Go for a play at Chipmunks Playland and Cafe in Belmont. The old Belmont Bowling Club site was fully repurposed and refurbished in July 2023 as a children’s playland and cafe that stretches over two levels. And, with unlimited play, kids aged under 11 can run wild and have the greatest indoor adventure while parents can relax knowing the kids are contained and entertained.
Chipmunks Playland & Cafe is open 7 days a week. I took my kids, aged 6 and 8, for a play in the school holidays and we all gave it a huge thumbs up. The kids played for 3 hours and would have happily stayed longer if we’d had the time.
If you’re not a local, the building can be a little hard to find. It’s tucked in behind the shops on the Pacific Highway, with car park access from High Street.
If you’re coming from the North, turn right off the Pacific Highway onto Macquarie Street and, if you’re coming from the south, turn left off the Pacific Highway onto Victoria Street. The carpark is huge so there should be no trouble finding a park.
One of the best things about Chipmunks is that the entry fee includes single-use access all day long on the day of entry, with tickets only expiring when you leave the facility. So the kids can, literally, play all day!
There is no charge for parents/carers and 0-12 month olds are free, making Chipmunks an excellent venue for new parents to meet up.
Dedicated multiple age zones means that play is safer for kids of all ages. There are three separate play zones; Baby Zone for 0-2 year olds, Toddler Zone for Under 5’s who are a little more independent and a Main Zone for the bigger kids aged 5-11.
The Baby Zone is fenced and the ground is foam mats. It has a ball pit, soft ride on toys and sensory/puzzle walls. There’s also a fun little play house with soft ‘bricks’ so little ones can build walls and knock them over again and again. Being bright and colourful, this area is a happy and fun space and, like all the other areas, is underwater themed. Babies will love it!
The Under 5’s Zone is also fully fenced. It’s for babies and toddlers who are a little more independent in their play. Little ones can climb on the play tower and slide back down on the slide. There’s spinning ‘teacup’ style soft play toys to encourage interactive play. It’s also completely foam-floored.
For kids aged 5-11 years the adventure starts in the huge ball pit. With vaccuums, air-vents and a huge interactive screen, there are many different ways to play and have fun with the balls. It’s a great space for cooperative play and my kids soon made new friends, making up games and different ways to interact and play with the balls.
If the kids can drag themselves out of the ball pit, there is so much fun to be had on the multi-story playground. Rope nets, bridges, tunnels, slides and more will have them burning energy for hours. The playground is huge and, although the venue was busy on the day we visited, there was plenty of space for all the kids to have a great time.
Adults aren’t allowed in the playground (with the exception of rescuing a lost or stuck child). The playground spans both levels with access from both the top and bottom level.
Charlie’s Cafe serves up an amazing array of food, drinks and coffee. Their dedicated kids menu has heaps of kid-friendly options including a nugget meal, a mini-pizza meal, a sandwich and fruit meal and more. Outside food is not allowed to be brought in, but there is an option for all ages, including yoghurt and squeeze pouches for babies.
There’s plenty of food options to keep adults satisfied including wraps, salads, burgers and pizzas. We ordered a pizza and a chicken wrap and they were both fresh and delicious. Hot food is collected from the upstairs level and there are lots of tables on both levels.
Situated overlooking Lake Macquarie, the views from upstairs are amazing. Access to the upstairs level by stairs or lift (Kids can go through the playground).
There are toilet facilities located on both levels, including disabled access and baby change tables.
The upstairs level also houses 2 party rooms. Chipmunks offers three all-inclusive party options with options for add-ons. There are 7 themes to choose from including Jungle, Mermaid and Outer Space.
For larger parties, functions, sports groups and school events they offer private venue hire, both catered or self-catered.
During the school holidays Chipmunks run special events and theme days including dress-up, face painting and visits from Charlie Chipmunk. Visit their Facebook page to keep up to date with what’s happening.
Remember to bring socks as Chipmunks have a No Socks, No Play policy.
We will definitely be back to Chipmunks Playland & Cafe. It’s great value fun for the kids and an excellent way for them to burn some energy, especially on a cold or rainy day. The food was delicious, with lots of food and drink options and all the staff we encountered were friendly and helpful.
Good to know:
Address: 1 High Street, Belmont
Phone: (02) 4945 2667
Website: Chipmunks Playland & Cafe
Bring: Socks (or purchase from reception for $3 per pair)
Cost: Adults and under 1 year: FREE, 1-2 years $16.90, 3-11 years $19.90, School day special (excludes public and school holidays) $16.90
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 9-5pm, Sunday 10-4pm (refer to website for public holiday hours)
Disclosure: Newy with Kids received complimentary admission to Chipmunks Playland & Cafe in July 2023 for review purposes. However, all opinions are our own.
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