Indoor Amusement Parks in the USA
In my opinion, the USA offers so much more than just traditional outdoor theme parks. I explored beyond the usual roller coasters under the sun to discover incredible indoor amusement spaces where weather never gets in the way of fun. From record-breaking roller coasters under glass domes to waterparks the size of football fields, here are my top picks from across the country.
1. Kalahari Indoor Theme Park, WI
I thought this massive indoor theme park tucked inside Wisconsin Dells was an absolute blast! From thrill rides to ropes courses, glow-in-the-dark mini golf, bowling, laser tag, and endless arcade games, it was like stepping into a playful wonderland under one roof.
Just a quick drive from downtown Wisconsin Dells, we rolled up to Kalahari Resort & Convention Center, where the park is located. we stayed right at the resort for two nights, which made it so easy to wander down from my room straight into the action whenever I felt like it. The whole place had a high-energy, family-friendly vibe, with that fun mix of neon lights, laughter, and nonstop motion.
My highlights:
Testing my balance (and nerves!) on the high ropes course suspended above the park. Capping off the night with a giant pretzel at the Redd’s Piano Bar & Lounge inside the resort.
Over my stay, we tried a little of everything: spinning upside down on the looping rides, climbing the towering ropes course (a little nerve-wracking but worth it for the views!), battling friends in the laser tag arena, and winding down with a few rounds of bowling. Of course, I couldn’t resist the 360-degree virtual reality rides and the indoor go-karts, so much adrenaline-packed fun all under one roof.
Plan your Kalahari adventure:
- Location Wisconsin Dells, WI – known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World”
- Size: 100,000 sq ft indoor theme park, part of Kalahari Resorts
2. Nickelodeon Universe, MN
Nickelodeon Universe at Mall of America felt like stepping straight into a cartoon come to life. Bright colors, giant characters, and wild rides all packed under one massive glass roof, it’s hard not to feel like a kid again the second you walk in.
Just minutes from downtown Minneapolis, we headed over to Nickelodeon Universe inside the Mall of America. Staying nearby made it easy to pop in, spend a few hours riding coasters, and then wander right into the mall for shopping or food. The vibe was electric, kids running around with SpongeBob balloons, laughter echoing from every corner, and nonstop thrills all day long.
My highlights:
Flying high on the Avatar Airbender coaster that sends you spinning back and forth until you can’t stop grinning. Getting that perfect balance of silly and spooky on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Shell Shock ride. Cooling down with a sweet treat in between rides, it’s the perfect mid-day recharge.
We crammed in as much as possible: tackling the skyscraper-tall roller coasters, giggling our way through the Log Chute water ride, and testing our courage on the upside-down spin rides. When we needed a breather, we slowed things down with the Ferris wheel for those sweeping views across the park. The best part? Everything’s indoors, so weather never gets in the way of the fun.
Plan your Nickelodeon adventure:
- Location: Mall of America, Bloomington, MN – the largest mall in the U.S.
- Size: 7 acres of indoor rides and attractions
- Good to know: You can grab unlimited ride wristbands or pay per ride depending on how much time you have.
3. Adventuredome, NV
I thought this massive pink-glass dome in Las Vegas was such a fun surprise! Tucked right inside Circus Circus, the Adventuredome is packed with roller coasters, carnival-style games, bumper cars, and even a mini golf course. It felt like stepping into an air-conditioned amusement park oasis right on the Strip.
Since it’s right on Las Vegas Boulevard, it couldn’t have been easier to find. I stayed nearby on the Strip and just walked over, one minute you’re in the middle of all the neon and noise, and the next you’re ducking inside this dome where the rides are whirring and kids are squealing. It’s high-energy, super colorful, and a nice change of pace from casinos.
My highlights:
Riding the Canyon Blaster, a looping coaster that twists through the dome (my stomach definitely felt that one!).
Playing endless rounds of midway games, I may or may not have walked out with an oversized stuffed animal.
Trying the glow-in-the-dark mini golf that winds under black lights and neon murals.
Over my visit, I hopped between thrill rides and throwback classics. The Disk’O had me spinning and sliding at the same time, while El Loco had those sharp drops that made me scream and laugh at once. When I wanted a break, I wandered through the carnival midway, tried rock climbing, and grabbed a sweet treat to recharge. It’s wild to think all of this is contained under one dome, it really does feel like Vegas’ hidden theme park gem.
Plan your Adventuredome adventure:
- Location: Inside Circus Circus Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas, NV
- Size: 5 acres under a giant glass dome
- Good to know: Admission is free to enter the dome, you just pay for ride passes or individual rides.
4. Funplex, TX
I couldn’t believe how much was packed into Houston’s Funplex , it’s like an all-in-one playground for kids and grown-ups alike. From roller skating and bowling to arcade games, go-karts, trampolines, and even a Ferris wheel indoors (!), the whole place felt like pure throwback fun with a modern twist.
