Indoor Activities in New York City
When you plan a trip to big cities like New York and Los Angeles, you’ll find a lot of indoor activities to keep you entertained no matter the weather. Both cities are cultural hubs offering countless experiences. From world-class museums and galleries to interactive research centers and unique entertainment venues, there is something for everyone. Whether you love art, history, science or just want to have fun, closed cities offer unforgettable experiences. Let’s take a look at some indoor activities near me and find out what makes each one special.
American Museum of Natural History
Located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, this world-famous museum has an extensive natural history collection, including dinosaur bones, meteorites, and cultural artifacts from all over human history.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Known as the “Metropolitan Museum of Art,” the iconic museum on Fifth Avenue features more than 2 million works of art spanning 5,000 years of history. Temple of Dendur, Collection of European Paintings and Costume Institute. It is open with admission between 10:00-17:30 Sunday-Thursday, and 10:00-21:00 on Friday and Saturday.
Broadway Shows
Broadway is the center of American theater, and the School Theater’s famous theaters present a variety of plays and musicals. Iconic TV series like The Lion King, Hamilton and Wicked. Performance times vary; Tickets can be purchased online, at the box office or from discount retailers such as TKTS.
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
Located in Midtown Manhattan, the Museum of Modern Art is a school for modern and contemporary art, featuring works by artists such as Van Gogh, Warhol, and Picasso. Vincent van Gogh’s “Starry Night”, Andy Warhol’s “Campbell’s Soup Can” and the Sculpture Garden. Open every day from 10:30 to 17:30;
New York Public Library
The main building, also known as the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, is located at 42nd Street and Fifth Avenue. It is famous for its magnificent architecture and rich collections. Rose Main Reading Room, rare books and manuscripts, and free public tours. Open Monday to Saturday 10:00 – 18:00 and Sunday 13:00 – 17:00;
Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
Located on the banks of the Hudson River aboard the USS Intrepid, the museum features exhibits on military and naval history, space exploration and aviation. Space shuttle mansion, Growler submarine and several planes. Open daily from 10am to 5pm;
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Times Square
This beautiful museum in Times Square features artifacts, collectibles, and interactive exhibits. Black Hole is the world’s largest collection of shrinking heads and optical illusions. Open every day from 10:00 to 23:00; Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
Chelsea Piers
The large sports and recreation center on the Hudson River offers many activities. Indoor rock climbing, ice skating, bowling, fitness center and golf simulator. Times vary depending on the event; fees and memberships.
Indoor Activities in Los Angeles
The Getty Center
The Getty Center is located in the Brentwood district, known for its architecture, gardens and art from the Middle Ages to the present. An impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, decorative arts and photographs. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 – 17:30; Entrance is free but parking is paid.
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), located on Wilshire Boulevard, is the largest art museum in the western United States with a diverse cultural and temporal collection. City lights, modern art and antiques. Open every day between 11.00-17.00, closed on Wednesdays. It can be purchased online.
California Science Center
Located in Exposition Park, this museum features science exhibits, an IMAX theater, and the Endeavor Space Shuttle. Department of Ecology Exhibit, World of Creativity, and Samuel O. Ochiman Space Shuttle Endeavor Exhibit Hall. Open daily from 10am to 5pm; Admission is free, but tickets are required for some exhibits and the IMAX theater.
Griffith Observatory
The observatory is mostly known for its views and outdoor activities, but it also has indoor exhibits related to astronomy and science. Foucault’s pendulum, Zeiss telescope and Tesla coil. Open Tuesday to Friday 12:00 – 22:00, Saturday – Sunday 10:00 – 22:00;
The Broad
The Museum of Contemporary Art in downtown Los Angeles is known for its beautiful designs and impressive collection of wartime and modern art. Works by Jeff Koons, Infinity Mirror Rooms by Yayoi Kusama and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Open Wednesday to Friday 11:00 – 17:00, Saturday – Sunday 10:00 – 18:00;
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
The museum, also located in Exposition Park, has many exhibits about dinosaurs, diamonds, minerals and California history. Dinosaur Hall, Gem and Mineral Hall and Natural Gardens. Open daily 9:30-17:00; tickets available online and at the museum.
The Petersen Automotive Museum
Located on Wilshire Boulevard, this museum is dedicated to the history and future of the automobile, featuring over 300 vehicles on display.