29 Creative Indoor Activities in Los Angeles in 2024

Sometimes, the weather doesn’t cooperate, so you search for fun and engaging indoor activities in Los Angeles to enjoy. Whether you are looking to escape the rain or the heat, finding the right activity can help you, your group, your family or your children have a lot of fun and forget about the temperature or occasional downpour outside.

Are you wondering how to have fun in the rain? Have you asked yourself, what is fun to do indoors with kids in Los Angeles? While there are many options, researching them and narrowing down the list takes time and patience.

We aim to simplify things and help you find fun activities that the weather won’t stop you from enjoying. Keep reading to discover interesting, engaging and even free indoor activities in Los Angeles that you can enjoy today. 

Jump to Section 

• Indoor Activities in Los Angeles for Families
• Indoor Activities in Los Angeles for Adults
• Free Indoor Activities in Los Angeles
• Indoor Activities in Los Angeles for Toddlers
• Indoor Activities in Orange County
• Indoor Activities in Long Beach

Indoor Activities in Los Angeles for Families

1. Try a Cooking Class

If you are searching for engaging indoor activities in Los Angeles that is also educational, check out cooking classes. Led by master chefs, family cooking classes allow families to discover hidden talents as they craft various dishes.

You might choose a dessert menu, an international culinary adventure or a more local dish. The classes are appropriate for all skill levels and some of the most fun places to go on a rainy day for adults and children to work together. 

2. Throw Some Pottery

Some engaging and fun indoor activities in Los Angeles involve clay. Spend an afternoon throwing, crafting or painting pottery under the guidance of a skilled instructor.

Pottery classes in Los Angeles are not only fun but healthy. According to an article on Health Fitness Revolution, throwing pottery offers many health benefits, including creating a more optimistic outlook, improving focus and reducing stress.

Regardless of your skill level, art classes in Los Angeles are educational, healthy and creative. 

3.  Plan a Game Night 

Challenge your family and friends to a virtual interactive game night in Los Angeles for an adrenaline-pumping good time that keeps you thinking.

Virtual activities are great indoor activities in Los Angeles when the weather is bad and it’s difficult to come together, as you can play with your friends in different locations across the city, state or country.

From murder mysteries to escape rooms or bingo nights, you’ll find plenty of great activities and something for everyone in the family. 

4. Visit an Art Gallery 

Los Angeles is one of the best cities for artists. That’s why visiting art galleries can be the perfect rainy-day indoor activities in Los Angeles, offering a blend of culture, education and inspiration.

Los Angeles art galleries provide a tranquil environment where families can explore diverse artworks, sparking conversations and creativity.

Two notable galleries include The Broad, with its impressive collection of contemporary art, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), featuring extensive exhibits from various periods and cultures, offer enriching experiences. 

5. Hit the Arcade

Trips to the arcade can be cool and retro indoor activities in Los Angeles that offer nostalgic fun for all ages. Arcades provide a lively environment and offer hours of entertainment and family-friendly competition.

Two Bit Circus in Downtown LA stands out with its innovative mix of virtual reality experiences, classic arcade games and interactive carnival-style attractions. Another notable spot is Neon Retro Arcade in Pasadena, known for its extensive collection of vintage arcade games from the 80s and 90s.

Indoor Activities in Los Angeles for Adults

6. Paint While Sipping Wine

Paint and sip classes are excellent indoor activities in Los Angeles. They are ideal for small groups or a more cozy afternoon out for two.

Each class is led by a skilled instructor who walks you through creating a canvas based on the painting at the front of the room but uniquely your own. As you paint, you can sip wine, snack on small appetizers or enjoy a non-alcoholic beverage, whichever you bring to class.

The classes are small and interactive, appropriate for all skill levels and a great way to spark creativity while having fun. 

7. Dance the Day Away 

If you are ready to get active and have a lot of fun, dance classes are the ideal activity to try. Indoor activities in Los Angeles like this can help you to learn a new skill, refine your dance moves or discover fun choreography for an upcoming event.

Dancing is a fantastic form of exercise that teaches coordination and improves your cardiovascular health. Skilled instructors teach classes that are appropriate for all skill levels. 

8. Craft Your Own Candles 

Taking a candle-making class offers uniquely creative indoor activities in Los Angeles. Participants can explore their artistic side while learning a new skill.

These classes provide a hands-on experience crafting custom candles, from choosing scents and colors to pouring and decorating. They are perfect for individuals looking to create personalized gifts or simply indulge in a therapeutic and aromatic hobby.

9. Arrange Some Flowers 

You don’t have to leave the house for this fun indoor activity in Los Angeles; learn to arrange flowers with a virtual instructor.

Flower arranging is a creative hobby that can help spruce up your space or offer options for creative gifts for friends and family members. In each class, you’ll learn to source your flowers, artfully assemble blooms and combine colors and shades to create unique displays. 

