Today, we’re checking out the idea Museum in Mesa!
The museum just reopened after a 3 month break during which they installed a brand-new exhibit and completed some renovations to the facilities.
Keep reading for all the tips and tricks to make the most of your next visit!
XO,
What is the idea Museum?
The museum is a space for kids of all ages to enjoy hands-on activities that help them nurture their creativity and allow room for exploration and discovery of art in many forms. It is located in the heart of Downtown Mesa.
What ages is the museum suitable for?
While the museum will appeal to kids of all ages, the best part of its layout is that there is a separate area for younger children to explore. ArtVille is a space designed for children 0-4 and has baby and toddler friendly toys and activities. Soft play building blocks, a pretend kitchen, veterinarian sets and interactive toys are perfect for the younger ones to enjoy without being in the way of older children.
Within ArtVille is an art studio that has age-appropriate activities ranging from kinetic sand to paint and coloring.
Older siblings are allowed in ArtVille while supervised by their parents but may be asked to leave the area if they are playing too rough for the little ones.
What activities can kids do at the museum?
Every area of the museum has a variety of crafts and artistic activities for kids to try. A favorite for kids of all ages is the live ocean scene where kids can color their own sea creatures and scan them into the projected image of the ocean. It’s so fun seeing their creations literally come to life on the screen.
There is one big art studio in the museum’s main exhibit area that has rotating activities for guests to try at their own pace. The craft can vary but all directions and supplies are provided so anyone can participate.
Other small stations throughout the museum feature puppet making, mosaics, painting, dry erase boards and chalkboards. There is also a glow in the dark chalk wall that always gets the little ones excited.
What is the new exhibit all about?
The “Joy Ride Art on Wheels” exhibit is an immersive experience celebrating wheels in all forms through hands-on creativity. One of the exhibit’s main features is a Volkswagen Beetle decked out in colorful decorations. Kids (and adults) are welcome to create their own decorations and attach them with magnets to the car. This was a big hit among kids of all ages!
Other exhibit highlights include a skateboard Lego board for kids to build on, a car themed reading area with a variety of books and a stationary play truck for kids to drive.
Throughout the exhibit there are several sculptures and art pieces highlighting the theme and featuring local artists.
What is the cost?
Admission to the idea Museum is $10 a person for ages 1 and older. There are also a few membership options that range in price from $70-$190 a year.
Museum hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays. It is closed on Mondays and most major holidays.
Tips and Tricks:
Allow yourself and your kids enough time to take in the space! You can easily spend a couple of hours trying out all of the activities, so make sure you plan to be there long enough to do everything you want.- Food can be eaten in the cafeteria area or the outdoor atrium, so feel free to pack a snack.
- Follow your child’s lead. The one thing about an immersive and hands-on museum is that it can be pretty stimulating with all the colors and objects in addition to the activities. So, I’d go in with no expectations and let your kids lead the way with what they want to do and see what they enjoy!
