Mesa, Arizona, is a popular tourist destination located in the Sonoran Desert. It’s known for its warm climate, scenic beauty, and outdoor activities. However, the summer months in Mesa can be quite hot, with temperatures reaching upwards of 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This can make it challenging to find family-friendly activities that keep everyone cool and comfortable. Fortunately, there are many options for families to enjoy in Mesa, including indoor activities, water parks, and other attractions.
Here are some of the best family destinations in Mesa, AZ, to stay cool:
Golfland Sunsplash
Golfland Sunsplash is a water park and amusement park located in Mesa. It features over 30 water rides, slides, and attractions, including a wave pool, lazy river, and several high-speed slides. The park also has a mini-golf course, arcade, and bumper boats. There are plenty of areas for families to relax and cool off during hot summer days, and the park offers various food and drink options. Additionally, the park has a range of admission options, including daily passes, season passes, and combo passes that include both the water park and the amusement park.
Mesa Aquatic Center
The Mesa Aquatic Center is a state-of-the-art facility that offers a range of indoor and outdoor aquatic activities. The indoor area has three pools, including a diving pool, lap pool, and therapy pool. There’s also a splash pad and play area for young children. The outdoor area has a large leisure pool, water slides, and a lazy river. The center offers swimming lessons, fitness classes, and aquatic sports programs. Admission fees vary depending on the time of day and the age of guests, but the center does offer discounts for families and groups.
Arizona Museum of Natural History
If you’re looking for an indoor activity that’s both educational and entertaining, the Arizona Museum of Natural History is a great option. The museum has a range of exhibits that showcase the natural history and cultural heritage of Arizona. Families can explore the giant dinosaur exhibit, learn about the ancient Hohokam people who once lived in the area, and see artifacts from Arizona’s mining and railroad history. The museum also offers interactive exhibits and activities for children, including a simulated archaeological dig and a cave exploration experience. Admission fees are reasonable, and the museum is open daily except for major holidays.
Mesa Grande Cultural Park
Mesa Grande Cultural Park is an outdoor park that features a 1,000-year-old Hohokam platform mound. The park offers guided tours where families can learn about the history of the Hohokam people and see the ruins of their ancient civilization. There are also picnic areas and a playground for children. The park is open daily, and there is no admission fee.
Hohokam Stadium
For sports-loving families, Hohokam Stadium is a great place to stay cool while catching a baseball game. The stadium is the spring training home of the Oakland Athletics and is known for its beautiful architecture and excellent views of the game. The stadium has a capacity of over 10,000, and there are plenty of shaded areas to stay cool during hot summer days. The stadium also hosts various events and concerts throughout the year.
Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum
The Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum is a great place for families who love aviation history. The museum has a collection of over 50 vintage aircraft, including World War II planes and helicopters. Families can explore the cockpit of a fighter jet, see flight simulators, and learn about the history of aviation. The museum also offers plane rides and other special events throughout the year. Admission fees are reasonable, and the museum is open daily except for major holidays.
Rose Garden at Mesa Community College
The Rose Garden at Mesa Community College is a beautiful outdoor space that’s perfect for families who love nature and gardening. The garden has over 9,000 rose bushes of over 300 different varieties. Families can take a leisurely stroll through the garden, stop for a picnic at one of the many benches, or attend one of the garden’s special events, such as the annual Rose Festival. The garden is free to visit and is open every day of the year.
Mesa Market Place Swap Meet
For families who love shopping and browsing, the Mesa Market Place Swap Meet is a great destination. The swap meet features over 1,600 vendor spaces that sell everything from clothing to home decor to antiques. There’s also a food court with a range of dining options, including Mexican, Italian, and American cuisine. The swap meet is open Friday through Sunday from October to April and is free to enter.