idea Museum: Sparking Creativity in Mesa
Ignite your imagination at the idea Museum in Mesa, where art, science, and creativity come together for family fun.
The idea Museum in Mesa, Arizona, ignites children's imaginations through art and STEAM-focused activities. With hands-on exhibits and a commitment to early learning, it's a vibrant space for families to explore and create together.
A brief summary to idea Museum
- 150 W Pepper Pl, Mesa, Downtown Mesa, Arizona, 85201, US
- +1480-644-2468
- Visit website
- 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
- Check the museum's website for current exhibitions and events before your visit to plan your day.
- Visit during off-peak hours (weekdays or Sunday afternoons) for a less crowded experience.
- Take advantage of the free parking available in the lots next to the museum.
- Consider becoming a member for free admission and other benefits if you plan to visit frequently.
- No food or drinks are allowed in the galleries, but you can enjoy them in the Snackery and outdoor Atrium.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
The idea Museum is accessible via Valley Metro Rail and bus services. From the Center/Main St. light rail station, the museum is a short walk. Several bus routes, including the 40, serve the area. Check Valley Metro schedules for the most up-to-date information. A single ride on the light rail or bus costs $2.
-
Walking
The idea Museum is located in downtown Mesa, making it easily accessible on foot from nearby attractions and parking areas. From the Mesa Arts Center, walk north on Center Street, then turn right onto Pepper Place. The museum will be on your left. Several free parking lots are available within a short walking distance. Be aware of the Arizona heat and bring water.
-
Driving
If driving, the idea Museum is located at 150 W Pepper Pl, Mesa, AZ 85201. From Highway 60, exit at Country Club Drive and head north. Turn right onto 1st Street, then turn right onto Robson Street, and the museum will be on your right. Free parking is available in the lots adjacent to the museum. Additional parking is available at the corner of Macdonald and Pepper Place, and at the City of Mesa parking lot on the corner of Macdonald and First Street.
Discover more about idea Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Post
0.2 km
Discover Mesa's historic charm at The Post, a beautifully renovated landmark offering a unique event space in the heart of downtown.
Visit Mesa
0.3 km
Your adventure starts here! Discover Mesa's attractions, events, and desert landscapes. Plan your unforgettable Arizona getaway with Visit Mesa.
Plaza at Mesa City Center
0.6 km
A vibrant downtown Mesa hub for events, recreation, and community connection, featuring a seasonal ice rink and interactive water feature.
Alston House
1.0 km
Visit the Alston House in Mesa, AZ: Honoring Dr. Lucius Alston's legacy of healing, equality, and community service in a beautifully preserved landmark.
Mesa Arizona Temple
1.6 km
Discover a landmark of faith and community in Mesa, Arizona, with stunning architecture, rich history, and beautiful gardens open to all.
The Pink Teapot
6.6 km
Enchanting tea parties and magical events in Gilbert, Arizona, perfect for princess birthdays, showers, and celebrations.
Toasted Mallow
6.8 km
Indulge in gourmet marshmallows and unique dessert creations at Toasted Mallow, a sweet escape in Gilbert, Arizona. A must-visit for marshmallow lovers!
Cluemaster Escape Rooms
6.8 km
Experience immersive escape room adventures with diverse themes and adjustable difficulty at Gilbert's Cluemaster Escape Rooms. Perfect for all skill levels.
Apache Park Rock Circle
7.3 km
Explore Apache Park Rock Circle in Scottsdale, AZ: A historical landmark with Native American heritage amidst stunning desert scenery.
Altitude Trampoline Park Gilbert
7.5 km
Experience high-flying fun at Altitude Trampoline Park Gilbert, with trampolines, ninja courses, and more for all ages!
Level 1 Arcade Bar
7.9 km
Relive the golden age of gaming at Level 1 Arcade Bar, featuring classic arcade games, pinball, and a retro vibe in Gilbert, Arizona.
Fifth Estate Tattoo
7.9 km
Gilbert's premier tattoo shop offering custom designs, expert piercings, and a commitment to quality in a comfortable, modern setting.
Clever Koi
7.9 km
Experience innovative Asian cuisine and craft cocktails in a modern, vibrant setting at Clever Koi in Gilbert's historic downtown.
Barrio Queen
7.9 km
Experience authentic Mexico City soul food and craft cocktails in the heart of Gilbert's vibrant downtown scene.
Culinary Dropout
8.0 km
Gilbert's Culinary Dropout: Live music, craft drinks, and American comfort food in a vibrant Heritage District gastropub.
Unmissable attractions to see
i.d.e.a. Museum
0.0 km
Discover the world of creativity and learning at the i.d.e.a. Museum in Mesa, AZ, a perfect family-friendly destination packed with interactive exhibits.
