Parents, we’ve all heard the dreaded words: “I’m bored.” Luckily, Mesa, Arizona, is packed with family-friendly activities that will keep everyone entertained—from toddlers to teens (and maybe even mom and dad too!). Whether you’re looking for indoor adventures, outdoor escapes, or unique dining experiences, here are 10 great things to do with your family in Mesa this weekend.
1. Arizona Museum of Natural History
Why go: See dinosaurs come to life with animatronic exhibits, explore a recreated Hohokam village, and let kids dig for fossils in the Paleo Dig Pit.
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday: 10 am–5 pm; Sunday: 12 pm–5 pm (Closed Monday)
Admission: Adults $13, Seniors $10, Children (3–12) $7, Kids under 3 free
Best for: Ages 3+ (interactive exhibits appeal to both younger kids and older children)
Nearby eats: Worth Takeaway (sandwiches) or Organ Stop Pizza (see below!)
- https://www.arizonamuseumofnaturalhistory.org/
2. i.d.e.a. Museum
Why go: A hands-on art and design museum designed just for kids. ArtVille offers an imaginative mini-town for toddlers, while rotating exhibits engage older children with creativity challenges.
Hours: Thursday–Saturday: 9 am–4 pm; Sunday: 12 pm–4 pm (Closed Mon–Wed)
Admission: Adults & children $9, Babies under 1 free
Best for: Toddlers to tweens
Nearby eats: Myke’s Pizza (great for families) or República Empanada for something a little different.
3. Pioneer Park
Why go: This historic park has been revitalized with one of the largest playgrounds in Arizona (9,000 sq ft!), rope bridges, a splash pad, and shady picnic areas.
Hours: Open daily, sunrise to 10 pm
Admission: Free
Best for: All ages, especially great for letting kids burn off energy
Nearby eats: Jarrod’s Coffee, Tea & Gallery or local food trucks often nearby
4. Eastmark Great Park – The Orange Monster
Why go: Climb the iconic Orange Monster, a massive 30-ft high, 80-ft wide mesh-roped climbing structure, plus enjoy splash pads, playgrounds, and sports courts.
Hours: Daily, sunrise to 10 pm
Admission: Free
Best for: Ages 5+ (the Orange Monster is best for school-aged kids)
Nearby eats: Queen Creek Olive Mill (family-friendly meals) or Handlebar Diner right in Eastmark.
5. Riverview Park
Why go: Families love Riverview Park’s 50-ft climbing tower, 60-ft mesh rope structure, splash pad, fishing lake, and shaded playgrounds.
Hours: Daily, 6 am–10 pm
Admission: Free
Best for: Ages 3+; fishing and climbing structures suit older kids while younger ones enjoy the splash pad
Nearby eats: Loop 202 shopping and dining nearby—try Famous Dave’s BBQ or local Mexican restaurants.
6. Usery Mountain Regional Park
Why go: A beautiful Sonoran Desert escape with family-friendly trails like the Vista Trail (easy, 0.5 miles) or Wind Cave Trail (moderate, 3 miles) with rewarding views.
Hours: Daily, 6 am–8 pm
Admission: $7 per vehicle
Best for: School-aged kids, tweens, and teens; stroller-friendly trails available
Nearby eats: Red, White & Brew (family-friendly American fare)
- Usery Mountain
7. Organ Stop Pizza
Why go: Dinner and a show—listen to the world’s largest Wurlitzer theatre organ while enjoying pizza, pasta, and salads. Kids love picking songs, and parents enjoy the nostalgia.
Hours: Daily from 5 pm (closed major holidays)
Admission: Free entry, meals $10–$20 per person
Best for: All ages—fun, loud, and entertaining
Nearby eats: Stay for dessert—try the ice cream counter inside!
- Organ Stop Pizza
8. Mesa Arts Center
Why go: A cultural hub offering family-friendly performances, art exhibits, and hands-on workshops. Check their weekend schedule for concerts, plays, and classes.
Hours: Vary by event, Galleries open Tue–Sat 10 am–5 pm; Sun noon–5 pm
Admission: Many exhibits free; performances vary ($10–$30+)
Best for: All ages depending on the event
Nearby eats: Downtown Mesa options like Worth Takeaway or Mangos Mexican Café.
- https://www.mesaartscenter.com/
9. Mesa Historical Museum
Why go: Learn about Mesa’s rich past in a charming Victorian schoolhouse. The Cactus League Experience exhibit is a hit for baseball fans.
Hours: Wednesday–Saturday: 10 am–4 pm (Closed Sun–Tue)
Admission: Adults $7, Seniors $5, Children $4, Kids under 5 free
Best for: Ages 6+ (great for history buffs and sports fans)
Nearby eats: Pete’s Fish & Chips (classic Arizona dining!)
- https://www.mesahistoricalmuseum.com/
10. Arizona Farmers’ Markets & Food Tours
Why go: Support local vendors, taste fresh produce, and enjoy family-friendly community vibes. Food tours in downtown Mesa are also available for adventurous eaters.
Hours: Check local schedules—Downtown Mesa Farmers Market runs Saturdays 8 am–12 pm
Admission: Free entry; bring spending money for treats
Best for: All ages
Nearby eats: The market itself! Fresh tamales, pastries, and coffee stalls.
Check Local Events
Mesa often has special weekend events like outdoor movies, cultural festivals, and food truck gatherings.
Keep an eye out for my blogs and my monthly Mesa updates. My FB page will keep you all updated.
Conclusion
Whether you’re exploring dinosaurs, hiking desert trails, or enjoying a pizza concert, Mesa offers plenty of opportunities to turn “I’m bored” into “That was awesome!”. Best of all, many of these activities are free or budget-friendly. Pack some snacks, round up the kids, and make this weekend one to remember.
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