As a parent in Greenwood Village, Colorado, keeping my energetic little ones entertained can be a challenge. But Candeeland Kids has become a lifesaver! It’s a unique indoor playground that combines a wonderland of climbing structures with a candy store extravaganza, making it the perfect destination for a fun-filled outing with your little ones.
A Climber’s Paradise:
The centerpiece of Candeeland Kids is a massive 16,000-square-foot play structure that looks like a giant, colorful castle come to life. It’s an adventurer’s dream, boasting a network of twisting slides, wobbly bridges, and challenging climbing walls. Toddlers will giggle with delight as they navigate the age-appropriate crawl spaces and ball pits, while preschoolers can test their limits on the taller climbing features. There’s even a separate ninja warrior course for those little daredevils who crave an extra adrenaline rush.
A Feast for the Eyes (and Maybe the Tummy):
Surrounding the play area are shelves upon shelves of bulk candy, creating a visual symphony of colors and textures. From gummy bears in every shade imaginable to rainbow-colored lollipops and chocolatey treats, Candeeland Kids has something to satisfy every sweet tooth. Be warned, parents – this candy haven might unleash a chorus of “can-I-have-this?” please!
Fueling Up for More Fun:
Candeeland Kids offers a designated party room, perfect for hosting birthday parties or simply taking a break from all the climbing. They also have tables and chairs scattered around the play area, ideal for enjoying a snack or a drink you bring with you (remember, no outside food or drinks are allowed in the play area itself).
Parent Date Nights
One of my favorite offerings they have is a “Date Night Drop Off”. Every Wednesday from 5-7:30pm, kids ages 6 through 12 can be dropped off, fed, and entertained, while parents can go check out one of the great restaurants nearby. $28 per kid includes dinner, or $25 per kid just to play. This is cheaper than a babysitter, and the kids love it!
Planning Your Candeeland Kids Adventure:
- Admission Fees: Admission prices vary depending on the age of your child (infants are usually free) and the day of the week. Weekday rates are typically lower than weekend rates. They also offer monthly memberships for frequent visitors. It’s always best to check their website or Facebook page for the latest pricing information.
- At the time of this post, General Admission is $26 per child
- There is also a Monthly Membership with unlimited visits for $49/mo for the first child, and $30/mo for each additional sibling.
- Hours of Operation: Candeeland Kids is open every day of the week, with extended hours on weekends to accommodate the after-school rush. Again, I recommend checking their website or social media for the most up-to-date schedule.
- At the time of this post Candeeland is open:
- Monday-Thursday 10am-8pm
- Friday 10am-9pm
- Saturday-Sunday 9am-9pm
- At the time of this post Candeeland is open:
Beyond the Candy and Play:
- Safety First: The play area is well-maintained and appears to be cleaned regularly. There’s also staff present to supervise the children and ensure their safety. They even have designated grip socks available for purchase to prevent slips and falls on the play structures.
- Geared for Little Explorers: While older kids might enjoy themselves for a short while, the play structure is best suited for toddlers and preschoolers. The climbing walls and ninja course offer some challenge, but they may not be complex enough to hold the attention of grade-schoolers for a long period.
- Limited Seating: There’s a designated seating area for parents, but it can get crowded, especially during peak hours and on weekends. If you have a large group or need a place to relax while keeping an eye on multiple children, you might want to consider bringing a portable folding chair.
Tips for a Smooth Visit:
- Pack Your Patience: Candeeland Kids can get busy, especially on weekends and during school breaks. Be prepared for crowds and potential wait times, particularly at the entrance and for the more popular climbing features.
- Consider Weekday Visits: If you can, aim for a weekday visit to avoid the weekend rush. Weekday mornings are typically the quietest times.
- Bring Your Own Snacks: While there is no concession stand, you can bring snacks and drinks for your child to enjoy during your visit. Having a healthy snack on hand can help to curb sugar cravings after encountering the candy wonderland!
- Dress for Active Play: Make sure your child wears comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. Remember, they’ll be climbing, sliding, and running around, so loose-fitting clothes that allow for easy movement are ideal.
The Verdict: Sweet Memories for Little Climbers
Candeeland Kids is a great place to take your younger children for an afternoon of active play and a touch of sugary indulgence. The play structure offers plenty of entertainment to keep them occupied for hours, and the candy selection is sure to tantalize their taste buds. However, it’s important to manage expectations – the space is geared more towards toddlers and preschoolers, and seating can be