10. Challenge Each Other’s Knowledge 

Plan indoor activities in Los Angeles to test your knowledge and bring out your competitive side. A virtual trivia game is your ticket to over an hour of fun with a challenging game that includes your choice of topics.

The virtual nature of this event means you can invite friends and family to play even if they’re not in the same building as you, and the private Zoom room means that only the people you invite will be in the room. 

11. Experience a Theatrical Performance 

Seeing a touring Broadway show is a cultured and captivating indoor activity in Los Angeles that offers the thrill of live theater in a vibrant city setting.

Broadway productions bring the magic of musicals and plays to life with talented casts, elaborate sets, and enchanting music. The Pantages Theatre in Hollywood, with its ornate art deco décor, is a premier venue known for hosting top Broadway touring productions that make for upscale indoor activities in Los Angeles.

Free Indoor Activities in Los Angeles

12. Discover a Book 

Immerse yourself in a new book for a fun adventure and a welcomed escape from reality. You can find plenty of books to choose from by planning multiple indoor activities in Los Angeles at the local library. Simply pay a visit, request your library card and get to browsing.

The library has hundreds of thousands of titles available for loan, free of charge, and if you don’t find what you want, they can probably source it for you from another branch.

If libraries aren't your thing, you can always visit some of the best bookshops in Los Angeles like the marvelously popular Last Bookstore in Downtown or the cherished Skylight Books in Loz Feliz. Browsing is always free.

13. Learn About the Sea 

The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach is a captivating destination. It offers free admission on select days, making multiple visits affordable and engaging indoor activities in Los Angeles for the whole family.

Located near the waterfront, this aquarium features diverse marine life from the Pacific Ocean and beyond. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing colorful fish, playful sea otters, majestic sharks and mesmerizing jellyfish.

Interactive touch pools allow children and adults to connect with animals and learn. 

14. Sip Some Coffee 

While not technically free, sipping coffee is a budget-friendly indoor activity in Los Angeles and a way to pass a lot of time in a cozy environment.

Several cute coffee shops throughout the city have varying themes and menu offerings. Visiting one is an excellent choice for a casual date idea in Los Angeles. Simply grab a cup of Joe, find a comfortable seat and sit down to enjoy some great conversation with your plus one.

Escape the usual Starbucks and explore the hipster roasteries in Silver Lake and Echo Park, grungy cafes in Venice Beach or the relaxed ambiance of coffee shops in Altadena or Glendale.

15. Read to Animals 

Wallis Annenberg PetSpace in Playa Vista offers a haven for animal lovers to enjoy furry cuddles. Here, you’ll learn about animal care and perhaps be tempted to take home an adoptable new best friend.

You don't need to adopt to take advantage of these indoor activities in Los Angeles. Teach your children the joys of volunteering by engaging in programs like Paws and Pages, where children can read to animals and spend time learning about their behaviors and motivators. 

Indoor Activities in Los Angeles for Toddlers

16. Romp and Play at IKEA

Playing at IKEA is a delightful and engaging indoor activity in Los Angeles for potty-trained toddlers. IKEA features a well-designed play area called Småland, where children can safely explore ball pits, climb structures and interact with other kids under the supervision of trained staff.

These play areas stimulate young minds and build motor skills. As a bonus, you can shop or sip coffee and eat meatballs at the restaurant while your child plays! Burbank houses the largest IKEA in North America, so you can feel good knowing your kid is safe while you get lost in the maze of furniture. 

17. Play at the Mall 

Playing at the mall's play center is a toddler-friendly indoor activity in Los Angeles and Orange County, CA. It provides a safe and entertaining environment for young children to burn off energy and is free of charge.

The Glendale Galleria has a whimsical indoor play area with climbing structures and slides tailored to young children. The Grove also provides a charming play area with a picturesque setting, perfect for toddlers to enjoy. 

18. Check Out a Puppet Show 

Taking toddlers to see a puppet show is a terrific idea for an indoor activity in Los Angeles that promises laughter and wonder. The Bob Baker Marionette Theater is a beloved venue known for its whimsical puppetry performances.

This historic theater in Highland Park enchants young audiences with colorful characters, lively music and engaging storytelling.

19. Visit the Science Center 

Visit the California Science Center for fantastic toddler-friendly indoor activities in Los Angeles, perfect for rainy or hot days. The center offers a wealth of interactive exhibits and educational displays that captivate children and adults.

Guests can explore the wonders of science through hands-on exhibits covering topics like space exploration, ecosystems and the human body. While some exhibits cost extra, there is plenty to explore free of charge.

Indoor Activities in Orange County

20. See a Movie 

Seeing a movie is a fantastic choice for a relaxing indoor activity in Orange County. It offers a chance to unwind and enjoy entertainment in a comfortable setting.

Whether you prefer a family-friendly blockbuster, indie film or classic movie, theaters like AMC Tustin 14 at The District provide state-of-the-art facilities with plush seating, surround sound and large screens.

