“Back to school” in Frisco can be a great time for families with children who are not in school yet. The swings are always open at the park, mid-morning traffic is non-existent, and you can actually get a parking space at Chick-fil-a during lunch. Best of all, many of Frisco’s beloved family spots offer special weekday programming (and discounts!) for toddlers and preschoolers!
Tots will love experiencing new adventures and parents will love the smaller crowds, cheaper admission fees, and exclusive focus on kids 5 and under. With the weekday specials at these Frisco favorites, kids can enjoy endless jumping, reading, exploring, and creating – all for less than the cost of your morning latte. (But you may want to go ahead and splurge on that coffee as well – with so many fun options for your little Frisco-ite, you’re going to need it to keep up!)
Urban Air
On Wednesdays and Fridays during the school year Urban Air offers “Jumperoo”. From 10am to 12pm, kids 5 and under can enjoy a discounted playtime exclusively for them (admission is $5 per child, adults are free). The indoor trampoline park features basketball, dodgeball, and a large foam pit. With no rowdy big kids to worry about, “Jumperoo” gives little ones the freedom to bounce, play, and explore in a safe environment. Older preschoolers can take advantage of all the features but even early walkers and crawlers can join in on the fun. Perks for parents include concessions, massage chairs, and the long afternoon nap that is sure to follow! (Bonus: Also check out Urban Air’s fitness classes for adults on weekday mornings at 9am. Classes are $10 and the first child jumps for free while mom works out.)
Frisco Public Library
Don’t miss the exciting fall programming for early learners at our outstanding Frisco Public Library! The fall calendar includes traditional favorites (like interactive weekly story times for all ages) and creative special events (parades, sing-alongs, sensory play days and more). The “Ready to Read Railroad”, the library’s active learning play space, is a highlight for kids and parents alike. Families can climb aboard the railroad and enjoy exploring the great assortment of books, blocks, learning toys and play stations that encourage literacy and creative play. All of the library’s events are convenient, fun, and free. And the learning experiences shared by parents and kids are priceless! (Tip: Check out the upcoming “celebrity” visit from “Elephant” and “Piggy”, stars of Mo Williams’ beloved children’s books)
Pump It Up
Pump It Up’s “Buddy Bounce”, on weekdays from 2pm to 4pm, makes a perfect afternoon play date. Kids can bring a friend (or sibling) during this time and bounce for a reduced rate of $5 each. Pump It Up’s huge indoor inflatable playgrounds are guaranteed to thrill preschoolers – and are even more fun with a friend. (Bonus: Also check out “Little Tikes” bounce time from 10am – 12pm. Although the regular $8 rate applies, one of the play arenas is reserved exclusively for kids under 6, making it an ideal playtime for the littlest bouncers).
Stonebriar Mall
Ok, so this one is only free (or almost free) with a little self-control. If parents have the willpower to push the stroller straight past all the great shopping, Stonebriar mall is a home run for entertaining tots on the cheap. The cheerful indoor play area (on the first floor by Sears) is a great place for little ones to climb, slide, and run around in a safe and contained space. (It also opens an hour before the rest of the mall if you want to get in and out before the crowds). After a little play, head to weekly story time at Pottery Barn Kids (Tuesdays at 11 am) or Barnes and Noble (Thursdays at 11 am). Kids who attend five Pottery Barn story time events get a special surprise and the Barnes and Noble storytime includes a craft. The bookstore’s charming children’s area also has great nooks for reading and a fun train table. Finish the morning with a ride on the old-fashioned carousel and a snack from the food court (the soft pretzels are always hit!). Al in all, you have a full morning of fun for less than $5.
Jump!Zone
Preschool Playtime at Jump!Zone (weekdays from 10am to 1pm) offers hours of fun for only $5. Kids will love active play in the 11,000 square foot inflatable arena, with gigantic inflatables including firetruck, superhero, and princess themes. When the tots need a break, they can head to the video arcade and enjoy dozens of token-free arcade games. Parents will love the discounted price and two fun (and hassle-free!) entertainment options under one roof. (Also: Consider joining “Club JZ” for additional seasonal discounts, birthday specials, and guest pass perks).
Jungle Joe’s
Unlike other large children’s play facilities, Jungle Joe’s is a smaller space where you can see your child play from almost any angle in the facility. For the littlest tykes, Jungle Joe’s offers membership cards that average out to only $5 per visit for endless play all day! Parents can enjoy comfortable seating and wifi while the littles have a blast on the playscape. Rest assured, the whole area of jungle gyms, slides, and toys are sanitized every night and the structure is also cleaned regularly during the day.
