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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Mesa

Interesting fun activities

You have no patience for boring outings and only seek out activities that offer something genuinely unique.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Arizona Museum of Natural History image 1
Arizona Museum of Natural History image 2
Arizona Museum of Natural History image 3
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Natural history museum

Museum offers three levels of exhibits with life-size dinosaur skeletons and an interactive gold panning zone. Atmosphere feels nostalgic and immersive, welcoming families with children who enjoy hands-on activities and play areas. Older design adds unique character, while spaces remain clean and accessible.

Hands-on activities like panning for gold offer interactive fun. Exhibits include fossils, native art, and interactive displays that engage all ages.

Displays include dinosaur bones, fossils, and artifacts showing recent history like incarceration. Exhibits cover a wide range of interesting history and natural science.

People are saying

"I loved the dinosaur exhibits and all the fossils."

"It's a blast for kids with awesome hands-on activities."

"The exhibits here are really interesting, with lots to see."

Good to know

1

Kids under three get free admission, making it family-friendly.

2

The museum lacks a designated eating area, so plan snacks accordingly.

3

Getting there early is recommended to avoid crowds, especially in outdoor areas.

02
Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum image 1

Museum features restored WWII planes including a flyable B-17G bomber that visitors can explore inside. Atmosphere evokes 1940s military aviation history with spacious hangars and exhibits allowing close interaction. Offers flight experiences and tours, blending education with hands-on engagement.

Climbing into some of the planes offers a super fun and exciting experience. The trip provides fun activities at a very reasonable cost.

Many planes and exhibits from World War I and II fill the museum. Well-done displays, interesting artifacts, and engines add depth. Personal stories about service make the experience more engaging.

People are saying

"You'll love the aviation museum's restored WWII planes."

"The volunteers at these historical sites are so knowledgeable and passionate."

"Getting up close to the planes and vehicles was a highlight."

Good to know

1

Visitors can pay to book a flight on some of the planes.

2

Guided tours run constantly.

3

On certain days, there are helicopter shows where visitors can climb inside.

03
Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum image 1

Small art museum features modern architecture with most structure outdoors and quiet atmosphere inside. Exhibits rotate frequently, showcasing local and national artists across several galleries. Surrounding gardens and accessible design enhance the creative and welcoming vibe.

Regular updates keep exhibits fresh and interesting. The museum is small but offers a fun experience that makes walking through it enjoyable.

Exhibit receptions bring a fun and engaging atmosphere. The installation by the stairs on the street level stands out as a well-curated and intriguing feature.

People are saying

"The art exhibits here are free to visit."

"I found the experience to be so much fun."

"I found this place really interesting and free."

Good to know

1

The museum offers free admission, making it accessible to everyone.

2

Exhibits change every couple of months, so check back often for new art.

3

There is plenty of free parking available behind the museum.

04
Mesa Market Place Swap Meet image 1

Massive covered market with four rows of booths offers a relaxed vibe and live music including jazz guitar and Mariachi bands. Free parking and entry support a diverse crowd browsing 1,600 stalls selling everything from food to artwork. Open-air design allows breeze while protecting from sun and rain.

Hundreds of vendors offer unique merchandise and many little prizes in their tents. Live music and food courts add to the fun atmosphere while walking through many cute shops.

Many interesting shops offer a wide range of items from clothing to Mexican decorations and furniture. Vendors sell varied merchandise including souvenirs, kitchen goods, food, gems, and rocks, making it a place full of unique finds.

People are saying

"It's a fun place to shop with tons of different vendors."

"I found so many unique items, from artisan crafts to vintage clothes."

"I found so many interesting items and varied merchandise here."

Good to know

1

Entry and parking at the swap meet are free.

2

The swap meet is only open on weekends.

3

Bring cash as many vendors do not accept cards.

05
Call it New / Call it Antique - Mesa, AZ image 1

Huge space filled with many booths offers an eclectic mix of antiques, collectibles, and vintage items. Atmosphere feels like a nostalgic time capsule with a welcoming vibe and plenty to explore. Visitors find it fun to browse through unique pieces from different eras.

Many fun activities revolve around browsing a wide variety of treasures and deals. The place offers a chance to time travel to the past with its unique finds.

Exploring reveals a mix of interesting and cool items at mostly affordable prices. The presence of some overpriced pieces adds an unexpected twist to the experience.

People are saying

"It's a fun place to spend hours exploring for unique finds."

"I found this thrift store to be a treasure trove of unique vintage finds."

"It's an interesting place with a huge variety of unique, nostalgic items."

Good to know

1

The store features a vast selection of antiques, collectibles, and vintage items.

