Eating out with kids can be… challenging. Juggling a menu, silverware, and keeping little ones entertained isn’t always a recipe for relaxation. That’s why the trend of family-friendly dining is booming, and more and more parents are searching for restaurants with playgrounds.
These aren’t just your average fast-food joints with a slide-through. Modern restaurants with playgrounds offer a real solution: parents get to enjoy a meal (maybe even a hot one!), while the kids burn off energy in a safe and fun environment. It’s a win-win.
For families, it’s about stress-free dining and happy children. For businesses, attracting families translates to increased revenue, loyal customers, and positive buzz. But not all restaurants with playgrounds are created equal.
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of restaurants with playgrounds, from casual eateries to breweries with dedicated play areas. We’ll discuss the many benefits these establishments offer to both families and businesses. And we’ll also look at important factors to consider when choosing the perfect restaurant with a playground for your next family outing. So, ditch the dinner-time stress and get ready to discover your new favorite spot!
Types of Restaurants with Playgrounds
When you’re looking for a restaurant with a playground, you’ll find a few different varieties.
Casual Dining Restaurants
Some family-style restaurants offer dedicated play areas to keep kids happy while parents enjoy a meal. These may be indoor play areas with climbing structures or arcades, or outdoor playgrounds with slides and swings.
Other casual dining spots feature outdoor patios with playscapes. These patios may include climbing walls, sandboxes, or even splash pads, depending on the restaurant’s design and local climate.
Breweries and Pubs
More and more breweries are catering to families by adding playgrounds to their outdoor spaces. This is a great way for parents to relax with a craft beer while their kids play in a safe, supervised area.
If you’re considering a brewery with a playground, it’s a good idea to check the establishment’s policies regarding children. Some may have age restrictions or designated family areas. Consider the brewery’s noise level and overall atmosphere to make sure it’s kid-friendly.
Fast-Casual and Quick Service Restaurants
Fast-casual restaurants may have smaller play areas, such as indoor climbing structures or outdoor playhouses. These spots can be a quick and easy way for kids to burn off some energy while they wait for their food.
Fast-casual restaurants with playgrounds are super convenient for busy families. Many have drive-throughs or online ordering, so it’s easy to grab a quick meal and let the kids play.
What are the benefits of restaurants with playgrounds?
Restaurants with playgrounds can be a win-win situation for families and the restaurant owners themselves.
For Families
If you’re a parent, you already know how stressful mealtime can be with young kids. A restaurant with a playground can reduce stress and make the meal more enjoyable for everyone. When the kids have a dedicated space to play, parents can relax and enjoy their food without constant interruptions and requests. Kids are also more likely to behave well when they have a way to burn off some of their boundless energy, which makes the whole experience better for everyone at the table…and nearby tables, too!
Playgrounds give kids a place to socialize and be active. At the playground, kids have a chance to interact with other kids, develop their social skills, and get some much-needed physical activity. This can be especially helpful if your kids spend a lot of time indoors or don’t have many opportunities for outdoor play.
Restaurants with playgrounds tend to be more relaxed and family-friendly. These restaurants cultivate a welcoming atmosphere that puts families at ease, which contributes to a positive dining experience and encourages families to come back again and again.
For Restaurants
Restaurants with playgrounds tend to attract more customers and, as a result, generate more revenue. Families often pick these restaurants because they offer a convenient and fun experience for both kids and adults.
Happy customers are more likely to recommend the restaurant to others, generating positive word-of-mouth marketing. Providing a great experience also builds customer loyalty and turns first-time visitors into repeat customers.
A playground can set a restaurant apart from competitors and give it a unique selling point, especially in areas with a lot of families or not many family-friendly dining options.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Restaurant with a Playground
Finding a restaurant with a playground can be a sanity-saver for parents. But before you let your kids loose, here are some things to think about.
Safety and Supervision
First and foremost, take a look at the playground itself. Is it well-maintained? Does the equipment seem age-appropriate? Soft surfaces under the equipment are a must. Keep an eye out for hazards like sharp edges, loose parts, or even standing water. You’ll also want to consider:
- Visibility: Can you easily see the playground from the restaurant seating? Being able to keep an eye on your kids while you eat is key.
