My 4- and 7-year-olds recently visited Bumblebee Playspace in Newark. With easy parking and a large indoor play area with a wide variety of rooms, it was a perfect way to keep them entertained on a chilly winter day. The space is best suited for kids 5 and under, but my 7-year-old was a good sport and managed to stay entertained for most of our visit.
The expansive space, in what appears to have once been an office building, is thoughtfully divided into several distinct areas. Just inside the entrance, you’ll find tables for snacking, followed by a cozy infant room with soft surfaces and age-appropriate toys. There’s also an arts and crafts room featuring a large chalkboard wall. My kids also spent plenty of time doing laps around the space on the various ride-on toys, taking full advantage of the open layout.
In the back section, kids were rotating between the kitchen play area (complete with a playhouse and dress up area), the pretend market, and the large central room with climbing structures and two slides perfectly sized for little kids.
Bumblebee also features a dedicated water room with different water tables, giving kids plenty of opportunities for hands-on sensory play. Smocks and waterproof shoes are provided to help keep clothes dry, which makes it easy to say yes to splashing. However my kids were more fascinated by the hand dryer than the water itself. In addition to the water area, there’s a train table and a light wall, adding even more variety to the experience.
Plan your visit to Bumblebee Playspace
Hours: Monday and Wednesday–Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm; Sunday 10 am – 2 pm; closed Tuesdays; hours may vary due to private party reservations. Please check the website before visiting.
Price: $20 per child; siblings $15
Location: 35500 Dumbarton Court, Newark
Parking: Free parking lot in the front
Best Ages: 6 months to 5 years
Bathrooms: Yes, on-site
