When the invite initially arrived I was not thrilled thinking it was an indoor jump house (from the name). I am an elementary school teacher so this is my weekend nightmare. I was SO wrong! This is a rare Bay Area gem for kids and families, every city should have one. All the attendees were impressed with the genius of the space, organization, cleanliness, and huge outdoor area. There are multiple indoor and outdoor "zones." The building is a duplex- home, when you enter there is a craft room with multiple round tables with crafts set up, in the center is a book/play area with tons of toys and cute furniture, a side room with a free personalized photobooth (email not printed) which is where the food was set up, and two bathrooms. Outside there was another bathroom. Down the ramp was a patch of fake grass where the party set up a piñata. Next to that, toddler equipment on wood chips. In the center, a huge table for kiddos to eat. Then the back corner has a large play structure and a fun bike ride where multiple kids could ride at the same time. This said, it's important for folks to consider that the two adults provided from Twirl are not enough to supervise an entire party. So keep this in mind as you are planning your party. This wasn't an issue at all for our group as the parents were all very hands on. The party I attended was from 10:30-12:30. I was so impressed with Duponte and Bella's ability to jump in- give the kiddos tattoos, help with the cake, clean up, and transition to the afternoon party. This is the PERFECT place to host your toddler- 2nd grade birthday party! read more

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We hosted my son's 3rd birthday party at the Whimsy location and it was magical, even the planning process was effortless! The staff were so kind, accommodating and caring. I've been at birthday parties where you have to ask the staff the help but not here. Both Duponte and Emma were looking for opportunities to engage. Emma played with the kids and attempted to keep the group entertained with crafts. They both helped set up; Duponte even lifted heavy coolers filled with drinks out of my car (and then reloaded when the party was over). Both staff hung up banners and helped with random set up tasks that I asked to be completed before guests arrived. The morning of our party it had rained at it looked like the weather was cleaning up so both Emma and Duponte wiped down the outdoor play equipment so the kids could spend some time outside. Everyone here loves kids, and it shows. We also received lots of compliments from friends and family truly impressed with the space and the activities available. It was the best place possible to host a birthday party. Thanks to everyone at Twirl for making my son's day so special and my day so easy. We can't wait to come back! read more

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I was so grateful to come across Twirl as a venue for my son's second birthday! I was worried about the February weather and needed an indoor venue. I reached out to Twirl and they thankfully had availability at their Whimsy Willow location. Duponte was amazing through-out the planning process and communications were very thorough and prompt. He as well as Emma and Bella were very helpful with the day-of with decor as well as keeping everyone entertained! Our son and all of our guests had a wonderful time! I highly recommend this venue! read more

Twirl - Art Classes Near Me - Alameda, California

It's hard to give a local place a negative reviews but I think families should know that since the expansion/departure from the Park street site the camps and classes are not as advertised. We have done classes, numerous camps and birthdays. With each we were surprised about the occasional "bait and switch" and lack of delivery of the services and products. Also know that for camps we often didn't know the location of the camp until the week before, only to find it was in a backyard of a local home. Our kids were outside in the hot summer weather the entire day with only limited access to the indoors for set bathroom breaks. The activities were simply standard crafts done on the floor of a backyard. It was fine but honestly not the well crafted and creative enrichment it advertises. It's a standard child care for kids, which is fine but just know what you're getting. read more

This place is basically the dream scenario for a kids' birthday party. Working with the director, Duponte, was the real magic--he was incredibly accommodating, easy to get a hold of, and made the whole process feel effortless. They helped tailor activities to match our theme, the staff was fantastic during the party, and then--perhaps the greatest gift of all--they handled all the cleanup. The space itself is perfect: the indoor area is clean, charming, and full of Victorian character, while the outdoor space is kid paradise with a jungle gym and tons of activity stations. The kids had a blast, the parents stayed sane, and no one had to take trash home. Would absolutely recommend. read more

We had the great fortune of having our son's 5th birthday party at the Twirl location on Willow Street ("Whimsy Willow") on 11/29. DuPonte coordinated the entire event, and was an absolute pleasure to work with! He was extremely accommodating, especially since the party was held the day after Thanksgiving. DuPonte went above and beyond to ensure our son had his dream party. The location is absolutely gorgeous and perfect for active and creative children. DuPonte and his staff managed everything (other than the food, which we brought) so that my husband and I could relax and hang out with the adults. There were loads of arts and craft activities available for free play, and the kids had access to multiple rooms throughout the house for all types of play. Toys and books galore, available for all age groups. We had a guided art project outside led by a very sweet art teacher- to make thanksgiving birdhouse/castles. The kids had a blast. The bonus about this space is all of the outdoor play available- including a pretty epic playground area, as well as a play area for the younger kids. I was pleasantly surprised by how little I had to manage, and by how much fun everyone had. We didn't have to clean anything up, and DuPonte helped us pack up all our stuff at the end of the party. Thank you for a fantastic experience! read more

