On hot days, we try to find play indoors. Since Bay Play was nearby and appeared to have play our daughter enjoys, on a whim we stopped in. Completed waivers, selected her play time, and purchased my daughter's admission ticket ($24.94) along with a pair of grip Bay Play socks ($4.00) online. A chaperone ticket is required ($0), additional chaperones are $5 each. Adults either wear their own socks or shoe covers inside of play area. On a Monday at 4:30p there was only one other car parked. Inside there was one child at play. As the day went on a couple more children joined. The kids all played together as one, which was heart warming to see. The restrooms are located at the rear of the play space, at the end of the Ninja Warrior Jungle structure. There are two major play structures, one for bigger kids to climb, swing and play, the other for smaller kids to do the same with play tailored to their petite size. There are three jump spaces with two attached to what appears to be VR simulated devices. There are lots of arcade games for the kids to play, at an additional charge. Outside food is not permitted. Small snacks are allowed. There are two vending machines at the entrance of the play area - one drinks and the other snacks. There are four massage chairs for chaperones to exist in while the littles play. It accepts mobile pay and cards. One chaperone was enjoying herself during our time, eyes shut. There are 2-3 tables at the front of Bay Play with 4 additional tables at the rear closest to the restrooms. For $25, our daughter was able to play from the time of arrival to close (7p). This is definitely an option to consider for play dates or to pop in for something to do. It is located on the border of Emeryville and Oakland. Bay Play is embedded within a neighborhood. There is street parking directly in front of the location. read more

See all

Loved it here! We will definitely be coming back. There's a lot of places for kids to climb, slide, jump. There's also a mini arcade inside but everything else is so impressive, kids just play for 20 min and leave to go see what else is there. They have tables so you can eat, and massage chairs for the tired moms and dads. My baby was exhausted by the end and bedtime was a breeze. The price isn't super unreasonable, you do have to buy their socks though. I think I loved it more than my kid, so I'll see you guys soon! Weirdly I took pictures but I can't find them but it is so worth going. read more

This space is incredibly small and overpriced. I took my nephew on a day where there weren't many people however, the staff seemed lackadaisical and bothered by the children. Most of them were on their phones the entire time. There weren't enough staff to run the biggest attraction which is the rock climbing wall. However, when the wall was staffed, there was a single staff member and he left after about 10 minutes. The arcade is very small and cost a lot for very few games. My nephew is 8 and he commented that he would rather go to urban air. read more

Bay Play - This is the climbing wall we wanted to check out and it was closed. They did open it but only for about 10 minutes. - Indoor Playcenter Near Me - Oakland, California

We needed somewhere for my kiddo and nephew to go on a rainy winter break day and luckily Bay Play was one of the few kid spots open on New Year's Day. Off the bat, I want to say this is one of the more affordable indoor playgrounds I've been to (some I've gone to will charge for adults?!) and there was no time limit (some places give you a time limit of how long you can play for) so that was a plus. They do require you to purchase their socks (can't be grippy socks from anywhere else) but even with the socks and day pass, I want to say it was only $35? The kids loved running around the swing ropes, the indoor playground with slide, and the big bouncy thingy under the bouldering wall. My only concern about the bouncy thingy by the bouldering wall is there aren't any safety rails or things around it and I can't tell if it's safer with or without it but I definitely needed to stay close by in case he bounced off the entire cushion thingy. If you have highly sensitive little ones or neurodivergent kiddos, this place may be a tad overstimulating with the arcade right smack dab in the middle. Like other reviewers had mentioned, it would be nice if the arcade was slightly away from the physical play so that kids aren't distracted/overstimulated by the arcade screens. We did eventually end our outing at the arcades (spent another $40 on the game card...sigh) but luckily we won a big jackpot from one of the games to make it all worth it! Of note, you can't really wear your shoes in the bathroom which is kinda gross so bear that in mind. All in all, definitely one of the better indoor playgrounds in the Bay Area! read more