2

Prices are generally lower than other antique shops, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

Many vendors offer sales, providing opportunities for great bargains.

06
Mesa Arts Center image 1

Small, intimate venue with great acoustics and comfortable seating offers an elegant, inviting atmosphere. Beautifully designed spaces provide excellent views from every seat and support a variety of artistic experiences including live performances and community classes.

Affordable and fun art classes like glass blowing let people create unique items. The venue hosts family-friendly festivals, fun shows, and group walks, making it a lively spot for various activities.

Events and classes offer a diverse range that appeals to all ages. Art displays focus on contemporary styles that keep the experience fresh and engaging.

People are saying

"The staff at the Performing Arts venue were so helpful and cheerful."

"I found the shadow walk and art classes to be great fun."

"The children's clay classes are so interesting with a new project daily."

Good to know

1

Parking is available across the street from the main entrance and is free.

2

I found plenty of ADA seating available at Mesa Arts Center.

3

I attended the ballet Cinderella performed by the World Ballet Company.

07
Mesa Historical Museum image 1

Small museum with several rooms featuring baseball memorabilia, Native American artifacts, and a replica one-room schoolhouse. Quiet and relaxed atmosphere invites slow exploration of local history and culture. Exhibits focus heavily on Mesa's Spring Training and regional heritage.

Events like Cat Fest and family-friendly activities create a fun atmosphere. The museum offers engaging experiences that make spending time together enjoyable.

Small museum with interesting exhibits on bison, a local woman known for cat art, and the Cactus League. The school house display adds a unique touch to the history presented.

People are saying

"The exhibits on baseball and local history are really interesting."

"This local spot has interesting exhibits on bison and the Cactus League."

"I found the Cat Fest to be a fun activity for my family."

Good to know

1

Admission to the museum is reasonably priced, making it accessible for families.

2

The Cat Festival features booths with cats and kittens available for adoption.

3

Parking is limited, so arrive early for events to secure a spot.

08
Mekong Supermarket image 1
Asian grocery store

Huge Asian grocery store with live seafood tanks and a diverse food court featuring multiple cuisines. Bright, clean space with wide aisles and a cultural atmosphere that feels like being in East Asia. Offers unique amenities like massage services and specialty shops alongside fresh produce and seafood.

Lots of fun things to see and try keep the experience lively. A gift shop and bakery add extra enjoyment for families.

Items come from all over the world offering a diverse selection. Food options include interesting and very good dishes.

People are saying

"I found this grocery store to have a wonderful selection of Asian products."

"There are so many fun things to do and great food options here."

"I found the array of food items really interesting."

Good to know

1

They can clean and fry the fish for you for less than $2.

2

Mekong Supermarket has a wide selection of fresh produce and seafood.

3

The restaurant in the back serves authentic Chinese food.

09
American Discount Foods image 1

Massive grocery store with Christian music soundtrack and a fun prize wheel for savings creates a lively atmosphere. Busy and well-organized space offers discounted food near expiration alongside unique items not found elsewhere. Special sections include an extensive frozen food area and a dedicated meats section.

Hunting for deals offers a fun and ever-changing variety of items at low discount prices. Spinning the wheel at checkout adds an extra layer of interactive fun to the shopping experience.

Shopping offers an interesting selection of goods with products not commonly found elsewhere. The overall experience feels unique and engaging.

People are saying

"You can save a significant amount of money on groceries here."

"I found name-brand foods at significantly discounted prices here."

"I found incredible savings on food and home items here."

Good to know

1

Certain days of the week offer additional savings for veterans or seniors.

2

If I spent over $50, I could spin their wheel for money off my next visit.

3

The food sold at American Discount Foods is discounted because it has or is near expiration.

10
Main Street Antique Mall image 1

Large indoor space filled with well-lit, organized vendor booths showcasing vintage decor, collectibles, and handmade items. Atmosphere remains quiet and nostalgic, inviting slow, leisurely browsing. Regularly refreshed inventory offers a wide variety of antiques and retro finds at reasonable prices.

Getting lost for hours happens easily here, making it a spot full of fun discoveries and endless browsing.

Many good deals and interesting gems fill the space. The collection offers a good selection of random interesting things to explore.

People are saying

"I found so many new vintage gems and collectibles here."

"It's a fun place to get lost exploring and hunting for treasures."

"I found so many interesting things and good deals here."

Good to know

1

Expect a raffle for a gift basket with any purchase this month.

2

The mall features a wide variety of antiques and collectibles.

3

Each vendor's space is well-organized and thoughtfully curated.

