The local gems of Mesa

Sponsored - Field Trip Friday is sponsored by Sanderson Ford.

MESA, AZ (3TV/CBS) -- Mesa has a lot of things to be proud of, and on this Field Trip Friday, we are visiting some of the locations that make Mesa what it is. Mesa has grown and developed into a place filled with local gems - restaurants, shops, coffee, brewing, and so much more. It has brought people from all around to a place that strives to accommodate everyone.

Did you know that Mesa is the first ever Autism Certified City in the Arizona and even the world? This means that “80% of guest-facing staff is trained and certified in the field of autism,” according to Visit Mesa. It makes Mesa a travel destination for families impacted by autism. One of the places many families visit is the autism certified Natural History Museum.

True Garden Urban Farm

Vertical Aeroponics is all about vertical farming. It’s a first-of-its kind in the home of Mesa that runs on solar power, grows all vertically, where the roots hang suspended in the air. True Garden Urban Farm is located at 5949 E University Drive.

Main Street Harvest

Main Street Harvest is the epitome of local! It is a small grocery store right on Main Street with all local products. From baked goods, meat, produce, honey, and more, absolutely everything in this shop is harvested, created, crafted and made right here in the Valley. Main Street Harvest is located at 121 W Main Street. If you would like to learn more about Main Street Harvest, check out their website here.

12 West Brewing

Mesa is primped to pop, thanks in part to the light rail, but also the new breweries that are popping up, especially on Main street. The brewery scene in Mesa is growing and is something special. In 2012, Desert Eagle Brewing Company became the first microbrewery to open on Main Street, and at 12 West Brewing Tap, the drinks are fun and unique, food is gourmet, and the balcony has the best view in the house. 12 West Brewing is located at 12 W Main Street.

Air Force Museum

Home of one of the largest Commemorative Air Force units in the world. This is also the only combat aviation museum in the Phoenix-metro area. On exhibit are World War II artifacts, helicopters and classic American and foreign combat planes, many of which are the last remaining warbirds of their kinds. The Air Force Museum is located at 2017 N Greenfield Road.