Fun Spots Kids Can Play Indoors for Free in LA 

The Last Bookstore — DTLA

Wander the aisles and check out the new and used books, as well as the sizable collection of vinyl records. In addition to picking up a book (the books aren't free, but the used books come close!), check out the book sculptures and tunnels. Have books you don't want anymore? Bring them along and donate or sell them to the store. Parking can be a bit tricky; you'll want to grab a spot in a paid lot nearby (unless you get really lucky and snag street parking). Combine your The Last Bookstore outing with a trip to Bottega Louie for an afternoon macaron. 

Journey to space at the Science Center. Photo courtesy of California Science Center

Annenberg PetSpace — Playa Vista

Playa Vista has a place for animal lovers to hang out and get furry cuddles while learning about animal care and getting tempted to bring home a rescue kitten or puppy. Adoption is not necessary to enjoy the facility. Enjoy programs like Paws & Pages, where kids read to animals, or Puppy Yoga. Admission is always free; some special programs or activities may have an associated program fee. 

Griffith Observatory — Griffith Park 

On a (rare) rainy day in LA, you'll have to enjoy the views from Griffith Observatory another time and instead step inside. Interactive science exhibits are some of the free things you can do at the Griffith Observatory. The planetarium and shows cost money, though, and there's a parking fee. It's also a bit of a hike from the parking lot to the observatory, so make sure to bring comfortable shoes and a stroller or carrier for any littles. 

Toyota Sports Center — Multiple Locations

The Toyota Sports Center has five different ice rinks with constant action, and some are observable from a heated cafe area above the rinks. Check the schedules for each arena; if you time it right, one rink could have an action-packed hockey game while the other has top-level figure skaters in a freestyle practice session. You can watch both for free or spend a few coins on hot chocolate and arcade games while you watch. 

RELATED: Free Museum Days for Kids in Los Angeles

The Fowler Museum's permanent collection is entrancing. Photo by Rajat Ghosh/Fowler Museum

Central Library — DTLA

The Central Library in DTLA is an LA landmark famous for its remarkable art, architecture, children, and family programming. Keep in mind that the library has also become a haven for the community's homeless population and can feel a bit crowded.  The Beverly Hills Library is another LA library worth checking out, which has a fantastic children's section, weekly story times, and a playroom for infants and tots. The Cerritos Library is worth adding to your list, which has larger-than-life book displays and a saltwater aquarium tank. 

Cabrillo Marine Aquarium — San Pedro 

This cozy aquarium is worth a visit. After checking out the simulated tide pool touch tank, enjoy the aquatic babies exhibit and the giant whale skeleton hanging above. The aquarium has a donation suggestion of $7 for adults and $3 for kids and seniors, but no one will be turned away. The main exhibit hall is currently closed, but the rest of the aquarium is open for exploration. It is expected to reopen in spring 2026.

The Natural History Museum — Exposition Park

Dino enthusiasts will get a kick out of the massive dinosaur skeletons, while animal lovers will enjoy gazing at the dioramas. On weekdays, LA County residents get free admission from 3-5pm. You can also get free tickets through the Discover & Go Program with your LA County library card. Additional admission fees may be required for the butterfly and spider pavilions, IMAX shows, and other special exhibits. 

RELATED: Kids Eat Free: Los Angeles Restaurants with Free Meal Deals for Families 

 
The lower salon at the Nethercutt Museum is a microcosm of the entire collection. Photo courtesy of nethercuttcollection.org

The Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits — Hancock Park

The iconic outdoor exhibits probably come to mind when thinking about the La Brea Tar Pits, but on a rainy day, it's all about going inside The Page Museum. Kids can explore interactive exhibits, step back in time with dioramas and displays of Ice Age fossils, and watch paleontologists at work. LA County residents receive free admission on weekdays from 3-5pm. You can also receive tickets with your LA County library card through the Discover & Go program. 

