The kids and I were offered tickets here as a gift--we'd been meaning to get out this way, so it…read morewas a much anticipated visit and did not disappoint.
We passed it at first; although right off of Duquesne with a streetside sign, Ocean Adventures is in a very unassuming warehouse-esque metal building. That almost sets you up for more of a pleasant surprise when you walk inside after parking in the gravel lot behind the building (technically the front).
When you walk in there are cubbies and coat hooks to deposit your things. The front desk is also right there, so not a lot of concern about things being stolen.
Everyone gets a wrist band as you check in, and for the more uncooperative kiddos (one of mine) an ID sticker on their back.
I didn't know this when I got there, but tickets are typically purchased in advance online as they only sell 40 tickets per session to keep it enjoyable for everyone--a policy I personally really appreciate, especially with little kids. And the unbelievable part: the tickets are only $5 T-Th and $6 F-Su. (If an adult wants to play with their kiddo, they also need a ticket, but for so little that's not a big deal for us, especially compared to prices at other kids facilities in SWMO/NWA).
The facility itself: amazing. Imagine the McDonalds playset from your childhood, but without the dirty sock smell, multiple stories, more slides and a bigger ball pit. It's clean and actually smells GOOD...you can go on their website and watch/read about the cleaning routine. It's pretty impressive and the condition of the facility reflects that.
I also noticed the staff making rounds every so often around the play equipment, which I also appreciated. The bulk of the play equipment is made of various nets and ropes/clear plastic windows, so your kids are almost always visible, but it's nice to see that the staff are kind of monitoring to make sure everything is in order.
We really loved our visit here, our 2 hours flew by and as the kids get a little older this would be a great place to bring a book and relax at a table while they play...it's one of the few places around that feels safe enough for my comfort and entertaining enough for theirs. Until then, though, I am enjoying my excuse to "have to" play in a giant ball pit.