Play Union

Play Union on Somerville Avenue is a neighborhood gem specifically designed for Boston's youngest residents — babies, toddlers, and preschoolers up to about age 6. It is a weekday-only venue (Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm) that provides exactly the kind of calm, thoughtfully designed indoor play environment that young children thrive in and parents of infants genuinely appreciate.

Unlike the large commercial entertainment centers, Play Union is intentionally small-scale. The space features soft play elements for babies, developmentally appropriate toys and play stations for toddlers, and a gentle environment that doesn't overwhelm little ones who are easily overstimulated by louder, larger venues. The nursing and diaper-changing facilities are set up with parental comfort in mind.

For families in Somerville, Cambridge, and the Inner Belt neighborhoods, the location near Union Square is a major convenience. Union Square is one of Greater Boston's most exciting dining neighborhoods, with outstanding brunch spots, cafes, and casual lunch options within walking distance — making Play Union an easy component of a weekday morning outing.

Being closed on weekends is by design: it keeps the space calmer and better suited to its core audience of infants and toddlers who don't do well with high-energy, high-volume crowds. For working parents, a weekday visit during school vacations or a day off is the play.

With a 4.7 Google rating from parents, Play Union clearly delivers on what it promises. The combination of toy variety, calm atmosphere, and stroller/nursing accessibility makes it one of the most parent-recommended indoor spaces for the infant-through-preschool set in the Boston area. Admission is modest; check the website for current rates and any membership or punch-card options.