Katy Mann, founder of Indy with Kids, returned to FOX59’s Indy Now to share some of her top picks for children’s birthday party venues and experiences in the Indianapolis area. As a weekly guest on the show, Katy regularly helps local families discover fun things to do through IndyWithKids.com, where she highlights attractions, events, and family experiences worth knowing about across Central Indiana.
In addition to running Indy with Kids, Katy is also the author of Indianapolis Scavenger and Where to Take the Kids: Indianapolis, two family-focused guides designed to help parents make the most of family life in the city. This time on Indy Now, she spotlighted birthday party ideas that go beyond the standard cake-and-presents setup, offering options that are active, memorable, and exciting for a wide range of ages.
Best Kids’ Birthday Party Places in Indianapolis According to Katy Mann
Katy began with party ideas that can come directly to your home or another location of your choice, which is a huge win for families who want a more personalized celebration.
One of her standout recommendations was Indy Blast, which can bring a full laser tag party right to your house, backyard, park, or indoor venue. Katy shared that her family used Indy Blast for a backyard birthday party, and it was such a hit that people in the neighborhood were still talking about it afterward. The company brought all the equipment, including barricades, laser tag gear, music, and party hosting, turning a front yard into a full laser tag arena. She described it as the kind of party you can build the entire celebration around.
Another at-home favorite was a foam party, which can also be arranged through Indy Blast and similar local providers. Katy said this was another huge hit with kids and adults alike. These parties transform your backyard into a foam-filled play zone, often with music and plenty of room for kids to run, jump, and play. It is the kind of birthday experience that feels special without requiring a lot of extra planning once the setup is done. Add pizza, cake, beach balls, and a few excited kids, and the party pretty much runs itself.
Indoor Birthday Party Places for Kids in Indianapolis
For families who would rather host somewhere else, Katy shared several indoor party venues that offer built-in entertainment and high-energy fun.
One of those was Game Show Battle Rooms, which she said is fun not only for parties but also just for a family outing. For birthday celebrations, it offers a lively, interactive environment where kids and adults can compete in teams in game show-style challenges. Katy pointed out that the hosts bring a lot of energy, and the format works well for a broad age range. Because the games are both competitive and collaborative, it gives everyone a chance to participate and feel included.
She also highlighted Cirque Indy, which is a great pick for kids who love movement, performance, and trying something new. With classes and birthday party options focused on aerial fun and circus-style skills, it is a memorable alternative to the usual party places. Katy noted that beginners are welcome, which makes it approachable even for kids who have never tried anything like it before.
Another popular all-in-one option she mentioned was Urban Air, which is packed with attractions for kids with different interests and energy levels. From trampolines and climbing features to laser tag, adventure courses, and arcade-style fun, Urban Air makes it easy to entertain a whole party in one place. Katy also pointed out the convenience factor for parents since food is available on site, which helps simplify planning.
Unique Birthday Party Ideas for Kids in Indianapolis
If you are looking for a birthday party that feels different from what everyone else is doing, Katy shared a few standout ideas that offer something a little more unexpected.
One of those was Activate in Fishers, which she described as a great option for kids who love video games and active challenges. Instead of just playing a game on a screen, kids become part of the game itself. Because it is still fairly new, it is also a smart choice for families who want a party venue their child’s friends may not have already experienced.
Katy also recommended Climb Time, a favorite for kids who love to move, climb, and challenge themselves. She shared that her own kids loved racing up the walls and taking on the climbing challenges. Climb Time is beginner-friendly, with experts available to help, which makes it a strong choice for first-timers as well as more confident climbers. The party setup also includes a balcony area overlooking the gym, giving families a dedicated place to celebrate while still staying connected to the action.
Finally, she included Topgolf as one of her top spring birthday party picks. Katy said one of the best things about Topgolf is that you do not need to know how to play golf to enjoy it. The experience is designed around games and skill levels that work for beginners and more experienced players alike. She also noted that it is a great all-weather option, making it ideal for unpredictable Indiana weather. Whether it is raining, chilly, or sunny, Topgolf gives families a comfortable and fun place to celebrate.
Why Families Trust Katy Mann for Birthday Party Ideas
What makes Katy’s recommendations especially helpful is that they are grounded in real family experience. She knows parents are not just looking for a place to host a party. They are looking for something that feels exciting for the birthday child, manageable for the adults, and memorable for the guests. Her FOX59 segments consistently offer practical, local suggestions that work for real families navigating real schedules, budgets, and age ranges.
Through Indy with Kids, Katy helps parents find everything from birthday party destinations and indoor play spots to seasonal guides, events, and new attractions around Central Indiana. Her work on television, online, and in her books gives local families a trusted source for ideas that are fun, useful, and family-tested.
This FOX59 segment was full of birthday inspiration, whether your child wants laser tag in the backyard, a foam-filled celebration at home, an active climbing party, a game show-style competition, or a day of aerial fun. For parents planning a party in Indianapolis this spring, Katy’s list is a great place to start.
For even more birthday party ideas, family fun recommendations, and local guides, visit IndyWithKids.com and follow Indy with Kids on social media.
