What Are the Best Indoor Birthday Party Places for Kids in Los Angeles?

You only get 18(ish) opportunities to throw your kids a birthday party, and if you're anything like me, you want each celebration to be one for the books. As a mom of four, I've tried a lot of birthday party venues (and so have the other seasoned LA moms at Mommy Poppins). If you're looking for our top picks, this list is for you. Indoor play spaces, kids museums, art studios, and immersive experiences all have a corner on the birthday party market. We have options in all budget ranges- from cheap (but awesome) to a once-in-a-lifetime splurge (maybe for a golden birthday or birthday #10?). While your four-year-old may be perfectly content with a celebration at the local (sticky) play space with the ball pit, the older kids get, the harder they are to impress. And let's be honest, the parents are harder to impress too. None of us want to spend our Saturday in the damp-smelling indoor playground with the grubby climbing equipment. and cardboard-tasting pizza. But, parents and kids alike are happy to spend their Saturday doing something awesome- like one of those cool, high-tech game experiences or playing with slime (that doesn't have to come home with you).  We hope the options on this list truly do blow your kids' minds, and become sweet memories they will talk about for years. 

Which Indoor Birthday Party Places Are Best for Toddlers and Preschoolers in LA?

Santa Monica Pier Carousel — Santa Monica

If your kids love carousels, a party at an iconic Santa Monica landmark may be the perfect indoor spot. The historic carousel remains open to the public during most parties, but the birthday crowd gets a private roped-off area and unlimited rides on the merry-go-round for up to 30 kids. Could anything be more incredible for a toddler than riding a carousel over, and over, and over? For a little extra, each kid gets a token for an ice cream sundae at the Soda Jerks old-fashioned ice cream fountain that shares space with the carousel. This is one of the most iconic party spots in the city- your kids will talk about it long after they grow up and leave LA (if they ever do!). Pricing is available by reaching out to the team at the City of Santa Monica. Email anne@SantaMonicaPier.org for more information. 

Wild Child Gym — Culver City 

Wild Child Gym provides an ideal setting for energetic birthday celebrations. Party packages include exclusive access to the play area, guided games, and activities led by experienced staff. Parents relax as the dedicated party hosts take care of the details, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for kids and guests. Packages start at $895 for up to 15 kids. Additional kids will incur additional costs, and if more than 20 kids are attending, the host needs to pay for an additional staff member to come and "coach" the kids through activities, songs, and dances. Keep in mind that there is an 18% service fee tacked onto your final bill. Wild Child doesn't provide the cake, but it does provide all the fanfare for the perfect "Happy Birthday" cake-cutting ceremony. 

Imaginology Kids — Silver Lake

The Imaginology Kids party package immerses your celebration in the Earth, Wind, Water, or Light Labs, an intellectually stimulating twist on a birthday party. Each party reservation is for two hours, which includes playtime and a ceremony for food, drink, and cake. Three packages are available, each offering STEM discovery activities and more, with the Deluxe Party giving you private use of the space. The party packages start at $990. Up to 15 children are included in that rate, and additional guests cost $17 each. Parents can add a shaving cream or potions activity to the party, where everyone will get a little messy and have a lot of fun. Another popular add-on is the water lab experience, where kids can don fully water-proof coveralls and splash and play in a waterproof lab filled with pipes and channels. Imaginology is perfect for kids ages 4 - 8. 

PlayLab — Eagle Rock & Hollywood 

Parties at PlayLab give you and up to 40 of your guests three to four hours of private use at this adorable space. Party equipment like tables and chairs are included, and a staff member will help with any party needs. You get full use of the indoor and outdoor spaces, and there is weather-protectant gear like umbrellas and canopies. PlayLab can even include all the decor (plus beautiful balloon garlands) in your package, so that you won't have to worry about a thing. Just show up and enjoy while your little one has the best party ever in one of our all-time favorite LA playspaces. This vendor even has a Party Concierge tool on their website to help you plan a perfect, customized bash. At $500 for a three-hour party, this is also one of the best deals in the city. Make sure to book this one early- everyone loves PlayLab and they tend to fill up quickly- call 1-2 months in advance. 

