for thrill-seekers.
Bottom Line: An adventurous ride through remote Arizona landscapes, ideal for off-road enthusiasts wanting scenic views and a touch of thrill.
$150 per person
3. Four Peaks Wilderness Off-Road Tour with Lunch
Number three on our list is the Four Peaks Wilderness Off-Road Tour, a 6-hour journey priced at $300 per person. This tour takes you through the Tonto National Forest, offering a more extensive exploration of Arizona’s natural beauty. Although it also has no reviews listed, it emphasizes off-roading through wilderness areas with a chance to see desert animals like horses, coyotes, and javelina.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of scenic driving and wildlife viewing, topped with a lunch and unlimited drinks. You’ll get to enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of Four Peaks Mountain Range, making it ideal for nature lovers and those wanting a full-day excursion. The inclusion of lunch suggests this is a more leisurely, immersive experience, perfect for travelers who want to combine adventure with a substantial outdoor meal.
It’s well-suited for active travelers interested in wildlife encounters and scenic vistas, though the length and cost mean it’s best for those with a full day to spare. The value lies in the combination of off-road adventure, wildlife, and scenic drive, making it a comprehensive nature experience.
Bottom Line: A longer, detailed exploration of Arizona’s wilderness, suited for nature lovers and those craving a full day of outdoor fun.
$300 per person
4. Guided Rafting Trip on the Lower Salt River
Finally, for those who prefer water over dirt, the Guided Rafting Trip on the Lower Salt River offers a relaxing 2-hour float for $106 per person. This trip features a 9-person inflatable raft navigating gentle rapids, with plenty of chances to spot wild horses, cottonwood trees, and Red Mountain.
The tour emphasizes a scenic, mellow experience suitable for families or anyone wanting a laid-back outdoor activity without intense physical demands. Your knowledgeable guide will share insights about the surrounding desert landscape, making it both educational and entertaining. The trip is mostly dry with some splashes, perfect for those who want to stay comfortable while enjoying nature from a different vantage point.
Since the Salt River is known for its wild horse sightings and towering desert flora, this tour is excellent for wildlife enthusiasts and anyone looking for a peaceful outing on the water. The short duration and reasonable price make it a good option for a half-day activity, especially in warmer months.
Bottom Line: A relaxing river float with wildlife viewing and scenic desert scenery, ideal for families or those seeking a peaceful outdoor experience.
$106 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting among these options, consider your interests, budget, and physical activity level. If you love sweets and playful experiences, the Build Your Own Cookie Experience is perfect. For outdoor adventure in rugged terrain, the Bulldog Canyon Off-Road Tour offers an exciting ride. Wildlife and scenic views are the highlights of the Four Peaks Wilderness Off-Road Tour, suitable for those wanting a longer, nature-focused outing. Lastly, if you prefer a calm, scenic water trip, the Lower Salt River rafting is a great choice for a gentle experience with wildlife sightings.
Booking early is advisable, especially for outdoor tours in peak seasons, to ensure availability and better rates. Think about what excites you most—whether it’s tasting cookies, exploring mountains, or floating on a river—and pick the tour that aligns with your interests.
Final Thoughts
Mesa offers a surprising variety of tours that can suit many types of travelers. For a fun, family-friendly activity, the cookie decorating is a sweet choice. Outdoor lovers will appreciate the rugged Bulldog Canyon and Four Peaks Wilderness adventures, offering scenic views and wildlife encounters. And for those who prefer a relaxed pace, the Salt River rafting provides a gentle introduction to Arizona’s desert beauty.
No matter what you choose, each of these tours offers a chance to see Mesa and its surroundings from a different angle. Be sure to book ahead, especially during busy seasons, and enjoy the many ways to experience this vibrant part of Arizona.