Vroman's Bookstore — Pasadena

This fantastic bookstore has an expansive children's section packed with bestsellers and unique options, but the free part is the weekly "Story Time with Mr. Steve" on Wednesdays (and Saturdays at the Hastings Ranch location). We love pairing this adventure with a stroll down Colorado Blvd. or a lunch at Prince Street Pizza. 

The Roundhouse Aquarium — Manhattan Beach

There's a free aquarium at the end of the Manhattan Beach pier. While donations are suggested, no one will be turned away. If the weather is temperate enough to brave the walk down the pier, kids and adults can enjoy the afternoon gazing at aquatic life. 

Best Free Museums and Cultural Spots for Kids in Los Angeles

The Hammer Museum — Westwood

The Hammer Museum has a remarkable collection of modern art (including a piece with live honeybees) for free, but be prepared to pay a few bucks for the first three hours of parking under the building if you can't find street parking. This museum is on UCLA's campus, so combine it with a walk around the grounds or a trip to Diddy Riese for a cheap but delicious ice cream cookie sandwich. 

The Broad — DTLA

Not only is this contemporary art museum free, but there's also a kids' scavenger hunt, and kids' audio tours are narrated by LeVar Burton. All visitors must reserve museum tickets, which you can do online. Kids will especially enjoy the temporary exhibit, Robert Therrien: This is a Story, where common household items are larger than life. You typically have to pay to enter, but on Thursdays from 5pm-8pm, the exhibit is free. 

LACMA — Miracle Mile

In case you haven't heard, all LA County residents get free admission to LACMA on any weekday after 3pm. Best of all, LA County kids ages 2-17 are always free, and with a NexGenLA membership, they can even bring along an adult. NexGen is the nation's only free youth membership program, offering free admission to anyone 17 and under, along with one accompanying adult.  LACMA is close to a host of other museums, and minutes from The Original Farmer's Market at The Grove- it's a great place to explore before lunch or after naptime. 

ASU FIDM Museum — DTLA

This free museum often features exhibits with costumes from popular recent movies. Exhibits rotate, and there are seasons when there are no exhibits on display. Make sure to check the website or call before heading out to confirm that the museum is open. 

Fowler Museum — Westwood

This free museum is part of the UCLA campus and showcases exhibits from Africa, Asia, and the Americas. It's a great spot to introduce pint-sized minds to global arts and culture. 

Torrance Art Museum — Torrance

Want to introduce your kids to contemporary and modern artwork for free? This lovely little spot is the perfect place. Check the museum website to confirm it's open, as it will sometimes close when rotating exhibits. For 2026, the museum will open on January 10th. This museum is better for the older set. 

 The Museum of the San Fernando Valley — Northridge

No matter how you feel about the valley, it has tons of history. That history is on display in this sweet, small, and free museum. There are tons of intriguing items packed in here- including a lot of neon signs and some old-school arcade games. 

The Grammy Museum — DTLA 

Learn about the artistry and creativity of music production at this museum. Exhibits rotate regularly, so there's always something new to see, hear, and learn. Starting at the end of January 2025, kids 17 and under receive free admission. Adults still need to pay to enter. 

MOCA Museums — Multiple Locations

There are three different MOCA museums in the LA area: one in Grand Park, one in Little Tokyo, and one in West Hollywood. All three include unique modern art exhibits, great for teens and tweens who are curious about artistic expression. 

The Wende Museum — Culver City

Young history buffs will be fascinated by this free museum dedicated to the Cold War in Culver City. This one is best for teens and tweens, as it requires a lot of reading and lingering. 

Orange County Museum of Art — Costa Mesa

This always-free museum in Orange County has diverse contemporary art exhibits to explore. There are many family-friendly programs, like Art+Play, and a Bring Your Baby tour that even comes with complimentary tea. 

Free Indoor Places to Burn Energy in LA

IKEA Smaland — Multiple Locations 

We can't guarantee you won't leave this furniture superstore without spending a dollar or two, but your kids can romp and play in the Smaland play area at IKEA free of charge. Kids must be potty-trained, able to use the restroom without assistance, and be between 37" and 54" to play. Typically, IKEA allows kids to play in 30-minute blocks, though the timing may vary per store. The Burbank, Covina, Carson, and Costa Mesa locations all have Smaland areas.  

