winter-approved spots for little lex locals

Because sometimes it’s too cold for the park… and parents need options.

Lexington winters can be a lot — the cold snaps, the gray days, the “we’ve been inside for way too long” feeling. And if you’ve got a toddler at home, you know the stakes get even higher. When the playground isn’t an option and you’re out of ideas, having a go-to list of indoor activities is a game changer. Here are some of our family’s favorite ways to burn energy, get creative, and stay warm around Lexington — all 3-year-old approved.

lexington children’s museum

📍 440 W Short St Hands-on exhibits, pretend play zones, and enough climbing + exploring to burn off allllll the wiggles. A classic for a reason. 🧪🪀

living arts & science center

📍 362 N Martin Luther King Blvd Art classes, science exhibits, pottery, animals, and the coolest planetarium shows. Perfect for curious minds + creative hearts. 🌌

art play kids studio

📍 309 N Ashland Ave #190 Mess-friendly art playtime (that you don’t have to clean up). Open studio hours and classes for all ages. Let their imagination run wild. 🎨✨

battle axes

📍 164 Turner Commons Wy #110

Yes... for all ages — from adults to toddlers! There's a large play area with inflatables + bounce houses for the littles. 🪓

the academy gymnastics

📍 949 National Ave #165 A great way to burn energy through flipping, climbing, and jumping. They even offer open gym on FCPS NTI days! 🤸‍♀️

lexington public library (multiple branches)

📍 Locations across Lexington — check your closest branch Storytime, music + movement classes, craft days, and cozy reading corners. A cozy, free, always-reliable winter outing. 📚💛

joseph-beth booksellers

📍 161 Lexington Green Cir Browsing books, train tables, in-store events + kids’ storytime. Grab a cocoa from Brontë Bistro and make an afternoon of it. 📖☕️

monkey joe’s

📍 1850 Bryant Rd Suite 120 Inflatables, slides, bounce houses — and plenty of space to run wild. A guaranteed nap-time enabler. 😅 Save This List for Your Next “We Need to Get Out of the House” Day

Whether you're trying to burn off big energy, spark creativity, or simply survive a long winter Saturday, Lexington has plenty of indoor options for little ones.

Sending love to all the toddler parents — it ain’t always easy, but we’re all in this together.

Have a winter-approved spot I should add to the list? I’m always looking for new places to explore with my little one. Send me a message or tag @livengoodinlex next time you’re out adventuring!

And if you’re new here, come hang out with me on Instagram or TikTok for more Lex gems, local happenings, and home inspiration. Follow @livengoodinlex →