75 Indoor Games to Play at Home or in the Classroom

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Plus the best indoor games to buy and have on hand for a rainy day
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There’s nothing worse than being stuck inside on a rainy day, but luckily, there are a ton of fun games that will brighten your spirit and keep you entertained all day. We’ve gathered 75 of the best games to play inside, including games for kids , party games , and games for adults . Plus, we’ll explain the benefits indoor games have on children (and parents).

Fun Games for Kids to Play Inside

  • The Floor is Lava: Pretend the floor is made of lava, and jump on furniture to move around the room.
  • Balloon Volleyball: Blow up some balloons and hit them back and forth without letting them touch the ground.
  • Charades: Take turns acting out different things or scenarios and see if the other players can guess what you are.
  • Scavenger Hunt: Hide a bunch of prizes around the house and see who can find the most within a given time limit.
  • Board Game Tournament: Play a bunch of different board games to see who can win the most.
Section 1 of 11:

Best Indoor Games for Kids

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  1. Turn your living room into a fiery obstacle course by playing The Floor is Lava . In this game, imagine that your floor has turned into lava. Have everyone jump up on furniture to avoid getting “burned.” Everyone must then make their way around the room without stepping on the floor. Make sure you have lots of furniture and things to stand on. [1]
    • Age range: All ages
    • Number of players: 2+
  2. 2
    Charades Almost everyone loves a good game of Charades ! While the official game has some specific rules, many people just take turns acting things out. Have everyone write down different things for players to act out, like animals, movies, or activities. One player will draw a slip of paper without looking, then act out whatever is written on it without talking. The other players must then guess what they’re doing. The player who guesses correctly wins a point. [2]
    • Age range: 4+
    • Number of players: 2+
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  3. 3
    Board Game Tournament Get out your favorite board games to find out who the ultimate board game champion is. Play a bunch of different games and keep track of who wins each one. Once you’ve played all the games, tally up the score to see who won the most games. Feel free to give them a crown to wear or a small prize.
    • Age range: Depends on the games (many are 3+)
    • Number of players: Depends on the game (many need at least 2 or 3 players)
  4. 4
    Karaoke If your kids love singing and performing, why not have a karaoke night? Pull up the karaoke versions of some of your favorite songs and let everyone take turns performing. Throw in a few silly songs to get everyone laughing! [3]
    • Age range: All ages
    • Number of players: 1+
  5. 5
    Fashion Show If your kids are fashion designers in the making, let them show off their style with a fashion show. Gather a bunch of clothes and let everyone pick out their outfits. Set up a “runway” in your living room and turn on some fun music. Cheer the kids on as they model their outfits. [4]
    • Age range: All ages
    • Number of players: 1+
  6. 6
    Card Games There are a ton of kid-friendly card games the whole family can enjoy. Teach your kids how to play different games, like Old Maid , Go Fish , Crazy 8s , and Uno . Once everyone has a good understanding of how each game works, you can even have a tournament to see who can win the most games! [5]
    • Age range: Depends on the game
    • Number of players: Depends on the game (many need at least 2 or 3)
  7. 7
    Truth or Dare Truth or Dare is a fun game people of all ages will enjoy. Have everyone sit in a circle and choose a player to go first. That player will then call on someone else and ask them, “Truth or dare?” If the person picks truth, the first player will ask them a question they must answer truthfully. If they pick dare, the first player will ask them to complete a silly dare. The person who answered the question will be the next player to ask someone the question. [6]
    • Age range: 5+ (may need adult supervision)
    • Number of players: 2+
    • Sometimes, players come up with a “punishment” if someone refuses to complete the truth or dare.
    • Another way to choose who answers the truth or dare is by spinning a bottle and seeing who it lands on.
  8. 8
    Hangman To play Hangman , have one person think of a word or phrase and draw a blank for each letter it contains. The other player will then try to guess the letters. If they get one right, the first player will fill in the letter. If they get it wrong, the first player will draw a body part on the hangman. The goal is for the player who’s guessing to figure out the puzzle before the hangman is completely drawn. [7]
    • Age range: 6+ (children need strong reading and spelling abilities)
    • Number of players: 2
  9. 9
    Paper Airplane Races If your child doesn’t already know, show them how to make a paper airplane . Have everyone who’s playing make their own airplane, or have your child make several airplanes if they’re playing alone. Then, throw the airplanes to see which one flies the farthest. [8]
    • Age range: Any
    • Number of players: 1+
  10. 10
    Scavenger Hunt Create your own scavenger hunt by hiding several small prizes (like toys, pocket-sized games, or candy) around your house and writing down clues leading to their locations. Give the list of clues to your kids (or read the clues to them if they’re too young to read), and set a timer. See how many of the prizes they can find within the time limit. [9]
    • Age range: Any
    • Number of players: 2+ (one to make the clues, one to hunt)
  11. 11
    Puzzles Completing a jigsaw puzzle is a fun, yet quiet activity that the whole family can enjoy. Have your child pick out a puzzle they like, then spread it out on the floor or a table and work together to put it together. If you want something more challenging, select a puzzle with a lot of pieces. [10]
    • Age range: Depends on the puzzle (some puzzles are appropriate for children as young as 2)
    • Number of players: 1+
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Section 2 of 11:

