Top Birthday Venues for Kids Ages 9–12 in Los Angeles
"The Ultimate LA Party Guide for Parents of Tweens – Compare Top Spots by Theme, Budget, and Guest Size"
Have you ever struggled to find the perfect birthday party spot for your 9–12-year-old in Los Angeles? At this age, kids want more than cupcakes and balloons—they’re craving exciting activities, cool themes, and a party that actually feels their age. But with so many indoor birthday party LA options and outdoor party venues for tweens across the city, it’s hard to know what truly fits your child, your budget, and your guest list.
This guide makes it easy. We’ve rounded up the best tween birthday venues in Los Angeles—organized by theme, setting, price range, and capacity. Whether you're searching for birthday party places for 10-year-olds in LA or need inspiration for birthday ideas for 9–12 year olds, you’ll discover the top kids party venues with activities and unforgettable themed birthday spots in LA.
📚 Table of Contents
- Indoor Birthday Venues in Los Angeles
- Outdoor Birthday Venues in Los Angeles
- Themed Party Venues (STEM, Art, Sports, Adventure)
- Budget Breakdown & Tiered Options
- Guest Capacity Recommendations
- Booking Timeline & Checklist
- FAQs – Parent-Approved Answers to Birthday Planning in LA
🏠 Indoor Birthday Venues in Los Angeles
Weatherproof Fun with High-Energy Activities
Planning a birthday party in Los Angeles during the hot months—or just looking to keep the chaos contained indoors? Indoor venues offer climate-controlled comfort, reliable amenities, and themed setups that are perfect for kids ages 9–12. Whether your child dreams of a jungle adventure, high-flying trampoline tricks, or hands-on STEAM activities, LA’s indoor venues provide immersive experiences without weather worries.
Here are the top indoor birthday venues for tweens in Los Angeles, complete with themes, guest capacity, pricing, and interactive features:
🎉 Top Indoor Venues Comparison Table
| Venue | Location | Theme | Guest Count | Price Range | Activities | Website | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scooter’s Jungle | El Segundo | Jungle Adventure | 20–40 | $550–$1,000 | Giant slides, obstacle course, private rooms | @scootersjungle | Visit Site |
| Cayton Children’s Museum | Santa Monica | STEAM Lab | 30–80 | $1,200–$2,500 | Makerspace, climbing wall, art installations | @caytonmuseum | Visit Site |
| Sky Zone Trampoline Park | Van Nuys | High-Energy Bounce | 15–30 | $450–$900 | Trampolines, dodgeball, foam pit | @skyzone | Visit Site |
| Kidspace Museum (Indoor Area) | Pasadena | Nature & Science | 20–60 | $650–$1,800 | Indoor exploration, hands-on learning | @kidspacemuseum | Visit Site |
| AdventurePlex | El Segundo | Indoor Sports Arena | 15–40 | $500–$1,200 | Rock wall, mazes, fitness playzones | @adventureplex | Visit Site |
| Two Bit Circus | Downtown LA | Micro Amusement Park | 15–50 | $750–$1,800+ | Arcade, VR games, creative engineering labs | @twobitcircus | Visit Site |
🌳Outdoor Birthday Venues in Los Angeles
Spacious, Active & Sun-Filled Celebrations
Outdoor birthday venues in Los Angeles are perfect for kids aged 9–12 who love to move, explore, and connect with nature or games in wide-open settings. Whether you’re planning a soccer match, a science adventure at the zoo, or a boardwalk-themed carnival, LA’s outdoor venues offer more space, fresh air, and flexibility—making them ideal for larger groups and sports-themed parties.
From budget-friendly picnic areas to full-service amusement locations, these spots turn a simple birthday into an all-out celebration.