My Little Paris — San Gabriel

One of may favorite gems on the indoor party scene is My Little Paris Cafe & Play in San Gabriel. A French-themed play space and cafe offering a wide range of party options for little partiers (best for kids up to seven years old), from the frugal to the fantastic. Parties can be on weekends and weekdays, and the weekday prices are very reasonable (packages start at $460 for 20 people). The food here is not your typical cheap pizza, My Little Paris has a menu of gourmet sides and entrees to choose from, and the food is included in the cost of the party. The kids will love tumbling and climbing in My Little Paris' adorable play area, and parents can relax from their tables and watch the fun with a meal they'll rave about later. 

Wonder of Dinosaurs — Redondo Beach

Parents of dino-lovers in Los Angeles are blessed with Wonder of Dinosaurs in Redondo Beach. Book a party room for the ultimate prehistoric birthday celebration. Guests have access to the activity center, which features a dinosaur exhibit with static and robotic dinos, mazes, bouncers, zoomers, and more. Plus, there are add-on activities like mini-golf, the "Triassic Train," a carousel, and "Ride-A-T-Rex." World of Dinosaurs requires a 1:1 parent-child ratio, which means that this can't be a drop off party. Pricing is $75 for the party room, and $16 - $18 per child ($8 - $10 per accompanying adult). Parties are more expensive on weekends,. 

Castle & Crown - Burbank 

If your little one dreams of a whimsical princess birthday, Castle & Crown is the perfect spot. Parties start at $500 for a weekday party, and $800 for a weekend party up to 15 guests. Castle & Crown isn't an ordinary playspace- it is a whimsical world of castles and fairytale houses with plenty of space to play and imagine. Castle & Crown takes care of everything. If you have a vision for the decor, the staff can actualize it without making you lift a finger. Every celebration also includes a craft activity for the guests. Adults don't count as guests at Castle & Crown and are welcome to join for free.  

What Are the Best Indoor Birthday Party Places for Elementary-Age Kids in Los Angeles?

Cayton's Children's Museum — Santa Monica

Located in downtown Santa Monica, the Cayton Children's Museum offers 21,000 square feet of more than 20 discovery-based exhibits, art studios, and multi-purpose rooms for immersive play. From a real-life helicopter to a miniature marketplace, the Cayton offers a different experience every visit. Several private rooms are available for parties, and a rental includes unlimited access to play in the museum, assistance with cake service, a dedicated Cayton representative, biodegradable tableware, and a discount at the gift shop. Party rentals start at $1,000,and include admission for up to 40 guests. Parents hardly need to host at all, with dedicated party staff and plenty of fun for the kids to explore in a free-play environment. Catering options are available if you want to simplify your party-planning even further. Parking is available in the Santa Monica Place garage- and easy elevator ride to the museum entrance. My only warning with the Cayton is I've found the staff to be a bit strict with the kids- rules must be followed and this is not the right option for kids that enjoy rough play. The museum discourages running and expects a lot of self-control. While the Cayton Museum appeals to ages 0-10, I would think kids ages 5 - 8 would most enjoy a party here. 

Sofive Soccer Centers — Upland, Pomona, & Rancho Cucamonga 

At Sofive Soccer Centers, every birthday party features fun drills and games, plus a private party area where your child can celebrate with their friends. Choose a hassle-free party package and let SoFive handle the rest. You can expect a memorable experience at their world-class, fully indoor soccer facility. This one is perfect for sports enthusiasts who like a little competition with their birthday cake. SoFive staff will take care of the cleanup at your two hour party, and let kids play on the indoor soccer pitch for 90 minutes. This soccer venue best appeals to little athletes ages 5-10. Kids will be exhausted after all the running- and parents will appreciate that they don't come home with a sugar-rush. A soccer party could be alienating for kids that aren't into (or good at) sports, so be mindful of the athletic diversity amongst party guests if you choose to book here. 

