Cabin fever relievers (for kids!)

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Local play places feature energy-burners like jump houses and jungle gyms as well as make-believe play prompts like kid-sized kitchens, markets and more. Pictured here is Little Buffalo, located in North Buffalo.

By Christopher Schobert

Sick of the cold yet? While playing in the snow is always a winner for cooped-up kids, they do have to come indoors and warm up eventually. Perhaps that means it is time to head to one of the area’s many play places.

We scouted out some indoor escapes that offer drop-in hours or open play, providing the preschool and elementary school set a change of scenery and a chance to get the zoomies out during winter and beyond. When you are ready to move indoors and keep everyone moving, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Here is a rundown of some spots to consider, all recommended by Western New York parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and friends.

Friendship Fortress

1590 Hopkins Road #100, Williamsville

While Friendship Fortress hosts parties and offers classes, visitors can walk in and play any time, without a reservation.

A parent’s opinion: “I thought my kids would age out of having fun there, but at age 7 they can still spend a couple hours exploring. It has a cafe, and the layout makes it easy to know where your kids are at all times.”

Friendship Village Play Cafe

5470 Camp Road, Hamburg

This unique spot is a spacious, “Maine-themed wonderland” with appeal for all ages.

Gather & Grow Playspace

908 Niagara Falls Blvd., North Tonawanda

Located on the second floor of the Wurlitzer Building, Gather & Grow looks like an ultra chill place. Open play time includes scheduled story time and an activity.

Little Buffalo

633 Hertel Ave., Buffalo

Described as a “boutique indoor playspace for kids,” Little Buffalo is small and intimate, and geared for children ages 6 and younger. Only 12 kids are allowed per session.

A grandparent’s opinion: “The play spaces are clean, and materials are kept organized and in good shape. They limit the amount of children each day so it’s not overcrowded.”

Play University

6929 Williams Road, Niagara Falls

An immersive indoor park that features uniquely themed playrooms, including performance art, board games, crafting, pretend play and more.

Sensational Fun

2881 Southwestern Blvd., Orchard Park

Geared toward children with special needs, Sensational Fun is small but filled with things to do. There is also a small outdoor area for use when the weather cooperates.

A parent’s opinion: “They understand all kids and love them for who they are.”