Kid Concepts, Torrance

Kid Concepts refers to itself as an "Edu-Tainment Center." That elision of "education" and "entertainment" is the only way to really describe the center's unique form of playtime, which piques kids' interest while increasing their brain power. Though activities for all ages abound, the crowning play piece is a three-level structure with 56 interactive elements that keep kids thinking as they climb padded stairs, navigate twisting tunnels, and wade through a ball pit.

Children ages 3 and under can fly down the slide in their own special play structure, or hit up a designated toddler room filled with wedge mats and swings. Other play areas hold oversize building blocks, dress-up clothes, a Velcro puzzle wall, and a particle accelerator for discovering the secrets of the universe. Older kids can join in the fun, too, thanks to an air-hockey table and frequent Xbox Kinect tournaments. Of course, kids of all ages can enjoy a pit stop at the café when the fun finally wears them out.