Beat the Boredom: Glendale’s Coolest Spots for Active Kiddos

Stuck inside or just hoping to keep little ones entertained? Glendale is packed with fun spots where kids can meet new creatures, get creative, or burn off extra energy—without relying on screens or backyard sprinklers.

Let’s get to it.

Lizards For Kids And More

When you step into Lizards For Kids And More, it feels like show-and-tell without any of the elementary-school awkwardness. This Glendale spot hosts indoor reptile tours, and they even roll their scaly guests out to schools, libraries, parks, or any place that wants a hands-on lizard visit.

Kids can touch and hold some of the animals, which is braver than I usually get. The staff are total reptile nerds in the best way, walking you through diet facts, favorite hideouts, and trivia far more entertaining than most science textbooks.

Groups stay small—around eight people—so it never gets chaotic and the experts can keep an eye on everyone. Adults have to supervise, so no disappearing for coffee. It’s beginner-friendly, too, with zero prep needed. Admission is just $3 per adult and free for kids. Whether it’s a family outing, a school trip, or a curious crew of reptile fans, this place delivers a safe, fun experience without breaking the bank.

Check out their website →

PLAYzona

Stepping into PLAYzona in Glendale means escaping the July heat and sticky playground equipment. The entire space is indoors, fully air-conditioned, and cleaned so often it feels brand-new.

This venue leans into imaginative play over screens. Kids can run their own pretend market, play doctor in a mini-clinic, explore police and fire stations, or turn a playhouse into a home—all in one visit. Sessions have a capped capacity, which keeps things chill and makes supervision easy.

Creative activities include art projects, STEM challenges, and a music corner where little ones can make some noise. Staff stay alert and helpful, and the facility even offers grip socks, ADA-accessible features, and a snack zone for anyone who needs a fuel-up. You can drop in most days without a reservation, or grab a membership to save on repeat visits.

Check out their website →

Slime city Studio

At Slime City Studio in Glendale, everything is about slime—and it’s as awesome as it sounds. This strip-mall spot serves up custom gooey crafts, glitter blends, and enough squish to keep kids busy for hours.

Children as young as four can join birthday parties or dive into science workshops that sneak chemistry lessons into the mess. Parents who dread post-play cleanup can relax—staff handle all the glittery chaos and wipe downs.

The AC is cranked, so it’s a cool escape from the Arizona sun. Employees know how to work with kids of all needs, including those with sensory sensitivities. No prior slime-making skills are required. Seasonal camps, themed events, and take-home kits keep things fresh, too. Everything uses non-toxic materials, and drop-off options let parents grab coffee while the fun unfolds.

Check out their website →

Westgate Entertainment District

Over at Westgate Entertainment District in Glendale, there’s genuinely something for everyone. Fountain Park sits at the center, where a splash pad entertains toddlers up to twelve-year-olds daily—and it’s free. ADA-accessible paths make sure no one’s left out.

On summer Saturdays, galaxy slime and superhero obstacle courses pop up, giving kids plenty of reasons to burn off energy. Westgate Wednesdays step things up with movie character meet-and-greets, prize giveaways, music, and dancing that turn midweek into a mini block party.

Holiday events cover everything from ice skating in winter to safe trick-or-treat lanes in October. Car shows and live outdoor concerts run year-round for adults and enthusiasts. With constant events, family-friendly features, and free access to major attractions, Westgate keeps a crowd happy without charging entry.

Check out their website →

Stratosphere Adventure Park

Inside Stratosphere Adventure Park in Glendale, you’ll find a huge indoor playground that doubles as a cardio workout. Wall-to-wall trampolines give every age group space to bounce, and basketball hoops are set low enough for short jumpers to score.

The park also features American Ninja Warrior–inspired obstacle courses and gladiator jousting for some friendly competition. Open-jump sessions welcome everyone, and there are special times just for kids four and under, so little ones don’t get flattened.

On Friday and Saturday nights, glow-in-the-dark mode turns the park into a low-light playground until ten. Sessions start around $13, plus grip-sock rental, and memberships help frequent visitors save. Spectators can grab food on site, and safety is top-priority with padded surfaces, netting, and attentive staff. From beginners to thrill-seekers, Stratosphere Adventure Park offers a fun escape for families and friends.

Check out their website →

Giggles. Glendale

Right off the bat, Giggles Glendale stands out as a perfect spot for families with little ones under six. Since everything is indoors, you don’t have to worry about scorching sun or surprise showers. They’ve thought of just about everything: climbing play structures, a trampoline zone that burns off energy, and themed areas that keep toddlers and preschoolers busy for ages.

There’s even a gymnastics rope section that older kids love. Grown-ups get a comfy snack area, plenty of seating, and a well-designed nursing room that feels intentional rather than an afterthought. Admission is $14 for the first child and $12 for each additional sibling, and you get unlimited re-entry. Caregivers enter free if they wear socks, and little ones grab grip socks. All skill levels are welcome, and the place stays spotless thanks to clear rules and attentive staff.

If you’re planning a big group outing, their group rate is worth checking out.

Check out their website →

KTR Glendale

When it comes to high-energy fun, KTR Glendale has you covered in more ways than one. It’s all indoors and air-conditioned, so Arizona heat won’t slow anyone down. Jump on trampolines, tackle ninja obstacle courses, or test your balance on the log roll before plunging into foam pits. There’s even a huge Super Slide and a dedicated skate and BMX zone.

Different areas suit every age. Mornings start with Toddler Time in padded areas and no wild teenagers overhead. Floor hosts keep an eye on things, so it never gets out of hand. If your child has special needs, an ESA-approved weekday membership and extra support are available. Safety is taken seriously with grip socks, padded zones, and foam pits.

Parents can watch from the viewing balcony or join in, ankle braces recommended if you plan to jump in. All skill levels are welcome, and they’re open year-round. The variety of zones, plus clear staff supervision, makes it a top choice for families and groups looking to burn off energy.

Check out their website →

Related Posts