I had always heard there was a free place to play there but I was not expecting this. The Commons climbing structure was huge. There were also slides, tunnels and lots of area to run around and play. My kids, ages 7,5 and 3, loved it. My older kids had no problem climbing all the way to the top and there was plenty for my less adventurous 3 year old to do.
Right across the street is kidscommons, a children's museum. It is $7 per person for ages 18 and over, kids and adults, but well worth it. The climbing wall is an additional $3. You can get a yearly family pass for $99 or a 10 visit pass for $50. Between the huge toilet, climbing wall, Japan house, bubble room, pretend grocery, play house, and art area my kids never stopped. It is just the perfect size. It's not so big you feel overwhelmed but it has plenty of things to do. One of my favorite things about kidscommons is how everything feels very integrated for different ages. My son found things to do for his age not far from things my 3 year old could do. It's also very open so I could keep my eye on my kiddos at the same time fairly easily. They also had free lockers right by the entrance, which I love.
There are no restaurants in the children's museum. There are many close by and they were more than happy to stamp our hands so we can leave and come back. Right on the same block as The Commons and kidscommmons are a pizza place and a really cool old fashioned ice cream parlor and restaurant called Zaharakos. Zaharakos has been there since 1900. They had a museum of sorts with old fountains, old music players and really cool decor. The food and ice cream are very reasonably priced. See the menu HERE. The Commons and Kids Commons are only about 5 minutes from the interstate and there are many more food options there.
We had a great time, it really is a perfect way to spend a day.
kidscommons is located at: 309 Washington St, Columbus, IN (812) 378-3046
