ML Interest Tag: sensory-garden

Here’s Where to Find Seattle’s Coolest Urban Fountains

by Kristina Moy

At this point in the summer, finding free entertainment every day of the week is a parent’s dream come true. Add in a dose of water play on a hot day and you’ve hit the jackpot! Whether you’re in search of the relaxing sound of rushing water, the chance to get your feet wet or the opportunity to view the city’s best man-made wonders, Seattle has a wide array of fountains just waiting to be explored. Scroll down to see our favorites.

International Fountain

Seattle Center

Located at the Seattle Center, the International Fountain is perhaps one of the best known fountains in Seattle and attracts thousands of tourists and Seattleites each year. During the summer months, you will find kids with swimsuits donned, chasing the huge spurts of water and laughing gleefully at the huge explosion of water that feels as though it will reach beyond the clouds.

International Fountain
305 Harrison St.
Seattle, WA 98109
Online: seattlecenter.com

Fountain of Creation

Seattle Center

Located just northeast of the International Fountain, the Fountain of Creation offers a much tamer version for those afraid to get hit by spraying jets. This is more of a wading pool than a fountain, but offers spraying jets and is definitely worth mentioning. With a depth of three feet in its deepest parts, this fountain definitely hits the afternoon cool down spot.

Note: As of July 2019, the fountain is temporarily closed due to Arena construction. 

Fountain of Creation
401 1st Ave N.
Seattle, WA 98109
Online: waymarking.com/waymarks/WM47P2_Fountain_of_Creation

Waterfront Park Fountain

Kristina Moy

Located on Alaskan Way, next to the Seattle Aquarium, the Waterfront Fountain is a very cool, architectural design that is a hit with Seattleites and out-of-towners alike. Kids will love watching the water cascade down over the block shapes. Bonus: there are stairs all around the fountain to climb; and what kid doesn't love climbing stairs?

Waterfront Fountain
1301 Alaskan Way
Seattle, WA 98101
Online: seattle.gov/parks/park_detail.asp?ID=3973

KING 5 Television

Kristina Moy

If you've been to a Mariners game at Safeco Field this summer, you've likely spotted SoDo's urban fountain across the street from Home Plate Gate. Located at KING 5's studio, this fountain is the perfect place to cool your jets before or after an M's game.

KING 5 Television
1501 1st Ave. S.
Seattle, WA 98134
206-448-5555
Online: king5.com

Father and Son Fountain – Olympic Sculpture Park

Julie Gripentrog

Also located on Alaskan Way as part of the Olympic Sculpture Park, the Father and Son Fountain is definitely an interesting piece to check out. You can walk fully around it and see different views depending on the time of day you visit. Psst...don't forget to bring your pennies as your kids will most definitely want to throw in one, or two!

Father and Son Fountain
2901 Wester Ave.
Seattle, WA 98121
Online: seattleartmuseum.org/visit/olympic-sculpture-park

Westlake Park Fountain

Verna U. via Yelp

If your kiddos need a break from all that back-to-school shopping, head to Westlake Park to check out this very unique fountain. Not only can you admire it from a distance, but you can become a part of it, too. The daring and those who don't mind getting a little wet will love walking underneath the fountain and everyone will happily like watching the water cascade down on both sides.

Walk-Thru Fountain
401 Pine St.
Seattle, WA 98101
Online: seattle.gov/parks/find/parks/westlake-park

University Village

University Village

Known for its locally-owned boutiques, signature national retailers and plethora of restaurants and eateries, University Village is popular destination for Seattle families. On hot summer days, expect to find lots of kiddies splashing around in the popular frog and turtle fountain located by Trophy Cupcakes or sitting on the edge of the Stonehenge Fountain located next to Ravenna Gardens. It’s the perfect way cool off after a long day of shopping.

University Village
623 Northeast University Village
Seattle, WA 98105
Online: uvillage.com

Freeway Park Waterfalls

Megumi S. via Yelp

Freeway Park is an oasis in the middle of the city. Here, you will find what is commonly referred to as the "waterfalls." The gushing water drowns out the city noise and kiddos young and old will love climbing on the rocks and getting their toes wet.