Bay play was a surprisingly fun place for my two kids (3 and 7 yo) and they enjoyed the structure and the rock climbing! The place was clean and large, with a parking lot in back. They allow outside food and it has a lot of tables around if you come early to claim one. My only issue is the cost of the arcade - which is not unusual but could add up if kids play a lot. I will be back with the kids since they had a great time! read more

We came by here earlier this week while visiting the Bay Area, and after taking the kids to visit the UC Berkeley campus, we stopped by here for the indoor playground experience. It was a Tuesday around noon-ish and paid $16 for the toddler plus $4 for the play socks, and then $25 for the eldest kid (which comes with socks). Adults are free. They kids spent a good 1.5-2 hours there and escaped the scorching sun on a random weekday while we were visiting from out of town. We also got 500 points to use for the arcade games, where each game is about 125 points to play once. No shoes allowed inside, bring your own socks or buy theirs. We parked right outside for free, and was allowed to bring outside food / water into the venue because they didn't have a kitchen ready yet to serve food. Bathrooms were clean, and play area was relatively clean too. read more

Took my daughter to Bay Play in Oakland and we had a great time! It's a clean, well-designed indoor playground with just the right mix of fun and safe. The moment we walked in, the staff was super friendly and welcoming--made us feel right at home. She had an absolute blast. There were plenty of things for her to climb, explore, and interact with, and I appreciated that the space felt organized but still allowed kids to be kids. You can tell they've put real thought into making it a joyful environment. It's also nice as a parent to have a spot where you can sit back and relax a bit while your little one is totally engaged. We'll definitely be back soon! read more

See all

We had my son's 5th birthday party at Bay Play and it was such a great experience from start to finish. The staff was incredibly nice, organized, and helpful, which made the whole party feel stress-free. The facility was very clean and there was so much variety for the kids to do -- climbing wall, arcade games, obstacle course, giant jumping pad, and plenty of space to run around and play. Every kid had an amazing time, and multiple parents told me afterward that they would love to have their own child's birthday party there. Highly recommend for a fun and easy birthday party! read more

Had my child's bday party here and it was great! Scheduling was a breeze. The ladies in the front were very attentive and knowledgeable. I like that they do not allow shoes once you get past the check-in area. They will provide you with shoe covers as well. This makes me feel so much better because we all know kids play spaces can be a cesspool lol. I also like that they have different play spaces for all different ages. From slides to rock climbing. If you have children of all different ages, I think everyone will find their place and have a great time. read more

I love that the owners decided to invest in Oakland and create a kid-friendly play place. Every parent in Oakland should support! One thing that makes this place unique from other play gyms is that it has a great climbing wall that has a variety of levels and an automatic belay. It seemed super safe. The other fun thing was a free climb wall where the kids could fall off onto a giant inflatable. The ninja obstacle thing didn't seem completely done and I wasn't really sure how the kids were supposed to interact with it. It is quite big so hoping once it is done that it'll be another cool space to play. We spent $30 to enter for 1 kid and $20 for the arcade, which - $50 - was honestly a little pricey for me considering we played for 2-ish hours. That didn't include any snacks from the vending machine. My kid had so much fun so I guess it was worth it! On rainy days this is great place to come. We were happy to be able to do it in Oakland and support an Oakland business owner. read more

