Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Pasadena

Kid-friendly fun activities

Outings that keep the kids genuinely engaged without requiring you to sacrifice your own afternoon to a loud play-zone.

Based on 850 Opinions
+847
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Neon Retro Arcade image 1
Neon Retro Arcade image 2
Neon Retro Arcade image 3
View all
Video arcade

Colorful retro arcade filled with classic cabinets and pinball machines creates a bright, nostalgic atmosphere. Loud energy and shoulder-to-shoulder crowds make it lively and sometimes cramped. Kids and teenagers frequent the space, enjoying a mix of 80s and 90s vibes and well-maintained games.

Birthday parties for kids include arcade games that keep them busy and entertained. Family and friends join in, enjoying games like Mortal Kombat alongside the kids.

Tons of fun games fill the space, including new shooters and classic titles like Mortal Kombat. A few pinball machines feature themes like Godzilla and Pulp Fiction, making it a lively spot for all ages.

People are saying

"It's got a great selection of retro arcade games and pinball machines."

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot where the kids had a blast."

"It's so fun playing all the classic retro games and pinball machines here."

Good to know

1

Neon Retro Arcade closes at 10 pm.

2

The arcade charges $15 per person per hour or $25 for a day pass.

3

Street parking and nearby lots are available.

02
Brookside Park image 1

City park offers spacious green areas with numerous shaded picnic spots and playgrounds themed like a pirate ship. Atmosphere stays peaceful and family-friendly, attracting children and families for outdoor activities and relaxation. Trails, sports fields, and a pool add variety to the experience.

A large, spacious park offers a pirate ship-themed playground called Reese's Retreat that keeps toddlers and kids aged 4 to 10 entertained. Shaded play areas, hiking trails, and a nearby interactive museum add variety for children to explore and enjoy.

Pirate-themed park offers a fun spot for kids and toddlers. Activities include playing with a sea monster and tailgating before games. It also suits relaxing, exercising, and family fun.

People are saying

"These parks are spacious and green, perfect for a relaxing day."

"It's a super fun place for kids, especially the pirate-themed park."

"It's a great Kid Friendly place for children to play."

Good to know

1

Brookside Park hosts music festivals a couple of times a year with vegan food options.

2

Summer jazz concerts take place regularly, attracting many visitors.

3

The park features clean restrooms and ample parking for visitors.

03
Lumee DIY Pasadena image 1

Small space offers build-your-own dolls and customizable phone cases with unlimited charm options. Atmosphere stays calm and welcoming with relaxing music enhancing the creative vibe. Visitors often come in small groups for a fun, peaceful crafting experience.

Creative projects keep kids busy and engaged. Staff like Caroline help children make personalized gifts. Many cute items appeal to kids and encourage their creativity.

Creative projects feel easy and fun here with kits designed for simple decorating. Picking out and assembling mirror kits offers a hands-on and engaging experience that suits all ages.

People are saying

"The staff here is super helpful and very nice during the fun activities."

"The Bottomless drinks here are amazing; the staff teaches you everything."

"The staff here is super sweet and helpful with kids."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for building your own bear.

2

No parking is available at Lumee DIY Pasadena.

3

A nearby Shell gas station allows for quick drop-off and pickup.

04
FitSport Kinetics image 1

Gym offers boxing ring and circuit training classes alongside traditional equipment. Atmosphere feels like friendly family with welcoming, low-judgment group classes for all ages and levels. Variety of workouts and trainers keeps energy fun and challenging.

Speed and agility classes focus on improving athletic skills for kids. Teams use the space for off-ice training and weight training to boost performance.

Group classes combine fun with challenge and include interval and strength training led by great trainers. Classes balance hard work with an enjoyable atmosphere.

People are saying

"The coaches at this gym are incredible and so encouraging."

"The staff here is so welcoming and positive, making it feel Kid Friendly."

"I found the fun classes to be as enjoyable as working hard with great trainers."

Good to know

1

The gym offers a wide variety of classes for all ages and fitness levels.

2

Kids and teenagers can participate in specialized programs.