🌟 Top Outdoor Venues Comparison Table
| Venue | Location | Theme | Guest Count | Price Range | Activities | Website | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Griffith Park (Carousel & Trains) | Los Feliz | Classic Carnival | 30–100 | $300–$700 | Merry-go-round, train rides, pony rides | N/A | Visit Site |
| Sofive Soccer Centers | Multiple Locations | Soccer Tournament | 15–40 | $400–$850 | Indoor/outdoor turf matches, coach-led games | @sofive_soccer | Visit Site |
| Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens | Griffith Park | Wild Explorer | 20–60 | $700–$1,500 | Guided zoo tours, animal encounters, scavenger hunts | @lazoo | Visit Site |
| Griffith Park Picnic Sites | Los Feliz | DIY Outdoor Picnic | 20–100+ | $200–$500 (permits) | Custom games, open play, themed setups | N/A | Visit Site |
| Pacific Park, Santa Monica Pier | Santa Monica | Seaside Carnival | 15–50 | $800–$2,000 | Rides, arcade games, food vendors | @pacpark | Visit Site |
| LA River Kayak Safari | Frogtown (Elysian Valley) | Outdoor Adventure | 10–20 | $750–$1,200 | Guided kayak tour, eco-education, nature fun | @lariverkayaksafari | Visit Site |
✅ Why These Venues Work for Ages 9–12
- More Freedom to Play: Kids in this age group thrive on active movement—outdoor spaces encourage physical games, sports, and exploration.
- Flexible Layouts: Parks and piers can accommodate both intimate gatherings and larger groups with ease.
- Natural Backdrops: From wildlife to the ocean, outdoor locations make for memorable photos and engaging environments.
- Custom Decor & Games: Outdoor venues allow for more DIY setups, rented bounce houses, relay races, and themed party zones.
🎨Themed Party Venues (STEM, Art, Sports, Outdoor Adventure)
Elevate the Experience with Purposeful Play
At ages 9–12, kids crave more than bounce houses—they want meaningful engagement, friendly competition, and cool themes that match their growing independence. Themed party venues are the perfect solution, combining fun with focus. Whether your child is a budding artist, an aspiring gamer, a sports fanatic, or a nature explorer, Los Angeles has the right venue for every passion.
This section breaks down the best birthday spots by theme—with suggested activities and curated GiftPals gift bundles to match each interest.
🎨 Creative & Art-Based Venues
Why it works: At this age, kids are discovering their individual styles. Art-themed parties nurture self-expression, creativity, and collaboration—plus everyone goes home with something handmade.
| Venue | Location | Theme | Activities | Website | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Imaginology Kids | West LA | Art Meets Science | Canvas painting, slime lab, DIY take-home kits | @imaginologykids | Visit Site |
| Art Rebel Studio | Sherman Oaks | Expressive Art | Acrylic painting, mural work, mixed-media crafts | @artrebelshq | Visit Site |
🛍 GiftPals Picks:
🧠 STEM & Gaming Venues
Why it works: Tweens love solving puzzles, building things, and tech-driven games. STEM-themed parties combine education and excitement with activities that challenge and engage growing minds.
| Venue | Location | Theme | Activities | Website | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Two Bit Circus | DTLA | Tech Carnival | VR gaming, interactive STEM arcade, team quests | @twobitcircus | Visit Site |
| Cayton Museum | Santa Monica | STEAM Lab | Makerspace activities, team-building puzzles, kinetic play | @caytonmuseum | Visit Site |
🛍 GiftPals Picks:
🏀Active/Sports Venues
Why it works: Sports and physical challenges offer a high-energy outlet for 9–12-year-olds, encouraging teamwork, stamina, and leadership in a fun and structured environment.
| Venue | Location | Theme | Activities | Website | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sky Zone Trampoline Park | Van Nuys | Trampoline Sports | Dodgeball, free bounce, foam pit, party room | @skyzone | Visit Site |
| Sofive Soccer Center | Multiple Areas | Soccer Tournament | 5-a-side soccer, coach-led drills, awards | @sofive_soccer | Visit Site |
🛍 GiftPals Picks:
🌿 3.4 Outdoor Adventure Venues
Why it works: For the curious, active child who loves exploring, outdoor adventures build confidence and offer memorable birthday moments in natural settings.
| Venue | Location | Theme | Activities | Website | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kidspace Museum | Pasadena | Nature & Science | Outdoor climbing, fossil digs, water play | @kidspacemuseum | Visit Site |
| Raging Waters LA | San Dimas | Water Park Adventure | Water slides, wave pool, cabana rentals | @ragingwatersla | Visit Site |
🛍 GiftPals Picks:
💰Budget Breakdown & Tiered Options
Plan the Perfect Party—No Matter Your Budget
Birthday parties for 9–12-year-olds in Los Angeles come in all price ranges—from laid-back park picnics to full-venue tech takeovers. This section helps parents confidently select a party experience that fits their financial plan, guest list, and expectations.
Below, we break down venues into three budget tiers, each with sample line-item pricing, ideal group sizes, and venue types. A downloadable budget worksheet is also suggested to simplify planning.
