Ultimate Guide to Indoor Playgrounds & Play Cafés in Minneapolis–St. Paul

A: For toddlers (ages 1–3), look for places designated as “Tot Times” or those with gated toddler zones. Play cafes and community tot gyms are fantastic – they are small-scale and safe. For example, Sovereign Grounds, The Play Group, or any community center tot open gym (Minneapolis & St. Paul Parks, etc.) where big kids are not running them over. Also, Edinborough Park’s Little Peak and Eagles Nest’s Eaglets Aerie are toddler-specific areas within large playgrounds. For older kids (6–12), they will want more challenge: consider adventure and sports parks like trampoline parks (Sky Zone, Zero Gravity) or ninja gyms, and larger indoor playgrounds with big structures (like InnerActive, Good Times Park, or Nickelodeon Universe for amusement rides). If you have a mixed-age group, choose a venue that offers both – for example, Shoreview Tropics Waterpark has toddler splash zones and big slides, or Good Times Park has toddler corners and ninja courses. Many big indoor playgrounds also segment areas by age, which helps.

A: There are a surprising number of free indoor play options. In Minneapolis and St. Paul, the Park & Rec Tot Times at various rec centers are free (just register for the free active pass). Also free: mall play areas like Southdale Center and Burnsville Center (shoe-free soft play zones), Wild Rumpus Bookstore in Linden Hills (a bookstore but basically an indoor adventure with animals), and Ramsey County Library kids’ areas (sensory toys and play at libraries). IKEA Smaland in Bloomington offers a free supervised play hour for potty-trained kids while you shop. And do not forget community events: Richfield’s monthly play date mornings, etc., which are free. While most dedicated indoor playground facilities charge admission, combining a few free options (library storytime plus a mall play area) can create a full free play day.

A: Yes – bring socks for both kids and adults. It is a common rule for hygiene and safety. Almost all indoor playgrounds and play cafes require socks (many have a no-shoes policy in play areas). Spots like Brookview Backyard, MiniSota Play Cafe, Edinborough Park, and many more all note “socks only” (and will sell you socks if you forget). Even some trampoline parks require special grip socks. It is wise to keep an extra pair in your diaper bag or car just for play outings. Some places require adults to wear socks while supervising on the equipment too (so do not show up in only sandals!). Water parks of course are barefoot, but dry play areas mean socks up.

A: Generally, most are not drop-off (except supervised options like IKEA Smaland or some YMCA programs). Indoor play venues expect a caregiver on-site. However, Wi-Fi is common – many play cafes (Sovereign Grounds, The Play Cafe) and community centers have free Wi-Fi, so you can answer emails from a corner while keeping an eye out. A few notable exceptions for drop-off: IKEA Smaland is a short drop-off play (free, one hour while you shop). Some gyms (like Lifetime or the YMCA) have indoor play areas with childcare while parents use the facility (for members). The Play Group in St. Louis Park is a co-play space where parents are present but guided activities offer some support. If you truly need to work, an indoor playground with a cafe (and Wi-Fi) might be your best bet – you can work at a table while the kids play in a contained area. Straight drop-off indoor playgrounds are rare for insurance reasons, aside from the Ikea example.

A: Almost all of them have party packages! Some standout birthday venues: Edinborough Park (huge space plus amphitheater, with party rooms), Good Times Park (you can rent tables and host a DIY party), Grand Slam (multi-attraction party deals), Sky Zone or Urban Air (for active parties), and play cafes like Rebe’s or Sovereign Grounds that offer private rentals for smaller birthdays. Great Wolf Lodge even has day packages if you want a water park party without an overnight stay. When choosing, consider guest ages and budget: for toddlers, a play cafe or community center room with tot time works great; for older kids, trampoline or ninja parties are favorites. Pro-tip: check whether outside food is allowed – some places let you bring your own cake/snacks (Edinborough does in party rooms; some cafes require you use their catering). Book early – popular venues fill weekend slots at least a month or two out, especially in winter.