It's so exciting to have a new place space in Oakland! I really like the convenience of this place, and it's really big. They have multiple climbing walls and in another freestyle, climbing area a nice bounce house, a small toddler area and then also big climb structure for the children just to run around and get lost then. There are also a ton of arcade games. And I mean a ton! They take up about a quarter of the space and there seems to be a little bit of something for everyone. There is also supposed to be an American ninja style obstacle course, but they were just setting it up the time we went. Hopefully it's up the next time we go. I do like how this place has dedicated toddler hours in the morning and then it's open for all ages thereafter. Overall, I really like this place and felt like there was a lot of great seating for parents and caregivers. I will say that I was not a fan of having all the arcades as soon as you walk through the door. It's definitely distracting for the kids and the kids just really wanna run to that versus wanting to use the obstacle course or the play structure. I would have preferred the arcade games to be a little out of the way maybe towards the back versus the play structure being towards the back. There are also little prizes you can win, but ultimately it's a lot of money. I can get very expensive really quickly with just playing those arcade games. There's also a little cubby place for shoes, and then lockers which it's one set price and then per hour additional dollar. I did take one star off because while this is a play place, it feels more like I would spend a ton of money here because of the way it's set up. So I know every time I go, it's gonna be really hard to convince my kids that they don't need to play any of the arcade games because they're right there and in your face. I do also think the price point is pretty expensive given the place structure size, but I think that it's great that they have the climbing walls and then the ninja obstacle course and hopefully it will all balance out. Food is allowed in here, but I do hope that they actually start selling food as well, which would be really helpful for those parents like me who always forget something. There is tons of parking outside and a dedicated lot as well. read more

See all

Was a great place to take the kids on a cold/rainy day. There were a lot of people and kids as it looked like there are a few birthday parties that can be held there at the same time. Overall, it was nice! I would suggest bringing snacks as they don't have anything available besides SUPER overpriced vending machines ($4 for a Gatorade?) read more

I'm writing this review before I even left because I'm just so impressed with this place! Special shout out to the two ladies working on Friday evening. They really went above and beyond to welcome kids and and set them up for the climbing wall and just were very very hospitable read more

Visited with my 5 year old today and he had so much fun. I wish we had more time to stay but we had an hour to burn and found this place nearby. Super clean, bathrooms at the front and back of the facility and lots of seating available for parents and for rest breaks. Everyone has to take shoes off so be prepared for that, especially given the bathrooms. I'll probably bring crocs next time and keep them on me. Bathrooms have changing tables which is great. The arcade games are so fun and kinda different than regular arcades. We got a $40 card and are considering the membership. We will definitely come back!! read more

See all

I came here today with my 2.5 yo and I don't think I'll come back again until he's older (maybe closer to 5). And if I do come back before then, I'd only come on toddler-only mornings. We went at 10am today and it was probably a combo of holiday Monday + rainy day, but by 1030 the place was chaos. By 11, I couldn't wait to leave because the sounds of kids screaming, shouting, running around was getting to be way to overstimulating for me (especially as I have to follow my toddler around inside the play structure given he's still a little young and I didn't feel comfortable letting him venture out of my sight, also because there were so many older little kids that were sprinting thru the structure (totally fine and normal but just a little scary for little kiddos who aren't as fast)). The arcade area is cool but not age-appropriate for my 2.5 yo (SO MANY bright flashing lights and screens) who kept wanting to go back to that area (I just let him sit on the machines but didn't put money into any of it). As another reviewer said, I would've much preferred it if the arcade area was off to the side rather than right in the center of everything because I wanted my kiddo playing in the indoor play gym/structure, and not constantly going back to the screens. Lastly, the bathrooms...it''s clean but I would not go in without shoes, which is tricky since you're not supposed to have shoes on there. I was walking around in my socks but put shoes on and then shoe cover on to go in the bathroom and I'm glad because overall it was pretty clean but there was some liquid (water? pee? don't know) on the floor there. And in general, just the thought of going into a public bathroom shoe-less is gross. Given this, I wish they'd have the shoe covers right outside of the bathrooms (instead they were on the totally opposite side of the place). Also, just fyi toilet are adult-sized toilets and it was hard for my toddler to sit on there without falling in (even with me holding him up). They do have a step in there for the kiddos to reach the sink, a changing station and diaper pail. But would be clutch if they had smaller kiddo sized toilets (like they have at fairyland, for example), considering how there are a lot of little kids who come here. Given all the above, I think this place is great for probably 4+ year olds. read more