The Neighborhood Comedy Theatre
0.2 km
Discover The Neighborhood Comedy Theatre in Mesa, Arizona - a hub of laughter featuring improv, stand-up, and workshops for all ages.
Arizona Museum of Natural History
0.2 km
Discover Arizona's natural history and vibrant cultural heritage at the Arizona Museum of Natural History, a captivating museum in Mesa.
2nd friday night out
0.3 km
Join the vibrant 2nd Friday Night Out festival in Downtown Mesa, where art, music, and community converge for an unforgettable cultural experience.
Woman’s Club of Mesa
0.4 km
Discover the charm and history of the Woman's Club of Mesa, a historic banquet hall in Downtown Mesa, Arizona, perfect for cultural experiences.
City of Mesa City Limits
0.5 km
Explore Mesa, Arizona: A vibrant city blending rich history with modern attractions and outdoor adventures in the heart of the Sonoran Desert.
Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant world of contemporary art at Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum in Downtown Mesa, Arizona, a hub of creativity and cultural expression.
Mesa Arts Center
0.6 km
Explore the cultural heartbeat of Mesa at the Mesa Arts Center, a vibrant destination for art, performance, and community events.
Mesa Amphitheatre
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant Mesa Amphitheatre, a premier outdoor venue in Arizona, hosting an array of concerts and cultural events throughout the year.
Mesa Arizona Temple Visitors' Center
1.4 km
Explore the Mesa Arizona Temple Visitors' Center for a unique blend of spirituality, culture, and history in the heart of Arizona.
Pioneer Park
1.5 km
Explore Pioneer Park, a stunning family-friendly park in Mesa, Arizona, featuring play structures, picnic areas, and scenic walking paths.
Mesa Grande Cultural Park
2.0 km
Explore the Mesa Grande Cultural Park, a historical landmark showcasing the ancient Hohokam civilization's rich heritage in the heart of Arizona.
Golfland Sunsplash
3.2 km
Discover endless fun at Golfland Sunsplash, the ultimate amusement park in Mesa, Arizona, featuring thrilling rides, water attractions, and exciting games.
Park of Canals
3.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of the Park of Canals in Mesa, Arizona - a perfect blend of nature, recreation, and community charm.
Riverview Park
3.9 km
Discover the beauty and recreational opportunities at Riverview Park, a family-friendly oasis in the heart of Mesa, Arizona.
Essential places to dine
Izakaya Ramen
0.2 km
Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Izakaya Ramen in Downtown Mesa - where every bowl tells a story.
Worth Takeaway
0.2 km
Discover unique sandwiches and refreshing drinks at Worth Takeaway in Downtown Mesa - where flavor meets community.
Espiritu Mesa
0.2 km
Experience the finest seafood in Downtown Mesa at Espiritu Mesa – where fresh meets flavor in every dish.
il Vinaio
0.3 km
Experience exceptional dining at il Vinaio in Downtown Mesa—where great food meets fine wine in an inviting atmosphere.
Mangos Mexican Cafe
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Mangos Mexican Cafe in Downtown Mesa—an affordable dining gem serving delicious authentic cuisine.
12 West Brewing - Downtown Mesa
0.4 km
Savor unique brews and delectable bites at 12 West Brewing - your ultimate destination for craft beer in Downtown Mesa.
Margaritas Fresh Cocina
0.4 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Margaritas Fresh Cocina in Downtown Mesa – where every dish is crafted with fresh ingredients and passion.
Nunthaporn's Thai Cuisine
0.4 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine in Downtown Mesa with a diverse menu that includes vegan and vegetarian delights at Nunthaporn's Thai Cuisine.
The Original Blue Adobe Grille
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at The Original Blue Adobe Grille in Mesa – where every dish tells a story.
Downtown Rendezvous
0.5 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Downtown Rendezvous - where fast food meets gourmet sandwiches in vibrant Downtown Mesa.
República Empanada Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience authentic Latin American cuisine at República Empanada Restaurant in Downtown Mesa - where every bite tells a story.
Green Corner Restaurant
3.0 km
Discover authentic Mediterranean cuisine at Green Corner Restaurant in Mesa - where every dish tells a story of flavor.
Crackers & Co. Cafe
3.7 km
Discover the flavors of traditional American breakfast at Crackers & Co. Cafe in Mesa, AZ - where every meal is made with love.
Organ Stop Pizza
3.7 km
Discover the joy of delicious pizza accompanied by captivating live organ music at Organ Stop Pizza in Mesa, Arizona.
Best Hong Kong Dining
4.4 km
Discover the rich flavors of China at Best Hong Kong Dining in Mesa - where every bite tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Boutique
0.1 km
Explore The Boutique in Downtown Mesa for a unique shopping experience filled with trendy clothing and accessories reflecting the local culture.
