Mesa, Arizona is one of the best cities in the Valley when it comes to family-friendly activities. Located just east of Phoenix, Mesa has plenty of parks, museums, aquariums and more to keep kids and parents entertained for hours.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor fun or indoor entertainment, here are 10 top things to do with the family in Mesa.
1. Visit Red Mountain
Red Mountain is one of Mesa’s premier attractions, offering incredible scenic views and outdoor recreation. Start your visit at the East Parking area and head up the 1.5 mile trail to the top of Red Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of Mesa, Phoenix, and the surrounding desert landscape. Be sure to have your camera ready as the colors at sunset are stunning.
You can also spot wildlife like coyotes, birds and jackrabbits from the trails. After enjoying the views, head back down and explore the trails along the base of the mountain, taking in native plants and rock formations. Stop by the visitor center for more info on guided hikes and conservation efforts.
2. Go to the Arizona Museum of Natural History
The Arizona Museum of Natural History is a top educational spot for families in Mesa. This hands-on museum helps bring the natural history of Arizona to life. Some of the most popular exhibits include the Live Animal Display where you can see snakes, lizards and tarantulas up close, as well as the Dinosaur Discovery area where kids can dig for fossils.
Don’t miss the Wild Desert Trail, an outdoor experience that educates visitors about local flora and fauna in a natural desert setting. Temporary exhibits often bring in traveling shows focused on science, nature and anthropology too. Plan to spend at least a couple hours here as there is so much to explore indoors and out.
3. Check Out the Arizona Museum of Arts
For a change of pace from natural history, head to the Arizona Museum of Arts. Located downtown, this is Mesa’s premier art museum, showcasing both local and national talents. Rotating exhibits feature paintings, sculptures, ceramics and more from both classic and contemporary artists.
Be sure to check the upcoming exhibit schedule on their website to see what will be showing during your visit. The space also hosts special art workshops and activities for kids regularly, making it a fun way for families to engage with arts education together. Plan to spend at least an hour wandering the galleries, then relax in the sculpture garden afterwards.
4. Visit the Mesa Arts Center
Not far from the art museum is another wonderful cultural destination – the Mesa Arts Center. This multi-disciplinary center houses two theaters, galleries and more. Stop by the art galleries to catch their current exhibits showcasing local and international artists. Then check the performance schedule – you may catch a play, musical, dance performance or comedy show during your visit.
Many performances are kid-friendly too. After exploring indoors, take a stroll through the charming outdoor sculptures. Be sure to have lunch or dinner at the on-site restaurant before or after your visit. The Mesa Arts Center offers world-class arts and entertainment right in the heart of the city.
5. Go to Out of Africa Wildlife Park
For a guaranteed good time with the whole family, head to Out of Africa Wildlife Park. This is a drive-through animal reserve where you’ll get to see lions, tigers, bears, giraffes and more roaming free in their natural habitats. As you drive your own car slowly through the different areas, be prepared for up-close encounters as the animals freely approach vehicles.
You’ll learn about conservation projects from your audio tour too. Stick around after the drive to explore the walking trails with installations on Africa and get a chance to feed the giraffes. It’s rare to get such intimate access to exotic wildlife, making this park a truly memorable Mesa experience.
6. Spend the Day at Usery Mountain Regional Park
For a fun outdoor adventure, head to Usery Mountain Regional Park. This expansive park is one of Mesa’s gems, offering 4800 acres of desert landscapes to explore. Enjoy a leisurely hike along one of the many scenic trails winding through jagged mountains and arroyos. Or pack a picnic lunch and relax lakeside at Usery Lake.
You’ll likely spot birds, coyotes and other wildlife during your visit. The park also contains an 18-hole disc golf course, equestrian center, archery range and more. There’s plenty to keep active families occupied for most of the day. Be sure to stop by the visitor center for maps and activity suggestions tailored to your group.
7. Go to Discovery Park
Discovery Park makes learning fun for all ages. This innovative park immerses families in interactive STEAM exhibits that bring history, science and the arts alive through hands-on discovery. Some of the most engaging areas include the prehistoric dig pit where kids can brush away at sand to uncover “fossils,” the water play space and the live animal demonstration area.
Temporary exhibits often cover topics like dinosaurs, robotics and anatomy too. Follow the self-guided tour or sign up for guided tours to take full advantage of this unique park experience. Plan to spend 2-3 hours here as there’s lots to keep kids entertained and learning.
8. Visit the Mesa Historic Museum
Step back in time at the Mesa Historic Museum to learn about the city’s fascinating past. This museum is housed in a beautifully restored historic building dating back to 1910. Walk through the different galleries to discover what life was like for early settlers in Mesa through immersive exhibits. See artifacts from daily life, agriculture, transportation and more.
Kids especially like seeing the recreated school house and blacksmith shop. Temporary exhibits often showcase topics like Native American culture, pioneer clothing and local landmarks too. Spend an hour here to gain a new appreciation for Mesa’s deep history. It’s an educational outing the whole family can enjoy.
9. Go to the Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery
Show respect for those who served by visiting the Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Located right in Mesa, this dignified cemetery honors veterans from all branches of the armed forces with rows of perfectly aligned headstones. Though solemn, it provides an important opportunity for families to discuss history, civic duty and patriotism.
Self-guided tours allow you to walk among the grounds noting the different eras represented. Kids may leave stones or drawn cards on headstones as a sign of remembrance. Stop by the administration building to learn more about burial benefits and ways to support veterans. Plan for about an hour here to pay respects and reflect.
10. Catch a Game or Event at Mesa Arts Center
For fun family entertainment, check the schedule at Mesa Arts Center for upcoming performances, games and special events. You may catch a Mesa Jackalopes hockey game, musical, play or comedy show taking place in one of their theaters.
Many productions are family-friendly. The center also hosts celebrations marking holidays like Earth Day, Fall Festival and more. These events feature hands-on activities, crafts, music and food trucks. It’s a lively way for families to connect with the local arts community. Be sure to arrive early and explore the surrounding gardens before the performance or event begins.
Conclusion
Mesa truly offers incredible variety for family activities from culture to history to outdoor adventure. With parks, museums, performances and wildlife experiences, you could spend a whole week here and not run out of things to do.
Be sure to check event calendars ahead of time, as Mesa regularly hosts special events like concerts, festivals, sporting competitions and more. Consider spending a couple nights to maximize your time exploring all this lively city has to offer families. From scenic nature to vibrant arts, Mesa delivers memorable experiences the whole crew can enjoy.