Freeway Park
700 Seneca St.
Seattle, Wa 98101
Online: seattle.gov/parks/find/parks/freeway-park

Drumheller Fountain – University of Washington

Michael P. via Yelp

Not only is the U-dub campus beautiful year-round, it's also an awesome place to wander through and check out some amazing architecture. The Drumheller Fountain is one worth checking out if your littles love seeing lots of geese and ducks. Make a day of it and bask in the Husky spirit.

Drumheller Fountain
4014 University Way N.E.
Seattle, WA 98195
Online: washington.edu

Cal Anderson Park Fountain

Jon L. via Yelp

Next time you're in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, head over to Cal Anderson Park to check out this awesome fountain. Not only will you be mesmerized by the design, hearing the rushing water flow from the top and down the sides into the wading pool below will make it a top-notch experience.

Cal Anderson Park
1635 11th Ave.
Seattle, WA 98122
Online: seattle.gov/parks/find/parks/cal-anderson-park

Waterfall Garden Park – Pioneer Square

Indy P. via Yelp

So technically this is not a fountain, but a 22-foot waterfall nestled in Pioneer Square and definitely worth a shout out! Pack a sack lunch and enjoy listening to the rushing water while sitting at a nearby table. On a hot summer day, this spot can't be beat.

Waterfall Garden
219 2nd Ave. S.
Seattle, WA 98104
Online: pioneersquare.org/experiences/waterfall-garden-park

Rose Garden – Woodland Park Zoo

Shelly Smith

If you love fountains and roses, this is the place to be. Not only is the scenery peaceful and awe-inspiring, your kid crew will love checking out the sensory garden. Head a little further and check out the fountain and have fun counting the water lilies. Best part, it's free of charge!

Rose Garden (south entrance at intersection of 50th St. & Fremont Ave. N.)
750 N. 50th St.
Seattle, WA 98105
Online: zoo.org/roses#.U9-uQIBdUkc

 

Ballard Commons Park

Sherill Y. via Yelp

Ballard Commons Park features a skate bowl, public art, relaxing seating areas with lots of lush grass, perfect for an afternoon picnic, plus a fun water feature the kiddies will love. The park forms part of the municipal center in Ballard, with a Seattle Public Library branch and Neighborhood Service Center located across the street.

Ballard Commons Park
5701 22nd Ave. N.W.
Seattle, WA 98107
Online: seattle.gov/parks/find/parks/ballard-commons-park

—Kristina Moy & Allison Rasmussen

RELATED STORIES:

14 Seattle Restaurants to Visit with Out-of-Towners This Summer

Hit the Trails: 12 Easy Waterfall Hikes to Take Now

75 Activities to Check off Your Summer Bucket List

Your Ultimate Guide to Wild Waves Theme & Water Park

Stay Cool at the City’s Best Spray Parks, Wading Pools & Beaches

The Best Splash Spots & Beaches on the Eastside

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Work Like a Boss: 8 Spots to Balance Work & Play

by Allison Sutcliffe

Some say finding a work/life balance is a myth. But you know better. Because with a little ingenuity, you’ve figured out how to bang out month-end reports or reduce your inbox to zero, while your kids romp a few feet away, at our city’s playful spots that cater to kids and parents alike. If you’re ready to pull a little work/play double duty, scroll down for eight Seattle-area spots where you can get ‘er done!

WiggleWorks Kids

Gracelynn A. via Yelp

Make a date with your little monkey to get all the wiggles out at WiggleWorks Kids in Bellevue or Puyallup. This soft indoor play spot, complete with moving parts, is a toddler’s dream. And the great bar stool seating along the counter makes is a no-brainer when it comes to combining work and play for families. Each perch has a bird’s eye view of the play area, so parents can move seamlessly between their work/parent duties without too much trouble. The $10 admission for the first kiddo ($8/child after that) in Bellevue includes a wristband, so that you can grab food in the mall and then come back for more climbing, jumping and rolling around on the whimsical structures. General weekend admission is $12 for all-day play and $10 for siblings. Or buy a value pack and save 15-20% off play time. Admission to the Puyallup location is just $7.50 for all kids to come and go on the weekdays and $10 on weekends; $8 for siblings on the weekends. Give it a try; it’s a hoot!

