We love the i.d.e.a. Museum and have been going for years. It's been really fun watching how the experience changes as my kids get older. They've aged out of the soft play areas, but now they can spend hours at the stop motion video station and exploring the newer exhibits. The recycling area is also one of their favorites. It's such a quaint little space and incredibly affordable for what you get. I also love seeing downtown Mesa continue to grow, and the museum feels like a big part of that energy. From a parent perspective, it's really easy to visit. There's ample parking, it's very stroller and diaper bag friendly, and it's a perfect place for a playdate. You can actually have conversations while the kids explore and move between activities. The mural in the courtyard is gorgeous and the puppets are always a hit with my kids. It's one of those places we keep coming back to. read more

IDEA Museum - Children's Museums Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

See all

IDEA museum is such a great little play museum for little kiddos. My son has gone here at age 3 and 4. He loves it every time. They have a bunch of different rooms for older kids to explore- music, crafts, and the middle room always changes with different displays they can play, the other big room has the scarf and air toss, building, crafts, puppet show, ball drop and more. The baby-small toddler room my son still enjoys, it has a big soft middle area, play kitchen, play vet, play theater, a very small enclosed area for babies to crawl around which is great. And another area with magna tiles and other toys like that. I also saw the reading story time area in the back of that. They have a room for eating and also an outside patio which is huge for play and eating. Would recommend to anyone. Very affordable! read more

See all

Great fun for the kids, inside so it's nice and cool for these summer months when your looking for something fun that's not over priced, they do offer membership and work with DES so it's even more affordable for every kid, which I love. My kids have so much fun here to stay entertained for hours, ages 6 going on 7 and 3 going on 4, as well my 1 year old had fun just walking around but he's still young to really understand what is what he was still entertained in his own way haha , I'd say more for 2-10 maybe but more younger age average . read more

See all

I came here with a friend and her toddler and would low-key come back just by myself as an adult. This museum was awesome! For just $12, you can explore all the exhibits which include a variety of sensory activities. Some of my favorites were the wall of tubes that pumped scarves through the tubes with air and the area where you can build your own contraption that enables a ball to roll through a maze of gadgets. We stayed for three hours and got to slowly enjoy each exhibit. They offer noise canceling headphones to minimize overstimulation, and they have a quiet art room where kids can paint away from all the noise. An annual membership costs $100 for two people, and you can put three additional people on the membership for free so others can accompany your child in future visits. No food or drinks are allowed in the exhibits, but there is a snack room for enjoying them and taking a break. For those with limited mobility who accompany children, there are plenty of seating areas in each exhibit. read more

See all

Very mixed reviews by bias adults acting like children (hey. My b) just take your kid here and let them explore. Stand idly by while they "figure out a way" on their own. They can do it. Just have to have more faith/hope. With that being said, I've been to this museum a couple times. It always seems to bring new wonder to me as an adult just trying to learn and grow. Very much worth your time. Please don't hesitate to take your time and share your experiences with your kiddos. They just want a little attention. They're KIDS. (: read more

Amazing place for toddlers and school aged children to learn about science in a fun way, explore their imagination and interact with others. There are soft blocks for building or balancing on, a play kitchen, play vet, barn, magnet wall, Lego station, gear powered musical windmill, lots of art stations to create, a backlight wall, even and outdoor area. read more

See all

An environment of joy for ALL AGES!!! An important aside: Mesa is known for disability inclusivity: the bathroom had plenty of stalls and is accessible, including a full size changing table. There are also headphones throughout the museum for those with sensory sensitivity. IDEA museum is doing an excellent job of fostering an environment of accessibility, celebrating the gifts, talents, and unique attributes of all. The museum did have people in it but it felt like there was plenty of space and plenty to play with. There are many installations celebrating different types of art, and lots of hands on opportunities. Everyone is able to explore their talents and create special pieces which they can take home. And there is lots of opportunity for photos. I highly recommend. read more