CAMP Store — Century City 

No matter what is behind the "magic door" at the CAMP store, it's sure to be a recipe for the best party ever. The Camp Store rotates in new experiences every few months or so. Keep tabs on their website to see what experience will be active when your child's birthday rolls around and how this impacts booking a party.  Pricing ranges dramatically depending one the time of the party and which experiences are available (their website gives a range of $18 - $55 per person). Parties are less expensive when booked on a weekday. For those who are not interested in a themed character experience, CAMP also offers craft parties where kids can go crazy with the slime, glitter, and glue without making a mess of your dining room. CAMP parties are such a blast, but timing will be limited, and there are not always dedicated party rooms available. 

Waterworks Pasadena — Pasadena

Just because your kid has a winter birthday doesn't mean they can't have a pool party! Rent the space at Waterworks in Pasadena, which boasts a pair of heated indoor pools to a comfortable 92 degrees. You can rent the pool for several hours on Saturdays or Sundays, and Waterworks will provide pool toys and rafts while facilitating pool games for your guests. Of course, Waterworks also provides deck guards to keep everyone safe. This party is available for kids one and up and is loads of fun for everyone, from babies to teens. A two-hour party starts at $565 for 15 kids. 

 American Girl Store — Century City 

Even the dolls get to celebrate at this all-pink cafe with a beautiful party room. Girls and their dolls can enjoy tea or a meal in the cafe and choose from multiple themes offered in the party packages. Parties are priced per person, with a tea party starting at $25 per guest, and a full meal option starting at $40. American Girl parties are best for a smaller guest list, with cafe reservations starting at parties of 2-8. Reservations include a special table activity or craft.  At a higher price point, parents can book a special party room for 8-13 guests and request doll makeovers. If you want to make the birthday girl feel exceptionally special, take her to the American Girl salon beforehand for a makeover, and let her doll get "all dolled up" as well. 

Santa Monica Playhouse — Santa Monica

Theater nerds- this one is for you. Birthday parties are hassle-free at the Santa Monica Playhouse, as everything from entertainment to cleanup is taken care of for you. The Family Theater Birthday Package is the most popular option for ages two to 12, where a theater-themed party will include acting games. A theater performance is also included in the birthday packages, and the birthday boy or girl gets to go on stage to receive a gift, and everyone will sing Happy Birthday. The Santa Monica Playhouse's most popular party package starts at $34.50 per child with a minimum of 10 kids. Parents who wish to stay and observe cost $17.50. 

Dream Elite Gymnastics — Woodland Hills

Boys and girls ages five and up can flip and tumble to the heart's desire. While the surrounding industrial park may be unassuming, this is a large space for kids to master handstands and cartwheels under expert supervision. There's a separate room for birthday cake and pizza eating, too. The parents of each party guest are required to sign a waiver before the kids are allowed on the gym floor, and only the parents of the birthday child are allowed out into the gym. This venue is best for a drop off party. Party packages begin at $500 for up to 20 kids (not bad!). The party prices do not include food, which needs to be brought in. There is also a 20% gratuity added to the final bill. 

LA Kings Ice at Pickwick Gardens — Toluca Lake 

Skate around the ice at a classic Toluca Lake establishment. Kids can enjoy practicing their axle jump (or sliding along with the aid of a skating walker for an additional $15). Then, head to the party room for pizza, cupcakes (no cutting service here), and presents. Pickwick will even provide balloons and tablecloths. Pickwick only hosts parties for kids 5 and up. Packages begin at $550, and take place during a public skating session, so people that are not in your party will be sharing the ice. for an additional $85, a staff member can give your party a little skating lesson to grow their confidence on the ice. Pickwick caps parties at 40 guests. 