- Proximity: Are the tables close to the play area? The closer you are, the easier it is to supervise.
- Staff supervision: Does the restaurant have staff monitoring the play area? Are there separate areas for different age groups? This can be a huge plus for safety.
Cleanliness and Hygiene
Germs are a fact of life, especially where kids are concerned. Before your children start playing, check the playground and surrounding areas for cleanliness. Look for signs of regular cleaning, like sanitized surfaces and well-maintained equipment. Also, are there hand sanitizing stations nearby? Encourage your kids to use them before and after they play.
Accessibility and Amenities
Think about your family’s specific needs. Is the restaurant accessible for strollers and wheelchairs? Are there ramps, wide doorways, and accessible restrooms? And of course, does the restaurant have a kid-friendly menu with high chairs available? Clean and well-maintained restroom facilities with changing tables are also a must, especially if you have younger children in tow.
Spotlight on Restaurants with Playgrounds in Austin
Looking for a place where the kids can burn off some energy while you enjoy a meal or a drink? Austin’s got you covered. Here are some top picks, broken down by area:
Central Austin
- Whole Foods (Downtown): Believe it or not, the downtown Whole Foods Market has a rooftop playground! It’s recently been replaced, so it’s in great shape. Plus, there are plenty of shaded tables where you can keep an eye on the kids while you eat.
- El Mercado: This Austin institution is known for its family-friendly vibe and, yes, a playground! Perfect for a casual Tex-Mex meal where everyone can have a good time.
- Camp Out: This spot offers a unique camping-themed experience, complete with a play area. It’s a fun and quirky place to grab a bite and let the kids explore.
- Casa de Luz: If you’re looking for healthy options, Casa de Luz is a great choice. They also have an outdoor play space where kids can run around.
South Austin (and Suburbs)
- Dear Austin: This is a family-friendly place with a playscape, so you can sip your iced tea in peace.
- Moontower Saloon: This is a great outdoor venue with a playground, live music, and food trucks galore!
Northwest Austin
- Ski Shores: What’s better than a playground? A playground and a lake! Ski Shores offers both, along with delicious food and plenty of water activities.
- Rudy’s 620: Get your BBQ fix while the kids play! Rudy’s is a casual spot with a playground to keep the little ones entertained.
Northern Suburbs
- Kerbey Lane Cafe: With multiple locations, Kerbey Lane is a reliable choice for kid-friendly menus. Plus, some locations have play areas! Check your local Kerbey Lane to see if they have a playground.
- Salt Lick BBQ (Round Rock): The original Salt Lick is legendary, but the Round Rock location offers a huge outdoor space with a playground. Perfect for a family outing!
- The Good Lot: This outdoor space is designed for families, with a playground and regular family-friendly events. It’s a great spot to relax and let the kids play.
Austin Area Breweries With Playgrounds
For the grown-ups who enjoy a craft brew, here are a few breweries that also cater to families:
- Lazarus Brewing (Airport Blvd.): This brewery has a playground, making it a great option for a casual afternoon with the family.
- Jester King Brewery: Jester King is known for its large outdoor area and playground, where kids can run wild while you sample some unique beers.
- Vista Brewing: Vista Brewing offers a playground and hosts family-friendly events, making it a popular spot for parents.
Closing Thoughts
Restaurants with playgrounds are a great idea for families and for the restaurants themselves. Parents can relax and enjoy a meal while the kids burn off some energy. Restaurants that offer playgrounds tend to attract more customers and get positive reviews.
When choosing a restaurant with a playground, it’s important to look at a few things. First, is the playground safe, clean, and accessible? Look for soft surfaces under the equipment and make sure the equipment is right for your child’s age. The restaurant should keep the playground well-maintained.
Also, think about whether the restaurant has kid-friendly food, high chairs, and accessible restrooms. These things can make a big difference in your family’s dining experience.
By choosing local restaurants with playgrounds, you’re helping to make your community more welcoming to families. You’re also encouraging other restaurants to consider adding playgrounds, which means more options for dining out with kids!