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30+ Top Indoor Activities and Things to Do in Durham Region, GTA, Ontario with Kids (2025)

Writer's picture: Let's Live A LifeLet's Live A Life
Jan 2713 min read

Updated: Feb 9

Rainy days, snowy mornings, or even just the need for a change of scenery—sometimes finding the perfect activity to keep the kids entertained indoors can feel like a challenge. Luckily, Durham Region, Ontario, is packed with family-friendly destinations that are perfect for keeping little ones happy, active, and engaged, no matter the weather.


From exciting indoor playgrounds to creative craft workshops, adventure parks, and even cozy spots to relax with a family-friendly board game, there’s something for everyone. Whether your kids are bursting with energy or looking for imaginative and educational experiences, this guide will help you find the perfect outing.


In this article, we’ll explore the top and best indoor activities and things to do for families in Durham Region, highlighting interactive play spaces, creative hubs, and relaxing entertainment options. So, get ready to discover fun-filled adventures that will create lasting memories for you and your kids—all while staying warm and dry.


Let’s dive in!


Looking for a guide to things to do in Winter in the Durham Region? Please read:



30+ Top Indoor Activities and Things to Do in Durham Region, GTA, Pickering, Ajax, Oshawa, Port Perry and Clarington, Ontario - Rainy Day Activities (2025)


Indoor playground, Durham Region, Ontario



Fun Indoor Playgrounds


Indoor playgrounds are perfect for kids to run, jump, and climb while staying warm and dry. These play centres are designed to keep children entertained for hours, while parents can relax and enjoy a coffee knowing their kids are having a blast.


1. NEB’s Fun World - Oshawa


NEB's Fun World is a premier entertainment center featuring a massive indoor play area, bowling lanes, and an extensive arcade with over 120 games. Families can enjoy thrilling rides, including a roller coaster, and various attractions suitable for all ages. It's the perfect spot for birthday parties and family fun, rain or shine.



2. Endless Fun - Ajax


Endless Fun is an exciting indoor playground designed for children to explore and play in a safe environment. With various climbing structures, slides, and interactive games, kids can enjoy hours of entertainment. The facility also offers party packages, making it a great choice for birthday celebrations and group events.



3. The Fun Factory Indoor Playground And Party Centre - Pickering


Fun Factory is an indoor play center that provides a vibrant and engaging atmosphere for children. With climbing walls, ball pits, and arcade games, kids can enjoy a variety of activities. The facility is perfect for playdates and birthday parties, ensuring a fun-filled experience for young adventurers.




4. Treehouse Clubhouse - Pickering


Treehouse Clubhouse is an imaginative indoor play center featuring a treehouse-themed play structure. Children can engage in creative play while developing motor skills in a safe environment. The facility is ideal for birthday parties and playdates, providing a fun and interactive experience for kids of all ages.



5. Joey's World Family Indoor Playground - Bowmanville



Joey’s World is an indoor play center that offers a variety of activities for children, including climbing structures and interactive games. It’s a fantastic place for kids to burn off energy and enjoy playtime in a safe, supervised environment. The center is also available for birthday parties and special events.


Indoor Adventure Parks


Trampoline park, Durham Region, Ontario

For kids who crave excitement and adventure, Durham Region has a variety of indoor spots where they can climb, bounce, and explore to their hearts’ content.


1. Ajax Rock Oasis - Ajax


Ajax Rock Oasis offers an exciting indoor rock climbing experience for kids aged 5 and up. With over 100 climbing routes, 40 boulder problems , 4 autobelays and experienced instructors, children can safely explore various challenges. Party packages are available, making it a fun venue for celebrations. Waivers are required for all participants



2. Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park - Whitby


Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park is a thrilling indoor adventure center featuring wall-to-wall trampolines, aerial silks, and inflatable parks. Kids can enjoy dodgeball, dunk hoops, and freestyle jumping in a safe environment. The park also offers toddler time for younger children, making it a perfect family destination.



 

Are you spending some time in and around Toronto, Ontario, Canada? Here are some other places to visit nearby:


 

3. Aspire Climbing - Whitby


Aspire Climbing is an indoor rock climbing facility that caters to all ages and skill levels. With over 8,000 square feet of climbing walls, kids can enjoy bouldering, top-rope climbing, and adaptive climbing options. The facility also hosts "Try Us Out Nights," making it accessible for newcomers to the sport.



4. Archers Battlefield - Pickering


Archers Battlefield offers an exhilarating archery experience where kids can engage in adrenaline-fueled battles using foam-tipped arrows. The facility provides all necessary equipment and organizes friendly competitions. In addition to archery, families can enjoy ping pong and other games, making it a fun outing for everyone.



