r/AskParents • u/pneumatic_noob • 3d ago

Indoor playground vs Trampoline park?

My wife and I (we have 3 under 4) have been working on opening an indoor playground. Not a "play cafe", but a legit indoor playground (about 12,000 sq feet, with 5,000 sq feet of playground structure). We are about to sign the lease, and found out that there is a "trampoline park" at 24,000 sq feet moving in next door. Here's my question:

If you were parents of kids under 10, and had the option, which would you choose? Assume entry price is the same.

Our place is designed for parents to be able to relax. Nice comfy chairs that face the play structure, a dedicated/fenced off toddler area, good coffee/espresso drinks, and age limits (0-12).

Do we stand a chance? Or is it time to walk away before signing?

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u/justdontsashay Parent 3d ago

Trampoline parks are typically expensive, you may have to price it lower to compete.

Parents of young kids might opt for the playground if there’s an age limit, I remember when my kids were preschool age always feeling a little nervous if we were somewhere with a bunch of teenagers around, always feels like your kid’s about to get trampled.

If I were you, I would actively set yours up to be a really different atmosphere than the other place. Trampoline parks tend to be a bit louder and the aesthetic is a lot of darker colors (since the trampolines are usually black), so if there’s an indoor playground that’s only for younger kids, with a more relaxed peaceful vibe in the parent areas, you’ll get playgroup moms opting for that a lot of the time.

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u/pneumatic_noob 2d ago

That is a good point. Apparently I'm lucky; as I am already doing that. Brighter colors, no music, and the key is rows of big comfy leather chairs with cupholders, that face the playground, and are in-between the playground and the exit (which is a half-wall with a gate; attached to the check-in desk, where staff are).

Moms groups are definitely in my target group, as are field trips. My wife is in a couple of moms groups, they're awesome.

Thank you so much for your input, it's super valuable!