Indoor Activity Guide
Indoor Activity Ideas with Kids in the Charlotte, NC Area
Looking for indoor activities to do with kids in the Charlotte area? Whether it’s bad weather, extreme heat, or you just need to get out of the house, having reliable indoor options makes all the difference.
We’ve visited almost every indoor spot around Charlotte, and I’ve rounded up our best tried-and-true indoor activity ideas — organized by age group to make planning easy.
This list focuses specifically on places that do not require a membership to visit.
Best Indoor Activities for Toddlers & Preschoolers
ImaginOn
📍 Uptown Charlotte
A free public library experience designed with kids in mind. ImaginOn offers storytimes, family shows at the Children’s Theatre, and multiple interactive play spaces — making it one of the best indoor toddler spots in Charlotte.
Playhouse Play Cafe
📍 Fort Mill, SC | Ages 0–7
An indoor playground paired with coffee and refreshments for parents. This is an easy outing when you want something contained, calm, and toddler-friendly.
Spirited Sprout
📍 Waxhaw, NC
A sensory-friendly indoor play space that’s especially great for younger kids who enjoy imaginative, hands-on play in a calmer environment.
Discovery Place Kids
📍 Huntersville, NC
An interactive children’s museum filled with imaginative play, hands-on exhibits, and spaces designed specifically for younger kids.
Gymnastics Toddler Open Gym
📍 Various locations | Ages 0–5 | Weekdays only
A great option for toddlers who need to move. Open gym times allow little ones to climb, tumble, and explore safely.
Local favorites include Perfect Balance Training Center and The Charlotte Allstars.
High Five Playhouse
📍 Matthews, NC
A modern, well-designed indoor playground that works well for toddlers and young kids.
Grow Cafe
📍 University Area
A smaller indoor playground paired with a café — ideal for younger kids and parents who want a relaxed outing.
Best Indoor Activities for Older Kids
Sullenberger Aviation Museum
📍 West Charlotte (near the airport)
An aviation museum featuring 40+ aircraft and interactive exhibits that older kids find fascinating.
Schiele Museum of Natural History
📍 Gastonia, NC
A great destination for kids who enjoy science, history, and hands-on learning exhibits.
Bowling
Fun for all ages, especially on rainy days.
Local favorites include Bowlero Matthews and Spare Time Pineville.
Big Air Trampoline Park
📍 University Area & East Charlotte
A high-energy option for older kids who need to burn off energy.
Dish It Out Pottery
📍 Ballantyne
A creative indoor activity where kids can paint pottery and take home a finished piece.
Ninja Nation
📍 Huntersville
An obstacle-course-style open gym that’s perfect for adventurous kids.
Best Indoor Activities for All Ages
Playland
📍 Monroe, Pineville & Lake Norman
One of the most versatile indoor playground options for families with kids of different ages.
Discovery Place Science
📍 Uptown Charlotte
An interactive science museum featuring hands-on exhibits, a small aquarium, and rotating special exhibits that appeal to a wide age range.
Superior Play Systems
📍 Pineville, NC
Open play includes playsets, trampolines, and basketball goals — a great option for mixed-age siblings.
Quest Nature Center
📍 Huntersville, NC | Free
A nature-focused indoor space offering educational exhibits and programming that works well for all ages.
Final Thoughts
If you’re parenting kids in Charlotte, having a go-to list of indoor activities for all ages is essential. Whether you’re entertaining toddlers, older kids, or siblings with different interests, there are so many great non-membership options around the area.