Kids at Play

Kids at Play on Ridge Avenue in Roxborough is what parents who've burned out on chaotic indoor play chains are looking for. It's smaller, more intimate, and honestly better for toddlers because of that. The equipment is well-maintained, the space is manageable, and the crowd never gets to the point where you're losing your 2-year-old in a sea of bodies.

The play structures are appropriate for kids roughly ages 1-8, with softer areas for the youngest and more active climbing features for the preschool and early elementary set. Parents can see their kids clearly throughout the space, which reduces the anxiety that comes with bigger, multi-level venues.

One very important thing to note: the hours are irregular. Kids at Play is closed on Saturdays and Wednesdays — which is unexpected and catches first-timers off guard. Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday are the main play days, and Friday has limited hours. Check their website before making the drive.

Admission is typically $10-15 per child. A family of 4 should budget $50-70 for a full visit. There's limited snack availability, so packing your own food is smart.

Parking on Ridge Ave is generally fine for a quick visit. The Roxborough neighborhood location puts this squarely in the northwest Philadelphia market — it's a bit of a drive for Center City families, but worth it for those in Roxborough, Manayunk, and the nearby northwest neighborhoods who want a low-key, neighborhood-feel indoor play option.