Crossroads Mall
15600 N.E. 8th St., Suite F15
Bellevue, Wa 98008
425-641-22186

South Hill Mall
3500 S. Meridian, Suite 215
Puyallup, Wa 98373
253-445-6551

Online: wiggleworkskids.com

Kaffeeklatsch

Robin M. via Yelp

We couldn’t think of a better name for a neighborhood sip and gab than Kaffeeclatsch, which combines the German words for “coffee” and “gossip” in celebration of traditional housewife gatherings. But don’t worry, you don’t need to be a stay-at-home-parent to take advantage of the cute play area, delectable pastries and fresh-brewed coffee at this Lake City shop. Hook into their WiFi and open up your Power Point at a table near the play space to keep a close eye on the kids, as they read books, play in the kitchen and imagine prehistoric times with the many toy dinosaurs. Then, take a snack break and nibble on some difficult-to-pronounce, yet super-tasty apfeltaschen (think: apple pie wrapped in a pastry), being sure to keep an eye on the open kitchen, so you don't miss the busy bakers working with the dough. There’s plenty to keep everyone happy for a few hours here!

Kaffeeklatsch
12513 Lake City Way N.E.
Seattle, Wa 98125
206-462-1059
Online: kaffeeklatschseattle.com

PlayHappy Café

PlayHappy Cafe via Yelp

If casual work is on your to-do list, PlayHappy Café is the place to go with toddlers in tow. This mom-owned business (known in its previous life as Playdate Café) is still making play a priority at their clean, expertly organized space in Lynnwood. The eating-area counter is a great spot to set up shop and still keep a close eye on your charges, so you can send a few emails or balance your checkbook, while the wee ones explore the firehouse, ball pit or bouncy house. No outside food or drink is allowed, but they have plenty of healthy options on the menu here, including Caffe Ladro coffee, so you can keep up with your wigglers. It’s just $12 for unlimited, all-day play; $9 for siblings or crawlers; and discounted multi-visit play passes are available. Plus, there’s never a charge for adults or babes in arms. We couldn’t think of a better place to set up for a short work spurt!

PlayHappy Café
4114 198th St. S.W., #3
Lynwood, Wa 98036
425-582-7007
Online: playhappycafe.com

Giggle Jungle

Hannah W. via Yelp

Nestled in the western corner of Redmond Town Center, Giggle Jungle is one of many family-friendly spots in the mall’s “kid corner” (along with Gymboree Play & Music and the mall’s outdoor sensory garden). Offering the ever-popular pink, green, blue and white motorized toys for kids under 48 inches, this hot spot also includes the dolphin carousel and climbing pyramid. Of course, there’s also the bubble pen, bouncy house area (with a slide), a small toddler area and building blocks for stacking and crashing. The Giggle Jungle allows outside food and offers free WiFi access and counters with stools, so you can drop by with kids and snacks in tow and leave with tired tots and a few items checked off your work to-do list. A win-win in our book!

Giggle Jungle
Redmond Town Center
7330 164th Ave. N.E., Ste. E165
Redmond, Wa 98052
425-558-3600
Online: gigglejungle.com or on Facebook
Hours: Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.- 8 p.m; Sun. 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Cost: $12/Child; $10/Sibling; Adults & Infants (under 1) Free; Punch cards: $45/five visits; $80/ten visits; group discounts available.

Odyssey 1

Zachary S. via Yelp

This kid-fave in Tacoma may not be the quietest place to work on a busy weekend. But early on a weekday, families can strike the right balance between work and play, so everyone gets things done. Release the tot lot on the jungle gym soft park, where they can climb, jump, ride and slide around the dizzying maze of activities offered here. We love that the play area is enclosed, so parents can take a seat right near the door and comfortably let their Little roam while they get down to business. And if you or your mini-me works up an appetite, order typical arcade-fare and take a break at one of the many tables just outside the play space. All this for just $7.95 per kid on a weekday ($1 more on the weekends) and less than $2 for kids two and under is pretty hard to beat. Especially when you’ve got work to do!

Insider Tip: Order your food about 15 minutes before you need it. 

