As the fourth-largest city in Louisiana, Lafayette is about two hours west of New Orleans and features a mix of French, Indian, Spanish, and American Influences. Known as the capital of Cajun country, Lafayette is a great spot to bring your family to experience delicious food, historical sites, and excellent weather. If you’re in the area and the weather isn’t cooperating and you’re hoping to let your kids burn off some energy, you have plenty of options. Keep reading to find out more about the best indoor play places for kids near Lafayette.
Children’s Museum of Acadiana
Found on East Congress Street, the Children’s Museum of Acadiana is a hands-on museum that serves children, schools, and community organizations. Opened in 1990, the museum has exhibits for children age 2 through 12 with certain areas geared just for preschoolers. Wee Acres lets children role play and play games, while the Bubble Factory and Cafe des Enfants let kids be servers and pretend to cook for customers.
Jump!Zone
Jump!Zone, located on Ambassador Caffery Parkway, offers a variety of special events and open play times. The indoor play center encourages children under the age of 12 to play and jump. The location has eight themed giant inflatables for sliding, bounding, and climbing while younger children can enjoy a bounce house and chutes. This lets all children have a chance to play safely. They can also go through an obstacle course and use an air hockey table. Check the location’s calendar since it features special events and discounts on certain days. Remember that all jumpers must wear socks.
Lafayette Science Museum and Planetarium
Offering interactive learning that focuses on science, technology, natural history, and math, the family-friendly Lafayette Science Museum and Planetarium is located on Jefferson Street in the heart of downtown. Another hands-on museum, this museum features a variety of exhibits and installations geared toward just about any age. It also has a special activity area for toddlers. The Interactive exhibit lets you use touch screens to learn about plasma, while the virtual aquarium encourages you to tap on the glass as the animated fish react to vibrations.
The Learning Train
The Learning Train, found on Verot School Road, features a children’s play program that includes either parent and child classes or drop-off enrichment classes. These sessions allow children to develop physically, emotionally, and socially. The activities help children to improve their coordination while encouraging them to work in a group setting. Sessions are divided by age groups so that children can get the most out of the experience. During these interactive sessions, children can sing and dance as well as play instruments.
While in Lafayette, you won’t have to worry about inclement weather throwing off your outdoor plans. Instead, load the kids up and take them to one of these indoor spots. Whether you want to take them to a museum and engage in some pretend play, have them jump all their energy out of their system, or sing and dance along with other children, Lafayette has you covered.
Image via Flickr by Infrogmation of New Orleans used under CC BY 2.0
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