Southern California Children's Museum — Pasadena

Hosting a birthday party at the Southern California Children's Museum guarantees a day of interactive fun and imaginative play. The museum offers private and semi-private packages that include all-day open play, so you don't have to kick the guests out. The semi-private option starts at $500. SCCM has a mini-fridge for storing your snacks and cake until it's eating time. All food needs to be brought in. The parking at SCCM can be complicated (they are located on busy Colorado Blvd. in Pasadena), but the birthday family gets a reserved parking spot easy for bringing all the decor and supplies inside. Hosts are welcome to decorate with balloons, as long as they clean everything up after the party is over. 

Discovery Cube — Sylmar 

If your birthday kid wants to let their inner nerd shine, the Discovery Cube is the perfect place. Kids can have the run of the museum all day long, AND head back to the party room for dinner and cake. Science demonstrations are available as an add-on. Kids can watch a scientist create incredible bubbles, a cauldron of slime, or some nitrogen-infused ice cream. Parties start at $549 (members save $50)  for 25 guests. The birthday kid gets a free ride on the carousel, and guests can join for $3 - $5 each. Add a party host and a science demonstration to the party for an additional $100. Outside food and beverages are allowed  (and Discovery Cube will even store your cake for up to 48 hours in advance) but you can also purchase pizza through the Cube to keep it easy. 

Adventureplex — Manhattan Beach

Adventureplex in Manhattan Beach is more than just an indoor jungle gym. With structures like rope courses, a rock climbing wall, mazes, tunnels, and more, kids can spend hours in this play space. The Adventure Party package can accommodate up to 15 children and includes a party host. The three-hour celebration at Adventureplex includes one hour in the play structure, one hour in the inflatable play area, and one hour of dining in a private room. All parties at Adventureplex are now private celebrations and are so popular that you'll need to book this one well in advance. Pricing starts at $750 for 15 kids. For littler birthday boys and girls, Adventureplex also offers a ToddlerTown party package. For $599, families can use the toddler-friendly ToddlerTown play structure in a safe environment away from the bigger kids. Residents of Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, and Hermosa Beach can take advantage of a special "resident rate" that is lower than the booking price for the general public. 

Olivia's Dollhouse — Lomita 

I still remember Jacquelyn's birthday party at Olivia's Dollhouse when I was eight years old- and I'm 35. This one is a real memory-maker- especially if you have a "girly-girl" in your life that loves all things dress up and make up. Give your princess her dream tea party at this child-friendly tea house. Party attendees can choose a ball gown, enjoy a makeover complete with nail painting, makeup, and hair styling, and then head to a fashion show to show off their new looks. After the fashion show, princesses be-decked in their finest are invited to have tea with the "birthday queen." The "OG Party Package" is $695 for 9 guests, with additional guests costing $30 each and a $25 max. The birthday child also gets a 5" birthday cake to take home so she can continue the celebration. 

Scooter's Jungle — El Segundo, Valencia, & Placentia

Scooter's Jungle is a local favorite amongst the kids at our school, so we have gone to a lot of parties here. The kids always rave about how fun it was, and the staff keep things moving while the parents can relax and chat. This massive space features a variety of bounce houses and slides, and all parties are 100% private. Adult-sized inflatables mean that parents can bounce and play alongside their kids. Book one of several arenas (there is one arena that is best for children 1-6 and others that are better for bigger kids), and the party will be entirely private in that specific room. Base rates start at $599 for 20 kids and 20 adults, though Saturday parties cost $100 more. Hosts are welcome to bring in their own food and decor. 