Initially I purchased a membership after my son attended a birthday party at Bay Play and I needed something to do with the kids over winter break. Then I realized how awesome it was to be able to come and knock out a solid 2-3 hours of work while my kids happily explored all the different play structures. We ended up coming every weekend after break was over and I got so much done. (The Wi-Fi is better than most coffee shops and hotels) Bonus was that I could place a Target drive-up order while there and with a 5 minute detour after we were done at Bay Play, I could check that errand off my list as well. Other notes: The membership pays for itself if you come at least 3x a month. We don't purchase arcade cards (would get too pricey) but my kids have plenty they can do without that part. They don't have a kitchen, so we just bring our own food and drinks. Place is super clean bc everyone has to take their shoes off (including adults, even if you're not playing) so be prepared for that. I will definitely be renewing my membership now that Bay Play is open 5 days a week. SO WORTH IT! read more

Was a great place for my daughters birthday party. The staff were really nice. Had great amenities for the kids.

My kids, age 7 and 9, had a blast climbing, jumping, and playing in this indoor playground. They liked it better than Rebounderz! Staff were nice and attentive. There are party rooms and lots of different activities to enjoy. read more

Can we talk about the massage chairs first?! I mean half the battle with these places is dealing with the chaos but not at Bay Play! I just tried the sweet massage chairs with two moms I met here and we were all so surprised at how great they were (definitely doing 30 min next time)! This staff is super friendly and professional, it's clean + up to date, and most importantly it's not too chaotic here! My now 9 year old son loves the rock walls, arcade, and had a blast on the ninja warrior course. They are always updating the space, which keeps it fun for return trips. Highly recommended! read more

I'm giving two stars because this place really is cute and fun for kiddos. They have a large indoor play area, rock walls, an aracade and added some sort of computer game à la Dance dance revolution recently. But from the adult pov, having to deal with their rude af manager, it's honestly ridiculous how rude they were, I can safely say we're never coming back again. I tried to have a bday celebration for my kid. I called almost 2 weeks prior to coming in to make sure I could bring the kids and food/cake. Since I didn't meet the party minimum (10 kids) I asked if it would still be ok for me to come and take some of the "first come first serve" tables that this nicer manager mentioned earlier. They said yes. Fast forward to the day of, I called again because my kid wanted ice cream cake last min and I wanted to ask if we could borrow their fridge for a bit until it was time to bring it out. (It's mentioned on their site they can provide this for parties) before I could even fully ask my question the rude manager yelled over me and said "I couldn't throw impromptu birthday parties" and "if I brought anything birthday related, they would stop us at the door and ask us to leave and give us a refund." She kept on talking over me when I was trying to explain it wasn't a full birthday party with decorations or multiple kids and that I had already spoken to someone who said it would be ok for us to come in. She kept on saying "you can't throw a birthday party or do you want a refund" she wasn't having it at all and kept on being rude and interrupting me until I finally gave up and ended the call. She was also being rude to one of my guest parents that was ONLY dropping off their kid. Giving him the 3rd degree at the door. I really wish I was able to get her name, but if you choose to throw a bday party here, avoid the older manger with short curly hair. She's rude af for no reason. The other reason I'm giving two stars is because the other nicer manager I spoke with originally came up to apologize for the behavior of the rude one. read more

This place is family friendly and clean. But the key to its success is the manager Sydney. He is the face of it and round to ensure all is going well and smooth. He's professional and friendly, walks the floor and takes care of the guests. My family had a birthday here and all the kids had fun. Would recommend to anyone with kids under 9. read more

Spacious amusement center for kids as young as toddlers (about 1 year olds) and up to age 8. We went on a Friday after a holiday and it oddly wasn't crowded at all. One great thing about it is that you only pay admission for the kids, not adults as well. This makes it pretty cost effective. Lots to do too: climbing walls, climbing structures (from floor to ceiling), lots of arcade games, and places to eat. It's definitely a hidden gem in West Oakland. We'll be back. read more

