The chill is in the air but the kids think the couch is a trampoline and the bunk bed is a jungle gym? Get them to one of these fantastic indoor play centres, on the double. If the occasion calls for a double shot of espresso to boost Mum's energy, you're in luck: these all have great cafes too.
Croc's Playcentre: Now boasting nine locations across Melbourne,
Croc's Playcentre is Melbourne's most well known indoor playground franchise. Check out my reviews of
Croc's Moorabbin, and
Croc's Clayton They also have locations in Pakenham, Knox, Lyndhurst, Ringwood, Reservoir, Frankston and Derwent Park. Prices from $6.50 with a multi-pass card.
Lollipops Playland: Lollipops Playland has five locations in Victoria and quality seems to vary quite drastically depending on location.
See my review of
Lollipops Bentleigh East. Prices from about $12.
Inflatable World: Bouncy Castle Heaven, Inflatable World is relatively new on the scene and qualifies as an indoor playground in my books. Check my review of the
Oakleigh location here, and keep in mind that they have
ten other locations to choose from.
Småland IKEA: For a blissful hour of shopping or eating at IKEA, they've made it easier for you to spend your money by offering free supervised childcare in their playcentre,
Småland. See my
IKEA Springvale review here for other tips with kids; if you're still looking to burn off some energy, head up to the upper level of Springvale Homemaker Centre and check out the other indoor playground (not supervised). Often this centre has free special activities and entertainment on school holidays.
Bunnings: Not just number one for fundraising sausage sizzles;
Bunnings has a great indoor playground, strategically located next to the cafe. Dodge the kiddy trolleys and head to the play area with the kids to buy some time for shopping afterward.
McDonald's: Good ol' Macca's won't let you down with their covered play areas and of course a Happy Meal. If you're anything like our family, we have even figured out a couple of favourites in suburbs near us.
Hotel Restaurants: These 35 Restaurants in Victoria all boast super kids' play areas; free with dinner! Most have entertainment as well, and kids' clubs with special gifts, meal deals, and theme events.
Kid-Friendly Cafes:
Kid-friendly Cafes and restaurants around Melbourne often have play areas that families can enjoy. A few favourites are
Zagames,
Jimmi Jamz in East Brunswick and Elwood.
Opening Soon: Super Zu. Keep an eye on this up and coming super centre opening in May 2015 in Dingley; rumoured to cost $18 per person with entertainment to match, including ride on rhinos, climbing walls, tube slide, climbing volcano, and other entertainment bang for your buck.
Super Zu, Dingley