See all

I went to this museum last week with my kids, and they absolutely have a great time. The museum has been renovated and reopened a few months ago. They have everything that my kids love to play and they enjoyed it a lot. The museum is not that big like others, but they do have a lot to offer for you to check it out. It's well organized, clean and fun. The staffs are very helpful and very friendly. The members for 4 people only $105 per year and kid under 11 mo this is free. I personally think this museum has a great indoor activity offering with a great price. If you are looking for something different, Come and check it out this fun spot for your kids. You will like it like I do! read more

See all

This is a great place for kids. They can build things, they can draw, and just have fun with their creativity. There is I think something for every kid of any age. It is 10.00 per person and you can spend an hour to probably 3 hours. read more

See all

Worth every penny and then some. Took my 3 nanny boys ages 5,6, and 10. I was afraid it would be too young for the ten year old but it was perfect for all ages! The staff were super friendly and are constantly walking around making sure areas are put together and nice. I also found the bathrooms to be surprisingly clean. The only thing I would love to see them add is more things in the atrium, but even still it's great and would bring more kids! read more

We visited the idea Museum in downtown Mesa this past Saturday with our 6‑year‑old daughter--and it was simply delightful. Thanks to our WIC card, admission was discounted, so the total was cheap for a few hours of pure family fun. The exhibits change regularly, so even though it isn't huge, it's always fresh and exciting. The JoyRide: Art on Wheels exhibit was a hit: pinstriping, skatepark building, LEGO music--you name it. In the idea Lab my little one designed 3D‑printed bugs, made sounds from bricks, and upcycled crafts--all super interactive. The museum is so easy to love with zones like the pretend veterinary clinic, puppet‑show stage, dinosaur dress-up, building sets, and creative expression corners. My daughter was engaged and imaginative the entire time, and we found ourselves laughing and learning right alongside her. The space clearly welcomes younger visitors first: ArtVille is perfect for ages 0-4, and the HUB Gallery offers building, drawing, and STEM‑inspired play. Everything had a playful educational twist. For affordable, high-quality, hands-on family time in Mesa, the idea Museum is a gem. Whether you have little ones or a budding engineer or storyteller, it's a place where creativity and curiosity can really thrive. Highly recommend! read more

Idk how this has a 3.8 rating. This place should get a 5 star just for the fact that all the messes are not happening in my house. Jokes aside- this is a great place for kids to be kids - explore and be creative. I highly recommend checking it out and getting a membership and then you won't feel guilty about going for just a few hours to get the kids out of the house. We love the idea museum. read more

IDEA Museum - Painting room - Children's Museums Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

See all

It was a great place to take our friends that have younger kids. Truly a little bit for everyone, including grown-ups.

My kids absolutely loved this place! While it's not a big building, we were there for almost 3 hours! There are different themes/activities in each room. There's also a fenced in baby area which is such a genius idea. It's such a great place for babies, toddlers, and kids. A lot of the activities are informative and there seems to be a good amount of crafting. Highly recommend this place especially if you have young kids. read more

My children love it ! We go twice a week we did get a membership We do think it is definitely worth it read more

I wish we would of checked out this place sooner! My 2 and 4 year old both loved it. Even I think they had some pretty awesome things! We bought a year pass. Probably one of the most affordable I've seen. We can't wait to go back! read more

If you are a parent with young kids, u always keep in check on all the kids activity places, parks, party places and more. We planned for a play date at idea museum with one of our friends. You can buy the ticket online or can just walk in and buy the tickets. It's the same. I would definitely recommend socks if you want to go enjoy the toddler section. The activities are pretty artistic and fun for the kids. Lot of paper & color based activities and things to do. Kids can easily be entertained for good 2-3 hrs, which is absolutely a win win. We had a good time and there's many things to do. Mostly it's art based and wished, there was more science and playtime to keep the older kids engaged. Otherwise a nice one and absolutely value for money. read more

See all

We absolutely love this place, there is something for everybody here and the parents are even able to get involved. My kids ask to come here daily. read more

