4 Indoor Play Spaces for Kids South of Boston

1/21/15 - By Kristin Quinn

In my experience, at-home playrooms only go so far in the colder months. Sometimes my kids crave a change of scenery just as much as I crave not having to pick up the toys. And indoor play spaces can offer so much more than just play -- often they can encourage socialization, help kids develop gross motor skills, and provide a great way to exercise.

Check out the following selection of places to play (other than your basement!) south of Boston

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KIDZONE
175 R Washington Street, Norwell, MA 02061 | (781-421-6395)

You know those days when you wish you had a bouncy castle in your backyard?  Enter Kidzone.  Kidzone (pictured) is home to over seven massive bouncy castles, slides, and obstacle courses.  Admittedly a tad overwhelming for the wee ones (they did just learn how to walk after all), this place is heaven on earth for active twos, threes, fours, fives, and okay I'll admit it -- adults.  Consider this your work-out for the week and enjoy those 12 hours of sleep this activity may induce.  Socks must be worn.  There is a snack-bar on premise.  Warning: your child may never want to leave.  


LAUNCH
570 Providence Hwy, Norwood, MA 02062 | (781-255-5867)

Launch is great when you really need to "jump the sillies out."  Perfect for little ones and older toddlers when you have two adults on hand. There is a baby section that's good for man-to-man defense. Not only does this indoor park feature three different "courts" to run, jump, play, and dive on; it features an entire section of kid-friendly games on the other side.  I quickly found out that Skee-Ball is a contact sport when you play with a three-year-old -- you may want to bring a helmet!  The snack bar offers lunch food with plenty of seating.  As typical, socks only for all parties.   


SOUTH SHORE CHILDREN'S MUSEUM 
1775 Washington Street, Hanover, MA 02339 | (781-206-4955) 

Children are transported back in time at the South Shore Children's Museum, a lovely little outfitting in the Hanover Mall.  Something about this place tugs on my heartstrings as I watch the kids play make-believe in the covered wagon, pretend to squash "cranberries" in the bog (ball pit), sit in a Tee-Pee and then fight over who gets to ride the toy horse.  The museum often hosts engaging story time and craft sessions in a separate, large room in the back, complete with snack and juice.  There is a changing table in the back and plenty of toys to keep kids occupied.  Don't forget to look up at the painting before you enter the room, one of my favorites featuring some great men.  The staff is oh so sweet and at a mere $4 per person this place can't be beat!  


JUNGLE JAKE'S
300 Oak Street, Suite 340, Pembroke, MA 02359 | (781-924-1030) 

Jungle Jake's is a large room full of bouncy castles, obstacle courses, slides, and games.  A separate "mini-zone" is perfect for kids under 5.  A trained staff supervises, although parent monitoring is a must.  Check out the newly opened Back Garage Door featuring a cannonball game attraction.  Kids under age one get in free with an older paid sibling. Walk-in play is welcome any time they are open. Sorry, but adults are not allowed on equipment and yes, you guessed it -- remember to bring your socks! 


 

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