5. BATL Axe Throwing - Pickering


BATL Axe Throwing is a unique indoor activity where families can learn the art of axe throwing in a safe and supervised environment. With experienced instructors, kids and adults alike can enjoy this exciting sport. The venue is perfect for birthday parties and group events, ensuring a memorable experience.



6. Pinnacle Indoor Climbing - Bowmanville


Pinnacle Indoor Climbing offers a fantastic climbing experience with over 4,000 square feet of climbing walls. Kids can try bouldering, auto-belay climbing, and lead climbing in a safe environment. The facility is designed for climbers of all ages and skill levels, making it a great place for family fun and fitness.



7. Peak Explorers - Bowmanville


Peak Explorers is an exciting indoor adventure center designed for children to explore, learn, and play in a safe environment. The facility features climbing walls, obstacle courses, and interactive exhibits that promote physical activity and teamwork. With various programs and birthday party packages available, it’s an ideal destination for family fun and special celebrations.




8. Sky Zone Trampoline Park - Whitby


Sky Zone Trampoline Park is an exciting indoor facility where kids can jump, flip, and play on trampolines. The park features a foam zone, dodgeball courts, and a ninja warrior course, providing endless fun for children of all ages. It's a great place for birthday parties and family outings.



9. Volt Raceway - Bowmanville


Volt Raceway is an indoor entertainment complex that offers high-speed go-kart racing, axe throwing, and arcade games. With separate tracks for different age groups, kids can enjoy racing in a safe environment. The venue is perfect for family fun, birthday parties, and corporate events, ensuring an action-packed day.



10. Roller Skate in Oshawa


Oshawa offers exciting roller skating opportunities at the Oshawa Centre, where you can enjoy sessions for all ages and adults. The schedule includes Wednesday to Sunday sessions, with specific times for all ages and adult skating. It's a great way to stay active and have fun!



Whether your kids love to climb, learn, or bounce, Durham Region’s indoor playgrounds and learning centres have you covered. These spaces are perfect for letting children burn off energy, explore their creativity, and make new memories—all while staying warm and dry. So grab your calendar and start planning your next family adventure!


Museums


Canadian Automotive Museum - Oshawa

1. Canadian Automotive Museum - Oshawa


At the Canadian Automotive Museum in Oshawa, Ontario, kids can enjoy interactive gallery activities, seasonal crafts, and take photos with iconic cars like Lightning McQueen and Herbie the Love Bug. Admission is free for children under 5, making it a great family outing!



2. Pickering Museum Village - Pickering


Pickering Museum Village offers kids a unique opportunity to explore history through interactive programs and events. Children can participate in hands-on activities, such as learning about blacksmithing and solving puzzles in quest-style education programs. The village features 19 heritage buildings, gardens, and orchards, making it an engaging outdoor learning experience.




3. Ontario Regiment RCAC Museum - Oshawa


If your kids love tanks and military history, the Ontario Regiment RCAC Museum is a must-visit. With interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and opportunities to learn about Canada’s military past, this museum offers unique hands-on experiences that will captivate young minds.



Drop-In Art Studios


Drop-In Art Studios, Durham Region, Ontario

Let your kids unleash their inner artist at these welcoming drop-in art studios. These spaces provide everything they need to create their own masterpiece, from paints and brushes to pottery and expert guidance—and the best part is, you don’t even have to clean up afterward!


1. Crock A Doodle - Pickering


Crock A Doodle is a pottery-painting studio where children can let their imaginations run wild. Kids can pick their favorite pottery piece—from mugs to figurines—and then paint it however they like. Once finished, their creations are kiln-fired and ready to take home as a keepsake. It’s a great activity for rainy days or special family outings.



2. 4Cats Arts Studio / Whitby Art Studio - Whitby


Known for its vibrant and engaging art programs, 4Cats offers drop-in art and craft sessions for kids. They focus on fostering creativity through various artistic mediums and often host birthday parties and special events.



 

Are you spending some time in and around Toronto, Ontario, Canada? Here are some other places to visit nearby:


 

3. Arts on Fire - Ajax


This vibrant art studio offers a variety of programs for kids, including drop-in art sessions. Kids can explore different mediums such as painting, drawing, and drama. They also host special events like Family Paint Nights and themed art camps during school breaks, making it a fun and engaging place for young artists.



4. Crock A Doodle - Oshawa


This studio specializes in art classes for children and offers drop-in sessions where kids can create their own masterpieces. They provide a range of materials and guidance to help young artists explore their creativity.



5. Art Unleashed - Pickering


Arts Unleashed in Pickering offers creative art classes for kids, focusing on storytelling, imagination, and confidence. Programs include "Designers" and "Mini Designers," catering to various age groups and allowing drop-in participation.


Arts Unleashed in Pickering, Ontario, Canada allows drop-in classes for some of their art classes when space is available.



