Jakes Unlimited

Mom and dad are used to telling their kids to not touch anything. But when the whole family visits the i.d.e.a. Museum, the kids are actually encouraged to reach out and touch as much as possible. This child-oriented arts center features a program of exhibits and attractions that are changed quite frequently, so you can visit often and not encounter the same surroundings. This is only one of two facilities of its kind in the country, and that uniqueness is the perfect setting in which to foster your kids' creativity.

There's nothing quite like enjoying an electrifying live music performance. It is a seemingly surreal experience, when the band that is on stage seems to connect with everyone in the audience. Moments like that are more the norm than the exception when you check out the impressive schedule of concerts at Mesa's Nile Theater. Specializing in alternative music, the entertainment venue also presents folk and mainstream rock acts who prove to not only be electrified by the enthusiasm of Mesa audiences, they go on to turn in nothing less than unforgettably stellar performances.

While it's obvious that when you spend time in Mesa, you're in the Arizona desert, that doesn't mean that you can't cool down in a really fun way by experiencing the fun of Salt River Tubing. Drift along the river through the Tonto National Forest to experience some truly amazing and breathtaking scenery. The duration of your tube-oriented adventure varies and depends on where your starting point is as well as the current of the river. Children must be at least eight years old and four feet tall to enjoy this attraction. One convenient fee covers the cost of parking, tube rental and shuttle service. A deposit may be required. Also, don't forget to bring snacks, sunglasses and sunscreen!