Next Level Play Center

Next Level Play Center on N Harlem Ave serves one of Chicago's more underserved family activity zones: the far Northwest Side. Families in Dunning, Norwood Park, Jefferson Park, and neighboring communities have historically had to drive toward the city center or out to the suburbs for a quality indoor playground. Next Level fills that gap with a full multi-level play structure, toddler area, and parent seating — all within the neighborhood.

The facility isn't as large as the corporate chain locations, but that's actually a feature for families with young children. The manageable scale means you can see your kids from parent seating without craning your neck, toddlers are less likely to get overwhelmed, and the crowd stays at a level that feels fun rather than chaotic.

For Northwest Side families who dread the I-90/94 commute into the city or north to the suburbs, Next Level provides a legitimate local option for rainy days, winter weekends, and those February afternoons when you desperately need to burn toddler energy indoors.

Open play is the standard format — pay for a session, play until the time's up, rinse and repeat. Check current hours and session availability before visiting, as schedules can shift seasonally. Grip socks are required for kids on the play structures. The on-site snack area handles basic hunger, but bringing your own food for picky eaters is a smart call.

For birthday parties, Next Level is worth considering as an alternative to the bigger brand locations — you're likely to get a more attentive staff experience at a neighborhood-scale facility. Worth calling to ask about party packages.