Cool little kid museum in downtown Mesa! Our son is still pretty young, almost 10 months old, so I wasn't sure how much there would be to do with him. But I was pleasantly surprised! He loved the little pit with the squishy blocks. Had fun drawling a fish for him too to swim in the projected aquarium! He got in for free but it costs for children 1 yr plus. It was $10 each for adults. I think it was definitely worth it though and we would definitely return, especially when he's a little older and able to explore more of the museum! read more

We got here right at 9am and spent two hours exploring and playing. We could have spent even more! I have two toddlers and we decided to start on the older kid side (and I'm glad we did)! Most people started on the toddler side (socks only, so bring. Socks!) Lots of fun activities for the "older kids": building blocks, coloring, drawing with light, sketching shadows, puppet theatre, tubelox, interactive drawing( you draw and scans/ shows up on the screen), rube Goldberg machine building, music room. The toddler area was more like an indoor play place- lots of different room stations (barn, vet, grocery store/restaurant, theater, arts &crafts, library, RV to drive, I would go back! The pricing was about right- 10$ per person. If it gets busy it's less fun/ more chaotic but we had a good time! read more

I visited with my 4 year old autistic son. We had a wonderful time. The museum is perfectly layed out, with several activities that wncourage exploration, artistic expression and experimentation. I was very pleased to see mufflers available for anyone experiencing sensory overload (wich my son did at one point). The staff was exceedingly helpful and the space was consistently kept neat and tidy. What a jewel place is! read more

Such an awesome year round experience for everyone. Hours worth of play and crafting inside in the summer and a huge enclosed outdoor space in the cooler months. My kids never get sick of going. Some days we spend hours in just one gallery area. Super worth the membership. read more

IDEA Museum - Children's Museums Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

I love it here such a fun and cool indoor place for the kiddos. It's newly been remodeled and it's so beautiful. My 3 year old always asked to come at least once a week. Definitely would make more trips if it was closer! read more

The IDEA Museum has a lot of hands-on activities going on for kids of all ages! We went with family and several kids ranging in age. The one year old didn't really understand what was going on but the kids a few years older absolutely loved the different things they could do! We will come back when the baby gets older in a few years. read more

See all

We love the IDEA Museum as a family! Always so many interactive exhibits for all ages. We enjoy how often they change things out so it's well worth the yearly pass. My three year old ask to go every other day. My nine year old loves it as well. read more

See all

This place is fantastic for kids 1 to 4 years old and good for 5-6 year olds. Their website says up to 12 and I do not believe that is true. My son is 6 and he only really enjoys the engineering/art area. My younger kids love gated play area. Older kids kind of ruin the vibe in the gate off play area, so I'm not a fan of bringing my oldest when I'm by myself. Some parents do not watch their kids and they get rough, so watch your littles in the play area. Staff seems neurotic as many still wear masks and one lady is masked and gloved. My kid was walking toward her and she seemed annoyed. Like why are you working here if you're that nervous of germs!? Overall we spend about 2 hours here when we go. People complain that adults have to pay too, and I just see it as if adults didn't pay, then price would go up to $15 or higher per kid. Membership has been worth it for us. I would recommend it for families with little kids aged 6 or under. read more

We had a great time here with our kids. $9 for all day - can't beat that! Kid friendly, plenty of activities, and all ages can enjoy. Highly recommend to bring kids here to spark their imagination! read more

IDEA Museum - Chalk wall - Children's Museums Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

See all

This museum has so many inclusive activities to keep kids engaged. They've even got a side that looks like crayola land. Super fun for kids & if you have an active ebt card receive a discount! read more

IDEA Museum - Children's Museums Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

Absolutely positively fantastic! I took my 2 year old grandson there and he was sooooo happy! The staff did Anne job keeping babies and toddlers separate from the 2 and 3 year olds. I wish we had the same museum in Los Angeles! read more

Great little place for little artists. Lots of fun things to do. It's mostly artsy so not a lot of climbing around or anything. There are lots of little things to keep kids entertained. read more

