When the mercury rises in the East Bay, staying indoors doesn’t mean you can’t have a great time with your family. Here’s a list of seven fun and educational indoor activities that families can enjoy in the East Bay area.
1. Engage in Science at Lawrence Hall of Science
Located in Berkeley, the Lawrence Hall of Science is an incredible destination for budding scientists. With its interactive exhibits and engaging activities, it’s a place where kids can learn and have fun simultaneously.
Heads up, as an older building, the AC at the Lawrence Hall sometimes isn’t the best. Still, with its clifftop location in Berkeley, it’s a great option nonetheless, as cool breezes keep the temp reasonable.
2. Get Close to Wildlife at Lindsay Wildlife Experience
Visit the Lindsay Wildlife Experience in Walnut Creek to discover and learn about California’s native wildlife. With live animal encounters and interactive exhibits, it’s a perfect place for animal lovers of all ages.
The majority of the museum is indoors, and you can even glimpse their bald eagle, an iconic symbol of the Fourth of July. I love seeing the beehive at the museum.
3. Immerse in History and Culture at Oakland Museum of California
Dive into the rich history and culture of California at the Oakland Museum. With interactive exhibits covering art, history, and natural science, it’s a treasure trove of educational fun for the whole family.
For little ones, there’s a kids-oriented play area with a California theme on the lower level of the museum, in the Natural Science section. There are also kid-friendly, hands-on parts of the upstairs California History section which are marked with little green hands indicating that you can touch.
Head to Town Fare for amazing mac and cheese for the kids and fried chicken for you.
4. Jump Around at Rockin’ Jump Trampoline Park
For families that need to burn off some energy, Rockin’ Jump in Concord is the place to go. With wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball, and even a rock climbing wall, it’s fun for both kids and adults.
Read our full review.
5. Blast Off to Space at Habitot’s Space Station Pop-Up in Emeryville
Experience the wonder of space without leaving the ground at Habitot’s Space Station Pop-Up in Emeryville. With interactive space-themed exhibits, kids can pretend to be astronauts on a space mission.
You can read our full review here.
6. Catch a Movie at The Lot in San Ramon
Nothing beats the heat like a cool theater and a great movie. Head to The Lot in San Ramon, where you can relax in luxury seats and enjoy the latest films. They also offer a gourmet dining menu!
Kids love ordering candy right to their seats. And the movie almost always shows a kid-friendly movie during the day.
7. Enjoy the Aracade at Boomers in Livermore
Boomers is best known for its outdoor activities, like mini golf and bumper boats. But this Livermore, California attraction also has a fantastic indoor arcade that your older kids with love.
The games are a little intense/scary for little ones. But your tweens and teens can easily spend a day here.
These seven indoor activities in the East Bay offer a mix of educational, active, and relaxing options for families looking to stay cool during hot days. Whether it’s exploring science, jumping on trampolines, or watching a movie, there’s something for everyone.
