Playgrounds
8 parks with a playground, closest to downtown first.
- Collier Park0.8 mi from downtown
- Aztec Park0.8 mi from downtown
- Jackson Park1.2 mi from downtown
Family
Things to do in La Mesa with kids
5 kinds of family outings, with the closest picks for each.
Family-friendly ideas around La Mesa, built from the city’s parks, libraries, local businesses and nearby public lands. Pick a section for the full list, a map and directions, and check the events calendar for this week’s story times, festivals and shows.
Indoor fun
Places to go when it’s too hot, cold or wet outside.
- La Mesa Depot MuseumRailway museum
- McKinney House MuseumHistory museum
- La Mesa Antique MallAntique shop
Libraries
Story times, homework help and summer reading, free with a library card.
- La Mesa Library8074 Allison Ave.
Picnic spots
Day-use areas for a family picnic.
- Cleveland National Forest22 mi east
- Corral Canyon Campground26 mi east
- Bobcat Meadow Campground27 mi east
Wildlife and nature
Refuges and lakes to spot birds and animals.
- 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
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 ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
A Tour of La Mesa, San Diego's Favorite Neighborhood
An activity Short shared by Your Guide to Living in San Diego.
Watch on YouTube ↗Questions
What is there to do in La Mesa with kids?
Playgrounds (8), Indoor fun (10), Libraries (1), Picnic spots (12), Wildlife and nature (19). Each section links to the full list with maps and directions.
What can kids do in La Mesa for free?
Parks and playgrounds, library story times and many community events are free. See the free things to do and kids events pages for this week’s options.
What can families do in La Mesa when it rains or it’s hot?
Try the indoor ideas and the library, or check the kids and family events calendar.