Odyssey 1
2310 W. Mildred St., Suite #110
Tacoma, Wa 98466
253-566-3231
Online: odyssey-1.com

Third Place Commons

Charlotte K. via Yelp

Just outside of Third Place Books’ Lake Forest Park location is the Third Place Commons, a ginormous gathering space for community members to eat, drink, watch shows and maybe even challenge one another to a game of giant chess. Parents looking to get a bit of work done will love the WiFi and munchables from local fave, Honey Bear Bakery, while toddlers will giggle with glee at the enclosed play space where they can safely play, with mom or dad perched around the half-wall, easily keeping an eye on them.

Consider breaking up the day with story time at the Lake Forest Park library (just below the bookstore) where kids can participate in toddler story time on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. or hear stories for preschoolers on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. Still got some work to do? Plan to play first with the kiddos at the weekly Kaleidoscope Play and Learn (for tykes ages birth to 5) on Thursdays from 10:30 a.m.-noon before finishing up that monthly report over lunch.

Town Center at Lake Forest Park
17171 Bothell Way N.E.
Lake Forest Park, Wa 98155
206-322-1610
Online: thirdplacecommons.org

JuzPlay Kids

Jennifer B. Davis

Take a seat in the upstairs party room that overlooks the main play space at JuzPlay Kids in Issaquah when work calls. While you bang out emails or prepare for a presentation, your sidekick can work out her wiggles on the three-story jungle gym play area designed for kids up to 55 inches tall. After she’s climbed, slid and jumped her way around this a-mazing space, she can spend time swinging and climbing around the adjacent soft, moving play pieces that are all the rage with kids these days. But what we really love about this play space is that it’s designed for kids of all ages. Enter the JuzTots spot where the tiniest tots can crawl and climb around a giant mushroom and other soft play pieces. Plus, the two-hour play window means parents can just say “no” to work when play time’s over for the kiddos. A win-win for everyone!

JuzPlay Kids
1430 N.W. Mall St., Suite B
Issaquah, Wa 98027
425-657-0074
Online: juzplaykids.com

PlayDate SEA

Diana C. via Yelp

Three floors of enclosed play structures. Tables and chairs as far as the eye can see. This downtown, indoor play space has all the makings of a great work/play spot for modern families. Be sure to bring socks (kids can’t play without them) and order food and drink early (the service takes a while), then settle in because your kids won’t want to leave this 8,000 square-foot play space. We love the 2-top tables right outside the 3 & under play area for quiet, focused work. Or find a table in the main space for more leisurely pursuits. Take advantage of the free puppet shows on Friday nights at 6:30 p.m. as extra play incentive for your littlest co-workers. Admission for an all-day play pass is $12 for kids four and up, and $8 for kids three and under on weekdays. Don't forget to check the alternate pricing on the weekends and holidays. Let’s make a date!

Insider Tip: Take advantage of free admission Mondays, after 5 p.m.

PlayDate SEA
1275 Mercer St.
Seattle, Wa 98109
206-623-7529
Online: playdatesea.com

Where do you take the kids when you’ve got a bit of work to get through? Tell others where you get it done in the comments below.

—Allison Sutcliffe

RELATED STORIES:

15 Places to Play on Non-School Days

No Gym? No Problem! Alternative Ways to Burn off the Winter Stir-Crazies

Book It to These Drop-In Story Times This Winter

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Well Played: Eastside Playgrounds with Kid-Friendly Lunch Spots Nearby

by Jennifer B Davis

If there are two things that most kids love best, it’s playing and eating—as long as it’s kid-friendly fare, of course—and generally in that order. As parents of hangry kids, we’re used to packing snacks and eating on the move, but when you don’t want to schlep food to the park or would prefer an easy-to-access post-play eatery, we’ve compiled a list of Eastside playgrounds with nibbler-friendly spots nearby.

photo: Jennifer B. Davis

Kirkland Waterfront
The many parks along the Kirkland Waterfront offer a variety of pleasures for little revelers. The largest and most kid-friendly park of all being Houghton Beach Park. With a large-scale climbing structure, a huge sandy beach and associated pedestrian dock, Houghton’s Beach Park is a hot spot when the weather’s hot or cool. The best part? You can walk directly across the street to Kidd Valley. With freshly made burgers, shakes, chicken strips and grilled cheese, Kidd Valley delights with classic, made-to-order fare. If you’re looking for something to eat with a side of ambiance, travel a few steps north of the volleyball courts to The Beach House Bar+Grill. With a small-bites menu for the kids (though not the cheapest around town) and a delish menu for mom and date, the waterfront view makes up for the price.

