Does Springfield have any indoor playgrounds?

Some moms and I want to get together for a playdate, but we'd like to do it in a public place (ie. not in our homes) but since it's so cold - parks are not an options. And our LO's are only 7months restaurants aren't really going to work either.

Does Springfield have any indoor playgrounds - or indoor facilities that would be conducive to baby play?

TIA! Malisa

The only thing I can think of is the play area at the mall which would work. You could also do a stroller walk at the mall. There are McDonalds playlands for older kids. Chuck E Cheese use to have a toddler area but they don't really have that anymore.

The only other idea I have is that the Library downtown has a room that you can reserve for free and you can bring in your own toys.

I am hoping someone else has an idea that I am not aware of!!!

Thanks for the ideas! Yeah, I'd appreciate if anyone else has any ideas. I like the stroller walk idea for later - after we get to know each other. I checked the library website but I couldn't find anything about the room. I'll have to call I"m sure. Thanks Jen!

For the library you will just have to call. It's the large meeting room. I have tried to have some meet ups there and since it was just big tables and chairs they got in more trouble than anything.
If you are up for a road trip there is also the children's museum in Decatur.

You are right that there aren't many indoor places for play date meet ups.

You can get a side room at Godfathers pizza. They require a $25 deposit, but you get it back when you are done.

Hope you can find some places to go!

Thanks Carrie!

http://www.springfieldmoms.org/resources/classes_and_activities.htm#Kids_Play_Area_at_White_Oaks_Mall
I love the new play area at the mall...you can link to a photo and their houses and cleaning hours here...
my kids love it, and I sure wish this had been available when they were much younger! So enjoy!

when your kids get older the day trip to the decatur children's museum is GREAT,,,but you will want them old enough to walk, climb and play!
Hopefully by the time your child is a bit older the children's museum here in springfield will be back in action at southwind park!

Another place that is just wonderful is the children's museum in downtown Normal.
My kids like it better than Decatur. But it is more of a drive. It's 3 stories and has a lot of great activities. The toddler area is very nice.
I think the price is $4 a person ages 2 and up.

I haven't been there yet, but I just heard that the Illinois State Museum downtown has a kids play area. Anyone know anything about it? And I believe the museum has free admission?

The museum does have free admission and my kids LOVE it. It is one of Springfield's best kept secrets I think. They do have a children's room with activities for the kids. They also have Super Saturday Events. http://www.museum.state.il.us/ismsites/main/events.html

In the museum the kids can open drawers, listen to information on phones, watch movies, and look at the various exhibits. My kids have probably been there 50 times and still love it every time.