SkyZone - Santa Clarita, Van Nuys, Alhambra, Culver City, Pico Rivera, Torrance, Thousand Oaks, Covina, Cerritos, and Ventura

I had to include SkyZone in this list, because I'm planning a 10th birthday party here later this year for my son. SkyZone is epic- it gives kids freedom to run, bounce, and play while the parents chill nearby. At it's core, SkyZone is a trampoline park, but it is also packed with obstacle courses, sports courts, and slides (at some locations). Pricing starts at only $380 for the basic package, but the "Epic" package includes pizza too. All packages include the required SkyZone socks, and parents can observe the fun for free. All SkyZones are different, with different attractions and courses, but every one has a high-octane vibe that is perfect for active older kids. 

Pixel.Rooms - DTLA 

Pixel Rooms just came on my radar, and I was instantly impressed with this unique spot with interactive, digital games. A standard party package at Pixel Rooms only costs $500 for 10 guests and play in all three of the interactive game rooms. Pixel Rooms doesn't provide food, so plan to arrange for snacks and cake. The party room does have a fridge for storing cake and beverages during your celebration. There are only 8 parking spots reserved for Pixel Rooms- the rest of the guests will need to find street parking nearby.  

Where Can You Host an Indoor Birthday Party for Older Kids in LA?

Los Virtuality — West LA & Northridge

Cutting-edge VR technology allows kids to explore virtual worlds and compete against each other in more than 40 VR games, VR laser tag, VR escape rooms, and VR racing simulators. Birthday parties take place in a private arcade space with room for up to 30 guests to share 10 VR simulators and four racing stations. Options range from games appropriate for kids starting at age seven to the most popular teen games. Parking is free, and food is BYO—plus, there is a mobile VR unit if you want the party somewhere else. Gamers will be absolutely thrilled with this experience, though it may be a bit overstimulating for younger kiddos. A one-hour party starts at $499, with a two hour party for $799. While all VR parties at Los Virtuality welcome up to 50 guests, the lowest package only covers up to 10 players for the video games. Adding a photo booth to the party is extra, but hosts are welcome to play their own music for free. 

Youth Academy of Dramatic Arts — West Hollywood

What theater-loving kid wouldn't want to star in their own Broadway show for their birthday party? This one is a little pricey but will be a showstopping celebration as the party includes a theater performance with lights and sound. Directors come to the party, too. Some packages even include hair and makeup. The Broadway Debut package starts at $1,300 for up to three hours and 15 kids. Keep in mind that this price does not include gratuity, and should you wish to extend the party beyond the three hour mark you'll incur additional fees. A party here is best booked for a Friday afternoon or a Sunday- Saturdays are usually pretty packed with theater classes and party times are extremely limited. 

Sender One LAX — West LA

The Sender One climbing space provides an awesome indoor birthday party for kids who love to test their limits. The Sender City party package starts at $999 and can accommodate 30 participants. Note that there's a required 1:2 parent-to-child ratio to help clip kids in and out of climbs. The party package includes one hour of climbing in Sender City and one hour in the party room. No experience is necessary. There are a decent number of "hidden" fees for a party at Sender One- an excessively messy party room will result in a $100 cleaning fee, and once you hit  a 20 person limit, every additional climber will cost an extra $43. If you have kiddos that just want to move for their birthday, this is the place to go. 

Lucky Strike — DTLA, Beverly Hills, Mooorpark & Hollywood

Lucky Strike offers bowling parties with pizzazz. These bowling alleys are not that grimy spot on the corner with the sticky shoes. Lucky Strike has an atmosphere that is slightly chic, slightly retro, and loads of fun. The food is better than those old-school bowling alleys, too. Party packages start at $35.99 per person, and include cheese pizza, french fries, and shoe rentals for guests. Lucky Strike works with parents to customize a party that hits the right price point and includes all the best features (like arcade cards for everyone or funnel cake fries for dessert). If you have littles along for the party, Lucky Strike has bumpers available and bowling assistance ramps. While my kids have loved Lucky Strike at every age, I think I would book a party here for my kids starting at age 8- 16. 