Park Extra: If walking or biking is more your game, head 3 blocks east from Houghton Beach Park (up the steep hill) to the Kirkland Corridor. This old train track has been recently converted into a level walking/biking path and provides a long trail running from the south to north end of Kirkland, with kid-friendly stops along the way like Google Park and Chainline Brewery  which generally features a food truck out front.

Houghton Beach Park
5811 Lake Washington Blvd.
Kirkland, Wa 98033
Online: parksofkirkland.com/houghton-beach-park

photo: Jennifer B. Davis

If the Littles are stroller bound, walk about a mile north (along the waterfront) to Kirkland’s Marina Park. This awesome space provides even more sand, green lawn and free-run space to get the wiggles out before a hearty meal. Exploring the boats at the dock or the large covered pergola provides all-season fun. And when tummy’s start to rumble, there are many, munchkin-friendly restaurants nearby including Homegrown (a sustainable sandwich shop); Hector’s (a yummy spot with an excellent kids’ menu, dog-friendly patio and amazing toy bin); Isarn (an absolutely delish spot for Thai soul food that boasts a great kids’ menu); and The Slip (a typically crowded, but super cute burger joint).

Marina Park
25 Lakeshore Plaza Dr.
Kirkland, Wa 98033
Online: parksofkirkland.com/marina-park

photo credit: Sara W. via Yelp

Park at Bothell Landing
If a huge climbing structure, swings and slides are on your tot’s menu, then the Park at Bothell Landing is the place to play. Beyond having a large ship-themed climbing structure and low-level boat for smaller sea-goers, the Park at Bothell Landing is a great spot to let the kiddos run. A grassy area leads to a theater-in-the-round (perfect for impromptu renditions of “Let it Go”) as well as a wooden bridge leading over the slough for exploring the longer walking trails. But the best thing? This park is an easy three-block walk to the newly opened McMenamins. With multiple restaurants, ample grounds to stroll (or kill time until you can be seated) and even an indoor public pool, McMenamins is a fun spot to grab a bite to eat. However, if after playing hard at the park makes three blocks seem too far, there are a handful of closer eateries including Pen Thai, Alexa’s Café, Hana Sushi and the perennial fave, Baskin-Robbins.

Park at Bothell Landing
9919 N.E. 180th St.
Bothell, Wa 98011
Online: parkstrails.myparksandrecreation.com/details.aspx?pid=308

photo: Yelpster P. via Yelp

Veterans’ Memorial Field Playground
Just a short drive down Front street, Issaquah’s Veterans’ Memorial Field provides a fabulously-fun playground, with a train-theme and actual retired train cars steps away. A small-scale train allows toddlers to join in the fun and the bigger kids can climb, slide and swing to their hearts’ content. What’s better, this charming park snuggles up to a handful of Issaquah’s family-friendly restaurants including Stan’s BBQ (with a lil’ buckaroos menu), Shanghi Garden (shaved noodles – yummmm!) and classics like Las Margarita’s, Subway and Domino’s Pizza.

Park Extra: Continue on after lunch with a trip to the Issaquah Library, which is within walking distance from the park, on the corner of Front and Sunset Streets.

Veterans’ Memorial Field
120 Second Ave. N.E.
Issaquah, Wa 98027
Online: parkstrails.myparksandrecreation.com/Details.aspx?pid=242

photo: Jennifer B. Davis

Anderson Park
You might have driven by Redmond’s oldest park a hundred times, but the next time you’re passing by with kids in tow, stop in for plenty of fun. This natural oasis in the middle of the city features a large play structure, swings and lots of green room to run. Got a birthday on the horizon? Rent a party room in one of the two historic cabins located in the park. Your little park-goers will enjoy a sturdy teeter-totter, swings, slides, a wooden bridge and short zip line. Bathrooms (closed during the winter, but a port-a-potty is onsite) and a covered picnic area, make this spot a long-term option. But better yet, there are a variety of lunch spots within walking distance including Red Robin, chain restaurants like Taco Time, McDonald’s and Dairy Queen and also a Panera Bread, Kanishka Indian and Thai 65 Café. If you don’t mind a short drive, Redmond Town Center offers a large variety of kid-friendly restaurants, as does the ever-growing Cleveland street with lip-smacking options like Tipsy Cow burgers.