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10/10! I stumbled upon this place while searching for a place to have our daughter's 3rd birthday. From their website and yelp page they have activities for kids and host parties. When I called to inquire, II spoke to Duponte who told us their original location on Park St was under renovation but their new location on Willow St was open. Lucked out, because their new location is GORGEOUS! We met Duponte for a tour and our little girl's eyes lit up. There is an outdoor playground (one for big kids and another for little kids) , a sand pit, indoor tumble set up, toys galore and more... After our tour we immediately booked right away. Duponte was very attentive to detail and answered every email in a timely manner. He even called me the night before the party if there were any last minute changes, things he can help with, questions he can answer. I was so appreciative! The day of the party he and his team (Emma & Astrid) immediately helped us set up. When it was time for crafts, they were so patient with all the kids and made sure they were looked after. I had gotten so many compliments from the parents on how much fun their kids had our party. With the compound enclosed I felt safe having my 3-year-old out of direct sight and confident knowing that Duponte and his team had an eye on her. I can't thank them enough for all their help. Our party was a success and its in part because of them. I would definitely recommend having your little one's party here. read more

A Magical Birthday Experience! We recently celebrated my daughter's seventh birthday at Twirl/Whimsy Willow in Alameda, and I can't say enough good things about the experience! From start to finish, everything was absolutely magical. We had guests ranging from a 9-month-old baby to 12-year-old kids--and even the adults had a wonderful time. The space is beautifully whimsical and full of creativity, making it the perfect backdrop for a joyful celebration. A huge shoutout to Dupont, who led the event with incredible care and attention to detail. He kept everything organized, kept me in the loop throughout the party, and handled everything so seamlessly that I was able to relax and truly enjoy the day with my daughter. The service was excellent, the atmosphere was enchanting, and the staff made my daughter feel so special. Thank you, Twirl/Whimsy Willow, for creating such a memorable and joy-filled celebration. We'll definitely be back! read more

We had a great experience with Twirl, who hosted my daughter's 2nd birthday. The environment is perfect for littles, and the staff were incredibly helpful. An excellent birthday party venue - would definitely recommend! read more

This new location is simply the cutest and most idyllic place for kids to play, learn and have fun! It's clean, well managed and has ample outdoor space to enjoy the warm sunshine! We hosted a party here for around 30 people and I couldn't have imagined a better place for the party. Everyone had a great time and the staff (especially Duponte) was so accommodating. Alameda is lucky to have such a gem! read more

We had a great birthday party for our daugther's third birthday. Duponte and team were helpful, responsive, and supportive throughout the entire process. Everyone had such a great time that several parents have already booked their kids' birthday parties at Whimsy Willow in the next few months. Also, the space is absolutely adorable. The kids loved it - especially the back garden/ playground area. We'll definitely be back whenever open play starts and for our next birthday party! read more

We had my daughter's 5th birthday at the Whimsy location, and it could not have gone better!! Every aspect of the event went great- pre-planning with the Duponte and the Whimsy team and all of the details of the event itself. Planning a winter birthday can be tricky so I chose the space because I knew there would be plenty of indoor options in case it was raining. To my surprise, the weather was great, so we got to take advantage of all the opportunities the space had to offer- great play spaces indoors, staff led art project (led by Emma) that kept the kids engaged and focused, and outdoor activities that brought so many kiddo smiles and a space for parents to enjoy/watch. This is the perfect place for a kids party if you are looking for a great play space and a team that is super knowledgeable and fantastic work with. Thank you!! read more

This was one of our final winter craft fairs of the year last year! The event boasted great etched glass, cute pencil cases, scarves, and corgi art, which was a huge hit with the honey. My pencil case sporting "pug life" has always been a hit at work, and the honey's corgi ornament was his favorite of the season! We'd never been to Twirl before, but will absolutely be stopping by their next winter sale! Pug life man. Pug Life. read more

We discovered Twirl during that period earlier in the year when air quality was terrible due to the fires. Our kids were going stir crazy, being unable to go outside, and we needed to find somewhere safe for them to unleash their boundless energy. We love it so much here that I booked the venue for my son's 4th birthday party, which took place yesterday. I didn't really know what to expect since we have only previously paid to play, but Miriam and Kristen (hopefully I'm not butchering the spelling too badly) exceeded expectations in terms of planning, organizing, and making sure that everyone was having a safe and fun time. It was everything a busy mom could hope for for a child's birthday party. Our young guests were happily playing in a vibrant space, allowing parents and adults to freely socialize, knowing that our kids were safe and within sight. We had so many compliments on how great the party turned out and I was told that I've "upped the bar" in terms of child birthday parties. Honestly, I did nothing; it was all Twirl! I can't thank them enough for making me look like an amazing mom! Haha! I will absolutely book them again for my youngest son's birthday early next year! read more

