By Heather M. Ross
When the weather is unforgiving, it can be harder for families to get out and spend time together—but there are some places where it can’t rain on your parade.
Here are a few ideas for indoor outings kids will love, including ones families already know and love and others they might not have considered yet.
Aquarium
Taking a deep dive into the world of fish can inspire kids to learn about and care for the environment. Aquariums teach visitors about different kinds of aquatic life and how that life is affected by humans. Many of these underwater zoos offer kids the chance to touch or feed aquatic life. Families should expect to spend two to three hours at most aquariums.
Arcade
Playing games, scoring tickets and winning prizes never gets old. At an arcade, families can split up and conquer the floor according to their interests. Most arcades also offer concessions and activities like go-karts or miniature golf, which everyone can try together. Families should expect to spend at least an hour at an arcade to give kids ample time to try their hand at
the games.
Bowling Alley
Bowling is a relaxed sport with simple rules. A visit to the bowling alley can help teach kids about taking turns and good sportsmanship. Most bowling alleys serve family-friendly food and drinks, and some include bowling aids for beginners. Families should expect to bowl for at least an hour. Games can take longer depending on how many people are in your party.
Escape Room
Does your family love puzzles? Why not become part of one? Escape rooms are a challenging activity where families can work together to solve puzzles and search for clues to escape themed rooms. Most groups will spend around an hour on this activity. Not all escape rooms are family friendly though, so be sure to check their rating so little ones don’t get spooked.
Indoor Playground
Indoor playgrounds give kids a chance to brave the monkey bars without braving the elements. These attractions have different areas for kids of all ages to have fun and stay active. Some indoor playgrounds serve food, and others allow parents to bring their own snacks for kids, so check the rules for the playground before visiting. Families should expect to spend around two hours at an indoor playground.
Laser Tag
Laser tag is like paintball’s more child-friendly cousin, with no projectiles and less heavy gear. This game, usually played indoors, tends to last about 15 minutes per match, and participants often play for multiple rounds. Playing laser tag can help kids develop strategic thinking skills, and it provides an opportunity to exercise.
Library
Libraries host seasonal events and family-friendly activities throughout the year for a variety of ages and interests. Sign up for your local library’s newsletter, check out its online calendar or pop in to see what’s happening. Even on quieter days, a visit to the library is a great chance to stock up on reading material for cozy nights in.
Museum
Make learning part of your family’s life by visiting a museum. Visiting a museum as a family benefits kids by allowing them to explore history and art at their own pace. While most museums will have some child-centric activities, children’s museums are entirely catered to the family experience with insights adults will appreciate and activities for all ages.
Reptile Zoo
Stay toasty and see how the reptiles and amphibians are keeping warm, too, at a reptile zoo. Some reptile zoos are standalone, but others are nested within larger zoo complexes. Families can expect to see and learn about a variety of exhibits including snakes, lizards, frogs, toads and, sometimes, insects.
Science Center
Visiting a science center might be a bit of a trek depending on where your family lives, but it’s worth the drive for families looking to experience a day of learning. Most families will spend at least three hours at a science center. These educational attractions have a selection of science-based hands-on learning experiences for kids of all ages and interests. Most centers will have areas dedicated to health, animals, weather, geology and space. Plan a visit ahead of time to take advantage of seasonal events or
family promotions.
Trampoline Park
Trampoline parks can be a good way to keep kids active and rediscover the nostalgic joy of going airborne as an adult. Trampoline parks often offer concessions and trampoline versions of activities like basketball. Some of these parks also feature ziplines and foam pits. Families might spend about two hours here.