10 Bounce House Alternatives For A Party The Kids Will Never Forget
Brittany Barber
Contributor
Sometimes, parents want to explore bounce house alternatives for a child’s birthday party to mix things up and offer something a little different. While bounce houses are pretty much always a hit, they can be limiting in terms of activities—especially for older kids who might be looking for more variety at their birthday party. Plus, if you’re dealing with space constraints or unpredictable weather, a bounce house might not always be the best option.
Exploring other options not only keeps things fresh and exciting, but can also cater to different interests and energy levels. Whether it’s adding a hint of adventure, creativity or party entertainment that is just uniquely fun, there are plenty of alternatives that can still bring the same level of joy and engagement to the party.
So, from heading to a trampoline park to playing mini golf, here are our editor’s top 10 picks for bounce house alternatives. They might be just what you're looking for!
1. Slip 'N Slide
A Slip 'N Slide is a fantastic way to combine water fun with sliding action, making it a great choice for a kid’s summer birthday party. It’s easy to set up in a backyard or park and provides hours of entertainment as kids, well, slip and slide.
Consider adding water balloon fights, super soaker battle or a kiddie pool for even more water-based fun. You could also set up a photo booth for the children to take pictures together, along with ice cream and popsicle stations so the kids can indulge in some sweet treats.
2. Trampoline Park
A trampoline park offers plenty of bounce, plus extras like foam pits, dodgeball and basketball hoops. It’s perfect for kids who love jumping and acrobatics, providing a safe environment with padded surfaces.
To up the fun factor, incorporate a dodgeball tournament or a slam dunk contest to make the most of the trampoline park’s facilities. You could also hire an instructor for a short acrobatics session to teach the kids some cool flips, if that’s something you think your little ones would like.
3. Giant Games
Giant versions of classic games like Connect 4, Jenga, or Twister add a fun, interactive element to any kid's party. They’re easy to set up and offer a unique twist on traditional games.
Create several game stations with a variety of giant games and rotate the kids through them in teams. You could also add a competitive element with a points system and award medals or certificates at the end. Hire a caricaturist or face painter to add another element of fun to the party.
4. Inflatable Obstacle Course
Inflatable obstacle courses take the excitement of a bouncy house to the next level by incorporating various challenges like climbing walls, tunnels and slides. It’s perfect for kids who love physical activity and want to test their skills.
You can always pair this bounce house alternative with relay races or timed challenges to keep the competition going. Consider handing out small prizes for the fastest completion times or the most creative route through the course.
5. Carnival Games
Setting up carnival games like ring toss, bean bag toss or a duck pond creates a festive, fairground vibe that’s fun for kids and nostalgic for parents. These games are easy to customize and can accommodate a large group of children at once.
Hire a juggler or balloon twister to add to the carnival feel. You could also set up a snack station with classic carnival treats. We're talking cotton candy, popcorn, caramel apples—the works.
6. Rock Climbing Wall
A rock climbing wall introduces an element of adventure and physical challenge to your child's party. It’s excellent for building confidence and promoting teamwork as kids encourage each other to reach the top.
Combine this with a treasure hunt where kids have to climb to different levels to collect clues or prizes. Consider hiring a photographer to help you capture the excitement of the day.
7. Laser Tag
Laser tag is an exciting, action-packed game that promotes teamwork and strategy. It’s a fun bounce house alternative that’ll keep the kids moving and engaged, either indoors or outdoors.
We recommend creating themed teams, like superheroes or space explorers, and have a costume contest to make it all the more exciting.
8. Foam Party
A foam party offers a unique and sensory-rich experience where kids can play and dance in a safe, sudsy environment. It’s especially popular for summer parties, adding a truly unforgettable element to the celebration (not to mention awesome photo ops).
Pair the foam with a professional DJ or music playlist for a dance party vibe. You could also include a bubble-blowing station or hire a performer who specializes in bubble tricks and shows.
9. Miniature Golf Course
Setting up a mini-golf course at your kid’s birthday party will make for a fun and competitive activity that’s accessible to all kinds of ages and skill levels. It encourages focus and precision in a relaxed, enjoyable setting, making it a hit for kids who enjoy friendly competition.
Set up themed holes, like a pirate island or jungle adventure, and offer small prizes for hole-in-ones. You could also add a “caddy shack” station where kids can make their own golf visors or scorecards.
10. Interactive Petting Zoo
An interactive petting zoo allows kids to get up close and personal with a variety of animals, like goats, rabbits and chickens. It’s an educational and calming experience that offers a break from high-energy activities.
Set up a craft station where kids can create animal-themed art or masks. You could also include a storytime session with animal-related books or hire a zookeeper to give a short educational talk about the animals.
Find more kids' party ideas on The Bash.