3

Classes are available at various times to fit different schedules.

05
Lion Heart Jiu Jitsu Academy image 1
Martial arts school

Martial arts school offers a family vibe with friendly, supportive people and top-notch coaching focused on modern jiu jitsu fundamentals. Classes suit both competitors and hobbyists, including kids, women, and adults, creating a welcoming community that balances fun with skill development.

Classes group kids by skill level and have grown from about 10-15 to double that number. Kids attend regularly, with options including women's and adults classes alongside occasional kickboxing.

Training sessions have a fun culture with friendly people and a supportive coach who make learning enjoyable.

People are saying

"The Jiu Jitsu community here feels like family."

"The coaches at this gym are skillful and technical."

"The training here is super fun and the people are great."

Good to know

1

The academy offers classes for kids, women, and adults.

2

Pricing is very reasonable compared to other gyms in the area.

3

Instructors provide personalized attention based on skill level.

06
Singer Park image 1
City park

Small city park offers quiet atmosphere despite nearby busy streets, with well-maintained rose garden and playground for children. Spacious layout includes picnic areas and walking paths suitable for short strolls or bike rides.

Two parks offer well kept playgrounds and open fields where kids run freely. Picnic tables and trash cans near the play areas add convenience for families.

Playing with local kids from the nearby school adds a lively, community feel. Spending time with family at Singer Park offers a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the park to be well maintained and clean."

"It's a great kid-friendly spot with a playground and picnic tables."

"Playing tag football with local kids was a blast."

Good to know

1

Parking at Singer Park is easy to find.

2

The restrooms are always open and very clean inside.

3

There is a nice walking path around the park.

07
Plushumi The Plushie Workshop LA / Pasadena image 1

Art studio offers a cozy modern atmosphere where adults and kids engage in custom plushie making using beginner-friendly knitting devices. The space feels clean and well lit, supporting a relaxed, family-friendly vibe that suits groups and special occasions.

Kids stay engaged with hands-on plushie making, choosing animals and accessories like boba or hair bows. Each child leaves with a custom plushie, making it a relaxed and creative birthday option.

Making plushies stands out as a fun activity here. The process includes adding custom accessories to personalize each plushie, making it an engaging and enjoyable experience.

People are saying

"Making your own plushie is a super cute and fun activity."

"It's so romantic how they help you customize your plushie every step of the way."

"The staff here is so welcoming and helpful, making it feel really Kid Friendly."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for the plushie-making experience.

2

The workshop is beginner-friendly and suitable for all ages.

3

Each child gets to take a plushie home after the session.

08
SBG SoCal image 1
Martial arts school

Largest facility dedicated to BJJ in the area, maintained with impeccable cleanliness and professional management. Inclusive atmosphere with strong emphasis on personal development and life lessons alongside martial arts training. Popular kids program features multiple coaches per session, ensuring individual attention and teaching values like respect and responsibility.

Multiple coaches per session provide individual attention in the kids program. The team shows patience and passion while teaching, helping kids develop confidence and love for jiujitsu.

Classes led by Coach Marco stay fun and engaging while delivering meaningful instruction. The kids program offers a clean and enjoyable environment that keeps children entertained.

People are saying

"This place is so Kid Friendly; they teach valuable life lessons."

"I found this gym to be the best place for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu."

"These fun activities teach kids valuable life lessons like respect and making better choices."

Good to know

1

Classes are available for all ages, from kids to adults.

2

The kids program has a great kids-to-teacher ratio for personalized attention.

3

Hygiene is a top priority, with clean mats and facilities maintained regularly.

09
World of Racing image 1
Car racing venue

High-end racing simulators with full motion seats, triple screens, and force feedback create an immersive experience in a dark, modern space. The atmosphere stays fun and welcoming, suitable for beginners and groups who enjoy competitive racing with voice chat. Tables in the back provide spots for breaks, making it a social and engaging venue.

Kids get hooked on the racing experience and have a lot of fun competing. Activities suit children and teens, making it a great spot for family-friendly racing.