Skill-Building Indoor Games for Kids

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  1. 1
    Family Band Start a “family band” to keep your child entertained and help them build basic musical skills. Create makeshift instruments out of utensils, plastic bottles, buckets, or whatever else you can find. Use the utensils to tap familiar songs or have your child copy the rhythm. Then, encourage them to make their own beats.
    • Age range: Any (younger children may have more fun)
    • Number of players: 2+
  2. 2
    Memory Card Game Shuffle a deck of playing cards and lay out nine cards on a table. Give your child five minutes to memorize them, then flip them over. Ask your child to remember where they saw specific cards. Or, lay down several pairs of cards and challenge your child to flip over two of a kind. This is a great way to help young children develop their memory skills! [11]
    • Age range: 3+
    • Number of players: 1+
  3. 3
    Cooking Show Find a kid-friendly recipe, and set up your phone or camera to record a mock cooking show. Have your child walk your imaginary audience through all the steps to cook the recipe. This is a fun, safe way to teach them basic cooking skills.
    • Age range: Any (with adult supervision)
    • Number of players: 2+ (including at least one adult)
  4. 4
    Treasure Hunt Send your kids on an adventure with a treasure hunt . Hide a homemade or store-bought prize somewhere in your house, and draw a treasure map leading to it. Give your child the map, and allow them to explore your home until they find it. If they need help, give them subtle clues to point them in the right direction. [12]
    • Age range: Any
    • Number of players: 2+ (one to make the treasure hunt and one to search)
  5. 5
    Reading Games Help your child develop a love of literature and improve their reading skills by playing reading games. For example, teach your child the alphabet by writing letters on Styrofoam cups and letting them stomp the cup when they correctly say the letter sound. Or, make a Go Fish game using vocabulary or sight words.
    • Age range: 4-6
    • Number of players: 1+
  6. 6
    Magic Show Many kids are fascinated by magicians, so if your child wants to learn how to do magic, show them a few simple tricks . Once they’ve mastered a handful, allow them to put on a magic show for their family and friends. Some easy card and coin tricks may be the best for beginners. [13]
    • Age range: Depends on the tricks (usually at least 6+)
    • Number of players: 1+
    • If your child really enjoys doing magic, consider buying them a magic set !
  7. 7
    Juggling Teach your child a fun hobby that will help improve their hand-eye coordination. Learning to juggle can take a lot of practice, so start your child off with a few soft, lightweight objects around your home. Show them a few basic moves, then add more interesting tricks once they’ve got the hang of it. [14]
    • Age range: 8+
    • Number of players: 1+
    • If you don’t know how to juggle, watch some tutorials so you and your child can learn together!
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Section 3 of 11:

Physical Indoor Games for Kids

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  1. Create a child-friendly obstacle course in your home by rearranging furniture and toys and using painter’s tape to create areas your child has to duck under or jump over. Then, time your child to see how quickly they can move through the course. [15]
    • Age range: Any (adjust the course accordingly for your child’s abilities)
    • Number of players: 1+
  2. 2
    Balance Beam Create a DIY balance beam by placing lines of colored painter’s tape or folded blankets along the floor. Challenge your child to walk across the beam without stumbling or falling off, and show them how to do some safe and easy balance beam tricks, like turning around without losing their balance. [16]
    • Age range: 2+
    • Number of players: 1+
  3. 3
    Indoor Hopscotch Hopscotch is a popular playground game that can also be played indoors with a few adjustments. Instead of drawing your hopscotch board with chalk, make one on the floor using painter’s tape or large pieces of cardboard. Young kids will have a blast hopping across the board. [17]
    • Age range: 3+
    • Number of players: 1+
  4. 4
    Balloon Volleyball Blow up several balloons and toss them in the air. Each player will then hit the balloons toward other players, trying to keep them from touching the ground. This is a fun game that will get kids moving and improve their hand-eye coordination! [18]
    • Age range: 3+
    • Number of players: 2+
  5. 5
    Yoga If you want to get your kids moving but don’t want to do something too high-energy, try teaching them yoga . Lay out some yoga mats or towels, and show your kids how to do basic yoga moves. It may even help them relax after a long day. [19]
    • Age range: 3+
    • Number of players: 1+
  6. 6
    Three-Legged Race Separate everyone into teams of two, and tie one player’s right leg to the other player’s left leg. Then, have each team race across the room to the finish line. Kids will have fun trying not to fall or stumble, and the game will teach them valuable lessons in teamwork and cooperation. [20]
    • Age range: 5+
    • Number of players: 2 per team
  7. 7
    Potato Sack Race Grab some burlap sacks or pillowcases and have each kid place both feet inside. Holding the free end of the sack or pillowcase, they must then hop to the finish line on the other side of the room. This game is more challenging than it looks, so the kids will likely have fun competing. [21]
    • Age range: 4+
    • Number of players: 2+
  8. 8
    Land, Sea, Air Land, Sea, Air is a fun concentration and movement game that teaches kids listening skills. Use painter’s tape to make a line on the floor, and have all players stand behind it with both feet together. The players will then do different movements depending on whether you say land, air, or sea, but they must keep their feet together at all times. Here are the rules: [22]
    • When you shout “air,” players must jump into the air and land in the same place they started.
    • When you shout “land,” players must place their toes behind the line. If they are already behind the line, they must not move their feet. If they are in front of the line, they must jump backwards with both feet landing behind the line.
    • When you shout “sea,” players must place their feet entirely in front of the line. If they are already in front of the line, they must not move their feet. If they’re behind the line, they must jump forward with both feet landing in front of the line.
    • If players make a mistake, they must run to a different location (like another line on the floor) and touch it before returning to the game.
    • Age range: 4+
    • Number of players: 2+
  9. 9
    Target Practice This is a fun way for kids to practice their hand-eye coordination—and knock things over without getting in trouble. Line up things like empty water bottles and toilet paper rolls, and roll up some socks. Have the kids throw the socks at the bottles and toilet paper rolls, trying to knock them over. Try lining them up in different formations or at a farther distance to make the game more challenging.
    • Age range: Any
    • Number of players: 1+
  10. 10
    Hula Hooping Hula hooping is a fun way for kids to get some exercise. Clear enough space so that the hoops won’t knock into anything, then let your kids go at it. Teach them the basics if they haven’t used a hula hoop before, or show them some neat tricks if they’re a bit more skilled. [23]
    • Age range: 5+
    • Number of players: 1+
  11. 11
    Living Room Bowling Set up makeshift bowling lanes using painter’s tape or rolled-up blankets. Use empty plastic bottles as your bowling pins, and grab some soft, inflatable balls to use in place of bowling balls. Then, have your kids roll the balls down the lane to try to knock over the bottles, just like real bowling! [24]
    • Age range: 3+
    • Number of players: 1+
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Section 4 of 11:

Indoor Party Games for Kids

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  1. 1
    Hide and Seek Hide and Seek is a classic game played by children for generations. Choose one player to be “it” and have them count to a certain number (like 30 or 100) while all the other players find a hiding spot. Once the player finishes counting, they’ll start looking for the other players. [25]
    • Age range: 3+
    • Number of players: 2+
    • In some versions of the game, there is a “base” that the hiding players can attempt to reach. If they successfully make it to the base without getting caught, they’re safe for the rest of the game.
  2. 2
    Musical Chairs Musical Chairs is a fun party game for all ages. Arrange your chairs in a circle or in two lines back-to-back. Make sure to use one fewer chair than the number of people who are playing. Start some music, and have everyone walk around the chairs. When you stop the music, all players must rush to sit in one of the chairs. The person left standing is out. Remove another chair, then start the next round. Keep playing until you have a winner. [26]
    • For example, if you have 10 players, start with 9 chairs.
    • Age range: 3+
    • Number of players: 3+
  3. 3
    Telephone Telephone is a hilarious communication game that will have your kids laughing. Have everyone stand in a line or a circle. Whisper a silly phrase into the first player’s ear. They’ll then whisper what they heard into the next player’s ear. The game will continue that way until you reach the final player. That person will then announce what they heard to the entire group. Usually, it’s something completely different from the original phrase, which is what makes the game so funny! [27]
    • Age range: 5+
    • Number of players: 3+ (but larger groups are better)
  4. 4
    Freeze Turn on some fun music and have everyone dance. When someone yells “Freeze!” everyone must stop dancing. Ask the kids to freeze in a silly pose, like their favorite animal or a letter of the alphabet. Then, start dancing again until someone else yells “Freeze!” and selects a pose. [28]
    • Age range: Any
    • Number of players: 2+
  5. 5
    Pictionary Pictionary is a fun drawing game that can be played with two people or in larger groups. Have everyone write down different things to draw, like animals, foods, movies, etc., on scraps of paper. One person will choose a paper without looking, then attempt to draw whatever is listed. The other players have to guess what it is. Whoever guesses correctly wins a point. [29]
    • Age range: 8+
    • Number of players: 3+
  6. 6
    Hot Potato To play Hot Potato , have everyone sit in a circle, and hand one player a plastic ball (or something else that can easily be passed around). Start some music and have the players pass the ball around the circle. When you stop the music, whoever is holding the ball is out of the game. Keep playing until you have a winner. [30]
    • Age range: 4+
    • Number of players: 3+
  7. 7
    Pin the Tail on the Donkey Pin the Tail on the Donkey is a classic birthday party game. Tape a picture of a donkey without a tail to the wall, and blindfold the first player. Hand them the “tail” (a piece of paper with a thumbtack poked through it), and spin them around several times. They’ll then try to pin the tail on the donkey in the correct spot. Do the same with all players, and whoever gets the tail closest to the target wins. [31]
    • Age range: 5+
    • Number of players: 2+
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Section 5 of 11:

DIY Games to Play Indoors

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  1. Grab some containers of Play-Doh (or make your own ) and let your kids’ imagination run wild. Show them how to use cookie cutters, rolling pins, and decorations to make cool sculptures and art projects. Feel free to give them some ideas if they need some inspiration. [32]
    • Age range: 2+
    • Number of players: 1+
  2. 2
    Fort Building Use tables, chairs, blankets, boxes, and pillows to build a fort in the living room or your child’s room. Let them take the lead and design the fort according to their imagination. Once it’s built, crawl inside and have fun! Swap stories or play games together. [33]
    • Age range: Any (younger children may need adult supervision)
    • Number of players: 1+
  3. 3
    Family “Guess Who?” While the “Guess Who?” board game is fun on its own, make it even more special by swapping out the original characters for your child’s family members, friends, pets, or favorite characters. Then, take turns asking “yes or no” questions to determine which character you both have. [34]
    • Age range: 6+
    • Number of players: 2
  4. 4
    Bubble-Making You can buy pre-made bubbles from the store if you prefer, but kids may have more fun learning how to make their own bubbles ! Mix up some water and dish soap. Dip a bubble wand into the solution, and make some bubble magic! [35]
    • Age range: Any (younger children may need adult supervision)
    • Number of players: 1+
  5. 5
    Craft Paint Projects Help your child unleash their inner Picasso by letting them paint to their heart’s desire. Grab some washable paint , paint brushes, and items for your child to paint, like craft paper, smooth rocks, or popsicle sticks. When they’re done painting, proudly display their artwork in your home to encourage them to continue their new hobby.
    • Age range: 3+
    • Number of players: 1+
  6. 6
    Origami Learning origami can be a great way to bond with your child and help them develop a new skill. If you already know how to do some origami, show them how to fold the paper to create interesting objects, like flowers , stars , and birds . Or, look up some fun tutorials you can learn together! [36]
    • Age range: 4+
    • Number of players: 1+
  7. 7
    Sewing Projects If you have a sewing machine or know how to handsew, take the opportunity to teach your child some basic sewing skills . Look for simple projects, like a pincushion, a tissue holder, or a small stuffed animal. Let your child pick out the fabrics so they feel even more involved! [37]
    • Age range: 6+
    • Number of players: 2+ (including an adult)
  8. 8
    Fortune Tellers/Cootie Catchers Paper fortune tellers , sometimes called cootie catchers, are a fun way for kids to “predict” the future. Show them how to fold the paper and draw four different colored squares on the outside. Then, flip the color side so it’s facing the table and write a number on each triangle. Fold out each triangle and have them write their own fortunes on each one. They can then use their completed fortune teller with friends and family! [38]
    • Age range: 4+
    • Number of players: 1+
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Section 6 of 11:

Group Games to Play Indoors

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  1. 1
    Twister If you have a small group, Twister is an absolute blast! Set up the mat and choose one person to spin the wheel and tell the players where to place their hands and feet on the colored mat. The longer you play, the more twisted up everyone will get! [39]
    • Age range: 6+
    • Number of players: 2-8
  2. 2
    Simon Says Simon Says is a classic game that teaches kids listening skills. Choose one player to be Simon and have them face the other players. The Simon player will then give the other players instructions, like “touch your toes” or “jump up and down.” The catch is that players will only follow the instruction if the Simon player says “Simon says” first. If they follow an instruction they shouldn’t, they’re out. [40]
    • For example, if the Simon player says, “Simon says stick out your tongue,” all players must stick out their tongue. If they only say, “Stick out your tongue,” players shouldn’t follow the instruction.
    • Age range: 3+
    • Number of players: 3+
  3. 3
    Red Light, Green Light To play Red Light, Green Light , choose one player to be “it” and have them stand at one end of the playing area, while all other players line up at the opposite end. The player who’s “it” will turn their back to the other players and say “Green light.” The other players then start making their way across the playing area. When the person who’s “it” says “Red light,” they turn and face the other players. All players must freeze in place. If they move, they’re sent back to the starting point. The “it” player will then turn back around and say “Green light” again. The person who reaches the other side first wins. [41]
    • Age range: 4+
    • Number of players: 2+
  4. 4
    Mother May I To play Mother May I , choose one player to be the “mother” and have them stand facing the other players. All other players act as the “children” and take turns asking “Mother, may I…” and then a question about moving forward. If the mother says “yes,” the player can move forward. If they say “no,” the player must stay put. The first player to cross the finish line wins. [42]
    • Age range: 4+
    • Number of players: 3+
    • For example, players might ask questions like, “Mother, may I take three steps forward?” or “Mother, may I take one jump forward?”
    • Players must remember to start their question with “Mother, may I…” in order to move forward.
  5. 5
    Catch This is a simple, yet fun game for groups of small children who are still learning hand-eye coordination skills. Have them stand in a circle and hand one player a ball or toy that’s safe to throw inside. Then, have them take turns throwing the ball or toy to different players in the circle. Make sure every player gets the opportunity to throw and catch the ball.
    • Age range: 4+
    • Number of players: 2+
  6. 6
    Putting on a Play Gather all the children (or anyone else who wants to participate) and have them come up with a fun story idea. Let them dress up in silly costumes, and set up a “stage” area where they can perform their play for you and the rest of their audience. [43]
    • Age range: Any
    • Number of players: 1+
  7. 7
    Indoor Croquet Indoor croquet is a simplified version of the traditional croquet game . Set up an indoor croquet set or make your own using construction paper and empty toilet paper or paper towel rolls. Adapt the layout to fit your space, then show your kids how to hit the ball through the hoops in the correct order. [44]
    • Age range: 8+
    • Number of players: 2, 4, or 6
  8. 8
    Virtual Party If you want to have fun in a group but can’t be together in person, set up a virtual party on Zoom, FaceTime, or another video chatting service. This is a great way for kids to connect with their friends. Think of different games you can play virtually, like Simon Says or Truth or Dare, or just do an activity together (like painting) while you chat. [45]
    • Age range: Any
    • Number of players: 2+
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Section 7 of 11:

Games to Play in the Classroom

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  1. Eraser Tag is a fun way to get your class moving on a rainy day. Have one student write the name of another student on the whiteboard. The student whose name was written must then run to the board, erase their name, and catch the other student before they make it around the classroom and back to the board.
    • Age range: Any
    • Number of players: 3+
  2. 2
    Silent Ball If you want your students to have fun but need a break from the noise, try Silent Ball. Have students stand in a loose circle around the classroom and provide a soft ball they can throw without hurting anyone (or breaking anything). Set a timer, and let them know the goal is to throw the ball back and forth without saying a word. If anyone talks or drops the ball, they’re out. Anyone left standing when the timer goes off wins! [46]
    • Age range: Any
    • Number of players: 2+
  3. 3
    Make Your Own Board Game Playing board games is fun, but encourage your students to get creative by making their own! Print some blank board game templates and divide students into small groups. Challenge them to come up with their own game (including a name, rules, and board decorations) to promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The kids can also take turns playing each other’s games!
    • Age range: Any
    • Number of players: 1+
  4. 4
    Human Tic-Tac-Toe Use some masking tape to create a large Tic-Tac-Toe board on the floor. Divide students into two teams (Xs and Os) and have them take turns stepping on the board in their desired spot. Human Tic-Tac-Toe works the same way as normal Tic-Tac-Toe ; the first team to get three in a row wins. If you have more students than spots on the board, keep playing until everyone has had a chance to participate. [47]
    • Age range: Any
    • Number of players: 6+ (ideally 12)
  5. 5
    Zip Zap Zoom Zip Zap Zoom is a fun indoor recess activity that helps students improve their listening and concentration skills. Have everyone stand in a circle, and start someone off with an imaginary “ball of energy.” Then, have that student hand the ball off to someone else. If the students move the ball clockwise, they say “zip.” If they move it counterclockwise, they say “zap,” and if they move it across the circle, they say “zoom.” [48]
    • Age range: 10+
    • Number of players: 3+
  6. 6
    Collaborative Art Have students sit in a circle and give each one a piece of paper and some crayons or markers. Set a timer for 30 seconds and allow them to draw whatever they want. When time is up, each student will pass the paper to the person to their right. Set another 30-second timer, and allow the students to add whatever they want to the new drawing. Keep going until the art gets back to its original owner. Feel free to hang the drawings up in the classroom or hallway!
    • Age range: Any
    • Number of players: 3+
  7. 7
    Kahoot! Kahoot! is a fun online learning game that will keep your students entertained while helping them learn valuable information. Create your own multiple-choice questions based on the subjects your students are learning. Then, have them use computers or tablets to log on and answer the questions. See who gets the highest score at the end! [49]
    • Age range: 3+
    • Number of players: 2+
  8. 8
    Heads Up, Seven Up Heads Up, Seven Up is a popular classroom game. Select seven students to stand in front of the class and have the remaining students put their heads on their desks and raise their thumbs. The seven students will then walk around and touch the thumb of one student each. Then, say “Heads up, seven up!” The students who had their thumbs touched will then try to guess which of the seven touched them. If they guess correctly, they take that student’s spot as one of the seven. [50]
    • Age range: 5+
    • Number of players: 14+
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Section 8 of 11:

Indoor Games for Kids with No Equipment

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  1. 1
    Human Knot Human Knot is a hilarious game of entanglement. Have everyone stand in a circle and raise their right hand. They must then grab the hand of someone who isn’t standing next to them. Everyone then raises their left hand and grabs the hand of another player (again, not standing next to them). The group then has to find a way to untangle themselves without letting go of anyone’s hand. [51]
    • Age range: 6+
    • Number of players: 7+
  2. 2
    Sardines Sardines is a fun game that is essentially the opposite of Hide and Seek. Instead of having one person look for other players, one player will go hide while the rest look for them. When someone finds the hidden player, they must join them in their hiding spot. The more players that find them, the tighter the hiding spot will become, causing players to squish together like a can of sardines. The game is over once everyone is hiding together. [52]
    • Age range: 5+
    • Number of players: 6+
  3. 3
    Get Down, Mr. President Get Down, Mr. President is a sneaky and hilarious game best played when no one is expecting it. When no one’s paying attention, hold two fingers to your ear, like you’re a secret service agent listening to an earpiece. When someone else notices, they’ll also hold two fingers to their ear. The last person to notice becomes the president. Everyone else will suddenly scream, “Get down, Mr. President!” and tackle that person to the ground.
    • Age range: Any
    • Number of players: 3+
  4. 4
    One Word Stories Gather all players in a circle and have them make up a story one word at a time. Come up with a starting word, then select a player to add the next word. The person next to them will add the next word and so on until every player has had a turn. For added fun, write down each word and read the story out loud once it reaches a natural stopping point.
    • Age range: Any
    • Number of players: 2+
  5. 5
    Fortunately, Unfortunately Fortunately, Unfortunately is another fun storytelling game that can keep kids entertained for hours. One player will start the story by saying a sentence out loud. The next player must begin their sentence with the word “unfortunately.” The player after that must begin theirs with the word “fortunately.” Keep switching back and forth until the story reaches a natural stopping point. [53]
    • For example, let’s say the first sentence is “I got a puppy.” The next player might say, “Unfortunately, he ran away.” The following player might add, “Fortunately, he came back with a million dollars.”
    • Age range: Any
    • Number of players: 2+
  6. 6
    I Spy I Spy is a simple game that can be played anywhere, including indoors or during a long car ride. Look around the room and select an item you want the other player to guess, like an apple. Then say, “I spy with my little eye something…” and then describe the object. The other player will then guess. If they guess wrong, keep describing the object until they get it right. [54]
    • For our apple example, you might say, “I spy with my little eye something red” or “I spy with my little eye something you can eat.”
    • Age range: 2+
    • Number of players: 2+
  7. 7
    Duck, Duck, Goose To play Duck, Duck, Goose , clear a space large enough for everyone to sit in a circle. Choose one player to be “it” and have them walk around the circle, tapping each player on the head and saying “duck.” When the player taps someone and says “goose,” that player will get up and chase the “it” player around the circle. If the “it” player sits down in the “goose’s” spot without getting tagged, the “goose” is now “it.” If they get tagged, however, they must remain “it” for another round. [55]
    • Age range: 3+
    • Number of players: 3+
  8. 8
    Dance Contest Turn on your child’s favorite music and let them bust a move! Having a dance party is fun on its own, but if your child wants something more competitive, turn it into a contest by taking turns breaking out your coolest dance moves. Have another family member choose a winner.
    • Age range: Any
    • Number of players: 2+
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Section 9 of 11:

Games to Play Inside for Adults

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  1. Never Have I Ever is a fun game for all ages, including adults. Have everyone hold up ten fingers, then take turns saying “Never have I ever…” followed by something you’ve never done. Anyone who has done it will put a finger down or, if you’re all of legal drinking age, take a shot of alcohol. The last person who still has fingers up wins the game. [56]
    • For example, you might say something like “Never have I ever been skydiving” or “Never have I ever shoplifted.”
    • Number of players: 2+
  2. 2
    Two Truths and a Lie Playing Two Truths and a Lie is a great way to get to know each other. Think of three facts about yourself. The catch is that one of these “facts” must actually be a lie. Say these facts out loud and see if the other players can guess which one is the lie. Keep going until everyone has had a turn. [57]
    • Number of players: 2+
  3. 3
    Virtual Escape Room Escape rooms are a fun team-building exercise, and you can even do them from the comfort of your own home! Many websites offer free virtual escape rooms you can play on your computer, tablet, or phone. Work together to solve the clues and escape the room! [58]
    • Number of players: Depends on the game (usually 2-10)
  4. 4
    Murder Mystery Party Throw your own murder mystery party to make your next social gathering a blast! Choose a theme and assign roles to the guests. Plan the storyline, create clues, and set the scene by decorating your home and preparing a menu that fits the theme. Then, see which of your friends can correctly solve the murder. [59]
    • If you don’t want to plan everything yourself, look online for premade stories and characters.
    • Number of players: usually 4+
  5. 5
    Beer Pong Beer Pong is a fun drinking game to play at parties. Set up 10 cups in a triangle formation on either side of a long table. Fill each cup with beer, and divide players into two teams. Take turns throwing ping pong balls at the opposing team’s cups. If a ball lands in an opponent’s cup, that cup is removed from the table, and a member of that team must drink its contents. The first team to eliminate all the other team’s cups wins. [60]
    • Number of players: 2+
  6. 6
    Spoons To play Spoons , have everyone sit in a circle and place several spoons in the center. Deal four playing cards to each player. The dealer picks a card, looks at it, and passes it face down to the player on their left. The next player will do the same and so on. When someone gets four cards of a kind, they grab a spoon from the center. Everyone else then races to grab a spoon. The person left without a spoon receives a letter toward spelling “SPOON.” The last player to avoid spelling “SPOON” in its entirety is the winner. [61]
    • Number of players: 3+
  7. 7
    Heads Up Either download the Heads Up app or make your own version by writing different celebrities, animals, movies, and other subjects on notecards. To play , hold the phone (or card) up to your forehead so you can’t see the answer. The other players will then give you clues to try to guess the answer. Your goal is to get as many answers right as possible within the given timeframe (60 seconds on the original app). [62]
    • Number of players: 2+
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Section 10 of 11:

Benefits of Indoor Games for Kids

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  1. Indoor games keep kids entertained while teaching them new skills. Indoor games have many benefits for children and parents. They foster learning and help kids learn new skills, like problem-solving and cooperation. Many games also boost creativity and help keep kids active, no matter the weather outside. They’re also safe, as children are under more direct adult supervision than in some outdoor games. [63]
Section 11 of 11:

