Kid-Friendly Spots to Explore During Open Houses and Showings

Selling a home with young children can be stressful. Keeping a spotless home and catering to buyers’ showing schedules isn’t always easy, especially when the littlest family members have unpredictable sleep schedules.

Fortunately, when you need to leave the house because of open houses and showings, there are so many places to discover. Make the most of the chaos, and explore these kid-friendly play areas throughout Chicagoland.

Chicago

Purple Monkey Playroom. Located in Bucktown, this bright 1,500-square foot playroom is a relaxing space for both young children and adults. While the kids play, adults can enjoy free coffee, tea and Wi-Fi. Day passes are good for a full day and include a weekly storytime and special events.

Sod Room. In the South Loop, Sod Room is an eco-friendly indoor play space made of only sustainable and responsibly-made toys and materials. The space is designed to use as much natural light as possible, features reclaimed wood, and has cork flooring. It also features a retail boutique that offers local and organic products.

Present Place. This Lakeview favorite has an extensive selection of toys, an oversized playset and a play kitchen. Parents can enjoy the free coffee, tea and Wi-Fi.

Monica and Andy Guideshop. This favorite children’s clothing brand also hosts regular events — such as music classes, dance classes and storytimes — at its Lincoln Park Guideshop. With a wide selection of classes during the week, this is a great option to visit for a quick song and dance break — and maybe pick up a new spring outfit while you’re there.

Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo. A lesser-known area of the Lincoln Park Zoo, the Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo is a kid-friendly, indoor space that includes a treetop canopy climbing adventure. Little ones can climb into the treetops that are meant to mimic a tree canopy. If the weather is nice, extend the afternoon by exploring the rest of the museum.

Western Suburbs

Waterlemon. Located in La Grange, Waterlemon is a one-of-a-kind play place-boutique-cafe hybrid. Relax with an almond milk latte while the kids explore the tree-house inspired play kitchen, set up a pretend campfire and work out their pent-up energy on the trampoline.

Ball Factory. This Naperville-based indoor playground includes play structures, slides, pedal tractors, obstacles, a ball pit, an imagination playground and more. Little ones (under 42”) can enjoy the parent and tot open concept gated play area, filled with padded cushions, balls and soft lego blocks. While the kids play, parents can take advantage of the free Wi-Fi and relax on the comfy sofas.

Northern Suburbs

Little Beans. Parents come to this Evanston staple for the ambiance and specialty coffee drinks, while kids play, learn and create in the indoor play area. After an afternoon of imaginative fun, stay for some healthy and delicious cafe fare for dinner.

Chicago TreeHouse. Lake Zurich is home to this 7,700-square foot indoor playground that lets kids enjoy a multi-level climbing structure, enclosed slides, swings, a soft basketball court and more. As an “unplugged” zone for kids, there are no electronics, flashing lights or arcade games — all play experiences encourage them to stay active and use their imagination. Parents can enjoy the comfortable leather seating, while sipping a gourmet coffee drink and using the free Wi-Fi (with kids always in view!).

Whimsy Play. This Buffalo Grove play space calls itself “a kids’ indoor playground with foodie aspirations”. It is designed around staying active and creative play. Kids can expand their imaginations in the individual play stations, such as a construction zone, hair salon, market and cafe. Before leaving, enjoy a freshly-made panini or cheese plate to return home with full bellies.