Since it’s just outside central Houston, it was an easy drive over. Once inside, I was floored by how much variety there was under one roof, it honestly felt like a mashup of an amusement park, bowling alley, and skating rink all rolled into one. The atmosphere was buzzing, neon-lit, and full of energy, perfect for an afternoon of letting loose.
My highlights:
Strapping on roller skates and cruising around the rink, it gave me total nostalgia vibes.
Zooming around the indoor go-kart track (and maybe getting a little too competitive).
Ending the night with a few rounds of bowling and pizza with friends.
Over my visit, I bounced between so many different activities that I lost track of time. I tried my luck at the arcade, launched a few gutter balls at the bowling alley, and even hopped on a couple of rides that gave me more adrenaline than I expected. The mix of retro roller rink, family-friendly rides, and carnival-style games made it feel like a little festival tucked inside a giant building. It’s the kind of spot where you can easily spend a whole day without running out of things to do.
Plan your Funplex adventure:
- Location: Houston, TX – about 20 minutes from downtown
- Size: Over 200,000 sq ft of attractions and entertainment
- Good to know: They host special theme nights (like glow skating and DJ parties), so check the calendar before you go.
5. iPlay America, NJ
Walking into iPlay America in Freehold felt like stepping into a boardwalk amusement park, but indoors and weather-proof. With rides, arcade games, laser tag, go-karts, and even a mini Broadway-style street setup, it had that classic Jersey Shore vibe minus the sand and seagulls. It’s big, bright, and designed for nonstop fun.
Since it’s right in Freehold, it was an easy trip by car, and parking was a breeze. The layout inside is pretty cool, wide “streets” lined with games, shops, and food stalls, almost like a little indoor town where you just wander from thrill rides to arcade cabinets without missing a beat. It has a family-friendly energy with a dash of that Jersey flair.
My highlights:
Revving up on the go-kart track and trying to out-race my friends.
Playing laser tag in the massive multi-level arena (I definitely broke a sweat!).
Grabbing a boardwalk-style funnel cake in between rides, because it just felt right.
During my visit, I hopped from spinning rides that left me laughing to 4D theater experiences that pulled me into whole new worlds. The laser tag arena had me ducking, diving, and sneaking around corners like it was a movie scene, while the bumper cars were pure chaotic joy. I capped it off with some arcade classics, Skee-Ball, hoops, and a few claw machines I couldn’t resist. iPlay America really nails that mix of family nostalgia and all-out action, all without worrying about the weather.
Plan your iPlay America adventure:
- Location: Freehold, NJ – about an hour from NYC and Philly
- Size: 115,000 sq ft indoor theme park
- Good to know: Admission is free to enter, you just buy ride passes or pay-as-you-go credits.
6. I-X Amusement Park, OH
I-X Indoor Amusement Park in Cleveland is one of those places that feels like a giant fair moved indoors. From towering rides and family-friendly classics to games, shows, and even circus-style performances, it had that full-on carnival energy, without worrying about the weather outside. The scale of it all honestly blew me away.
Located right at the I-X Center near Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, it was super easy to get to. Walking inside, the space is massive, rides rising up toward the ceiling, kids running between cotton candy stands, and the buzz of midway games filling the air. It’s seasonal, but when it’s open, it feels like the whole city shows up to play.
My highlights:
Riding the giant Ferris wheel inside the convention hall, it gives such a cool perspective on just how huge the place is.
Checking out the live shows and circus acts between rides, it added to that old-school carnival atmosphere.
Indulging in fair food favorites like funnel cakes and corn dogs (because how could I not?).
Over my day at the park, I mixed thrill rides with classic midway fun. The roller coasters inside gave plenty of adrenaline, while rides like the carousel and bumper cars kept it lighthearted. I took a spin through the games area, tried my hand at ring toss, and even caught part of a family show. It really had that “something for everyone” vibe, perfect for kids, teens, and grown-ups who still love a good carnival thrill.
Plan your I-X adventure:
- Location: I-X Center, Cleveland, OH
- Size: Over 985,000 sq ft convention center space transformed into a theme park
- Good to know: The amusement park is seasonal (usually spring), so check the calendar before planning your trip.
7. Parthenon at Mt. Olympus, WI
Staying at the Parthenon Hotel at Mt. Olympus in Wisconsin Dells felt like checking into a Greek-inspired adventure zone. With towering columns and mythological theming, it set the tone before I even stepped inside the resort’s massive indoor and outdoor parks. It’s part of the whole Mt. Olympus vibe, roller coasters, water slides, go-karts, and endless activities all tied together by that larger-than-life atmosphere.
