You've heard about Hey Kiddos Playtime from another parent at school pickup, or maybe you spotted it on a rainy afternoon when you desperately needed an escape. Either way, you're planning your first visit — and you want to know what to expect before you walk through the door.
We get it. As parents ourselves, we know the last thing you want is to show up somewhere unprepared with an excited toddler in tow. So here is everything you need to know for a smooth, fun first visit to our 26,000 sq ft indoor playground in Marlborough, MA.
What to Bring
The essentials are simple:
- Grip socks — these are required for all children and adults entering the play areas. Don't have a pair? No problem. We sell Hey Kiddos branded grip socks at the front desk. They're designed specifically for our surfaces and make great keepsakes.
- A signed digital waiver — save time at check-in by signing your waiver online before you arrive at heykiddosplaytime.aluvii.com. One waiver covers your whole family.
- Your tickets — we recommend buying tickets online ahead of time. Weekday prices are lower than weekends, and buying in advance means you skip the line at the front desk.
- A change of clothes for the kids — optional, but you'll thank yourself if your little one has an active session.
How the Play Areas Work
Hey Kiddos is divided into three age-appropriate zones, so children play safely with peers at a similar stage:
- Toddler's Wonderland (Ages 0–3): Soft surfaces, sensory toys, and gentle climbing structures designed for our youngest explorers. It's enclosed and calm — perfect for parents of babies and toddlers who want a safe, contained space.
- Explorer's Cove (Ages 3–6): Climbing frames, imaginative play stations, and interactive games. This is where most preschoolers spend the majority of their time.
- Adventure Zone (Ages 6–12): The big-kid territory. Challenging obstacles, slides, massive ball pits, and arcade games. Older kids burn energy here while parents catch their breath.
Rules Worth Knowing in Advance
A few house rules that make everyone's experience better:
- Kids must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times — there's no drop-off.
- No outside food or drinks are allowed in the play areas.
- Hey Kiddos is a nut-free environment — a decision made with deep intention by our founders, whose daughter Zoe had a severe nut allergy. You can relax knowing this is a safe space for allergy families.
- Grip socks are non-negotiable for safety reasons.
For the Parents: You're Not Just Waiting
One thing that surprises first-time visitors is how much thought went into the parent experience. We have a comfortable lounge area where you can work on your laptop, chat with other parents, or simply sit and watch your kids play. Our café offers food and drinks so you don't have to leave to refuel.
It's genuinely one of the few places where kids get to be fully active while parents actually get to rest — or socialize, if that's more your style.
What's the Best Time to Visit?
Weekdays (Tuesday through Thursday) are typically quieter — great for toddlers who get overwhelmed in large crowds. Weekends are busier and more energetic, which older kids tend to love. Our hours are Tuesday–Friday 11AM–7PM, Saturday 10AM–8PM, and Sunday 10AM–5PM. We're closed on Mondays.
If you plan to visit regularly, take a look at our membership plans — unlimited playtime for your child starting at $79/month, which pays for itself quickly if you visit more than twice a month.
Ready for Your First Visit?
We'd love to meet your family. Hey Kiddos was built by parents, for parents — and every detail of the space was designed with your experience in mind. Come see for yourself why families from Marlborough, Northborough, Hudson, and across MetroWest Massachusetts make it a regular part of their week.
Ready to book your first visit? Buy your tickets online and we'll see you on the mat — or the ball pit, depending on your kid's preference.