Meat Market Vintage Goods
0.1 km
Explore unique fashion finds at Meat Market Vintage Goods in Downtown Mesa, AZ, where nostalgia meets style in a charming vintage clothing store.
Barrel + Bloom
0.2 km
Explore Barrel + Bloom: A charming home goods store in Downtown Mesa, Arizona, offering unique décor and local artisan products.
Buckhorn Vintage
0.2 km
Explore unique antiques and vintage finds at Buckhorn Vintage in Downtown Mesa, Arizona – your destination for timeless treasures.
Old Brick House Market
0.2 km
Explore Old Brick House Market in Downtown Mesa for a unique selection of antique treasures, vintage furniture, and charming home goods.
History By George
0.2 km
Discover unique antiques, coins, and stamps at History By George, a treasure trove for collectors in Downtown Mesa, Arizona.
Just Because Gift Shop
0.3 km
Explore a charming gift shop in Downtown Mesa, featuring unique Arizona souvenirs and local artisan crafts to treasure your visit.
Nash Vintage Collective / NV Collective
0.3 km
Explore Nash Vintage Collective in Downtown Mesa, where vintage clothing meets unique home goods and captivating rock specimens in a charming setting.
Book Gallery
0.3 km
Explore the Book Gallery in Downtown Mesa - a literary treasure trove of rare and used books in a cozy atmosphere.
MARZ Boutique
0.5 km
Explore MARZ Boutique in Mesa, AZ for unique fashion finds, stylish accessories, and personalized beauty services that cater to every taste.
The Store at Mesa Arts Center
0.5 km
Explore local artistry at The Store at Mesa Arts Center, an inspiring destination in downtown Mesa, Arizona, showcasing unique handmade crafts and artworks.
Balistic Boutique
1.3 km
Explore Balistic Boutique in Mesa, Arizona for handmade treasures, unique fashion, and local artisan crafts that showcase the spirit of the Southwest.
Mesa Thrift Store
1.6 km
Explore Mesa Thrift Store: Uncover unique treasures in a sustainable shopping haven in the heart of Mesa, Arizona.
Stuff Thrift Store
2.8 km
Explore unique finds at Stuff Thrift Store in Mesa, Arizona, where every purchase supports a great cause and sustainable shopping.
Adami Dolls Boutique / Clothing Shoes Accessories Store
2.9 km
Explore the stylish selection at Adami Dolls Boutique, Mesa's premier women's clothing destination for unique apparel and accessories.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Chupacabra Taproom
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant craft beer scene in Downtown Mesa at Chupacabra Taproom, your go-to spot for local brews and a lively atmosphere.
Arizona Distilling Co.
0.2 km
Discover the art of distillation and enjoy craft cocktails at Arizona Distilling Co. in the heart of Downtown Mesa.
Rebel Wine Lounge
0.2 km
Experience the best of wine and gourmet delights at Rebel Wine Lounge, a top destination in Downtown Mesa, Arizona.
B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade
0.2 km
Experience the ultimate fusion of craft beer and retro gaming at B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade in Downtown Mesa, where fun and flavor come together.
Alchemy 48
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails at Alchemy 48, a top bar and lounge in Downtown Mesa, Arizona.
Florentino Room Cocktails
0.3 km
Discover the exquisite cocktail experience at Florentino Room Cocktails in Downtown Mesa, where artistry meets flavor in a vibrant bar atmosphere.
Diamond's Sports Grille
0.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and exciting sports at Diamond's Sports Grille in Downtown Mesa.
Wicked Rain
6.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique craft beers at Wicked Rain, Gilbert's premier bar destination for locals and tourists.
Peacock Wine & Book Bar
6.3 km
Explore the perfect blend of wine and literature at Peacock Wine & Book Bar, a unique destination in Gilbert, AZ for relaxation and enjoyment.
Bar Louie - Tempe Marketplace
6.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and delicious American cuisine at Bar Louie - Tempe Marketplace, your go-to grill and bar for every occasion.
Tempe Tavern
6.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grilled cuisine at Tempe Tavern, a top pub in the heart of Tempe, Arizona.
Catching Flights Bar and Grille
7.6 km
Experience the ultimate sports bar atmosphere at Catching Flights Bar and Grille, featuring delicious American cuisine, live music, and a vibrant community spirit.
Roosters Country
8.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Roosters Country, Mesa's top bar and live music venue, where comfort food meets unforgettable entertainment.
Champions Sports Saloon
8.2 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience at Champions Sports Saloon, where excitement meets great food and drinks in Gilbert, Arizona.
Devil's Advocate Sports Grill
8.2 km
Discover Devil's Advocate Sports Grill: Tempe's ultimate sports bar and gastropub, where great food meets an electrifying atmosphere.
