Indoor Family Fun in LA: The Best Activities for Kids

Los Angeles, a city known for its sunshine and outdoor attractions, also offers plenty of indoor activities for kids when the weather doesn’t cooperate or families want a change of pace. We’ve compiled a list of the top indoor activities for children in the LA area, encompassing immersive experiences, educational adventures, and endless fun. These indoor attractions will create unforgettable memories and provide hours of entertainment for the entire family.

1. World of Illusions

The World of Illusions, situated near the Hollywood Walk of Fame, is a one-of-a-kind indoor experience that captivates both kids and adults. This extraordinary attraction features four fascinating exhibits that promise endless fun and entertainment.

The first exhibit, the Museum of Illusions, showcases 3D illusions and paintings on the walls, creating an interactive and enchanting experience. As visitors move around, the artworks seem to come to life, offering amazing photo opportunities. The second exhibit, the Upside Down House, comprises seven rooms designed to make guests feel like they’re walking on the ceiling. Each room, from the kitchen to the bedroom, presents an extraordinary photo opportunity that defies gravity.

The third exhibit, the Giant’s House, transports visitors to a whimsical world where everyday objects become enormous, making guests feel like tiny characters in a larger-than-life story. Lastly, the Smash It exhibit provides a thrilling and cathartic experience, allowing visitors to break plates against the wall and release pent-up energy. With admission starting at $30 for adults and $20 for children, the World of Illusions is an exciting and affordable indoor activity for families in LA.

2. Kidspace Children’s Museum

Located in Pasadena, the Kidspace Children’s Museum offers an array of hands-on, educational indoor things to do that encourage learning through play. With over 40 interactive exhibits, children can explore a wide range of subjects, from the arts and sciences to the humanities. Notable exhibits include the Physics Forest, where kids can investigate the principles of physics, and the Imagination Workshop, which encourages creativity and problem-solving through various hands-on projects.

In addition to its indoor attractions, Kidspace also boasts an outdoor area, giving children ample space to run, climb, and have fun. The museum regularly hosts special events and programs, including storytimes, workshops, and performances, ensuring that there’s always something new and exciting for kids to do.

3. Aquarium of the Pacific

The Aquarium of the Pacific, situated in Long Beach, is home to over 12,000 ocean animals representing more than 500 species. This indoor attraction provides kids with a unique opportunity to learn about marine life and the importance of conservation. The aquarium is divided into various thematic areas, such as the Tropical Pacific Gallery, the Northern Pacific Gallery, and the Southern California/Baja Gallery, allowing children to explore different ecosystems and marine habitats.

Kids can also participate in interactive exhibits, attend educational presentations, and get up close and personal with sea creatures during touch pool experiences. The Aquarium of the Pacific offers a fun and educational indoor activity for kids, immersing them in the wonders of the ocean.

4. California Science Center

The California Science Center, located in Exposition Park, presents an extensive range of indoor things to do for kids. The center’s mission is to inspire and educate young minds through interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and a variety of engaging programs. Highlights include the Ecosystems exhibit, which features various habitats and interactive stations, and the World of Life exhibit, which explores the commonalities among living organisms.

The Science Center is also home to the Space Shuttle Endeavour, a must-see for aspiring astronauts and space enthusiasts. With permanent and temporary exhibits covering a wide range of topics, the California Science Center offers hours of educational fun for kids and families.

5. Sky Zone

If you’re looking for an indoor activity that will help your kids burn off energy, Sky Zone is the perfect destination. With multiple locations around LA, this indoor trampoline park is home to a variety of activities, including open jump, dodgeball, and foam pits. Sky Zone also hosts special events and programs, such as Toddler Time, Glow Nights, and SkyFit exercise classes, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Sky Zone is a fun and exciting way for kids to stay active and develop their physical skills, regardless of the weather outside. Parents can rest assured knowing that safety is a top priority, with trained staff members monitoring the park and ensuring a safe environment for all guests.

6. Museum of Dream Space

The Museum of Dream Space (MODS) is a digital art museum that offers an immersive, interactive experience for kids and adults alike. Located in the Beverly Center, this indoor attraction features a series of visually stunning installations that combine art, technology, and design. There are so many things to do – children can explore the captivating exhibits, interact with the displays, and snap unforgettable photos in this unique and inspiring space.

MODS frequently updates its installations, ensuring that there’s always something new to discover. With its mesmerizing displays and enchanting atmosphere, the Museum of Dream Space provides a memorable indoor activity for kids and families in Los Angeles.

7. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

As one of the largest art museums in the western United States, LACMA offers an extensive collection of artwork spanning different cultures, time periods, and styles. The museum is committed to making art accessible to all ages, providing family-friendly activities and events, such as free art classes, storytelling sessions, and guided tours tailored to kids.

While you may not think of an art gallery as a kid-friendly thing to do, LACMA’s Boone Children’s Gallery is a dedicated space for kids and families to explore and create art together. With interactive displays and opportunities for hands-on learning, LACMA offers a fun and educational indoor activity that will spark creativity and foster an appreciation for the arts in children.

8. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is a treasure trove of discoveries for kids interested in science, nature, and history. With exhibits covering topics such as dinosaurs, mammals, gems, and minerals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Children can marvel at the impressive dinosaur skeletons, explore the diverse habitats of the Nature Lab, or delve into the world of ancient civilizations in the Becoming Los Angeles exhibit. The museum also offers hands-on experiences, such as the Discovery Center, where kids can interact with live animals and participate in various educational activities.

9. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Hollywood

For a truly unique and entertaining indoor activity, visit Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Hollywood. This attraction features an extensive collection of oddities, curiosities, and interactive exhibits that will amaze and delight kids and adults alike.

Located near the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame, Ripley’s offers a fun and engaging experience, showcasing everything from shrunken heads to a two-headed calf. With its bizarre exhibits and fascinating trivia, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Hollywood provides a memorable and entertaining indoor thing to do for kids in Los Angeles.

Los Angeles is home to a wonderland of indoor activities for kids, offering a diverse range of engaging and entertaining options to explore. No matter the weather or the interests of your children, these attractions will provide unforgettable experiences that will keep your family entertained and inspired. So go ahead and plan your next adventure, knowing that LA has plenty of indoor fun waiting for you and your kids to discover.

FAQs