💸 Value Tier – Under $500
Best for small gatherings, DIY decorations, and cost-conscious celebrations
| Venue | Typical Price | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Sky Zone (Basic) | $450–$500 | Jump passes, party table, water bottles |
| Griffith Park | $200–$400 | Picnic area reservation, access to playground |
| LA Zoo (Cave Corner) | $450–$495 | Semi-private party area + zoo admission |
| Color Me Mine | $25–$30/child | DIY pottery, creative space, optional food add-on |
Sample Budget Breakdown (Value Tier):
- Venue: $300
- Food (Pizza + Juice): $80
- Party Favors: $60
- Balloons & Cake: $60
- Total: ~$500
🧾 Perfect for: families wanting simplicity, outdoor fun, or small creative parties
💰 Mid-Range Tier – $500 to $1,500
Best for medium-size parties with pre-packaged amenities and professional coordination
| Venue | Typical Price | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| AdventurePlex | $800–$1,200 | Indoor obstacle courses, climbing wall, private room |
| Kidspace Museum (20–50 guests) | $1,000–$1,500 | Exhibit access, birthday room, staff-led activities |
| Art Zone West LA | $700–$900 | Art workshops, group mural project, decorations |
| LA Kings Ice (Party Room) | $850–$1,400 | Ice skating, skate rental, party room access |
| LA Zoo (LAIR Overlook) | $1,250 | Private deck with zoo view, exclusive animal encounter |
Sample Budget Breakdown (Mid-Range Tier):
- Venue + Activities: $900
- Food (Catering or in-house): $250
- Custom Cake & Cupcakes: $150
- Photographer or Entertainer: $150
- Total: ~$1,450
🧾 Perfect for: families seeking convenience, larger spaces, and more entertainment structure
💎 Premium Tier – Over $1,500
Best for large parties, all-inclusive experiences, and memorable themed adventures
| Venue | Typical Price | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Kidspace Museum (100 guests) | $2,500+ | Full museum floor access, catering add-ons, staff planning |
| Pacific Park (Santa Monica Pier) | $1,800–$2,500 | Ride wristbands, arcade cards, boardwalk party area |
| Two Bit Circus (Full Venue) | $2,200–$3,500 | Full VR arcade rental, STEM games, dedicated tech hosts |
Sample Budget Breakdown (Premium Tier):
- Venue & Experience: $2,000
- Premium Catering & Cake: $500
- Live Entertainment (Magician, DJ): $300
- Decor & Custom Invitations: $250
- Total: ~$3,050
🧾 Perfect for: milestone birthdays, shared parties, or tech-loving tweens
📥 Optional Download
🎉 Download Our Free Birthday Budget Planner (Google Sheet
or PDF)
Helps you:
- Compare venue tiers
- Track spending on favors, food, décor, and extras
- Avoid last-minute cost surprises
Download the Planner →
👥Guest Capacity Recommendations
Find the Right Fit for Your Party Size
Choosing the right venue starts with knowing how many guests you’re inviting. From intimate art sessions to large-scale adventures, Los Angeles offers venues tailored to every group size. But size doesn’t just affect space—it also influences cost, food planning, supervision needs, and entertainment logistics.
Here’s a breakdown of ideal birthday venues in LA by guest capacity—plus planning tips to help you host confidently and comfortably.