Travel Town - Griffith Park

Most of Travel Town is outside, but they do have a section of the museum that is indoors- and it has a great train table for kids to play with, if you remember to bring your own Brio-style trains from home. Pop in for a rainy day of imaginative train play, and maybe if the weather lets up, you can hop on the tiny train and go for a ride. Strollers are welcome, and Travel Town has free parking. Kids can also marvel at the model railroad display housed inside the museum- it had my kids mesmerized. 

The Skirball Cultural Center — Brentwood

You have to time this one right to make it free, but it's worth it. I took my kids to the Skirball Cultural Center for free on Thursday (every Thursday) and was very impressed by Noah's Ark. It is one of the best indoor play spaces in Los Angeles. Book your time in advance as the exhibit quickly gets crowded on free days, and play is limited to 90 minutes. The kids can climb, roam, care for pretend animals, and imagine to their heart's content at this creative space. 

California Science Center — Exposition Park

There is so much to do at the Science Center— start with picks at the California Science Center for preschoolers and California Science Center features for tweens and teens. The Science Center appreciates contributions at the door when you can afford to make them, but when you can't, you're just as welcome, with no questions asked, as the "admission" price is a suggestion only. Special exhibits often carry a ticket price. Strollers are welcome in the science center, and there are exhibits for every age. 

Keep in mind that the Endeavour is currently off display as it's getting ready to "go for stack" in its new spot at the Samuel Oshin Air and Space Center. 

Getty Center or Getty Villa — Brentwood & Pacific Palisades

The key to either Getty Museums is that the seemingly hefty price is only for parking. This means that if you can get a ride, carpool, or take the bus, a day at the Getty can be totally free—and there are so many things going on at both locations that it's easy to fill a lot more than a day.

The tram ride alone (at the Getty Center) will have your kids giddy with excitement as they gaze down at the 405. You won't be able to enjoy the beautiful outdoor areas at either museum on a rainy day, but the indoor galleries are full of impressive artwork and artifacts, and both museums have Art Detective scavenger hunts.  The family forum at the Getty Villa is particularly fun on a rainy day, with plenty of activities for the kids. Tickets need to be reserved in advance for both museums. 

What Are Some Cool (and Totally Free) Indoor Events for Families in PLACE?

Storytime with Mr. Steve - Pasadena

Vroman's in Pasadena runs a weekly Storytime with Mr. Steve that is not to be missed on a rainy day. Browse the incredible kids' section in the bookstore, and grab a warm drink at the cafe downstairs. 

Family Workshops at The Getty Villa - Malibu

If you're looking for some rainy day educational fun in LA, look no further than The Getty Villa, where kids and adults can learn more about ancient cultures and art with hands-on activities. The workshops don't cost extra, and all materials are provided. 

Arty Loon Magic Shows - Various Library Locations

Keep an eye out on our calendar for various magic shows at local libraries—these free indoor shows can be such a hoot. Kids ages 10 and under will love the whimsical antics of Arty Loon, as well as other magicians who make the rounds. 

Home Depot Kids Workhops - Various Locations

Once a month, Home Depot creates a fun little STEM class for free for kids ages 5-12. All materials are provided, but arrive early to guarantee your spot at your local branch. Availability is on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Little Oaks Kids Club - Thousand Oaks 

The Oaks Mall provides a bi-monthly, indoor kids club with crafts, story times, and music to keep kids busy on rainy, cold, windy, or even toasty days. Usually, a storybook character makes an appearance at each club meeting (Elsa popped by in December!). 

Which Free Indoor Spots Are Best for Toddlers vs. Teens?

Toddler pick: Barnes & Noble Story Hour - Various Locations

When it comes to getting littles out of the house on a rainy day, a long drive is not ideal. Instead, opt for a simple story time at a local bookstore. While story times happen at many of our favorite stores (Vroman's, Pages, Once Upon a Bookstore, etc.), the ones at Barnes & Noble tend to be close, easy, and typically involve an easy craft time as well. 