Park Extra: If you want to take your picnic to a new level, Anderson Park features a charcoal grill on site, so you can pack the dogs!

Anderson Park
7802 168th Ave. N.E.
Redmond, Wa 98052
Online: redmond.gov/cms/one.aspx?pageId=4077

photo: Hina S. via Yelp 

Bellevue Downtown Park
It’s well known that Bellevue Square and the surrounding Lincoln Center offer a huge selection of dining options for Littles and Bigs alike, but there are also a few choice spots on Main Street, which are within walking distance of the play area at Bellevue’s sprawling Bellevue Downtown Park. Behind the massive lawn and water feature, the southwest corner features a dragon-slaying-friendly climbing structure and play area, complete with public restrooms, benches and plenty of green space to run, run, run as fast as you can. Once you’ve tuckered out the tykes, head over to Gilbert’s on Main, a swanky urban deli, and indulge in yummy breakfast options or custom salads and sandwiches. Definitely more on the gourmet side, Gilbert’s is still casual enough for munchkins. There’s also Local Burger if that’s more up your crew’s alley or a handful of more “exotic” choices like Ginza Japanese, Monsoon (Vietnamese) or Pagliacci. For dessert, delight in a delish macaroon at Belle Pastry.

Psst! A large-scale Inspiration Playground and Sensory Garden is in the works for Bellevue Downtown Park, providing an inclusive and universally accessible outdoor play environment for all.

Bellevue Downtown Park
10201 N.E. Fourth St.
Bellevue, Wa 98004
Online: ci.bellevue.wa.us/downtown_park_and_rose_garden.htm

The Eastside is bursting with amazing parks and play areas. Tell us your favorite spots to play and grub in the Comments below.

— Jennifer B. Davis

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Eastside Openings: 3 New Indoor Play Spaces to Visit Now

by Jennifer B Davis

As we roll into the rainy season, now is the time to have some indoor play options in your bag of tricks. Good news! The Eastside is now home to three new drop-in play areas where your tykes can roll, jump, hop, climb, slide and burn off the crazies every day of the week. The best part? These hot spots don’t require a membership or tons of cash, so you can drop-in and play when the weather’s not-so-hot.

photo: Jennifer B. Davis

DaBuDa Playhouse & Cafe

Named after the owner’s son’s first word (though they’re still not sure on the meaning), self-proclaimed party queen Callia Kwan based this new Bellevue drop-in play place on favorites of her own children. Bright, clean and colorful, DaBuDa’s space includes four moving play structures, three slides, a raised obstacle course, balloon pen, water like “pool” and a handful of kiddie cars and scooters to zoom around in.

Extras
A full kitchen is close to completion along with the installation of a latte machine – a glorious addition for sleep deprived ‘rents. A small area is available for party rentals, and a larger separate party room is set to open for even more festive occasions. Asian-inspired fare is available (think pineapple buns, sushi and moo shu pork) along with kid favorite standards like pizza, grilled cheese, bagels and fruit and yogurt platters.

Best Time to Go
DaBuDa’s Playhouse is best enjoyed by toddlers and preschoolers and because it has only been open a month (and is tucked back in a crowded office park off Northup Way and 20th), the space is not overly crowded. Kwan says that in general, Mondays are the best times to avoid any possible crowds.

photo: Dabuda Playhouse and Cafe via Yelp

Good to Know
Similar to other locations, punch cards are available providing a 25% discount on 10 visits. But definitely like them on Facebook as spur of the moment and happy hours deals are often posted. Combined art/play activities are also featured (days and times vary – check their Facebook page) and Kwan is working to partner with neighborhood organizations like Kindermusic, so she can offer joint music/play classes in the coming months.

