Play Cafe? Hooray!
Got a toddler running amok in your house? We know that “need to get out of the house” feeling while trying to find things to do with toddlers around town.
Play cafes have become a first draft pick for so many caregivers, and it’s no wonder why! With the promise of new toys, classes and community events, a place to run and play, and a great cup of coffee, how could anyone refuse?
Take a look at our list below to get the scoop on these local play cafes.
Top Voted Play Cafes
We asked, you answered! Here are your 2024 Grandtastic picks for the top Play Cafes:
Winner: Coffee Clubhouse
- Coffee Clubhouse
- Children’s Village Cafe
- Stomping Grounds Play Cafe
- Itsy Bitsy Play Cafe
- EverPlay Cafe
Ready, Set, Play!
Check out all these cool places to play in the greater GR area:
Children’s Village Cafe
505 W Main St, Lowell, MI 49331
Lowell’s first and only play cafe has come on the scene with a bang!
Offering a wide variety of classes like tumbling, tots in the kitchen, music, sensory art, baby sign language, and more in addition to regular open play, you’re sure to find something for everyone.
Coffee Clubhouse
3858 52nd St SE, Kentwood, MI 49512
This Kentwood-based play cafe runs by the motto “it takes a village” and proudly stands in the gap for caregivers lacking that village.
With an ever-expanding menu of both food and drink options, an innovative play area that encourages social and independent play, community events like postpartum and breastfeeding support groups, all you need to do is bring yourself and expect to have a great time of connection with your child and the community.
P.S. The food and drinks are delicious!
Dino Daisy Play Cafe
2241 84th St SW, Suite 102, Byron Center, MI 49315
Get those feet and imaginations going at Dino Daisy Play Cafe!
Featuring several different play stations including a light-up dance floor, this is the perfect spot to get the wiggles out before naptime.
Don’t forget to grab a coffee and a treat!
EverPlay Cafe
6886 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Grand Rapids’ original play cafe serves up some cozy vibes and quality drinks.
No matter where your kid ventures as they play, you’re sure to find a comfy nook to relax and sip your coffee while you keep an eye on your little one.
Overall this is a great space to unwind for some quiet play or engage in imaginative play with your kiddo.
Holland Playland
446 W 40th St, Holland, MI 49423 (Central Wesleyan Church)
This free (!!) indoor playground in Holland is a great spot for kids to get their wiggles out.
The “Gathering Grounds” cafe is in the Playland area, assuring you can still keep an eye on the kiddos while you grab a snack or drink.
Itsy Bitsy Play Cafe
5426 Northland Dr NE, Grand Rapids, NI 49525
Bringing a dedication to giving kids a safe play space that is appropriate to their developmental stages, Itsy Bitsy Play Cafe is the perfect place to challenge your child’s creativity and imagination. Think preschool-turned-play-cafe!
So grab yourself a cup of coffee and get to playing.
Mind Body Baby
2422 Burton St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
While technically not a play cafe, this unique business offers onsite childcare and provides caregivers the opportunity to engage in some self-care while knowing their littles are in good hands.
Stomping Grounds Play Cafe
9028 N Rodgers Ct SE ,Suite E, Caledonia, MI 49316
This Caledonia-based play cafe is always busy hosting community events and offering classes — a business truly committed to and inspired by their community.
With a Montessori and Waldorf inspired play area, you can rest assured your kids’ screen-free time here will pay off.
Don’t forget your caffeine fix while you’re there!
Tia’s Play Cafe
1533 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Tia’s Play Cafe is dedicated to giving kids a safe space to play while adults get a space to relax.
Kids are drawn to the toys and play structures, and adults get to grab a cuppa and a comfy chair.
Located in charming Eastown, it’s a great spot to stop by on any given day with your little one.
The Play Cafe Boom is Here, So Play Away!
One thing is for sure, play cafes are in high demand these days and this list is ever-expanding! We already know of two new ones coming on the scene soon — Giggles & Gourmets in Alger Heights, and Playdates Kids Cafe on 28th Street.
Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
Tia’s is my favorite Play café. It’s one of the more spacious play areas for kids, and is right near downtown Grand Rapids in charming Eastown; great for inner city parents who eant something closer to home. It’s incredibly comfortable for adults as well, proving ample space for working parents and couches for lounging (something both napping kids and adults can appreciate). The owner worked in daycare, and is great with kids. Of course, snacks and coffee are available too.
It’s a newer café that’s only been open for 6 months but it’s got a lot potential, especially for hosting bigger birthday parties and playgroups. While other cafes can host parties, Tia’s is the only one I know thay can fit up to 60 guests.