- Play Hard
- 8th Aug 2025
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Art, picnics and play: Your guide to summer at MIMA Middlesbrough
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Looking for a family-friendly day out that’s free, inspiring and full of creative energy? MIMA (Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art) could be the perfect summer activity.
Tucked into the heart of Middlesbrough, MIMA is far more than a traditional art gallery. It’s a space where imagination is encouraged, kids are welcomed, and art meets community.
This summer, its programme is packed with reasons to visit – whether you’re cooling off indoors, enjoying a picnic in the new garden, or getting artistic with free family fun, here’s why MIMA should be on your visit list…
Inspiring exhibitions that spark conversation
MIMA’s ever-evolving exhibitions put real life and bold creativity at the centre, with powerful works exploring identity, imagination and the world around us. It’s art that’s made to be talked about, whether you’re an art buff or just dipping your toe into something new.
Best of all? It’s completely free to explore.
Discover the new MIMA garden
A fresh addition for summer, the MIMA Garden is a calm, open-air space designed for play, relaxation and nature-based creativity. Families can borrow Adventure Den Kits from the welcome desk and create their own little world beneath the trees – complete with den-building, storytelling and hours of fresh-air fun.
It’s a nod to the idea that sometimes the best memories are made outside, with a blanket, some snacks and your imagination…
Get creative: Free art activities for families
MIMA has long been a champion of accessible creativity, and during the school holidays, that comes to life in all kinds of hands-on ways.
The art trolley
A big hit with visitors, this free ‘making station’ is packed with colourful materials for kids (and grown-ups) to craft their own masterpieces. It’s open on selected weekdays from 11.00am–1.00pm, and every Saturday from 11.00am–3.00pm.
HLN tip: If you visit the Art Trolley, kids can enjoy a £1 picnic offer from the MIMA Kitchen.
Creative packs and doodle sheets
Available throughout the summer, these fun, free packs are designed by artists to keep the creativity flowing even after your visit. Whether it’s mindful doodling or make-at-home activities, it’s a great way to extend the experience.
Books that start conversations
As part of the We Are Family initiative, MIMA has curated a beautiful selection of books that open important discussions around identity, belonging and empathy. You’ll find them in the shop or in the We Are Family Book Box at the Art Trolley — available to read together or take home to keep the conversation going.
Eat, shop and soak it all in
No visit to MIMA is complete without a stop at the MIMA Kitchen. From fresh, seasonal lunches to coffee and cake, the café is relaxed and welcoming, ideal for refuelling after a morning in the galleries or garden.
And don’t skip the MIMA Shop – a hidden gem filled with handmade crafts, local art, stylish homeware, creative gifts and one-of-a-kind cards. Whether you’re buying for yourself or someone else, it’s the kind of place where you’ll always find something unique.
MIMA: Where summer feels creative, connected and free
With its welcoming atmosphere, rich cultural programme and plenty of free ways to play and explore, MIMA is one of the North East’s best-kept summer secrets. Whether you’re looking for a screen-free family outing, a creative lunch date, or simply somewhere to recharge and feel inspired, this is your sign to add MIMA to your summer to-do list.
Opening hours:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday to Saturday: 10.00am – 4.30pm
Sunday: 12noon – 4.00pm
Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art, Centre Square, Middlesbrough, TS1 2AZ
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