Moonlight Rollerway — Glendale

Go back in time (maybe choose a decades party theme?) at this classic roller rink in Glendale. Party packages include skate rentals, a birthday announcement during the skate session, reserved tables (not a party room), and a pitcher of lemonade. For an additional fee, order some classic roller rink snacks from the snack bar. Keep in mind that when it comes to outside food, Moonlight Rollerway only allows cupcakes or cake. Party packages start at just $300 for 10 skaters, and additional skaters are $30 each. Moonlight Rollerway is a lot of fun, but the add-ons can add up (a pitcher of water costs $7.50). Use caution when booking to make sure that you're not getting taken advantage of. 

Ultrazone — Sherman Oaks

Laser tag makes a thrilling option for indoor birthday party places. Ultrazone in Sherman Oaks will provide everything, including food, play, and even clean up! Birthday party packages include two shared games of laser tag (meaning that they're not private, so non-party members will be participating), a private, decorated party room for two hours, a party host, and unlimited soft drinks. Food and game tokens for the arcade are not included in the cost of the party package but are available as add-ons. Birthday parties book up quick here, so mark your calendar to make that call and book 4-6 weeks in advance. This party is my 9 year olds' dream, but Ultrazone is also a hit with teens!  

K1 Speed: Indoor Kart Racing — Torrance, Burbank, & More Locations

What kid doesn't love to go fast? K1 Speed: Indoor Kart Racing takes the thrill of racing and brings it inside. You won't have to stress about weather conditions on the big day. K1 party packages require a minimum of eight riders and include two private 12-lap races, a one-hour party room rental, arcade cards for everyone, pizza, and soft drinks. There's a medal ceremony for the top three finishers (and, of course, a medal for the birthday kid). Party packages start at $65 per person with a 10 person minimum. Kids must be 48" to drive in a junior race, so this activity is best reserved for bigger kids and teens or tweens. 

Which Indoor Birthday Party Places in Los Angeles Are Worth the Splurge?

Cineopolis Junior — Pico Rivera 

A movie theater with an indoor play space? Now, this is a venue that will wow any party guest. Cineoplis has a unique junior theater made with kids in mind, where you're tiny movie buff can check out a new family blockbuster and get up to tumble and play when they get too wiggly. While Cineopolis hosts parties and events, it may be easiest to buy a group package of tickets and set the kids free in this unique cinema. You can rent out the theater space, but it will definitely cost you a pretty penny to do so. Keep in mind that the jungle gym is only open before the movie, during a pre-planned "intermission" for some films, and after the movie is over. When the film is screening, kids are expected to sit and watch. 

iFly Hollywood — Ontario 

If you want to throw a party unlike anyone else's, consider taking a crew of kids skydiving—indoors! Universal CityWalk's iFly is a clear plastic vertical wind tunnel where your party guests ages three and up can don flight gear and ride the wind without the inconveniences of jumping out of an airplane. Kids are provided lessons on how to ride the air currents and a certificate for the skydiving time. A basic party package divides flights among the guests; add-ons can include a private party room and DVDs of the experience for party favors. An "essential" party package starts at $115 per flyer, with a minimum of 6 flyers. Kids get to fly twice. If you're really wanting to make this memorable, the Cloud Nine Party includes pizza, party decorations, and 26 shareable flights for $1,149. This adrenaline-inducing activity is best for bigger kids, but kids can fly at three years old. 

Top Golf — El Segundo, Ontario, & Montebello 

Got a golfer looking for a unique birthday party spot? Top Golf has youth birthday parties. Party packages are based on bays, with up to six players per bay. Two hours of Topgolf gameplay is included, and although Top Golf is an indoor/outdoor venue, you'll never be exposed to any elements. Packages are a bit steep, starting at $552, but this is a party the kids won't soon forget. Truly an all-ages activity, your bigger kids, teens, and even the adults will all have a blast launching balls and talking smack to one another. You can even add the option for a Top Gold coach to pop by the bay and give you a few pointers. Parties include a Youth Par-Tee platter with all the good eats, and don't forget to add the cinnamon-dusted donut holes for dessert. 

