When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Indigo Play
Why Indigo Play is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Indigo Play stands out as Austin’s first European-style indoor playground, designed specifically for children from newborns up to 10 years of age. It offers a vibrant and engaging world-themed playscape that sparks imagination and curiosity in children. The facility includes dedicated zones such as a toddler area for the very youngest visitors, an expansive educational playscape that encourages gross- and fine-motor skill development, a sensory room, and a sport court, all designed to keep kids physically active and mentally stimulated. Its thematic journey allows children to explore iconic landmarks from around the world—from the Eiffel Tower to the Great Barrier Reef—cultivating both play and learning. Importantly, Indigo Play caters to parents as well with fast WiFi, comfortable seating, and a café serving a nice selection of food and drinks, making it an ideal meeting spot for friends and families. Open daily for drop-in play, birthday parties, and group visits, Indigo Play offers flexible pricing with options for all-day play and monthly passes. This space promotes self-directed play which supports children's confidence, brain development, and social skills in a safe, fun environment, providing a well-rounded experience for both children and their caregivers.
Here's what people think of Indigo Play
As of recent, Indigo Play holds a 4.6-star rating based on 786 reviews.
Based on user reviews, Indigo Play has earned a strong 4.6 rating from 786 reviewers who generally praise its clean, well-designed environment and engaging play structures. Positive reviews often highlight the educational value of the themed playscape, the variety of play areas suitable for different age groups, and the friendly, helpful staff who enhance the experience. Many parents appreciate the balance between active play spaces and quieter sensory zones, as well as the convenience of amenities like the café and WiFi for adults. Birthday parties at Indigo Play receive high marks for being well-organized and enjoyable for both children and parents, emphasizing the private party areas and attentive party hosts. On the other hand, some negative feedback mentions occasional crowding during peak times and pricing concerns for families with multiple children. A few reviewers suggest improvements could be made in the café menu variety and seating comfort. Overall, the consensus is that Indigo Play provides great value through a unique, educational, and fun indoor environment, making it a highly recommended destination in Austin for kids and families seeking an active, imaginative play experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
chris kelley
Took my almost 2 year old and my 8 year old today. I think the place is the perfect place for their ages. It wasn't to packed with lots of room. The snack bar had great prices compared to most places we have been. Some areas could use some attention . And the big play ground smelled some. But over all the kids enjoyed it
Caterinee Ramirez
Absolutely loved our visit to indigo play ! Loved how the employees were ensuring the play area was clean. Great snacks too ! So excited they’re a part of the get out pass and we got 1 free entry ! We will definitely be back. You all can have 1 free entry with GET OUT PASS ! Just use code:ATX07 on the website
Ciara Lindley
We've been going to Indigo Play for years now and it's one of my kids favorite places. Over the years I have seen some improvements- better food options, alcoholic & coffee beverages, seating, bathroom changing tables, cubby area, etc. but also some things I feel like take away from the original vibe- the arcade area to be specific. This was I place I could take my littles without worrying about them being tempted by screens and flashing lights until that was installed. It was an open toy play area originally, turned into a bookstore, and now one or both of those things have kind of been moved into the little rooms to the side with a small selection of play stuff. It also seems to be a little less clean but still clean enough imo. We do love the 6 other different soft areas they have: the infant area, toddler area, play town area, sensory room, big kid structure, and enclosed space attached to the back of the big kid structure that has balls and soft building blocks, etc. The sensory room used to have balls in the ball pit but now they have foam blocks which I think is a better option. My one complaint about that space though, is from the beginning the interactive piano has not functioned well, sometimes not at all, and the interactive lights in the pit are half out at this point and have never been fixed that I am aware of. The other spaces they have done well with, and the kids love the diverse options, especially in the big kid structure which consists of open and enclosed slides, educational tidbits, climbing, tunnels, a sitting short zipline-type thing, obstacles, mazes, small rock wall, monkey bars, balancing objects, free-form play objects, a secret hideout, and more. We have also been to birthday parties, puppet shows, and other special events hosted here, all which have been run smoothly. I will say they have increased their price over the years, which is to be expected, but it's quite expensive when bringing multiple kids. Also, don't forget the same-day half off deal between Indigo & the Austin Aquarium next door, which we usually take advantage of and get a good half day out of it. Overall we will continue coming here as my kids love it (they're now 2.5 & 5.5 and we've been coming since the oldest was a crawler) and I hope they continue being a great place with friendly staff to visit and only improve!
Trez Autrey
My kids love playing here. We can come from out of town wanted to keep the kids busy. Everyone was friendly and they have play areas for all ages!!!