LOVE this place! We had our daughter's first birthday party there, and what a relief. All we did was pay for the space and they took care of the rest. My daughter and guest had a great time! Thanks again. read more

Parenthoods hosted a free playdate at Twirl this past week, so I decided to give this play space another try. I was glad I did, as my son and I had a much more fulfilling experience now that he is almost 17 months old. I noticed the variety of play options (some appeared new from my last visit)- such as a rock climbing wall, dress up section, train tables, reading and puzzle corner, car and/or ball drop and maze, hanging chair, slide, and my son's personal favorite - the kitchen and marketplace. Now that he is older, he is allowed in the art section, which we found fun and inviting. They had numerous art stations, such as painting, play doh, watercolors, and crafts (diy rainbow, diy leprechaun binoculars, and more.) Although I hate spending more than $10 at play spaces, Twirl does pack a lot in, which makes the admission fee worthwhile. We look forward to our next visit! read more

Twirl - Art Classes Near Me - Alameda, California

I love this cute place! My daughter and I spent 5 hours there and she still wanted to play more. They have everything a kid could want.... toys, books & nooks ,art, dress up and much more! I highly recommend this Twirl! read more

We took our granddaughter there and she didn't want to leave. I'd say this is good for up to 9/10. She LOVES this place. Very creative and clean place. They also have an art booth in the Alameda Summer Art and Maker Fair. The kids really love it. read more

This place has a plethora of activities for the children, good location, you can find parking a few blocks away. Coffee shops nearby. One of the few great indoor play areas for toddlers. Pay per child. read more

Twirl - At least 20 crafting/play areas! - Art Classes Near Me - Alameda, California

This is a very beautiful and fun space. I took my 3 yr.old daughter there a while back and she loved it. The staff was friendly, the place was clean and it was not too crowded. I like that admission is only charged for the child and not the parent. One suggestion since parents are just sitting in random corners since there is no cafe area to hang out. Perhaps an "adult" lounge area with couches, small tables, magazines and wi-fi. I don't think there would be enough room to add a cafe. I also think everyone (both kids and adults) should be required to remove their shoes if they're in the play area. Right now, only kids are required and I saw a couple of parents wearing their sneakers all overs the mats etc. I think parents of kids who are still crawling would appreciate that. read more

Walked over with my 5 y.o. son to Twirl and this place is awesome! The art area reminds me of the learn-through-play arts and crafts I did with my preschool kiddos back in Albuquerque. The space is HUGE with lots of room for make believe and imaginative play. It's on Park St. Closer to Santa Clara. I met Sabrina (the owner) today and she is definitely a local business person we want as a mainstay in Alameda on Park Street! http://www.twirlalameda.com read more

I've been here many times with my toddler but I really loved the adult painting class. We learned about mixing paints, created a canvas painting and ate snacks with wine. The owner was delightful and a great teacher. You will want to check out this amazing set of classes. read more

I like having this place as an option for my toddler to play around. But I do have to comment about the employees here. They seem to really not care about children for working at a place whose primary clientele is children!! I have been here 3 different times and all 3 times were marked with a female employee staring at the computer and behind her desk. Today took the cake for me because I asked the woman if I could run to the bathroom while my son was playing. (Aka can you please just make sure he doesn't run out the door?) Btw I am 8 months pregnant and need to pee very often from the fetus inside me pressing on my bladder. Anyway, she didn't even look up to tell me " uhhhh you would just take him with you". I mean really? You can't do me a solid and watch him for 1 minute so I can relieve myself? I felt very insulted by this because the answer to her statement is, no I cant take him with me to the bathroom so he can be shoeless touching everything germy. I also cant pick him up because yeah I'm 8 months pregnant again and my uterus feels like it is going to fall out!! I also think $12 is overpriced considering how small the gym really is and the fact that employees here suck!! I might be taking my business elsewhere very soon! read more

Amazing place for crawlers all the way to 5 yr olds. Always fun arts and crafts going on, staff are friendly. Slide, trains, blocks, dress up, dolls and more. Every month they follow a theme. The monthly rate is great and amazing for cold or hot days. My littles can spend at least 3 hrs. They also have Friday evenings where you can drop your little if potty trained for 3 hrs. Nice bathroom and they sell cool toys read more

Cute lil open play area. Love the music by Dilly Dallies every other Tuesday (2nd and 4th) read more

