Children’s Birthday Places in NEPA: The Ultimate Party Planning Guide

It might be snowing, raining or cloudy outside, but it’s always pool party season indoors. NEPA’s aquatic centers and indoor waterparks bring the sunshine year-round, making them a reliable favorite for birthday celebrations in every season.

Reserve space at a local YMCA or recreation center for open swim, classic pool games and plenty of cannonballs. Lifeguards are on duty, party rooms are often available and the setup is simple. For kids who love big thrills, take the celebration to an indoor waterpark featuring twisting slides, splash zones, lazy rivers and wave pools. Many venues offer birthday packages that include swim time, private party space and food options — and some even handle decorations and cleanup.

Perfect for: High-energy kids, winter birthdays and larger guest lists.

If the birthday kid loves to move, these action-packed venues are always a hit. From trampolines and climbing walls to gymnastics floors, ninja-style obstacle courses and indoor turf fields, these spaces are built for movement. Instead of trying to keep a group of excited kids entertained at home, you can let them jump, tumble, climb and compete in a setting designed just for that. Many locations offer structured party sessions led by trained staff, which helps keep things organized and moving smoothly.

Most sports centers also include private party rooms for cake and presents, and some offer add-ons like themed decorations or extra activity time. It’s a great balance of high-energy fun and built-in structure — which means less stress for parents and more time to actually enjoy the celebration.

Perfect for: Athletic kids, high-energy friend groups and interactive celebrations that keep everyone moving.

Bowling parties are a classic for a reason. They’re easy, fun and work for just about every age group. With bumpers for beginners and friendly competition for older kids, it’s one of those rare party options where everyone can jump in and feel included.

There’s something about the glow lights, the sound of pins crashing and the excitement of scoring a strike that never gets old. Add in arcade games between turns and a snack bar stocked with party favorites, and you’ve got built-in entertainment from start to finish. Most local bowling alleys offer convenient birthday packages that bundle lane time, shoe rentals, pizza and drinks — and some even include a party host to help keep things running smoothly. And let’s be honest, adults are happy to grab a lane and join in, too.

Perfect for: Mixed-age guest lists, larger groups and easy, all-in-one celebrations.

Skating parties bring music, movement and plenty of laughs. Whether it’s roller skating under disco lights or ice skating across a wide-open rink, these venues create high-energy celebrations kids won’t forget.

Roller skating parties offer a lively atmosphere with upbeat music and colorful lights, while ice skating parties add a cool twist — especially for winter birthdays or hockey fans. Skating rinks typically provide rental equipment and designated party areas for cake and presents, making planning simple for parents.

Best of all, both roller skating and ice skating parties are weather-proof, making them ideal year-round birthday destinations.

Perfect for: Kids who want something a little different, movement and group fun

For kids who love to paint, craft and create, local art studios and DIY workshops offer a hands-on way to celebrate. From canvas painting and pottery to slime-making, jewelry design and themed craft projects, there’s no shortage of imaginative options. Many studios tailor projects to the birthday child’s interests — whether that’s animals, outer space, princesses or seasonal themes.

One of the biggest perks is that every guest leaves with their own handmade keepsake. Instead of goodie bags filled with trinkets, kids head home with something they created themselves. Most venues provide instructors, all supplies and a private party space, and some even include decorations or light refreshments. That means minimal setup and easy cleanup for parents.

Perfect for: Artistic kids, themed celebrations and smaller, hands-on gatherings.

Roll out the red carpet for a big-screen birthday celebration. Hosting a party at a local movie theater lets kids settle in for the latest family-friendly release in a larger-than-life setting — complete with surround sound and oversized screens.

Many theaters offer birthday packages that include reserved seating, private screening options or dedicated party spaces for cake and gifts. Some even feature luxury recliners or VIP upgrades that make the guest of honor feel like a true star. Add buckets of buttery popcorn, favorite movie candy and the excitement of sharing the experience with friends, and you’ve got an easy, crowd-pleasing celebration.

Perfect for: Tweens and teens, smaller friend groups and celebrations that are fun and easy to plan.

For curious kids who love to explore, museums, escape rooms or aquarium birthday parties combine celebration with hands-on discovery. Get up close with reptiles and marine life at the aquarium, explore engaging exhibits at a children’s museum or celebrate with a trolley ride through history. Older kids can team up in an escape room, solving clues and racing the clock together. These venues turn party guests into explorers, problem-solvers and investigators for the day.

It’s a great way to mix fun with learning — without it ever feeling like school. Plus, many locations offer structured activities or guided experiences, helping keep the group focused and entertained from start to finish.

Perfect for: STEM-loving kids, animal enthusiasts and birthdays that call for something a little different.

For a celebration with a little sparkle, spa and salon parties offer a fun way to relax and feel special. These experiences turn the big day into a mini retreat designed just for kids.

Think mini manicures and pedicures, hairstyling, light makeup application or themed glam sessions. Many salons offer birthday packages that include private party space and time set aside just for your group, creating personalized atmosphere. DIY beauty and self-care workshops add a creative twist. Guests can make their own candles, soaps, bath bombs or lip balms — blending fun with a take-home treat they’ll actually use.

Perfect for: Trendsetters, milestone birthdays and themed celebrations with a personal touch.

No birthday celebration is complete without cake. After booking one of NEPA’s children’s birthday places, it’s time to choose the sweet centerpiece that ties the whole party together.

Local bakeries specialize in custom creations that go far beyond a simple sheet cake. Think character-inspired designs, colorful drip cakes, themed cupcakes, decorated sugar cookies and over-the-top sprinkle-covered masterpieces. Whether your child loves dinosaurs, princesses, sports, superheroes or something totally unique, NEPA’s talented bakers can bring that vision to life in delicious detail. Many bakeries also offer coordinating dessert tables with cake pops, cookies, brownies and other bite-sized treats.