Mrs. C
Friendly staff and lots of climbing areas for littles. Unfortunately, it is looking dirty and run down. We went as soon as they opened and the mirrors in the play area were so full of fingerprints. You can tell they haven’t done a good deep clean in a while. All of the toys are peeling and crusty.
How to reach Indigo Play
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Why Indigo Play may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Indigo Play with your friends?
If you're looking for a vibrant, welcoming spot to gather with friends and family, Indigo Play stands out as an exceptional choice. This indoor play center offers a unique environment where everyone—from toddlers to adults—can have a great time together. Its thoughtfully designed space combines fun with a focus on safety and cleanliness, ensuring your group can relax and enjoy without stress. The energy of Indigo Play is infectious, with a sprawling world-themed playscape that ignites imagination and invites exploration. Whether you're hosting a casual meetup, planning a birthday party, or simply want a lively venue where kids and adults alike can bond through engaging activities, Indigo Play delivers. The location’s amenities cater not only to active play but also to social comfort—ample seating areas, a café for refreshments, and even massage chairs for parents seeking a moment of relaxation. All these elements come together to make Indigo Play a perfect rallying point for groups wanting quality time in a playful, dynamic, and clean atmosphere.
What activities can you enjoy at Indigo Play?
Indigo Play boasts a variety of activities that cater to children and adults, making it an ideal destination for group meetups. The centerpiece is the giant world-themed playscape where kids can embark on imaginative journeys through different countries, space, and time. This playscape isn't just a physical space; it's an educational environment peppered with fun facts and thematic elements that provoke curiosity. For younger children, the facility offers dedicated areas tailored to specific age groups—from infants to toddlers and preschoolers—ensuring safe, age-appropriate play. Beyond climbing and sliding, there’s an engaging sensory room featuring light effects and a ball pit that captivates children’s senses and promotes developmental play. The sports court invites active participation for slightly older kids and adults, perfect for group games and energetic interaction. For those seeking quieter moments, a large, serene reading area stocked with books provides a calm retreat. Collectively, these varied activity zones encourage children to move, learn, and socialize while offering adults spaces to relax or join the fun.
Why is Indigo Play perfect for group meetups?
Indigo Play's design and atmosphere make it a top choice for gathering groups, whether families or friends. The space is expansive enough to comfortably accommodate large parties without feeling overcrowded, which fosters a pleasant, stress-free environment. The ability for parents and adults to safely interact and relax while kids play freely is a significant advantage—many parents appreciate that they can join their children on the playscape or unwind with amenities like massage chairs and a café serving espresso and snacks. The center’s cleanliness and well-maintained play equipment add peace of mind, allowing groups to focus on enjoyment. Additionally, Indigo Play supports special events like birthday parties, fundraisers, and field trips, offering tailored packages that help organizers create memorable experiences. The staff is attentive to cleanliness and safety protocols, which means groups can feel comfortable in an environment that values responsible supervision and hygiene. All these qualities combine to make Indigo Play an inclusive, supportive space where group dynamics thrive.
How does Indigo Play cater to different age groups and needs?
One of the standout features of Indigo Play is its thoughtful approach to accommodating a wide range of ages and needs. The facility is divided into clearly designated zones, each catering to specific developmental stages—from infants under 15 months, through toddlers and preschoolers, to older children up to 12 years. This segmentation allows younger kids to explore safely and confidently without interference from older, more boisterous children. The sensory room is a highlight for children who benefit from specialized, calming stimuli, accommodating those with sensory processing needs in a controlled environment. For adults, the inclusion of relaxing amenities such as massage chairs and a café provides opportunities to rest and socialize comfortably. The space is wheelchair accessible with appropriate facilities, making the venue inclusive. This multi-age, multi-need integration ensures that everyone in your group can find something engaging or relaxing to suit their preferences, enhancing the overall communal experience.
What are the practical advantages of hosting your event or meetup at Indigo Play?
Hosting your meetup at Indigo Play comes with several practical benefits that enhance both convenience and enjoyment. Firstly, its clean and modern facilities reduce common concerns about safety and hygiene often associated with play centers. The bathrooms are described as spacious and equipped with high-quality changing tables, which is particularly helpful for families with young children. Parking and access are straightforward, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking spaces that ease arrivals and departures. The presence of snacks and a café means your group doesn’t need to leave for refreshments; this keeps the vibe uninterrupted and relaxed. For groups planning longer visits or celebrations, Indigo Play offers party packages and supports fundraising or field trip bookings, simplifying logistics. These practical elements combine to reduce the usual stresses of organizing group outings, allowing guests to focus on fun and connection.
How do the social and educational elements at Indigo Play enrich your group experience?