DaBuDa Playhouse & Cafe
13427 NE 20th St., Ste. 120
Bellevue, Wa 98005
425-305-7123
Online: mydabuda.com and on Facebook

Cost: $10/Child; $9/Siblings; Adults and Infants (under 1) Free
Hours: Tue-Fri., 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat.,10 a.m.-3 p.m.; parties only on Sundays (check their Facebook page for updates)

photo: Jennifer B. Davis

Giggle Jungle

Nestled in the western corner of Redmond Town Center, Giggle Jungle is the newest offering in the mall’s quickly becoming “kid corner” (along with Gymboree Play & Music and the mall’s outdoor sensory garden). Offering the ever-popular pink, green, blue and white motorized toys, two of the favorites include the dolphin carousel and climbing pyramid. Your lil’ nut can even ride on the swinging peanut, without worrying about allergies. Of course, there’s also the bubble pen, bouncy house area (with a slide), a small toddler area and building blocks for stacking and crashing.

Extras
Like the Giggle Jungle on Facebook to get a 10% discount or buy a punch card for 5 or 10 visits for an even better discount. Or better yet… stop by for happy hour the last hour they’re open each night for only $5. The Giggle Jungle allows outside food and offers free Wi-Fi access, so you can drop by with dinner and kids in tow and leave with full bellies and tired tots. A win-win in our book!

photo: Jennifer B. Davis

Good to Know
Socks are required and kids must be under 48 inches to play. Parents must also stay and supervise their tots. Packed with fun, Giggle Jungle is still small enough to keep an eye on your little giggler at all times. If you’re thinking this sounds like the perfect place to throw your tot’s next bash, Giggle Jungle offers a small room for parties which includes use of the party room for 1 1/2 hours and all day free play for up to 16 partygoers. Party packages cost $299 on weekends and $199 on weekdays.

Giggle Jungle
Redmond Town Center
7330 164th Ave. N.E., Ste. E165
Redmond, Wa 98052
425-558-3600
Online: gigglejungle.com or on Facebook

Cost: $10/Child; $8/Sibling; Adults & Infants (under 1) Free; Punch cards: $45/five visits; $80/ten visits; group discounts available
Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.- 7 p.m.

Funtastic Playtorium

Definitely one of the more active, crowded and wild of play indoor spaces, the Funtastic Playtorium is a large, recently-opened spot in Factoria Mall. Situated next door to the Children’s Museum, this space is good for your most climby-est, slidey-est adventurer.

Within a huge meshed-in structure, kids up to 10 years old can tunnel, side, bounce, creep, climb and ride. Unlike smaller play areas, it’s tough to keep an eye on junior the entire time, but the structure is sturdy enough for adults should you want or need to venture in. (Psst… bracelets are provided for adults and kids alike to monitor comings and goings). A loud ball blaster section allows for aiming at targets or the foam balls can be piled into an air fountain.

photo: Jennifer B. Davis

Extras
The Funtastic Playtorium features a dedicated and larger-than-usual toddler area with soft climbers, blocks and even a slow-moving climb-through wheel. The whirling octopus is a major crowd pleaser for toddlers and is located outside of the climbing structure (a definite plus as the Littles warm up to venturing into the vast, enclosed climbing area).

photo: Jennifer B. Davis

Good to Know
Wi-Fi is available and you can bring in outside food (Psst… pizza from nearby Pizza Roma delivers!). A large room is available for party rentals, which provides fantastic-ness for up to 15 kids, unlimited play time and 50 minutes in the party room. Party Packages cost $199 on weekdays and $249 on weekends.

Funtastic Playtorium
4077 Factoria Square Mall S.E., Suite F-16
Bellevue, Wa 98006
425-533-6574
Online: funtasticplaytorium.com or on Facebook

Cost: $7.99/Child (under 3) for two hours or $9.99 for unlimited play; $9.99/Child (over 3) for two hours or $12.99 for unlimited play
Hours: Mon-Sat.,-10 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Have you visited these new indoor play spaces? Do you have a favorite? Tell us in the Comments below!

— Jennifer B. Davis

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement