Amy's Playground

In the heart of the Mission West District, Amy's Playground offers an indoor wonderland for South Pasadena's adventurous under-six crowd. (And as I've mentioned before, this burgeoning demographic group is quite a crowd!)

Beyond the old-fashioned toys and boutique gifts in the storefront windows you'll find nearly 3000 square feet of indoor play space complete with tumbling mats, a giant bouncer and an elaborate floor to ceiling maze. When your little one is tired from all that climbing, sliding and running, you can both sink into a plush sofa and read one of the many available children's books. Or, duck your head and exercise imagination in the wooden playhouse with play kitchen. Tables and benches along the perimeter offer a space for packed picnic lunches -- or for sneaking a few minutes on your laptop while your child tries to snag a turn on one of the riding toys. Amy's even provides complimentary coffee for tired parents -- a nice respite after Junior has worn you down for "just five more minutes... PLEASSSSSE!????"

I really appreciate the fact that unlike most kid zones, Amy's doesn't feel like a giant, festering petri dish. (Hello Chuck E. Cheeze!) Here, the bathrooms are immaculate, and staff members regularly wander through the play areas with cleaning supplies and antibacterial spray. Oh, and the music is kid-centered but kind to adult ears. (You'll hear a lot of mellow Jack Johnson and fun Elizabeth Mitchell but no mind-crushing Barney.)

Amy's Playground is open to the public Monday through Friday, and available on weekends for private parties. (Bring along socks, as no shoes are allowed.)