Welcome to Sce:dagĭ Mu:val Va’aki, formerly known as Mesa Grande Cultural Park, located in Mesa, Arizona. If you are eager to explore ancient history in the Salt River Valley, this unique site preserves a remarkably intact group of Hohokam structures constructed during the Classic Period. Occupied between AD 1100 and 1400, these ancient ruins showcase the remarkable legacy of the Hohokam civilization, renowned for constructing an extensive system of water canals.
As one of only two Hohokam mounds remaining in the entire metro Phoenix area, Sce:dagĭ Mu:val Va’aki offers you a rare glimpse into the region's rich past. When you visit, you will see the site's central feature: a massive ruin composed of ancient adobe walls and raised platforms. Operated by the Arizona Museum of Natural History, which actively undertakes ongoing archaeological studies here, the protected site remains largely undeveloped, offering a pristine and authentic atmosphere.
Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978, the land was once owned by B-movie actress Acquanetta and her husband Jack Ross before being acquired by the city of Mesa in 1988. You will find this fascinating destination situated just across the street from the former Mesa Lutheran Hospital building.
What to see at Mesa Grande
- A remarkably intact ancient Hohokam mound, one of only two remaining in metro Phoenix
- Central ruins featuring massive adobe walls and elevated platforms from AD 1100–1400
- Ongoing archaeological research led by the Arizona Museum of Natural History
- Historical site listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1978
- On-site Visitor Center completed in 2013 to welcome seasonal visitors
Visiting tips
Plan your visit between October and May, as the site is seasonally open to the public during these months.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: October through May
How to get there & what’s nearby
Mesa Grande is easy to reach on Mesa’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Center for Meteorite Studies. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Mesa travel guide.
See the full Mesa travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.