Indigo Play does more than provide physical activity; it incorporates thoughtful educational and social elements that enrich the experience for all ages. The world-themed playscape includes educational signs and facts strategically placed around the area, sparking curiosity and conversations among children and adults alike. This fosters opportunities for informal learning during play, making the outing stimulating as well as fun. Socially, the layout promotes interaction—children meet and play together, parents chat in relaxed seating areas, and shared activities encourage group bonding. Parents often find themselves drawn into the fun on the play structures, which strengthens family ties and friendships. The sensory room and quiet reading nook offer spaces where children can develop social skills at their own pace or enjoy self-directed exploration. Combined, these elements ensure that visitors come away from Indigo Play feeling both entertained and intellectually enriched.
What should you know about safety and supervision at Indigo Play?
While Indigo Play offers an exciting and secure environment, it is important to note that parental supervision remains a key component of safety. The play areas are spacious and well maintained, but staffing primarily focuses on facility cleanliness and operational support rather than direct child supervision. This means parents and guardians need to be vigilant in watching their children to ensure they remain in their age-appropriate zones and interact safely with others. The center encourages this active supervision to prevent mishaps such as children wandering off or mixing with older groups unsafely. The design of Indigo Play helps by clearly marking different play sections according to age, which can assist adults in monitoring their children effectively. Additionally, the overall cleanliness and modern facilities contribute to a safer physical environment. Understanding these aspects helps groups prepare for a responsible and enjoyable visit, emphasizing that adult involvement is essential for a positive experience.
How accessible and inclusive is Indigo Play for families with diverse needs?
Indigo Play strives to be accessible and inclusive for families from diverse backgrounds and with varied needs. The facility includes wheelchair-accessible entrances and restrooms, which helps accommodate guests with mobility challenges. There is a sensory room designed to cater to children who benefit from sensory-friendly environments, addressing the needs of children with sensory processing differences or autism spectrum conditions. The large variety of age-based play areas ensures that kids of different developmental stages have safe and engaging options. Additionally, Indigo Play is recognized as a women-owned and veteran-owned business, values that add to its community-focused ethos. The thoughtful layout and range of amenities, including quiet spaces and comfortable seating, make it an inviting venue for parents who may need to balance active supervision with periods of rest. All of these factors contribute to making Indigo Play a welcoming destination for a broad spectrum of families.
What do visitors say about the overall experience at Indigo Play?
Visitors consistently praise Indigo Play for its clean, safe, and engaging environment that delights kids and offers comfort for adults. Reviews highlight the impressive cleanliness of the facility and the new, well-maintained play equipment, which contributes to a worry-free visit. Parents often appreciate the thoughtful layout with designated age areas and spacious restrooms equipped with quality changing tables. While some mention minor concerns about parental supervision during busy times, most agree that the venue’s atmosphere encourages respectful and fun group play. The café and comfy seating areas receive positive feedback for adding an extra layer of relaxation and convenience. Many parents find joy in joining their children on the playscape, turning a simple outing into shared family fun. Overall, Indigo Play earns high marks not just for its facilities but for its ability to bring groups together in an energetic, educational, and safe setting.
Why plan your next birthday party or special event at Indigo Play?
Indigo Play offers a compelling option for hosting birthday parties or special group events due to its comprehensive facilities and event support. The spacious, themed playscape provides an extraordinary backdrop for celebrations that both children and adults will enjoy. Its ability to host various party sizes and types—from casual drop-ins to elaborate birthday festivities or fundraisers—gives organizers flexibility in planning. The staff assists with event coordination, and party packages often include access to dedicated party spaces, food options, and supervision, all designed to reduce the stress of event management. The variety of activity zones ensures guests of all ages remain entertained throughout the event. Additionally, ample parking and accessibility make arrivals and departures smoother, enhancing the overall guest experience. Choosing Indigo Play for your special occasion means you and your guests can focus on fun and connection, while the venue handles the logistics and atmosphere.
What are the operating hours and location details for planning your visit?
Indigo Play is conveniently located at 13530 Research Boulevard, Suite 102, Austin, Texas, making it accessible for residents and visitors in the area. Its operational hours are accommodating for weekday and weekend meetups alike: Monday through Friday, the center is open from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm; on Saturdays, it operates from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm; and Sundays from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. This range of hours allows for flexible scheduling to fit various group needs and time preferences. Frequent drop-ins, extended playdates, or planned special events can all be accommodated easily within these hours. The facility’s proximity to major routes and ample parking make commuting straightforward, adding to the overall convenience for group visits. Planning ahead by checking current hours and booking in advance for parties or special occasions is recommended to secure your preferred times and enjoy the full Indigo Play experience.