Summers over and the heat is gone. We just experienced our first snowfall of the season; you know what that means… time to start planning some fun indoor activities for the family. Don’t worry- we’ve saved you all the research! We have put together some fun places to eat and play for you to try out before your kids (and you) start complaining that it’s too cold. No boots or gloves required.
X-Play Trampoline Amusement Park – 30 N. Village Way #5 (Park Place) - Barrie
If your kids need to shake (or jump) their sillies out, this place is for you. X-Play has a trampoline park, a foam pit, a battle beam, laser tag and dodgeball. Don’t be surprised if your entire family goes to bed early after spending some time here. All ages welcome! (With the exception of laser tag, which is 8+). Want a bonus tip about this place? They offer discounted rates on Tuesday’s- go ahead and mark your calendar!
Kids Ville – 945 Innisfil Beach Road #8 – Innisfil
This place is adorable, the ultimate place for play. It’s a child sized town equipped with a grocery store, bakery, salon, animal hospital, construction zone and more. While your kids are playing you can sit back and relax in their café – the ultimate win/win! Did anyone say birthday party idea?! Yes, they even have a private party room. Birthday packages can include juice boxes for the kids and coffee for the adults. As well as plates, napkins, tablecloth and clean up.
Heartworks Children Studio – 471 Laclie Street - Orillia
The perfect place to allow imaginations to run wild. Heartworks is a process arts and creative space for children 3 months up to 10 years old. They have drop in art and play programs that allow you two hours of sensory play and enough materials to create and bring home 1-3 pieces of unique art. They also offer preregistered programs for specific age groups that allow your kids the creativity and space to really explore and have fun. Your child may even find out they are the next Picasso!
Mariposa Market – 109 Mississaga Street E.- Orillia
This place proves you can have fun without any play equipment. Craving sweets? This place won’t disappoint. Did you know their bakers wake at 3am so you can have FRESH donuts and treats to go with your morning coffee!? Come hungry because their breakfast and lunch menu is filled with fresh ingredients and wholesome food. Even if the whole family can’t join, there are so many goodies you can bring home with you. Breads, baked goods, and cool shops with everything from kitchen gadgets, gift items and the perfect stocking stuffers! They also offer beautiful gift baskets. Looking for dessert? Their cake selection is unreal. From Birthday cake to photo cakes, and even wheat free and vegan- there’s a cake for everyone. You won’t leave this place empty handed. The cherry on top? This wonderful family business resides in a 110-year-old building with so much charm. It is as quaint as it is sweet. You really must check it out.
Grilled Cheese Eatery – 53 Dunlop Street E.- Downtown Barrie
Grilled Cheese. YUM. This place takes this classic sandwich and turns it gourmet (you can also stick with the classic if that’s what you prefer). They have so many variations including a pierogi, a mac and cheese, avocado, dill and even pulled pork. As appealing as it is to your sense of taste it is also appealing to your eyes. On their walls they usually feature various local artists work and usually have a fun window display. Lunch and a show ;)