Elementary Pick: Noah's Ark at the Skirball Cultural Center - Westwood

Our first visit to Noah's Ark blew me away, and we've returned several times. I recommend it to everyone, as this creative and interactive space gives kids room to romp and play, discover and build, and make new friends. It's one of my favorite spots in the city, and it's aesthetically stunning. Kids can care for stuffed animals, experiment with sound and light, build and construct walls for the ark, or climb above the exhibit on a ropes course. 

Tween/Teen Pick: Getty Museum - Westwood

The Getty is great for all ages, but I popped it into the teen/tween slot because it has photo ops galore for the TikTokers and Instagrammers. It's also an incredible spot to admire priceless works of art. Whether your kids are into sculptures, paintings, photography, or artifacts, there's something for everyone. The gardens and outdoor exhibits are just as wonderful, but on a rainy day, there is plenty to do inside. Make sure to pick up some Art Detective cards so you can search for details in famous paintings as you wander. 

Spots to Skip for Free Indoor Fun in LA 

Full disclosure: Several of the museums listed above are only good for the older set. While I recommend LACMA, The Broad, The Wende, MOCA Museums, and the Torrance Art Museum in our museums section, only go if your kids are old enough to wander the galleries with self-restraint. I wouldn't take my four-year-old in any of these if you offered to pay me $100. 

Unfortunately, indoor spots to play are hard to come by in Los Angeles. Our (almost always) sunny weather motivates lots of outdoor playgrounds and outside fun. As a result, most local malls don't even have an indoor playground (the amazing one at Santa Monica Place, once a local favorite, has been removed). COVID-19 instilled a new awareness of germs in playspaces, so many shopping centers and restaurants did away with those grimy slides and climbers. There are plenty of gymnastics spaces and studios with very affordable "open gym" options, and a proliferation of indoor play spaces that require admission (usually under $20). 

Also, beware that most "free" spots do charge for parking- it's the Los Angeles curse. The California Science Center and the Getty are two of our favorite free spots that are absolutely worth the parking fee. If you have access to a rideshare or carpool option, you can eliminate the parking cost and enjoy a truly free day. 

FAQ: Free Indoor Places to Play in Los Angeles

What can kids do indoors for free in Los Angeles?
Public libraries, free museums, and community centers often host no-cost play times, art workshops, and story hours for kids. We love the story times at Vroman's bookstore, Pages, and Once Upon a Bookstore in Montrose. The California Science Center is another excellent place to play that doesn't cost a dime and provides great opportunities for STEM learning. 

Are there free indoor playgrounds in Los Angeles?
Unfortunately, free indoor playgrounds are hard to come by in LA. Some local fast food restaurants still have play spaces, such as McDonald's or Chick-fil-A. There is a small indoor play space at the Northridge Fashion Square in the mall, as well. Most indoor playgrounds in the area charge admission. 

Where can I go on a rainy day with kids in Los Angeles?
Try local libraries, free museum days, or creative community hubs with open art or maker sessions. Our favorite rainy day spots are all in this great guide to rainy days in Los Angeles with kids. Many indoor activities happen at the hyper-local level. Check your nearest library branch or community center for a schedule of events (for example, the WeHo Rec Center, the Annenberg Beach House, and the Canyon Country Community Center also host free events regularly). 

What are the best free things to do indoors with toddlers in Los Angeles?
A4: Library story times, soft play zones, and sensory-friendly art areas are ideal for younger kids. Check out the Burbank Library calendar for fun toddler,-friendly options. 

Do museums in PLACE have free days?
Many do have free days! Kidspace Museum offers Free First Fridays every month, and the Skirball Cultural Center is free to the public on Thursdays (reservations must be made in advance). Many LA museums, such as the Natural History Museum and The Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits, offer free admission for LA residents on weekdays from 3pm- 5pm. Check out our guide for free museum days in LA for more information. 

Additional reporting by Ana Belibasis