Mall indoor play spaces in Raleigh are a great way to unwind when the weather is not cooperating. I always think that malls are going the way of the dinosaur, soon to be extinct. However, every time I go, no matter when I go, they always seem to be pretty crowded!
Triangle Town Center
Triangle Town Center off of Capital Blvd has the best play area in my opinion. It’s on the lower level just outside of Sears. The surface is soft, as are the play structures. It’s designed for younger children, but that doesn’t mean you won’t occasionally see children around who are way too big for the structures. There’s plenty of seating for adults around the perimeter and the structures are low to the ground so you have good visibility!
It’s a great place to play on a rainy day. Often you see the 2 and younger crowd, but it’s entertaining for older preschoolers as well. They are MOSTLY enclosed, with one open space for entry and exit. So not a bad place to corral a wandering toddler.
It’s a potentially free outing. Potentially. You are at a mall, and at Triangle Town Center it’s right next to The Children’s Place. So when I was there this week, we popped in for some summer clothing staples. Also, my children have discovered there is a food court, cookie store, and all sorts of tempting things at a mall.
The mall also strategically placed all of the coin-operated rides close to the play place so my kids are drawn to the flashing lights. I usually just let them climb on the rides, but every now and then I’ll get suckered into paying for one!
There’s also a trackless train that you can pay to ride throughout the mall. It’s not that expensive, but you pay per person so it can add up fast.
Streets at Southpoint
The Streets at Southpoint just opened a new play area in Fall 2019 called the Trails at Southpoint on the lower level near Sears and Macy’s. It features woodland creatures, a slide, a lending library, and an interactive wall.
This play area doesn’t have much adult seating, so be prepared to sit on the ground. The structures are also tall and solid so it’s easy to lose track of your kid. However, this is the only mall play area I’ve seen that is fully enclosed with a gate at the entrance!
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Mall indoor play spaces in Raleigh are worth checking out! Generally, it is worth a trip, especially when you have tots that just need to get out and the weather isn’t cooperating. And maybe you can get some shopping done too!
Check out other indoor play areas here.