Alameda families are no stranger to the open-aired shopping mecca: Alameda South Shore Center (SSC). The place was clearly built with a vision to help folks “get-stuff-done” considering the boastful directory, which includes the likes of Trader Joes, Old Navy, Beverly’s Fabric & Craft, and many more. Now parents of young kids have yet another reason to visit the bustling 594,000-square-foot shopping destination—a brand new playground!
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Got Fun?
The 1,700-square-foot playground is nested, idyllically so, next to a Bed Bath & Beyond and features a soft-and-squishy landscape of rolling hills, optimistic murals, and a six-foot-high grassy mound that supports a twisty slide—perfect for little thrill-seekers. On display for parents and kids alike are sprouts of oversized flowers that read like a real-life Pixar scene, begging for dreamers to gaze up at and run amongst.
Parental Perks
We stopped here on a recent rainy Saturday and found it the perfect bright escape—and not yet crowded—for our toddler to jump around, explore, and get her sillies out. It’s a nice add on for parents looking to run some mundane errands and carve in some necessary playtime. Also key, the SSC has plenty of dining options to keep families fueled: think pizza, burritos, ice-cream—the joint is hoppin’! As you might have guessed, there’s a Starbucks in the center for those who need caffeinating, too.
Rules to Live By
For lessons in obedience sits a nearby sandwich board with the play area rules posted. Rule number one: Everyone is welcome. We love that inclusive sentiment and feel the playground is a slam dunk for this family-oriented community. For more information on Alameda South Shore Center, visit facebook.com/SouthShoreCenter on Facebook.
Alameda South Shore Center
523 South Shore Center West
Alameda, CA 94501
Hours: Mon.–Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun., 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Online: AlamedaSouthShoreCenter.com
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–Sommer Naffz
All images by the author
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