In addition to the many places you can head to for FREE to play indoors in Champaign-Urbana, we have a long list of other indoor entertainment options for your family
From bowling alleys to indoor pools, rock climbing to gymnastics, we have a number of ideas on where to take your kids for some indoor fun
We already have an extensive list of where you can go for FREE to play indoors with your kids in Champaign-Urbana, but there are so many great options that come at a price (cost varies) that we want to make sure we list for your family, as well! This list will include bowling alleys, gymnastics facilities that offer “open gym,” indoor pools and more.
So make plans to fight the winter blahs, spring rain, or wilting summer humidity and check out this sanity-saving list designed just for you.
These local venues do charge a fee, but if you’re looking for libraries, free indoor playgrounds and other places to play for free, check out our free indoor play guide.
Stephens Family YMCA
Even if you’re not a member, you can purchase a pass and spend the day swimming, rock-climbing, or working out while your kids enjoy an awesome supervised indoor play area. If you go with a member, it’s cheaper. The rock-climbing wall and some activities have an additional cost beyond the guest pass. If you just want to explore together, we recommend family swim or a visit to the family adventure center during the open hours. You can get all schedule info for the Stephens Family Y here.
Leonhard Recreation Center
This indoor playground is a popular tot spot! Get passes for the day at the front desk. Get more info on the Champaign Park District website.
University of Illinois Ice Arena
If you’d rather glide over the ice, you might want to check out the UI Ice Arena. The facility offers public skates during the afternoon and evenings. Check the online calendar for dates and times.
Urbana Indoor Aquatic Center
Swim at the UIAC on school breaks! Open swim schedules can be found on the Urbana Park District website. Admission is $6 per person; under 4 is free.
Urbana Boulders
Don’t overlook this indoor climbing wall experience at 502 N. Cunningham Drive in Urbana. Read more about this kid-friendly (and adult) facility on its website.
Jupiter’s at the Crossing
A fancier version of Chuck E. Cheese’s, this pizza restaurant might be one of the pricier options but it’s a good one, especially if you have older kids who like games. It has pool tables and a few games on the main floor but the lower level is what really dazzles kids. Added bonus, the pizza is pretty tasty.
Skateland in Savoy
Lace up those roller skates and enjoy a day at the skating rink. You can also eat pizza and play Laser Tag for an additional cost.
Elevate Trampoline Park
It will be hard NOT to join your kiddos while they are jumping up a storm at this indoor trampoline park in Champaign. With toddler times, family jump night, and membership passes available, everyone can get in on the bouncy fun. More info on the Elevate website.
Bowling Centers
There are several bowling centers in the Champaign-Urbana area that offer fun for kids and adults including the Illini Union Rec Room, located in the lower level of the Illini Union. It also includes billiards tables and arcade games. Other bowling venues: Arrowhead Lanes (which also boasts a black-light miniature golf course), Western Bowl, and Old Orchard Lanes.
Spurlock Museum
The Spurlock Museum at the University of Illinois is home to about 45,000 artifacts — that’s definitely enough objects to keep a kid busy for a day. Get info on the Spurlock website.
Open Gymnastics
What’s the best remedy for a kid with cabin fever? How about trampolines, foam pits, balance beams, and swinging ropes? Several gymnastics facilities in the area offer an open gym for a fee, but it’s well worth the cost when you consider what you’re getting in return: a happy, tired kiddo who is ready for a nap by the time you leave!
I-Power offers open gym for preschoolers, school-age kids, and even open gym in its ninja facility! More info on the I-Power website here. Champaign Gymnastics Academy also offers various one-day options from a Parents’ Night Out to Coffee, Crawlers & Croissants.
Looking for places to play indoors for FREE? We have a list of ideas!