With all the rain we get around Metro Vancouver, it’s nice to know there are a few malls with free indoor play areas. You can let the kids burn off some energy, then grab food or get a bit of shopping done at the same time.
The best part? You don’t have to pay admission just to let them play.
Here are some Metro Vancouver malls with free indoor play areas worth knowing about.
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The City of Lougheed – Burnaby
The City of Lougheed is probably one of the better options if you’re looking for more than a tiny toddler corner.
The mall has an indoor play area on the Lower Level, West Side, designed for children ages 5 to 12. There’s also a separate Family Lounge upstairs with a soft toddler play area, seating and a family washroom — especially handy if you have younger children.
It’s a nice rainy-day option because you can grab something to eat, walk around the mall and give the kids some time to play without having to pay for a separate indoor playground.
Age: Toddler area + main play area for ages 5–12
Location: 9855 Austin Avenue, Burnaby
Coquitlam Centre – Coquitlam
If you have a toddler or preschooler, this is one to keep on your list.
Coquitlam Centre has a dedicated Toddler Play Area on Level 1 near Carter’s/OshKosh and Bentley. It has a two-level maze, slide and soft foam rollers, so there’s actually quite a bit for little ones to explore.
The playground is designed specifically for children under 42 inches tall or ages 4 and under, making it a great option for younger children who might find some of the bigger indoor playgrounds overwhelming.
There’s also a nursing room nearby, which is especially convenient if you’re visiting with a baby or younger child.
Socks are required and children need to be supervised.
Age:4 and under
Location: 2929 Barnet Highway, Coquitlam
Capilano Mall – North Vancouver
Capilano Mall has its own children’s play area called Cool Catz Kidz Zone.
Located in the mall’s North Wing, the play area is designed for children ages 2 to 6 and gives families somewhere to stop and play in between shopping. Parents need to stay and supervise while children are using the space.
Just a little heads-up, Capilano Mall also has Go Bananas, which is a separate paid indoor playground. If you’re looking for the free option, head to Cool Catz Kidz Zone instead.
Age: 2–6
Location: 935 Marine Drive, North Vancouver
Central City Shopping Centre – Surrey
Central City also has a children’s play area called Play Central, located upstairs near Winners.
The mall currently lists Play Central as one of its guest services, making this another easy option if you’re already shopping or looking for somewhere indoors on a rainy day.
It’s also right by Surrey Central SkyTrain Station, so you don’t necessarily need to drive to get there.
Age: Best for younger children
Location: 10153 King George Boulevard, Surrey
Guildford Town Centre – Surrey
Another Surrey option is Guildford Town Centre.
The mall has its Play Park on the lower level near Entrance 6. It’s an easy stop if you’re spending the day at Guildford since there are plenty of places to grab food nearby and lots of shopping under the same roof.
Age: Best for younger children
Location: 10355 152 Street, Surrey
Tsawwassen Mills Play Area – Delta
Tsawwassen Mills has a free indoor play area near the TM Wonder food court, with soft ocean-themed features where younger children can climb and burn off some energy. It’s a handy stop on colder or rainy days, just note that FlyO’Land is a separate paid playground.
Location: Tsawwassen Mills, 5000 Canoe Pass Way, Tsawwassen
Price: Free
Best for: Younger children / toddlers
An Easy Free Activity for Any Day
Now that the weather is getting colder and rainier, a day at the mall can be an easy win. These free indoor play areas give kids somewhere to burn off some energy without spending extra, and you can grab lunch, run errands or do a little shopping at the same time.
Just keep in mind that playground hours and rules can change, so check the mall website or Guest Services before you go.