Sim racing offers a super fun experience with a clean atmosphere. The motion rig adds excitement, making it great for practicing or spending quality time racing with others.

People are saying

"The staff here makes the fun activities so professional and helpful."

"The full motion simulators feel so real, it's amazing."

"The staff here is super friendly and makes it easy for beginners to try."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for private events to ensure availability.

2

Expect to pay a premium for peak hours and special events.

3

The facility offers various racing packages tailored for different group sizes.

10
Vroman's Bookstore image 1

Two large floors hold mountains of books alongside gifts and stationery, creating a crowded, overstocked atmosphere. A wine-and-literary cocktail bar and coffee shop add unique spots to relax while browsing. The vibe blends classy, historic charm with a calm, welcoming energy.

A massive selection of children's books fills the store, especially on the dedicated children's floor. Kids find plenty to explore and enjoy here.

Fun atmosphere and engaging staff make visits lively. Kids find it especially enjoyable, turning trips into a fun family excursion.

People are saying

"This bookstore has an unbelievable selection of books and stationery."

"The children's section here is vast and has interactive elements."

"I found it to be a fun place to browse."

Good to know

1

Vroman's hosts over 400 events a year, including author signings and workshops.

2

The bookstore allows well-behaved, leashed dogs inside.

3

Parking is available in a lot behind the store, convenient for visitors.

11
Chuck E. Cheese image 1
Children's amusement center

Large indoor amusement center offers extensive arcade games and a huge playground with features like trampolines and mini bumper cars. Atmosphere is family-friendly and lively, with spaces designed for easy supervision of children. The environment balances cleanliness with energetic noise from active kids.

Many games and rides keep kids entertained, including a boat with animals that stands out. Staff show patience and understanding, especially with children who have ASD. Birthday parties get special attention with small perks like a 15-minute play card and drink cups for kids.

Many arcade games offer classic fun for kids of all ages. The place provides cheap fun with a clean environment and easy parking, making it a solid spot for family activities.

People are saying

"It's a fun place for kids to play and be themselves."

"The pizza here is pretty good, especially the crust."

"It's a fun place with lots of games for the kids."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay extra for playground access, which costs $10 for special socks.

2

Prices for activities and food can be high, so budget accordingly.

3

Many games are available for kids, but some may be out of order.

12
Tea Rose Garden image 1

Elegant tea room with 18th and 19th century European design and an atmosphere like a garden oasis. Live pianist adds to the romantic vibe while the space feels classy and inviting. Tables are small, creating an intimate setting suited for small groups.

Offers a children's menu with options like ham and cheese sandwiches, sometimes at an extra charge. Suitable for family occasions like birthdays and casual outings with kids.

Tea House offers a relaxed spot with a charming vibe. It provides a fun atmosphere for casual visits.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the sandwiches."

"The food here is delicious and plentiful, making it great for kids."

"I found the Tea Rose Garden to be a fun experience."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for afternoon tea, with the last seating at 3:30 PM.

2

Parking is available in nearby garages, but street parking can be challenging.

3

Expect a fixed-price menu with prices around $44 per person.

13
Miss Cheese Tea Cafe image 1

Large cafe space offers board games, mini pool table, and arcade games for entertainment. Atmosphere feels cozy and fun, suitable for casual hangouts or dates. Seating includes both indoor and outdoor options with a quiet vibe.

Fluffy pancakes and boba drinks offer treats for kids. Games keep children entertained in a space designed for families.

Cozy atmosphere offers many fun little games like a miniature pool table and video games. Plenty of options keep the environment lively and entertaining.

People are saying

"The souffle pancakes were perfectly light, fluffy, and delicious."

"They have plenty of fun little games to play while you wait."

"It's so Kid Friendly, with desserts and games for the little ones."

Good to know

1

The wait time for the soufflรฉ pancakes is 33-43 minutes.

2

Parking is limited to 30 minutes in nearby spaces.

3

The cafe offers free parking in the same building.