We went to a kids birthday party at Bay Play this weekend and it was so fun! There's so much for kids to do - lots of climbing structures, bounce houses, an arcade, and big slides. The kids were entertained for hours!! Will definitely be back soon. read more

Bay Play - Climbing wall - Indoor Playcenter Near Me - Oakland, California

A wonderful place my daughters, Rasiel and Taleen, and I visited during the vacation! We enjoyed climbing, playing, and exploring the amazing games, not to mention the fantastic team that tolerated all the mess we created. We'll definitely come back next vacation! The girls had so much fun, loved the games, and enjoyed the atmosphere and teamwork. read more

See all

Great place to bring your rabid toddlers, so he can go crazy with the other rabid toddlers. I wish I had a place like this when I was rabid.

Thank you to the owner for your kindness and for the love shown. Fixed the misunderstanding we had. Fun place for the kids. Different things to do read more

So thankful that a place like this came to Oakland! As a mom with a toddler and a 10 year old, there was something for everyone. The place is clean, well maintained and spacious. Not only is there an obstacle course, but also a bounce house and wall climbing. The arcade is decently priced so as not to rip you off. There are even claw games with guaranteed prizes so the little ones don't get frustrated! They have a repeat customer in my family for as long as my kiddos wanna go!! read more

Amazing experience. Very clean and great for all ages! The staff were super attentive and ready for the kids I had with me.

Bay Play is the best! It's fun for both kids and adults. It's well run and organized, and I appreciate how they take cleanliness so seriously. Highly recommended! read more

So much fun for a two year old birthday party. Also for teenagers. The climbing walls are challenging. read more

I came with my kids on a mild day. It was so hot inside and when I told the manager Sidney he said I should take my kids out. I showed him how hot my son was and how red and told him he hadn't been playing hard or long- he replied, what do you want me to do-go to Walmart and buy a fan. I said yes, a fan would likely help- it's really hot and on hotter days you are going to have kids over heating. He said- well, no kids have complained yet. You are right- kids don't usually complain- they just over heat!! I told him that it would have been nice if he were more responsive and seemed to care a bit more rather than seeming to blame me bc my kids are hot! read more

This place is great to bring kids, or have a birthday party- it's owned by local folks and they keep it super clean and well maintained. There's a bunch of places for kids to play and a great arcade area. Definitely recommend! read more

Bay Play - Kid playing in ninja course - Indoor Playcenter Near Me - Oakland, California

Such a fun place for kids and grown ups too! Looking forward to the restaurant and bar opening

Kids loved it, super clean, good hangout zones for adults. Nice mix of arcade and activities.

We came here for a birthday party and it was an absolute BLAST!! My 20 month old daughter had an amazing time on the play structure, the "jumpy jumpy," and the toddler area. The play structure is very safe for kids of all ages - I was pleased to figure out I did not have to climb through every nook and cranny to make sure she was safe. Although, I will admit I had fun climbing in the structure myself! Great place to just sit back and let your kids run wild! I saw a mom bring her computer and do work and I plan to adopt that strategy as well the next time child care is unavailable. Shout out for the CLEAN diaper changing tables and the diaper pails in the bathroom! GREAT place for families and kids of all ages. We are so grateful the owners created this kid friendly space in Oakland! read more

This place is awesome! One of the only places of this kind that is immaculately clean. Staff is super friendly. Our kids had the best time ever and begrudgingly left after two + hours of playing. Thank you! Can't wait to come back and will definitely host our next bday party here :) read more

Our kids had the best time here! They played with friends they met. They left tired and sweaty and can't stop talking about going back. Was the perfect way to spend an afternoon for all of us! We can't wait to go back. read more

As a parent I usually dread going to indoor play spaces with my kids. Bay Play, however, was great. Clean, open and has natural light. Plenty of activities for younger and older kids - we went with friends and had a baby, toddlers, preschoolers and a 2nd grader with us. Staff was friendly. We will be back. read more