Parks
16 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.
- Collier Park0.8 mi from downtown
- Aztec Park0.8 mi from downtown
- Jackson Park1.2 mi from downtown
On a budget
Free things to do in La Mesa
4 kinds of free outings in and around La Mesa.
Good days out in La Mesa don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.
Libraries
Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.
- La Mesa Library8074 Allison Ave.
Hiking
Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.
- Cabrillo National Monument14 mi southwest
- Cleveland National Forest22 mi east
- Corral Canyon Campground26 mi east
Wildlife viewing
Birding and nature watching on public land.
- San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge10 mi southwest
- Cabrillo National Monument14 mi southwest
- Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve15 mi southwest
Around town
Get a feel for the city
A WALK AROUND TOWN
La Mesa Historic Porter Hill Walk
Recorded footage by Terra K.. Not live road conditions.
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Checking out Lake Murray La Mesa Cool place to chill relax and fish!
An activity Short shared by Fish with Chilo.
Watch on YouTube ↗Questions
What are free things to do in La Mesa?
Parks, Libraries, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.
Are there free events in La Mesa this weekend?
Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.
Do I need a library card to use the library?
No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.