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I've noticed that there are a ton of these indoor play/art space popping up lately in the East Bay. It's a great option when it's cold and wet outside, and I'm so happy that there's finally something in Alameda that is accessible by public transportation and next to other things to do. The space is awesomely organized and clean, and kept my 2 year old occupied from the time that they opened till the time that he needed a nap. I think my main beef is that other caregivers are busy on their smartphones and don't supervise their kids closely enough (which is usually fine in a playground setting, but less appropriate in a crowded indoor space). read more

Loved Twirl! It was a fun place for children 1-5 with all kinds of activities! My grand daughter loved it! We stayed for 2 hours! Great place... Clean, friendly staff, arts and crafts. Love to start one in my hometown! read more

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Lots of fun stuff to do. Toys, dress up, art, climbing, books & nooks. And now yelp makes me write more

We love this place. It's great for babies and older children. The price is fair if you plan to make a day if it.

An awesome venue for birthday parties. The place is clean, colorful, and creative. Staff are warm and friendly. Totally recommended. read more

This place really is pretty nice on a lot of levels, but they are certainly all about the all mighty dollar over serving mothers and babies. It's $12 per drop in, which is as much as a yoga class in alameda, but there's no activities led by anyone or teachers, so that seems pretty high. We bought a ten visit pass, and no one told us at the time it had an expiration date of six months...when we came in today, the pass was only half used and they wouldn't let us use it again because it was a week expired. So a total waste of nearly sixty bucks. I would have left but we'd been talking about twirl all morning and my toddler would have been heartbroken. Still I think that's a terrible thing to do to your clientele... we won't be back. read more

Nice place but that's all it is ...Do NOT recommend having a party here. Employees basically stood behind the counter the entire time, no interaction at all. Overpriced! Not worth the money. read more

We've been to Twirl a couple times before we decided to do a birthday party there. I had difficulty with the initial process: inquiring about the party, some questions about the minimum number, what we can and cannot bring, etc. We didn't have any other choice because we needed an indoor location. So we ended up renting Twirl and just crossed my fingers that everything will turn out ok. On the day of the event, we had 2 twirl staff (even Sabrina) helping us with the set-up. The staff was very much engaged and made sure kids were having the best time. Everything turned out great and my daughter had the best unicorn rainbow party a four year old could ever ask for. read more

Twirl - Art Classes Near Me - Alameda, California

Fun place to go with kids of all ages. Had a 2 yo and a 1 yo and stuff for them & older kids. Highly recommend!

Nice place. Nicer than studio grow. Not as nice as play cafe or super Franks. A bit small, could use a larger party room. read more

Absolutely love this place! Stopped in with my young son (he turns 5 later this month) during their opening day celebration this past weekend and he had a blast playing and being creative. Given how much he liked his afternoon at Twirl, I brought him back today for a "Friday Night Out" session - he stayed at Twirl for three hours in the evening while I enjoyed a peaceful time blasting werewolves on my PS4 at home. He came out of Twirl just now SUPER EXCITED about the art project he completed, and super eager to get back again. Really love that we have a space like this on Park St. now! read more

I wasnt vey impressed. We came at the end of day and nothing was orangnized. The toys seemed old and incomplete. My daughter played with a doll with no clothes on and one dredlock of hair. I never found the clothes for the doll. They request you remove your shoes but after 30 mins I was freezing on the cold hardwood floors. The heater was not on and the thermostat said it was 67 deg inside. Not a comfortable temp for me. Art area was nice except they only offered recycled paper. Paper that already had someone else art on it. Chalk boards, no chalk. My daughter enjoyed herself,but I Doutb we will be back. read more

Ok, it isn't very often that I want to write something about a business but this place was amazing!! There is plenty to do for the little ones and the staff is top notch. I decided to have my daughter's 4th birthday party here and I was a little nervous that it might be just ok. I arrived early to set up and there was a car show right in front of the store so the street was blocked off. I thought for sure no one was going to show up and the party would be a disaster. The ladies calmed my nerves as said don't worry, they will be here. Everyone did show up and they found parking. The kids eyes lit up as there is plenty to do. There was dress up, legos, trucks, a slide, crafts, ext.... The kids were on overdrive. We had an art teacher that did a great project and the kids loved it. I forgot my candles for the cake and they found some for me! This isn't part of the package but of course I felt like a horrible mom for forgetting candles and again, my nerves were calmed. Everyone had a great time. My daughter had a wonderful time and now we have memories that will last a lifetime. read more

What an awesome place! My kids (2.5 & 4yrs) absolutely loved Twirl. Lots to do. Lots to create. Both the owner, and the other lady working there are welcoming and helpful with art projects. You can tell they truly love this space. I'm so excited that this has opened up on Park St. read more

Twirl is a magical spot! Our 4 1/2 and 3 year old daughters have been to the studio several times and always come home inspired! The physical space and the creative art projects are nuturing and inviting. Twirl is a favorite in our home! read more