As a toddler mom, I love a good playdate. Toddlers crave interaction and stimulation. Parents of toddlers need camaraderie and solidarity — which means we all need to get out of the house and socialize with friends! Here are some solid local playdate spots in Tarrant County.
Outdoor Play Dates
Dream Park :: Centrally located along Trinity Park, Dream Park was built for children of all abilities and ages. The pavilion can be rented out and makes for a great birthday party.
Fort Worth Zoo :: Fort Worth has one of the best zoos in the country. There is always something new happening.
Howard Moore Play Pool :: When the weather heats up, this shallow pool and play area is the place to be as it is designed for kids under seven years old. There are amenities, including lifeguards and a concession stand.
River Legacy Living Science Center :: River Legacy has miles of hiking and biking trails great for seeing wildlife. Check out the Living Science Center for interactive environmental exhibits and aquariums.
Sundance Square :: There is always something happening at Sundance Square in downtown Fort Worth. It’s a great place to see Santa in December or to run around the fountains in the summer months.
>> RECOMMENDED RESOURCE :: 20 Parks in Tarrant County <<
Indoor Playdates
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History :: The Children’s Museum is perfect for toddlers to play at the grocery store or pretend to be a doctor. There are also plenty of dinosaur bones to see!
Nanda Yoga :: This children’s yoga studio has classes for all ages, but the Music + Mindfulness + Movement for toddlers is the perfect mix of singing and yoga. It also has a play space for before and after class, complete with a kiddo sized climbing wall.
Peppa Pig World of Play :: Toddlers love this indoor play space featuring everyone’s favorite British pig! The interactive muddy puddles are a real hit.
Play Street Museum :: The Fort Worth Play Street is “Town Square” themed and features a firehouse and grocery store. It also has the best toys (that I may be too cheap to buy. I’m looking at you, Grimm’s rainbows).
Play Studio :: The Play Studio is a Montessori inspired indoor/outdoor play space. It believes play is serious business, and I adore them for that!
Reby Cary Youth Library :: Fort Worth’s first youth library boasts a collections for children and teens. There is also a large indoor play area that is perfect for toddlers to explore.
SeaQuest Aquarium :: This aquarium located in the Ridgmar Mall is the best size for young kids. It is small and manageable, but packed with plenty of animals to watch, touch, and feed.
>> RECOMMENDED RESOURCE :: Guide to Indoor Activities <<
Restaurants
Fort Brewery and Pizza :: Fort Brewery makes awesome food (Get the panther bones appetizer, add the mozzarella.) and equally awesome beer. They also have an extensive wine list and a huge patio that can be covered, weather permitting. The kids will love the yard games.
Hat Creek Burger Company :: This is a step up from fast food, but it’s a solid choice because of its playground. Beers are cheap and the dirt worm milkshakes are fantastic.
Heim BBQ River :: This spot has some of the best bbq in Fort Worth. The River location on White Settlement has a large outside area where toddlers can have space and not bother others… too much.
Zoli’s Pizza :: Zoli’s has excellent NY style pizza, pasta, and sandwiches, as well as brunch on the weekends. There’s a great patio and an outdoor play area to get those toddler wiggles out.
Coffee and Sweet Treats
Cow Tipping Creamery :: Located at Zoli’s, Cow Tipping Creamery serves a fine soft serve ice cream. It’s known for its “stackers,” which are unique layers of toppings, ice cream, and sauces.
Melt Ice Creams :: Melt has delicious homemade style ice cream. Its seasonal offerings are always delightful. We love to go to the downtown location after walking around Sundance Square.
Pelican’s Snoballs :: This is a true treat from my home state — New Orleans-style shaved ice. There are more than 100 flavors to choose from. There is truly something for everyone.
Race Street Coffee :: So coffee shops aren’t ever truly kid-friendly, but at the people Race Street Coffee are so kind and patient! I always feel welcome. And I have taken advantage of the walk-up window in case of meltdowns over why I can’t give my toddler coffee. (Though the baristas make a lovely hot chocolate.)
Such a great, much needed list. Thank you! Just wanted to add that Imagination Station is also a fun indoor play space!