The Parthenon is right on Wisconsin Dells Parkway, so it’s super convenient to reach. Being a guest meant I had easy access to both the indoor waterpark and the huge outdoor theme park. I loved being able to wander straight from my room into the action without having to drive anywhere. The place has that high-energy “Dells” feeling, bright, family-focused, and designed for big, splashy fun.
My highlights:
Relaxing in the indoor waterpark’s hot tubs after a day of racing around.
Testing my speed on the go-kart tracks, definitely one of the best perks of staying onsite.
Crashing into bed in my room and still being surrounded by Greek statues and murals, it’s kitschy but in the most fun way.
During my stay, I tried a little bit of everything. By day, I was zipping down water slides, looping on roller coasters, and circling the multi-level go-kart tracks. At night, I explored the resort, grabbed snacks, and just soaked in the “mythology-meets-theme-park” aesthetic that Mt. Olympus leans into so hard. It’s part hotel, part playground, and all-around unforgettable for anyone who loves over-the-top themed fun.
Plan your Parthenon at Mt. Olympus adventure:
- Location: Wisconsin Dells, WI – on the famous Wisconsin Dells Parkway
- Size: Part of the larger Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park Resort
- Good to know: Staying at the Parthenon includes free access to the indoor waterpark and outdoor rides, which is a huge bonus.
8. Stratosphere Casino Tower, NV
Heading up to the top of the Stratosphere in Las Vegas (now called The STRAT) was an experience all its own. This towering landmark is the tallest observation tower in the U.S., and the views over the Strip and the desert go on forever. But what really makes it unforgettable are the thrill rides perched right on the edge, definitely not for the faint of heart!
Since it’s located at the northern end of the Las Vegas Strip, I just hopped in a quick ride-share and was there in minutes. Walking inside, you get the full casino-resort atmosphere, but once you head up to the tower, it shifts into this mix of breathtaking panoramas and adrenaline-pumping fun. It’s like sightseeing and daredevil stunts rolled into one.
My highlights:
Taking in the 360-degree views of Las Vegas from the observation deck, especially at sunset.
Riding Insanity, which literally swings you out over the edge of the tower (my heart was in my throat!).
Grabbing a drink at 108 Drinks Lounge while the city lit up below, it felt surreal.
Over my visit, I tested my nerves on a few of the tower’s signature rides: X-Scream had me teetering on the edge, Big Shot launched me straight up into the sky, and Insanity spun me out over the Strip with my feet dangling. Between the rides, I took time to soak up the views from both the indoor and outdoor decks. The mix of sheer height, neon city lights, and high-octane thrills made it one of the most unique Vegas adventures I’ve ever had.
Plan your Stratosphere adventure:
- Location: The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Tower, Las Vegas, NV
- Height: 1,149 feet tall (the tallest observation tower in the U.S.)
- Good to know: You can buy ride passes individually or as a package, worth it if you plan to brave them all.
9. Malibu Jack’s, Louisville
Walking into Malibu Jack’s in Louisville felt like stepping into a giant indoor fun park where the weather never matters. With go-karts, laser tag, mini golf, bowling, rides, and a huge arcade, it’s basically an all-ages playground tucked under one roof. The energy was nonstop, bright lights, buzzing games, and plenty of laughter everywhere.
Since it’s right in Louisville, it was an easy drive over, and once inside, I loved how everything was laid out. You can literally bounce from racing to golfing to arcade battles without skipping a beat. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly but with just enough thrills to keep adults entertained too. It’s the kind of place where you walk in planning to spend an hour and end up staying half the day.
My highlights:
Speeding around the indoor go-kart track and trying to snag first place.
Playing a round of blacklight mini golf that felt like stepping into a neon jungle.
Ending the night with bowling and a giant basket of fries at the café.
Over my visit, I tried out just about everything: zooming around tight turns on the go-karts, sneaking through the dark in laser tag, and letting loose at the arcade (yes, I spent way too many tokens on claw machines). The rides were perfect for a mix of adrenaline and laughs, while mini golf and bowling gave us time to chill out in between. It had that classic “something for everyone” vibe that makes it easy to go with friends, family, or even just for a casual night out.
Plan your Malibu Jack’s adventure:
- Location: Louisville, KY (they also have other locations in Kentucky)
- Size: 120,000+ sq ft indoor family fun center
- Good to know: Admission is free, you just load up a play card and pay for the attractions and games you want to try.
Whether I’m racing go-karts, sliding down a water ride in the middle of winter, or exploring one of my favorite arcade-style parks, I always feel like indoor amusement parks give me the best mix of excitement and nostalgia. They’re unique destinations that turn any ordinary day into a special memory.
For me, indoor amusement parks in the USA are some of the best travel experiences I've had with my kid because they combine unique thrills, family-friendly fun, and unforgettable moments, all without worrying about the weather.
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