Best Indoor Games to Buy

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  1. While inventing your own games is great for the imagination, pre-made games are also a ton of fun! Set these games up in your living room (or outside when the weather’s nice), and get ready to have a blast! Here are some popular recommendations:
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.parents.com/fun/activities/indoor/ways-to-play-floor-is-lava-game-at-home/
      2. ↑ https://www.countryliving.com/life/entertainment/a31998110/charades-ideas-topics/
      3. ↑ https://www.letsroam.com/explorer/games-to-play-with-friends-inside-ideas/?srsltid=AfmBOor_ZTsAH_P1KZZS4mL2NvfGBejGw6CutrmNRN4gFhpqg6VxvMSu
      4. ↑ https://www.letsroam.com/explorer/games-to-play-with-friends-inside-ideas/?srsltid=AfmBOor_ZTsAH_P1KZZS4mL2NvfGBejGw6CutrmNRN4gFhpqg6VxvMSu
      5. ↑ https://www.todaysparent.com/family/activities/10-kid-friendly-card-games/
      6. ↑ https://parade.com/966507/parade/truth-or-dare-questions/
      7. ↑ https://www.one-to-one.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Hangman.pdf
      8. ↑ https://www.foldnfly.com/lounge/party-games.php
      9. ↑ https://www.scavengerhunt.com/discover/scavenger-hunt-for-kids/
      1. ↑ https://www.todaysparent.com/toddler/20-fun-indoor-games/
      2. ↑ https://youtu.be/oFfYmrGeTPs?t=4
      3. ↑ https://www.todaysparent.com/toddler/20-fun-indoor-games/
      4. ↑ https://mommypoppins.com/anywhere-kids/easy-magic-tricks-for-kids-how-to-do-magic
      5. ↑ https://youtu.be/QxzSHRbLAx4?t=26
      6. ↑ https://ourlittlejoys.com/blog/indoor-games-for-kids/?srsltid=AfmBOoraaYLXj6rFfKw26BGRRayY3TQxOy0pRoSVs9H6O1P7Mn_V21iw
      7. ↑ https://www.todaysparent.com/toddler/20-fun-indoor-games/
      8. ↑ https://ourlittlejoys.com/blog/indoor-games-for-kids/?srsltid=AfmBOoraaYLXj6rFfKw26BGRRayY3TQxOy0pRoSVs9H6O1P7Mn_V21iw
      9. ↑ https://ourlittlejoys.com/blog/indoor-games-for-kids/?srsltid=AfmBOoraaYLXj6rFfKw26BGRRayY3TQxOy0pRoSVs9H6O1P7Mn_V21iw
      10. ↑ https://www.actionforhealthykids.org/activity/yoga-and-mindfulness/
      11. ↑ https://www.familyeducation.com/entertainment-activities/games/outdoor/three-legged-race
      12. ↑ https://thegeniusofplay.org/genius/play-ideas-tips/play-ideas/sack-race.aspx
      13. ↑ https://www.playworks.org/game-library/land-sea-air/
      14. ↑ https://napacenter.org/hula-hoop-games/
      15. ↑ https://ourlittlejoys.com/blog/indoor-games-for-kids/?srsltid=AfmBOoraaYLXj6rFfKw26BGRRayY3TQxOy0pRoSVs9H6O1P7Mn_V21iw
      16. ↑ https://www.mississauga.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2021/01/29143100/Hide-and-Seek.pdf
      17. ↑ https://thegeniusofplay.org/genius/play-ideas-tips/play-ideas/musical-chairs.aspx
      18. ↑ https://www.girlscoutsww.org/content/dam/girlscoutsww-redesign/documents/members/volunteers/telephone-game.pdf
      19. ↑ https://www.todaysparent.com/toddler/20-fun-indoor-games/
      20. ↑ https://ourlittlejoys.com/blog/indoor-games-for-kids/?srsltid=AfmBOoraaYLXj6rFfKw26BGRRayY3TQxOy0pRoSVs9H6O1P7Mn_V21iw
      21. ↑ https://officialgamerules.org/game-rules/hot-potato/
      22. ↑ https://officialgamerules.org/game-rules/pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey/
      23. ↑ https://raisingchildren.net.au/guides/activity-guides/making-and-building/playdough-activities
      24. ↑ https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/build-a-blanket-fort/
      25. ↑ https://www.mamatheexplorer.com/index.php/2020/03/20/diy-game-customized-guess-who/
      26. ↑ https://www.parents.com/how-to-make-your-own-bubble-solution-7229054
      27. ↑ https://www.letsroam.com/explorer/games-to-play-with-friends-inside-ideas/?srsltid=AfmBOor_ZTsAH_P1KZZS4mL2NvfGBejGw6CutrmNRN4gFhpqg6VxvMSu
      28. ↑ https://www.phoebeandegg.com/new-page-1
      29. ↑ https://scoutlife.org/hobbies-projects/funstuff/166945/how-to-make-a-paper-fortune-teller/
      30. ↑ https://www.hasbro.com/common/instruct/twister.pdf
      31. ↑ https://orchardcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Simon-Says.pdf
      32. ↑ https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/red-light-green-light/
      33. ↑ https://funandgames.org/mother-may-i/
      34. ↑ https://www.teachkidshow.com/teach-your-child-how-to-write-and-produce-a-play/
      35. ↑ https://www.lakeshorelearning.com/assets/media/product_guides/ZZ771.pdf?srsltid=AfmBOoqKq5NaeRyvn8xDtlxLC8atA5MFZCudYalxs5_J2BoWlLFmym-9
      36. ↑ https://www.childsplayinaction.com/zoom-party/
      37. ↑ https://roundupriverranch.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Winter21_CampGame-1.pdf
      38. ↑ https://www.thegamegal.com/2018/01/31/human-tic-tac-toe/
      39. ↑ https://www.hwdsb.on.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Week-6-JR-CTB-Zip-Zap-Zoom-Energy-Circle-Game.pdf
      40. ↑ https://www.instruction.uh.edu/knowledgebase/how-to-play-kahoot-in-class/
      41. ↑ https://www.thegamegal.com/2017/12/09/heads-up-seven-up-game/
      42. ↑ https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/human-knot/
      43. ↑ https://thegeniusofplay.org/genius/play-ideas-tips/play-ideas/sardines.aspx
      44. ↑ https://www.thegamegal.com/2011/12/03/fortunately-unfortunately/
      45. ↑ https://raisingchildren.net.au/preschoolers/play-learning/low-cost-play-ideas/i-spy-turn-taking-and-talking-activity-for-children-3-6-years
      46. ↑ https://www.cypsc.ie/_fileupload/Documents/Resources/Galway/Games+Cards.pdf
      47. ↑ https://the-game-farm.com/party-games/never-have-i-ever/
      48. ↑ https://www.ny.gov/sites/default/files/atoms/files/Two_Truths_and_a_Lie.pdf
      49. ↑ https://theescapegame.com/blog/virtual-escape-room-tips-and-tricks/
      50. ↑ https://www.shondaland.com/shondaland-series/the-residence/how-to-plan-your-own-murder-mystery-party
      51. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/entertainment/quizzes-games/a44381242/beer-pong/
      52. ↑ https://www.nps.gov/articles/spoons.htm
      53. ↑ https://www.cnet.com/reviews/heads-up-ios-review/
      54. ↑ https://ourlittlejoys.com/blog/indoor-games-for-kids/?srsltid=AfmBOoraaYLXj6rFfKw26BGRRayY3TQxOy0pRoSVs9H6O1P7Mn_V21iw

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