A rainy-day (and too-hot-day) backup plan with kids
Indoor spots around Glendale and Montrose that have actually saved a weekend: arcades, art studios, bowling, skating and a bookstore.
Extracurriculars have been hit or miss with my kids, so when a place makes them want to go back, I take note. These are the indoor spots that have earned repeat visits from our family.
The Art Room, Montrose
An art and pottery studio for kids and adults in the Glendale/Montrose area, and also in the local public schools through fundraising campaigns. Instructors TK and Jenna (the studio owner and a fully credentialed teacher) teach kids about the process of creating with different types of media: pastels, watercolors, acrylic, ceramics. Both of my kids have attended classes there, and they bring home countless projects that they are so proud of. Adult ceramics classes and private parties are available too, and the summer camps fill up fast!
Montrose Bowl, Montrose
A beloved Montrose gem since 1940, with a fresh but still retro look, a bar, and a fully vegan and kosher menu from The Never Caged. Daily happy hour from 3 to 6. Call ahead to make sure there isn’t a private party booked.
Moonlight Rollerway, Glendale
Talk about nostalgia. This LA institution has been around since the 1950s and so many shows and movies have been filmed here. I took my kiddo and was taken straight back to my younger, more carefree days skating with friends. He was over it before I was, so I’m planning a return trip without kids.
Once Upon A Time Bookstore, Montrose
The nation’s oldest children’s bookstore, in business since 1966. Founded by local mom and artist Jane Humphrey, and for the last couple of decades in the caring hands of the Palacios family. A beautifully curated selection of books for the entire family, unique gifts, and events like book signings and readings. Owners Maureen and her daughter Jessica helped me pick two books that my budding reader is already trying to read on her own, and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a sighting of shop kitty, Pippi.
Kidspace, Pasadena
The indoor space at Kidspace Children’s Museum is a solid rainy-day option, and it doubles as a birthday-party venue we’ve used and loved.
Chuck E. Cheese, Pasadena
Okay, I hope I don’t lose all credibility here, but yes, Chuck E. Cheese! I can’t tell you how many times this place saved my sanity on a blazing summer day for a few hours. Better yet, they have a summer fun pass that saved us during the hot and humid 2026 summer. You can count on me being there again next summer.
About the author
Jean shares local Foothills notes because she is always trying new places and doesn’t gatekeep. She is also a local real estate agent.
About Jean
