**March, 2020 – we regret to announce that The Stomping Ground is permanently closed. We will update this review if anything changes.**
The Stomping Ground in Scottsdale is one of the best indoor play areas in the Valley! This place combines activities that give kids outlets for energy and creative play; add friendly employees that actually engage with your children and you have a great atmosphere for family fun. It opened in July of 2018.
The huge gymnasium like building has different play stations that will appeal to a wide variety of ages. The center area is carpeted and has three climbing things like you would find at a mall play area, as well as an oversized pink castle. Our kids found the volcano structure the most entertaining, but the dinosaur provided some comfy break time moments for our three year old as well.
To the sides, you’ll find four bouncy houses. These are temporary, as there are plans to build a massive playground. But the bouncy houses were a hit! One has an obstacle course, climbing ramp and zippy slide – the kids always gravitated here and never got tired of it. (That said, the nature of having bouncy houses does mean more noise, so be prepared for this when you visit.)
There is also a gated, mostly carpeted toddler area with age appropriate toys. And the cutest pretend grocery store and kitchen! Don’t miss the mini carts selling popsicles or hot dogs, seriously so fun even for adults. But by far the most unique aspect of this indoor play place is the bike corner. There are scooter cars, trikes and 20″ wheel bikes for kids to enjoy. How cool is that?!
The cafe offers drinks and snacks, as well as soft serve ice cream and items like hummus packs. We tried the ice cream – no complaints from the kids! Their lunch packs are also tasty and only $5! Restrooms are easily accessible around the corner from the cafe. There is a nursing room nearby too. Seating is spread out all around the room. As a mom, this is one aspect I loved – you can see your kids no matter where you sit. So helpful!
I had a chance to chat with the owner before leaving. She has some great plans for The Stomping Ground, with everything from hand painted murals on the wall to finished floors to….well, you’ll just have to follow their progress and see! It is evident that a lot of love has been put into this venue.
On the note of development, there are a couple details I think parents should know. The majority of the flooring is concrete, for now. This is one reason grip socks are needed. There are a couple undeveloped side areas that were blocked off only with buckets. Some adventuresome children might find this enticing! So parents, please watch your children at all times. Better yet, play with them This is NOT a negative review, just an FYI.
In November 2019, our son wanted to have his party 5th birthday party at The Stomping Ground. The staff took care of everything – all we did was bring the cake! They even served the kids pizza, got the cake ready, had a wagon to help carry out the gifts to the car, and did it all with a smile. They have various packages and ad-ons available, and are very easy to work with. Highly recommend their party services, just as much as we recommend their play place!
The Stomping Ground is located in South Scottsdale, near Scottsdale and McDowell Roads. They are open 7 days a week, 8am-8pm. Admission is $15/child (6 months-12 years) for 90 minutes, with 1 free adult per paid guest. At the time of this post, there is a summer special of $12/child. Grip socks are required for play. Bring your own or purchase them for $2.50/pair at the desk.
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The Stomping Ground
2012 N. Scottsdale Rd.
Scottsdale AZ, 85257
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