Finding fun and engaging activities for kids, especially during weekends and holidays, can be quite the challenge—particularly when the weather takes a turn for the worse. Luckily, indoor amusement parks provide a fantastic escape, combining safety and entertainment under one roof, regardless of the season. Why wait for summer pool days when you can enjoy thrilling rides and activities all year long?
Indoor theme parks have evolved significantly, now featuring a variety of attractions suitable for children of all ages. From indoor roller coasters to go-kart tracks, mini-golf, laser tag, climbing walls, and zip lines, there’s no shortage of excitement! Many of these parks also provide dining options, such as sports bars, and are often conveniently located near other family-friendly attractions (some even within shopping malls). These spots offer more than just your typical arcade games, although you’ll find those, too.
So, which indoor amusement parks should you consider visiting (once COVID-19 restrictions permit)? Whether you’re aiming for a day trip nearby or integrating a visit into a longer vacation itinerary, we’ve rounded up 11 of the top indoor amusement parks across the United States. Plan your adventure today!
Best Indoor Amusement Parks in the U.S.:
Tom Foolery’s Adventure Park in Wisconsin Dells, WI
Nestled within the renowned Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells, Tom Foolery’s Adventure Park boasts an impressive 100,000 square feet of indoor attractions. Highlights include a six-story Ferris wheel, a mini roller coaster for younger kids, an African-themed carousel, a Mission Impossible-style laser course, laser tag, a ropes course, and go-karts. The arcade features over 250 games—including classics like skee-ball—for kids and adults alike. Plus, you can enjoy bowling and mini-golf on-site. If you need accommodations, the Kalahari offers options, or you can choose budget-friendly stays like the Hampton Inn & Suites at Wisconsin Dells Lake Delton, which has an indoor pool and allows kids under 17 to stay for free in their parent’s room.
Nickelodeon Universe in Rutherford, NJ
Located in the American Dream mall, Nickelodeon Universe is the largest indoor amusement park in North America, covering 8.5 acres. With a mix of thrilling and family-friendly rides, including the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles-themed “Shellraiser” with the world’s steepest drop, kids can also meet their favorite Nickelodeon characters. The mall features additional entertainment like Big Snow, North America’s first indoor snow resort, an ice rink, and Angry Birds Mini Golf. Families can unwind at nearby hotels like the Hilton Meadowlands or Holiday Inn Express Meadowlands.
The Adventuredome in Las Vegas, NV
Occupying 5 acres at Circus Circus on the Las Vegas Strip, the Adventuredome offers roller coasters, laser tag, bumper cars, a 4-D theater, a rock climbing wall, virtual reality experiences, mini-golf, and mini bowling. This indoor paradise ensures fun no matter the weather. Stay at Circus Circus or choose the family-friendly Hilton Grand Vacations nearby.
Funplex in Houston, TX
While Funplex is currently limited in operations due to COVID-19, it features a wide array of attractions once fully open, including a Ferris wheel, bumper cars, go-karts, bowling, and skating. Kids can enjoy a two-story PlayPort with inflatables and trampolines, while dining options include a food court and sports bar. Consider staying at the nearby Best Western Plus Downtown Inn & Suites or La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Houston.
iPlay America in Freehold, NJ
As New Jersey’s largest indoor amusement park, iPlay America combines a boardwalk experience with rides like an indoor roller coaster, go-karts, laser tag, and arcade games across nearly four acres. The Gametime Bar and Grill offers dining options, while Broadway Sweets provides a candy store experience. If you’re traveling from afar, consider staying at Hampton Inn Neptune/Wall or Radisson Hotel Freehold.
Nickelodeon Universe in Minneapolis, MN
This indoor theme park at the Mall of America spans 7 acres and features rides for all ages. Younger kids can enjoy Diego’s Rescue Rider or the Backyardigans Swing-Along, while older kids can take on the Fairly Odd Coaster or the SpongeBob SquarePants Rock Bottom Plunge. Nearby accommodations include the AC Hotel Bloomington and Country Inn & Suites by Radisson.
Mt. Olympus Indoor Theme Park in Wisconsin Dells, WI
Home to two water parks and two theme parks, Mt. Olympus offers rides suitable for younger visitors, including mini roller coasters and bumper cars, plus a large arcade. On-site accommodations are available, or you can opt for nearby resorts like Bakers Sunset Bay Resort or Best Western Ambassador Inn and Suites.
Adventure Park USA in Monrovia, MD
With both indoor and outdoor attractions, Adventure Park USA features laser tag, mini bowling, bumper cars, a rock wall, and an arcade. A rechargeable Fun Card provides access to various activities, and you can grab some barbecue at the Whistle Stop Smokehouse. Stay nearby at Country Inn Suites by Radisson Frederick or Hampton Inn Frederick.
Planet Obstacle in Lake Mary, FL
Created by Cirque du Soleil veterans, Planet Obstacle boasts the world’s largest indoor obstacle park. With features like an aerial ropes course, zip line, rock-climbing wall, and more, it’s perfect for kids and adults alike. Nearby hotels include La Quinta Inn & Suites and Hampton Inn & Suites Lake Mary.
Nitro Zone Atlanta Indoor Fun Park in Peachtree Corners, GA
Covering 127,000 square feet, Nitro Zone includes indoor go-kart racing, a trampoline park, and a ninja obstacle course. They also feature Bazooka Ball, a laser tag-paintball hybrid. Nearby accommodations include Atlanta Marriott Peachtree Corners and Courtyard Atlanta Norcross.
Urban Air Adventure Park in Reno, NV
Urban Air offers gravity-defying attractions, including a ropes course, climbing walls, and more. It’s a great place for kids to burn off energy. Nearby, the Peppermill Resort Spa Casino provides luxurious accommodations.
Explore these indoor amusement parks for an unforgettable family experience, rain or shine! For more tips on family-friendly activities, check out our article on car safety here or learn more about home insemination kits here. For additional resources on pregnancy and home insemination, visit this link.
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In summary, indoor amusement parks offer a fantastic way to keep the family entertained, regardless of the weather. With a variety of attractions and activities, these parks cater to all ages and ensure fun-filled days year-round.