14
Pasadena Ice Skating Center image 1

Spacious ice rink offers a family-friendly atmosphere with areas for both casual skating and serious training. Music plays throughout, creating a lively but controlled environment. Figure skating lessons occupy part of the rink, balancing free skating space with instructional use.

Safe environment welcomes children of all ages, including toddlers and teens. Beginner and intermediate skating courses run regularly, with adults often staying nearby to watch their kids.

Ice skating offers a fun group outing with plenty of chances to enjoy time with friends. The experience is consistently described as lots of fun and a great way to have a good time.

People are saying

"I had so much fun ice skating here."

"I had so much fun ice skating here."

"It's a great, safe place for kids."

Good to know

1

Dress warmly as it can get chilly on the ice.

2

Parking in Los Robles garage offers validation for 2 hours.

3

Expect crowded conditions, especially during holidays and weekends.

15
Eaton Canyon Golf Course image 1

Flat, forgiving layout offers a casual, affordable par-3 experience with good greens and nice views. Atmosphere stays quiet and settled, attracting beginners and short game practice. Free parking near clubhouse adds convenience to the reasonably priced setup.

Walking paths offer a good time for kids and adults. Kids pay a low green fee of $5, making it affordable for families. Regular visits show it works well for kids over the years.

Golf offers a fun experience with reasonable prices. Activities here keep things enjoyable overall.

People are saying

"I found the golf course to be fun and affordable."

"I had a great time playing golf here with friends and family."

"I thought the kid-friendly green fee was a great deal at only $5."

Good to know

1

Kids' green fee is only $5, which is great for families.

2

Parking is free and located close to the clubhouse.

3

The course is flat and forgiving, making it suitable for beginners.

16
The Post Climbing image 1
Rock climbing

Large climbing gym offers 40-foot walls with a variety of angles and competition-style routes. Atmosphere feels chill and focused, attracting mostly elite climbers who value a strong community vibe. Amenities include a large sauna, clean locker rooms, and dedicated parking.

Children learn to climb and belay with calm, knowledgeable guidance. The space offers a safe climbing environment where kids play and bond with adults regularly.

Fun boulder problems create an engaging challenge. A friendly staff and strong community vibe add to the enjoyable atmosphere.

People are saying

"The rock climbing gym always has fresh routes and boulders to climb."

"It's a great place for kids to climb and play."

"The boulder problems here are fun and changed often."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street, but it can be tough during peak hours.

2

The gym gets crowded at peak times, leading to longer wait times for tests.

3

You cannot take a lead test without making an appointment in advance.

17
Southern California Children's Museum image 1

Small, cozy space with concrete floors and open play areas filled with slides and climbing structures. Atmosphere turns rowdy when older kids run around, while younger children explore designated areas. Welcoming to all families, it offers thoughtful amenities like a mothers' feeding room and baby area.

A safe and clean environment offers toddlers plenty of room to explore. Multiple themed areas and a cushion playground with a slide keep young children engaged and entertained independently.

Compact play spaces offer engaging activities for toddlers aged 1 to 3. Exhibits keep children entertained up to about 7 or 8 years old, making it a solid spot for early childhood fun.

People are saying

"This place is really Kid Friendly, with lots of toddler-focused play areas."

"This toddler-focused museum has rotating stations that change seasonally."

"It's a fun place with interactive activities for kids."

Good to know

1

Parking is included and free in the lot behind the building.

2

The museum closes at 3pm on weekdays, which may be challenging for young children.

3

There is a rotating schedule of enrichment activities like music and story time.

18
Norton Simon Museum image 1

Museum combines impeccable architecture with world-class South and Southeast Asian sculptures and paintings. Quiet, spacious galleries lead to tranquil outdoor sculpture gardens with a cafe by a pond. Noise from nearby freeway can intrude but overall setting remains peaceful and well curated.

Engaging guided activities keep kids focused for hours, even those with ADHD. Friendly staff remember children's names and favorite art pieces, while hands-on sessions let kids discuss and create art. Family guides add extra fun exploring works by well-known artists.