11
Chubby Skewers | Authentic Chinese BBQ image 1

Chinese street food style restaurant with spacious seating and charcoal grills at each table offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere ideal for gatherings. Clean, well-lit environment features self-serve BBQ and table vents that reduce smoke. Music and occasional DJ performances add to the casual vibe.

Grilling your own skewers creates a unique dining experience that is fun for groups and kids. The place stays open late, adding to the enjoyment and chance to try new foods.

Skewers form the core concept, offering a unique dining experience. The food combines fun and tasty elements that keep the experience engaging.

People are saying

"The Chinese BBQ here is so authentic, it feels like you're back in China."

"It's really fun grilling your own skewers on the charcoal grill."

"I found the concept and food here really interesting and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect additional fees for charcoal and sauces when ordering skewers.

2

The price per skewer is $1.25, but extra charges may apply.

3

Late-night visits after midnight offer special deals and a lively atmosphere.

12
Alchemy 48 image 1

Basement speakeasy channels 1920s prohibition vibe with purple velvet walls and unique lighting. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and cozy to lively with live jazz music in the evening. Signature cocktails offer creative mixology with flavorful twists on classics.

Fun vibes come from the kitschy decor and feathered Peacocks cocktails. Popular music plays with a fun twist, making it a lively spot for drinks and hanging out.

Many interesting cocktail options appear here, including classics and mocktails. The eclectic decor adds character without clutter. Drinks tend to be strong and intriguing.

People are saying

"It's a cool place with a super comfortable atmosphere and couches."

"Finding the secret door downstairs was a really fun activity."

"The singer sounded great on their sound system."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for busy nights, especially for live music events.

2

Expect a wait of at least one hour during peak times.

3

The venue hosts live jazz performances every Saturday night at 7pm.

13
H Mart Mesa image 1
Korean grocery store

Huge, well-lit grocery store combines authentic Asian finds with a mini food court, bakery, and beauty shops. Atmosphere feels like stepping into Korea, with a clean, modern design and a busy, aromatic food court. Offers fresh seafood and marinated meats, attracting those seeking diverse, quality ingredients.

Exploring the store offers lots of fun with a California vibe in the desert. The plaza area adds to the enjoyable atmosphere for shopping and spending time with family.

Wide selection of unique ingredients and imported goods fills the shelves. The food court buzzes with interesting Korean dishes and diverse delicacies to try.

People are saying

"This grocery store is the best place for authentic Asian groceries and fresh seafood."

"It's a fun place to explore with a surprising variety of shops and eateries."

"I found so many interesting new foods and ingredients here."

Good to know

1

H Mart Mesa offers a wide variety of authentic Asian groceries and ingredients.

2

The market features unique products not found in typical supermarkets.

3

H Mart Mesa is known for its excellent quality of fresh produce.

14
Bookmans Mesa Entertainment Exchange image 1

Huge space with sections for books, music, movies, video games, and board games creates a diverse entertainment hub. Calm, well-lit atmosphere invites browsing and reading, enhanced by the smell of books and vinyl. Regulars enjoy ample parking and a dedicated children's area with free activities.

Many fun things to browse and buy fill the shelves, including books, games, and CDs. Hunting for a rare find or just browsing offers plenty of entertainment.

A wide range of used books, instruments, and knick-knacks fills the shelves. Always something unique and interesting catches the eye.

People are saying

"This bookstore has a huge selection of books and fun stuff."

"It's so much fun browsing for unique items and discovering surprises."

"You'll always find something interesting and unique here."

Good to know

1

Restrooms are available but require assistance from the trade counter.

2

Payment methods include cash and credit cards.

3

The store offers a wide variety of books, music, and gaming items.

15
Mekong Plaza image 1
Shopping mall

Shopping mall offers an expansive Asian marketplace with fresh live seafood and a wide selection of imported foods. Bright, clean space features mini restaurants and boba shops, creating a lively, community-oriented atmosphere that feels like visiting another country.

Claw machine games add a playful touch alongside fun shopping and wandering the grocery. Food options suit family outings, making it a spot for casual fun activities.

Offers a wide range of interesting foods and a tropical fruit market known for its variety. Contains many shops with diverse selections of groceries, gifts, restaurants, and household items.

People are saying

"This mall has a great vibe with lots of Asian shops and food."

"I found the shopping and food spots to be really fun."

"It's an interesting place with lots of shops and options."

Good to know

1

Expect large crowds on Sundays around brunch time.

2

Parking can take 12-15 minutes to find during peak hours.

3

Most vendors accept credit cards, but some may only take cash.

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Mesa, Arizona

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