Summer in Birmingham can bring scorching heat and unpredictable rain- perfect reasons to find fun indoor activities that keep the kids entertained and cool! Whether you’re dodging a downpour or escaping the midday sun, these Birmingham-area spots offer plenty of family-friendly fun for all ages.
1. McWane Science Center – Hands-On Learning & IMAX Movies
The McWane Science Center remains a top destination for families looking to combine education and entertainment. Explore interactive science exhibits perfect for kids of all ages, where they can touch, build, and experiment. Don’t miss the IMAX® Dome Theater for immersive films that transport you far beyond the everyday.
Location: 200 19th St N, Birmingham
Website: mcwane.org
2. Birmingham Museum of Art – Free Children’s Art Area
The Birmingham Museum of Art features ArtVenture, a vibrant, hands-on gallery space designed for children ages 2-12. Kids can explore light, color, texture, and creative projects that inspire artistic expression—all free with museum admission!
Location: 2000 Rev Abraham Woods Jr Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35203
Website: artsbma.org
3. Spare Time Trussville – Kids Bowl Free All Summer
Register your kids for the popular Kids Bowl Free program at Spare Time Trussville! Kids 2-15 bowl two free games daily Monday through Saturday all summer long. The venue also offers laser tag, an arcade, and a full-service restaurant for the whole family.
Location: 3600 Roosevelt Blvd, Trussville, AL 35235
Website: sparetimetrussville.com
4. Indoor Play Centers & Adventure Parks
Activate (Vestavia Hills): Indoor playground with obstacle courses, climbing walls, and toddler zones.
Let’s Play (Hoover & 280): Soft play areas perfect for younger kids to jump, climb, and explore safely.
Urban Air Adventure Park: Trampolines, climbing walls, and obstacle courses for active fun.
Altitude Trampoline Park, Pelham: Bounce and flip your way through theis exciting trampoline parks.
Pump It Up Trussville: Inflatable bounce houses and obstacle courses.
Chuck E. Cheese: Classic arcade games and kid-friendly dining.
NEW! Fun City Adventure Park – large – scale indoor playground with a wide range of entertainment options suitable for all ages, from young children to teenagers and even adults.
5. NEW! Indoor Mini Golf – Putter Up
Get ready to tee off indoors at Putter Up, a brand-new mini golf experience in Pelham. Perfect for a family outing when the weather isn’t cooperating!
2408 Pelham Parkway, Pelham,
6. Highpoint Climbing and Fitness – Rock Climbing Fun
Kids and adults can enjoy rock climbing at Highpoint, which features a dedicated Kid Zone designed for younger climbers to safely develop their skills.
Location: 4766 US-280, Birmingham
Website: highpointclimbing.com
7. Trussville Playstation – Roller Skating & Arcade
A classic spot for roller skating and arcade games, Trussville Playstation offers hours of active, indoor fun for families.
Location: 411 Watterson Lane, Trussville, AL 35173
8. Dave & Buster’s – Huge Arcade & Dining
Birmingham’s Dave & Buster’s is the place for arcade lovers of all ages. Enjoy hundreds of games alongside a full-service restaurant and bar.
Location: Galleria, Hoover
Website: daveandbusters.com
9. Artsy Studio –
Crafts and artplay for kids and adults
194 Main Street, Trussville
10. Free and Discounted Movies – Summer Screenings
Many local theaters offer free or discounted summer movie programs. Check out AMC CLASSIC Lorna Ridge 10 and other area cinemas for kid-friendly movie times that won’t break the bank.
11. Your Local Library – Storytimes and more!
Don’t forget your neighborhood library! Storytimes, arts and crafts, and summer reading incentives make libraries a valuable, free resource for families looking to keep kids learning and entertained indoors.
Final Tips for Summer Fun:
Many of these venues offer special summer programs or discounts, so check their websites before you go. Staying cool and entertained this summer in Birmingham is easy with so many indoor options perfect for kids!
What are your favorite indoor spots in Birmingham to beat the heat? Let us know in the comments or tag us with your summer adventures!