Looma Space — Lomita

A party at Looma Space is sure to impress both kids and adults. This aesthetic, sleek, and creative play space offers a full menu of delicious entrees (we're talking caprese sandwiches and bulgogi bowls for adults) as well as the classic pizza and french fries that kids expect at a birthday bash. Looma Space can take care of everything your birthday requires, from backdrops to table settings to a beautiful balloon garland. If you want a spot that will look good on the 'Gram, this is it. Looma Space party packages start at $2700 for a private room rental, and you can book the entire space for $5000. Food and drink is charged separately, and is $25 per child and $35 per adult. Parties are for 15 kids and 25 adults, but if you really want to celebrate big, the full space rental accommodates for up to 100 guests. 

Sloomoo Institute - Mid-City

Is your kid obsessed with slime? At Sloomoo, you can stand under a slime waterfall, create a birthday cake out of slime, and squish and squelch a whole variety of sweet-smelling slimes to your heart's content. Sloomoo has several colorful party rooms available for booking, starting at $85 per minor and $20 per adult. Sloomoo requires a minimum of 10 party guests for booking. While this one is at a higher price point, party rooms include drinks and candy, plus a jar of customized slime for each party guest to take home. If you want the Sloomoo experience without the price tag, The Slimey LA Experience is $89 per minor, and includes admission, a slime guide, a plunge in Sloomoo Falls, and a goody bag (but no party room). 

Which Indoor Birthday Party Places in Are the LA Most Affordable?

Heal the Bay Aquarium — Santa Monica

Petting anemones, touching sea cucumbers, and making faces at sharks surely won't put a damper on an indoor birthday party. A birthday party rental includes private use of the space, touch tanks, and staff to help with party set-up and take-down; add-ons include decorations, individualized animal presentations, storytimes, and more. One flat fee includes up to 65 kids, making "the whole class" (plus siblings and parents!) an affordable option. There are a variety of add-on packages available, from decorations, to exhibit presentations and animal feedings. This one is great for any future marine biologist, and appeals to kids 3 - 12. 

Burton Chace Park — Marina del Rey 

This beauty of a park in the middle of Marina del Rey is probably best used outdoors, but sometimes you need those indoor birthday party places. Luckily, Burton Chace Park has an indoor community room available to rent in case the weather decides to rain on your parade. You can book the community room through the city website. My suggestion? Throw the cutest nautical themed party, right by the seaside, then take all of your guests for a ride on the Marina del Rey waterbus. It's only $1 per person, and takes a leisurely cruise around the harbor. 

Bob Baker Marionette Theater — Highland Park

The historic Bob Baker Marionette Theater makes a whimsical and enchanting experience for indoor birthday party places. The Puppet Parlor Party Package recreates an old-fashioned birthday celebration and is available to book on Sundays. Prices start at only $200 and accommodate up to 40 guests.  Party prices include tickets to the show, a backstage tour, and puppet meet-and-greets. In addition to the party package, a "birthday shout-out" is available for just $10 during a regular show where the birthday boy or girl goes on stage, a puppet gives them a birthday crown and gift, and the whole audience sings "Happy Birthday". 

The Cube — Santa Clarita 

Slice some ice at this fantastic ice rink in Valencia. The Cube has some of the most affordable birthday parties around (most packages top out around $500 with food included!). Any time of the year, aspiring ice princesses (or princes) can book a party complete with skate rentals and skating time, a party room, pizza, and beverages. If you want to kick the party up a notch, add a 20-minute instructional time with a pro at the rink. Kids that aren't as steady on their feet can secure a walker for $13 (max. 3). While The Cube provides the grub, party hosts will have to bring the cake or cupcakes. 