For a more luxurious option, Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas at Laguna Niguel offers reclining seats, in-theater dining and a full bar.

21. Skate at the Ice Rink 

Skating at the multiple ice rinks are fantastic indoor activities in Los Angeles and the OC, offering fun and exercise for people of all ages. Visit a rink for an exciting adult birthday party idea or a night out with the family.

Whether you are a seasoned skater or a beginner, the ice rink provides a safe environment to practice your moves or simply have a great time skating with the lights and music. It's an excellent way to stay active, beat the heat and create lasting memories with family or friends. The Rinks in Irvine gets some good all-round reviews. 

22. Enjoy a Meal Out 

Whether enjoying a birthday dinner in Los Angeles or one of the fabulous rooftop restaurants in Los Angeles, it’s difficult to beat dinner out as pampering and tasty indoor activities in Los Angeles.

Let someone else prepare your meal while you relax and enjoy the food and drink. You might consider Asian fusion in a trendy atmosphere at OMELI Kitchen, lazing around on the bricked patio at Trevor's at the Tracks or take some finger-lickin' barbecue at Postino Park Place. Orange County is not short of trendy establishments for you to stuff your face indoors.

23. Escape From a Room 

Escape rooms offer a heart-racing indoor activity in Los Angeles, perfect for those seeking adventure and mental challenges. Participants are locked in a themed room and must work together to solve puzzles, find clues and complete tasks within an hour to escape.

This immersive experience tests your problem-solving skills, teamwork and creativity, providing an adrenaline rush and a sense of accomplishment.

There are so many options for indoor activities in Orange County that involve escape rooms, so choose the option that is closest to you. Stand outs that are highly rated include Cross Roads Escape Games, Escape Room Era and Mission Escape Games.

24. Toss Axes 

Throwing axes games are exhilarating indoor activities in Los Angeles, perfect for those seeking a unique and active experience. This modern twist on a classic sport combines physical skill with friendly competition, making it a great outing for friends, families or even team building activities.

Venues like King's Eye Escape & Axe in Westminster or Slashers Axe Throwing & Ales in Costa Mesa offer a welcoming atmosphere and professional instructors to help beginners and seasoned throwers hone their skills. 

Indoor Activities in Long Beach

25. Bowl the Day Away

Bowling is a fun and engaging indoor activity in Los Angeles that offers entertainment for friends, families and groups. Whether you're a casual bowler or a pro aiming to improve your strike, Long Beach has several great bowling alleys to visit.

Round1 at Lakewood Center Mall is a popular destination that's just bordering Long Beach. You can make a day of it by combining bowling with arcade games, karaoke and billiards. Bowlero has two chains in Cerritos and Torrance offering a more classic bowling atmosphere with retro lanes and a friendly vibe.

26. Climb Some Rocks 

Indoor rock climbing in Long Beach offers a fantastic physical challenge and healthy recreation. Climbing is an excellent cardio workout that engages muscles throughout the body, from arms and legs to core and back.

For a fun indoor activity in Long Beach, try climbing gyms like Long Beach Rising and Hangar 18. They both provide full training, plenty of safety gear and diverse climbing walls suitable for beginners to advanced climbers. 

27. Race Your Friends

Go-kart racing is an exhilarating and adrenaline-pumping indoor activity in Long Beach that offers a perfect escape on a rainy day.

It provides a thrilling experience for seasoned racers and beginners, with tight turns, straightaways and competitive racing in a controlled indoor environment. One of the best places to enjoy indoor go-karting in Long Beach is K1 Speed featuring electric go-karts that are ideal for all skill levels. 

28. Witness a Piece of History

One of the most surprising spots that tops the list of best indoor activities in Long Beach is to visit the Battleship USS Iowa. This historic U.S. Navy ship served in WWII, Korea, and the Cold War and today is a museum.

You can visit this exceptional vessel on a guided or self-guided outdoor and indoor tour. Get a taste of what it was to be like for sailors who guided the “Battleship of Presidents.” While the museum is open from 10 AM to 4 PM, there are also overnight programs and an online experience.

29. Get Active 

Going to the gym in Long Beach offers dedicated indoor activities in Los Angeles that is focused on fitness and well-being. Whether you're looking to lift weights, join a group fitness class or hit the treadmill, the area has several excellent gyms to explore.

Gold's Gym Long Beach is a legendary choice for this heart-pumping indoor activity in Long Beach, known for its selection of workout equipment and various classes like yoga and cycling. 

Where can I go on a rainy day in Los Angeles? How can I figure out what to do in Santa Monica when it’s raining? This article offers options for anyone who has ever asked these questions or wondered about indoor activities in Los Angeles that are available to escape the rain or heat.

Check out some of these fun venues, or perhaps combine visits to a few for a fun and eventful day on the move. The memory-making opportunities are endless and will never depend on Mother Nature’s less-than-predictable weather-related decisions. 

For even more fun indoor activity ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!