A little disappointed that they let older kids in the toddler area. A lot of rough housing and running the younger kids over. Apparently, parents nor the employees care what the older kids do. I took my 17mos granddaughter there. At first she loved it, then one older child about 5ish, strong hold Her and threw her on the ground. Then about 2 minutes later that same girl ran up to my granddaughter and pushed her down. The mother didn't do anything about it and said kids will be kids. BS. This place is supposed to be for 4 and under. The next day when I took my granddaughter there again, there was about 8 older kids there taking over all the whole area. My granddaughter got knocked over several times. I talked to the employee and they wouldn't do anything about it and said they don't enforce the policies and the older kids being in the toddler area. I'm afraid to take her there anymore. read more

This is a great museum to visit with young kids. They have a variety of activities and art projects thoughtfully set up and plenty of space to run around. The Artville section of the museum is a fun play area that's engaging for growing imaginations and there's lots of padded and soft spaces for even the littlest ones to crawl or roll around. read more

IDEA Museum - Idea museum - Children's Museums Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

Had a great time with my toddler ! Great way to socialize for him and lots of things to do on the toddler side

Took my son to the idea museum for the first time. Great place for younger children/toddlers. Entry fee isn't a bad price but can add up for multiple adults. They do have good membership deals if you live in the area. I kind of wish there wasn't a fee for adults since there is nothing exciting for adults to look at or maybe just a fee for 1 adult accompanying a child. We basically paid $30 just to watch my 1 year old play which was pricey. The facility itself was well put together and was clean. The staff was friendly as well. The bathrooms were clean and they even have a really nice mother's room with changing station. My son is 1 so it was nice having a museum with so many things he can do his age. We played in artville for awhile. This is a large indoor area for ages 0-4. It is a socks only zone for both adults and children. It is kinda of like a fancier unique gym/play area. There is multiple different areas/corners to rotate between of new play areas for the kids. My son loved exploring this area especially the huge light bright board. Make sure to bring your hand sanitizer wipes cause with the toddler area, as you would aspect, lots of toys go in mouth which can't be avoided. But of course there are the parents that don't care and bring their sick kids here which I witnessed and that's not on the business but come on... have some common sense/respect parents! Overall I still think it was a great place for toddlers. I would recommend to go in the morning during the work week if possible when it's not as busy. Don't forget your socks, and sanitizer. read more

See all

We had a good time here. My son enjoyed the different crafting tables. We probably spent a good 1.5 hours here.

My kids are 2 & 7 and we had a blast. The museum offers tons of activities and stations. We came on a day my daughter had a half day of school so we only had 2 hours to explore and play. We could have gotten another hour worth in. For $9 you can't beat it. We will definitely be back. read more

They rotate the art here. They also have different activities now and then. I like that they had a Totoro event there at one point. They also had a mural of butterflies. There were lots of kids there as it is a play e for children's art. When I first entered, it was an empty foyer. Once I got further in the building, on the left was the kids' activity area. They had different activities for kids to do. I think this place can be fun for the kids' parents, but it is more for kids than adults. You should check what art they are showing online before going. I think it changes what's there maybe every two or three months or so. read more

Took my daughter and although she is still young for most of the activities we had a great time!! Great way to escape the heat!

Had a fun day with my grand daughter. Supplies for art projects were very used and need to be replaced.

We went to the IDEA museum to see their Junk Yard Jungle exhibit. It was amazing! Artists constructed works out of basically - junk! They were so well done and creative. It was a delight to see each different interpretation of how to utilize throw away items and make them into beautiful works of art. We were enamored by both the creativity and skill of each artist. Well worth the $9 entry fee. We were two adults with art interests so we didn't partake in all of the kid activities. I can see where it would be a great place for families to come and get some hands on interaction with all of the engaging options that they offer. It was relatively clean for a kid friendly place. A fun time! read more

IDEA Museum - Children's Museums Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

See all