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Indoor Activities

🎮 Indoor Activities for Kids in Des Moines, IA

9 indoor play, trampoline parks, bowling, arcades, and entertainment centers rated and reviewed by families.

Activities & Venues in Des Moines

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The Slime Kitchen Des Moines amusement center in Des Moines, IA🕹️ Arcade
Photo: Mariah Lynne Gibson

The Slime Kitchen Des Moines is an action-packed indoor entertainment center that's perfect for burning off energy whatever the weather. With arcade games, laser tag, bumper cars, and multiple attractions under one roof, it's a one-stop destination that keeps kids entertained for hours while parents can relax knowing everyone is having a blast.

🕑 2-4 hours
Waveland Cafe cafe in Des Moines, IA🎳 Bowling
Photo: Roberto Cruz
4.6(2,381)$

Waveland Cafe is a beloved Des Moines breakfast and lunch spot serving up classic American comfort food in a welcoming, no-fuss atmosphere. With its affordable prices, generous portions, and kid-friendly menu, this local favorite has been feeding families for years. The casual cafe vibe makes it perfect for bringing the whole crew, including picky eaters who'll find plenty of familiar options.

🕑 45 minutes to 1 hour
Skate South sporting goods store in Des Moines, IA🎮 Entertainment
Photo: Skate South
4.4(565)$

Skate South is a classic roller skating rink that brings retro fun to Des Moines families, perfect for kids learning their first skating moves or showing off their skills. With arcade games to take skating breaks, a welcoming atmosphere for all skill levels, and popular birthday party packages, it's an active indoor option that gets kids moving and laughing together.

🕑 2-3 hours
Sky Zone Trampoline Park amusement park in Altoona, IA🤸 Trampoline Park
Photo: Sky Zone Trampoline Park
4.3(1,028)$$10 mi · Altoona

Sky Zone Trampoline Park in Grimes offers wall-to-wall bouncing fun for the whole family, with dedicated areas ensuring safe play for all ages. From toddler-specific zones where little ones can jump safely to dodgeball courts and foam pits for older kids, this indoor park provides active entertainment year-round, rain or shine.

🕑 1.5-2 hours
Great Escape bowling alley in Pleasant Hill, IA🎳 Bowling
Photo: Glen Hanson
4.3(1,016)$6 mi · Pleasant Hill

Great Escape is a classic neighborhood bowling alley in Pleasant Hill that's perfect for family fun day or night. Beyond bowling, kids will love the video arcade, and parents can grab food from the bar and grill while the whole family enjoys a few frames together in a welcoming, low-pressure atmosphere.

🕑 2-3 hours
Spare Time Des Moines pizza restaurant in Altoona, IA🎳 Bowling
Photo: Spare Time Des Moines
4.2(848)$$10 mi · Altoona

Spare Time Des Moines is a one-stop entertainment destination that goes way beyond traditional bowling. With bumper bowling for little ones, an exciting arcade, laser tag arena, and family-friendly cosmic bowling sessions complete with music and lights, this modern facility keeps kids of all ages entertained for hours while parents can relax knowing food is readily available on-site.

🕑 3-4 hours
Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park amusement park in Ankeny, IA🤸 Trampoline Park
Photo: Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park
4.2(842)$$8 mi · Ankeny

Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park in Ankeny is an indoor playground paradise where kids can literally bounce off the walls! With activities ranging from foam pits and dodgeball courts to climbing walls and a dedicated toddler area, this adventure park keeps children of all ages active and entertained rain or shine. Parents appreciate the variety of attractions under one roof, making it perfect for burning energy during Iowa winters or hot summer days.

🕑 1.5-2 hours (most jump packages are 60-90 minutes, plus time for check-in and cool-down)
Merle Hay Mall shopping mall in Urbandale, IA🎮 Entertainment
Photo: Tyler Reihmann
4.0(5,917)$5 mi · Urbandale

Merle Hay Mall offers a convenient indoor destination for families seeking climate-controlled fun year-round in the Des Moines area. Beyond traditional shopping, this Urbandale mall features arcade games, a food court with kid-friendly options, and various entertainment activities that make it more than just a retail stop,it's a rainy day savior and winter weather refuge for active families.

🕑 2-3 hours
Warrior Eats restaurant in Norwalk, IA🎳 Bowling
Photo: Warrior Eats
$9 mi · Norwalk

Warrior Eats combines the excitement of bowling with family-friendly dining, making it a perfect one-stop destination for Norwalk families. This local favorite offers special family bowling nights and birthday party packages, so you can enjoy a full evening of entertainment without the hassle of multiple stops. The welcoming community atmosphere means kids can be kids while parents relax and enjoy casual dining.

🕑 2-3 hours (allows time for 1-2 games plus a meal)

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