👶 Small Parties (10–20 Guests)
Best for intimate gatherings, lower budgets, and hands-on activities
| Venue | Location | Experience Type | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color Me Mine | Various LA areas | Pottery Art Studio | Allows creative freedom with minimal setup |
| Sky Zone (Basic) | Van Nuys | Trampoline Party | Small group packages with flexible add-ons |
| Rolling Robots | Glendale/West LA | STEM Robotics Workshop | Interactive robot-building and coding challenges |
| TreePeople Hikes | Coldwater Canyon | Nature Walk & Picnic | Outdoor, guided environmental exploration for small groups |
✅ Planning Tips:
- Ask about minimums—some venues require 10+ kids for package pricing
- Great for sleepover follow-ups or friends-only parties
- Parents can often skip formal catering and opt for DIY snacks
👨👩👧👦 Medium Parties (20–50 Guests)
Best for birthday parties that include extended family, classmates, and neighborhood friends
| Venue | Location | Experience Type | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kidspace (50 guests) | Pasadena | Indoor + Outdoor Museum | Educational, fun, and scalable with built-in exhibits |
| AdventurePlex | El Segundo | Indoor Sports & Fitness | Structured activities with built-in staff supervision |
| LA Kings Ice | El Segundo | Ice Skating Party | Group skate time + party room = fun for all skill levels |
| LA Zoo (LAIR Overlook) | Griffith Park | Wildlife Observation Deck | Private deck party with animal views & add-on encounters |
✅ Planning Tips:
- Mid-sized groups require more RSVPs and stronger headcounts
- Consider venues with bundled food or décor to streamline logistics
- Be mindful of parking and parent seating
🎉 Large Parties (50+ Guests)
Best for shared birthdays, milestone events, and school/family combo parties
| Venue | Location | Experience Type | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kidspace (100 guests) | Pasadena | Full Museum Buyout | Private, indoor-outdoor with space for food, games & flow |
| Pacific Park | Santa Monica Pier | Seaside Carnival Party | Unlimited ride wristbands, festive boardwalk vibe |
| Two Bit Circus (Full Venue) | DTLA | VR Arcade & STEM Adventure | Private immersive experiences, game hosts, multiple zones |
✅ Planning Tips:
- Look for venues with private rentals or tiered guest packages
- Consider hiring staff/helpers for food service or crowd management
- Check if the venue offers rain backup plans or weather coverage (for outdoor)
🧠 Bonus Tip: Consider the “Drop-Off Age”
At 9–12 years, many parties begin transitioning to drop-off instead of parent-attended. For larger parties, ensure:
- Adequate supervision ratios (venue staff or hired assistants)
- Waivers are collected in advance for physical activities
- A check-in station is set up at the entrance
✅Booking Timeline & Checklist
Planning a birthday party for kids aged 9–12 in Los Angeles takes
more than just booking a venue—it requires timing, coordination,
and a bit of checklist magic. Whether you're organizing a simple
art studio event or a full-on tech arcade bash, this week-by-week
timeline ensures you don’t miss a beat.
🗓 Recommended Booking Timeline
| 8 Weeks Before | 6 Weeks Before | 4 Weeks Before | 2 Weeks Before | 1 Week Before | Day of Party |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✅ Choose your venue and book it
(especially for weekends or popular times) |
✅ Send out invitations (digital or printed) ✅ Research and reserve entertainment (if not bundled) ✅ Coordinate with co-host (if joint party) |
✅ Order cake, catering, or finalize menu ✅ Shop for favors, decorations, and party supplies ✅ Arrange for extra help (family, sitter, staff) |
✅ Confirm RSVPs ✅ Provide final headcount to venue ✅ Double-check allergy & access needs ✅ Prepare goodie bags and signage |
✅ Final walk-through with venue or coordinator ✅ Print check-in list & activity schedule ✅ Prepare emergency contact list |
✅ Arrive early to set up ✅ Check audio/tech needs ✅ Set up favor table & signage ✅ Welcome guests, take group photo, enjoy! |
📋 Printable Checklist: What You’ll Need
| Extras | Entertainment | Decor & Setup | Essentials |
|---|---|---|---|
| First-aid kit | Playlist or hired DJ | Balloons & themed decor | Final guest list (with contact info) |
| Chargers or power banks | Activity materials or rentals (art kits, VR, etc.) | Table covers & serving utensils | Signed waivers (if required by venue) |
| Thank-you cards / follow-ups | Tip envelopes (for entertainers) | Signs for food, favors, activity stations | Backup plan (especially for outdoor parties) |
| Cake knife, candles, matches | |||
| Wet wipes, paper towels, trash bags |
Finding the right place to celebrate your child’s birthday between ages 9 and 12 doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you're looking for an indoor birthday party in LA, exciting outdoor party venues for tweens, or the most creative birthday party places for 10-year-olds in Los Angeles, this guide highlights the best options by budget, activity, and theme. From kids party venues with hands-on experiences to themed birthday spots in LA that wow every guest, there’s something for every personality and party size.
🎉 Ready to plan your perfect tween birthday?
Explore gift ideas, party supplies, and more on
GiftPals.com
to complement these unforgettable birthday ideas for 9–12
year olds.
FAQ
❓ What’s the best indoor birthday venue for 10-year-olds in LA?
❓ Are there water park birthday packages in Los Angeles?
❓ How far in advance should I book a tween birthday venue? Answer:
❓ What themes are popular for 12-year-olds in 2025?
❓ Which LA venues offer all-inclusive birthday packages?
❓ How do I plan a birthday party on a tight budget in LA?
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