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idea Museum: Sparking Creativity in Mesa

Ignite your imagination at Mesa's idea Museum! Explore art, design, and hands-on exhibits for a fun family experience.

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The idea Museum in Mesa, Arizona, is a vibrant and engaging space dedicated to igniting the imaginations of children and families through art, science, and hands-on learning experiences. With interactive exhibits and a focus on creativity, it's a must-visit destination for young minds.

A brief summary to idea Museum

  • Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Allow at least 90 minutes to two hours to fully experience the museum's exhibits and activities.
  • Check the museum's website for current exhibitions and special events before your visit.
  • The museum is closed on Mondays and most major holidays.
  • Several kid-friendly restaurants are within walking distance of the museum.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The idea Museum is accessible via Valley Metro Rail. Take the light rail to the Center/Main St station. From there, walk north on Center St, then turn left onto Pepper Pl. The museum will be on your right. A single ride fare on Valley Metro Rail is $2.00.

  • Walking

    From the Mesa Arts Center, walk east on Main St, then turn right onto Robson. Turn left onto Pepper Pl, and the idea Museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. There are no costs involved.

  • Driving

    The idea Museum is located at 150 W Pepper Pl, Mesa, AZ 85201. Several free public parking lots are located next to the facility, as well as numerous street parking spaces. Additional parking is available at the lot on the corner of Macdonald and Pepper Place, as well as the City of Mesa parking lot on the corner of Macdonald and First Street. Parking garages are free daily after 5pm on weekdays and all day on weekends.

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Discover more about idea Museum

The idea Museum, located in downtown Mesa, Arizona, is a dynamic museum that inspires children of all ages to experience their world differently through art, creativity, and imagination. Formerly known as the Arizona Museum for Youth, which opened in 1980, it was the only children's museum in the United States at the time with a dedicated focus on fine art. In 2014, the museum was renamed the i.d.e.a. Museum, an acronym standing for imagination, design, experience, and art, to reflect its expanding mission and interdisciplinary approach. In 2024, the museum refreshed its brand once again, evolving to the simplified idea Museum. The museum offers hands-on activities and art exhibitions designed for kids of all ages. The museum's exhibits and programs are developed not only for children but also for the whole family. Visitors can explore a variety of changing exhibitions each year, as well as ArtVille, an art-town designed for children ages 0-4. The HUB Gallery is designed for diverse activities, leading explorers to their own imagination. The museum also offers a variety of art classes, workshops, and family programs to teach art principles and techniques. The Whiteman Family Exhibition Gallery presents three fun, educational, hands-on art exhibitions each year. The museum's mission is to inspire children of all ages to experience their world differently through art, creativity, and imagination. Currently, the idea Museum is showcasing "JoyRide: Art on Wheels," a hands-on, immersive experience celebrating the mechanics, artistry, and creativity of wheels in all forms. Highlights include Pinstripe a Lowrider, Build Your Own Skatepark, and a LEGO Printing Press.

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