Pasadena Humane — Pasadena

Got an animal lover in your house? Children can discover the heartwarming mission of Pasadena Humane while getting up close with shelter animals for a memorable birthday celebration. Two party packages are available: one for a small group (up to three kids for $150) and one for a larger group of up to 20 people ($500). The larger party package includes use of a classroom as a party room. Guests get a tour of the Pasadena Humane Society and get to complete a pet-themed craft to take home. Unfortunately, summer birthdays aren't available here, as Pasadena Humane cuts of birthday party bookings from May 25 - August 31 because of summer camps. 

What Should Parents Know Before Booking an Indoor Birthday Party Place in LA?

Booking a birthday party can be nerve-wracking, and I've been around this block a time or two. Make sure to ask for an itemized list of what is included in your party, and ask the sales representative to inform you of any party perks that are add-ons. Those add-ons can be sneaky, leaving you with a much bigger bill than you bargained for. Many of these venues tack a service charge (between 15% and 20%) for their assistance at the party. Factor this into your budget. Ask about any mandatory cleaning fees, as well. 

When sending out invitations for your party, be very specific. List which children are invited in a family with siblings, and specify if the party is a drop-off or if parents are welcome to stay. If you are opting for a drop-off party, ensure that the venue doesn't require waivers in advance. If they do, make sure to send those with the invitations so that everyone is ready to participate on party day.

Make sure to send invitations well in advance, set an RSVP deadline, and follow-up with those that don't respond. Surprise guests at a birthday party can create complications and incur some unexpected extra costs. 

When it comes to cake, oftentimes cupcakes make for a less messy and less complicated party treat. Cake pops are another good option. I also recommend selecting drinks that come in boxes or bottles (juice boxes and soda cans for everyone) to help avoid spills (some of these venues even require drinks to be in individual containers). 

Want to save money on a birthday party at an epic venue? Check out Groupon and see what deals are being offered. I've been surprised how often I'll find an incredible group rate or party package deal on Groupon that can be applied to the party. Other great ways to save money include opting for a cake from Costco (I always just add characters or decor to the cake at home), skipping the party favors (they just get broken or lost within a few days anyway), or limiting the party to just a few, close friends (more intimate, less chaos, and less money).  

FAQ Section (Most Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: What is the best age for an indoor birthday party at Chuck E. Cheese?

Chuck E. Cheese is probably the most popular birthday party option out there (though it isn't in our list of best spots). Chuck E Cheese is best for ages 3 - 7 years old. Kids that are younger than that are not able to play the games, and kids older than 7 may find the games to be skewed too young. 

Q: How much do indoor kids birthday parties cost in LA?

The average cost for a birthday party in LA for 15 guests is around $500 - $800. Renting out a complete space, or adding more guests to your invite list, will often raise the price significantly. Parties that take place during the week are often less expensive than the same party on a Saturday. 

Q: Are indoor birthday party places worth it?

Indoor parties in LA can absolutely be worth it, especially if you pick a venue that best suits your child and caters to his or her interests. Some of our favorite celebrations have taken place at many of indoor party places in LA. 

Q: What’s the easiest birthday party venue for parents?

If you want to throw a kids' birthday party in LA with minimal effort, spots like Looma Space, Lucky Strike, Sloomoo Institute, and Scooter's Jungle all do the bulk of work so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the party. 

Q: Can you bring your own food and cake to birthday party places in Los Angeles?

Most birthday party venues allow you to bring your own cake to the celebration. Oftentimes, cake cutting service is included in the price of the bithday party. 

Q: How far in advance should you book an indoor birthday party in Los Angeles?

Some of the more popular birthday party venues in LA (such as PlayLab) need to be booked 1-2 months in advance. For more parties, call about a month ahead of time to lock in a date and time. 

Kids have a ball at the Cayton! Photo courtesy of Cayton's Children's Museum

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Indoor skydiving makes for a birthday party they'll never forget. Photo courtesy of iFly Hollywood

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This indoor track makes your party weatherproof. Photo courtesy of K1 Speed: Indoor Kart Racing