Fun craft activities and a family guide make exploring the museum engaging for kids. The exhibits and events offer a fun way to enjoy art and culture for all ages.

People are saying

"I found this museum to be a surprising gem."

"It's so Kid Friendly with engaging art activities and guides for children."

"The guided activities really helped my son stay engaged for hours."

Good to know

1

Admission is $15 for adults; children 18 and younger enter for free.

2

Free admission for all visitors on the first Friday of every month from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.

3

The museum is open late on Friday and Saturday nights.

19
Color Me Mine image 1
Painting studio

Painting studio offers a vibrant, relaxed atmosphere with helpful staff and a wide variety of ceramics to choose from. The space feels comfortable and creative, encouraging sketching before painting. Sessions include a time limit and a fee structure that covers materials and studio use.

Popular for kids birthday parties, this spot offers a creative activity where kids can paint pottery. A 2-hour limit shapes the visit, which kids tend to enjoy.

Coloring with friends creates a fun and relaxing evening. Staff are warm and helpful, making the experience easy and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The staff made the fun activities so helpful and accommodating."

"The art here is amazing, and the staff is super helpful."

"It's not clear what the Kid Friendly fees are, they charged me extra."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to guarantee a spot, especially during busy times.

2

There is a $12 studio fee per person for using the painting space.

3

Expect a week for your painted items to be ready for pickup.

20
Lucky Strike Pasadena image 1

Bowling alley offers modern design with blacklight lanes and loud music that energizes the space. Families and groups enjoy VIP private rooms featuring exclusive lanes, bars, and bathrooms. The venue combines bowling with arcade games and pool tables, creating a lively, fun atmosphere.

Private rooms make birthday parties easy and fun for kids. The arcade keeps them entertained, and groups of 5th graders enjoy bowling together.

Bowling and arcade games provide fun activities for kids and families. The atmosphere feels modern and supports a family-friendly outing.

People are saying

"The bowling staff here are incredibly friendly and attentive."

"The staff here is so helpful and attentive, making it feel really Kid Friendly."

"The staff here are so helpful and professional during fun activities."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a bowling lane.

2

Expect to pay around $280 for two hours of bowling for four people, including food.

3

The venue has a private room available for larger parties and events.

21
Amazon Fresh image 1
Grocery store

Grocery store features smart-cart automated checkout and interactive kids' activities in a modern, clean layout with spacious aisles. Atmosphere is quiet and cool with low foot traffic. Offers convenient extras like Amazon locker pickups and a fresh sushi chef.

Kids' carts are sturdy, safe, and sized for little hands, making shopping fun and educational. Family parking spots and free fruit snacks add to the kid-friendly environment.

Kids' shopping carts sized for little hands add a fun and educational twist to grocery shopping. Interactive features and rolling carts into the green zone make the experience engaging and playful.

People are saying

"I found the grocery store prices to be beyond reasonable."

"It's so kid friendly with those fun little shopping carts for them!"

"The kids' shopping carts make grocery shopping fun and educational."

Good to know

1

Parking can be limited during events, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Prepared foods are not available after work hours or on weekends.

3

Amazon Prime members receive additional discounts on groceries.

22
Hawg Heaven BBQ & Gastro Pub image 1

Live jazz music and cover bands create an intimate atmosphere with great vibes. The space shifts into a small club after dinner, attracting those who enjoy generous portions of BBQ and Mexican dishes. Noise levels can be high, making it lively but sometimes overwhelming for families with children.

Menu includes kids cheese pizza and beef sliders. Noise level runs high, which may not suit little kids or those sensitive to loud music.

Dancing lasts all night with a lively crowd. The Frank Sinatra dinner show offers a small but fun experience. Staff contribute to a friendly atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

"The live music made for such fun activities and a lively atmosphere."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Sunday brunch is available from 1-3 pm, and dinner starts at 5:30 pm.

2

Happy hour offers two-for-one well drinks at the bar before 7 pm.

3

Music acts are scheduled throughout the week, providing diverse entertainment options.

Discover more

Pasadena, California

Area guide
Loading Map...