DIY Craft Workshops


DIY Craft Workshops, Durham Region, Ontario

For kids who love to work with their hands and learn new skills, Durham Region has several options for DIY craft workshops. These classes not only provide a creative outlet but also help children develop fine motor skills and confidence.


1. Michaels Craft Classes for Kids - Ajax


Michaels stores regularly host craft classes designed just for kids. These hands-on sessions provide all the materials and guidance needed to create fun projects like seasonal decorations, jewelry, or painted crafts. Check their schedule for upcoming classes and let the creativity flow.



2. Whitby Public Library - Whitby


The Whitby Public Library is more than just books—it’s a hub for creativity and learning. With regular storytimes, arts and crafts programs, and special events for children, it’s a welcoming space for families to spend a cozy and enriching day indoors.




3. Pickering Public Library - Pickering


Pickering Public Library offers engaging classes for kids, focusing on creativity and learning. Programs include storytime sessions, arts and crafts, and STEM workshops. Additionally, the library provides resources like Tumblebooks for e-reading and BrainFuse for homework help, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience for children.



4. Oshawa Public Library - Oshawa


Oshawa Public Library offers a range of engaging kids' classes, including storytime, music activities, and STEAM programs. These classes promote learning and creativity for children aged 0-12 in a fun environment.



5. Ajax Public Library - Ajax


Ajax Public Library offers various kids' classes, including storytime, arts and crafts, and STEM activities. These programs encourage creativity and learning in a fun, engaging environment for children of all age.



Bowling Alleys and Indoor Sports


Bowling in Durham Region, Ontario

Bowling and indoor sports bring together fun, competition, and teamwork. They’re great for family bonding, no matter your skill level.


1. NEB’s Fun World - Oshawa


NEB’s Fun World is a one-stop destination for family entertainment. It features bowling lanes, an arcade, and even indoor go-karting! Younger kids can enjoy bumper bowling, while older children and parents can compete for strikes. Afterward, head to the arcade for more fun with games and prizes.



2. Ajax Bowling Centre


The Ajax Bowling Centre offers a fun and engaging environment for kids to enjoy five-pin bowling. With a welcoming atmosphere, children can easily learn and play this Canadian classic. The centre hosts birthday parties and group events, making it a perfect spot for family outings. Reservations are recommended for a seamless experience.




3. Playdium


Playdium in Whitby is an exciting indoor entertainment venue featuring over 90 arcade games, bowling, and a ropes course. Kids can enjoy a variety of activities, from virtual reality experiences to classic arcade games. The venue also offers birthday party packages, making it a fantastic choice for family fun and celebrations.



Board Game Cafés and Relaxed Fun


Board game, Durham Region, Ontario

For a more low-key indoor activity, board game cafés and puzzle-solving adventures are fantastic options for families who love working together.


1. Durham Escape Rooms - Whitby


For families with older kids, Durham Escape Rooms offers a fun and challenging way to bond. Work together to solve puzzles and escape themed rooms within a time limit. It’s a thrilling activity that encourages teamwork and critical thinking.



2. TRAPPED Escape Room - Ajax


TRAPPED Escape Room in Ajax provides an engaging experience for kids, featuring creative themes and challenging puzzles. It's an ideal venue for birthday parties and group activities, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving in a fun, immersive environment designed specifically for younger participants.




3. TRAPPED Escape Room - Oshawa


TRAPPED Escape Room in Oshawa offers thrilling adventures for kids, featuring immersive themes and challenging puzzles. It's perfect for birthday parties and group activities, promoting teamwork and problem-solving skills in a fun environment.



4. Brew Wizards Board Game Café - Oshawa


Brew Wizards Board Game Café in Oshawa is a fantastic spot for kids, offering a wide selection of board games suitable for all ages. Families can enjoy delicious snacks and beverages while engaging in fun, interactive gameplay together.



Indoor Zoos


Reptilia Zoo, Durham Region, Ontario

1. Reptilia Zoo - Whitby


Reptilia Zoo in Whitby is an exciting indoor destination for kids, featuring over 250 species of reptiles, amphibians, and arachnids. Children can enjoy interactive exhibits, daily shows, and live feedings, providing a unique educational experience. The zoo is open year-round, making it a perfect outing regardless of the weather.



 

Durham Region is filled with indoor activities that cater to families of all interests. Whether you’re looking for high-energy fun, creative outlets, or relaxed bonding time, there’s something here for you and your kids to enjoy. From trampoline parks and art studios to swimming pools and board game cafés, these destinations are perfect for making memories no matter the weather.


So grab your calendar, plan your next family adventure, and explore the fun indoor activities Durham Region has to offer. Let us know your favorite spots or tag us during your next outing—we’d love to hear about your adventures!

 
 
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