Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Just went there for the first time this morning-Bethesda location. I didn't find it to be dirty at all. The LO had a great time without any of the paid activities and we left just as it was getting crowded. Definitely worth 6 bucks in my opinion.

Are they not charging for adults anymore? $6 for a visit is one thing, $12 is another. Thinking of taking my daughter but worried about the bottom line, especially if she starts begging for extras.

I apologize, it was actually $12 for the two of us. But even still, I think it's a pretty decent deal, especially if you don't go all the time. The priciest thing I saw on the list was painting a ceramic plate ($10), but most things seemed reasonable ($3-6 and I may have seen some things for $1). You could easily do the entire day for under $20. Plus you can pack your lunch and eat it there.

All in all I think it makes for a outing every once in a while.

Anonymous wrote:Just went there for the first time this morning-Bethesda location. I didn't find it to be dirty at all. The LO had a great time without any of the paid activities and we left just as it was getting crowded. Definitely worth 6 bucks in my opinion.

Are they not charging for adults anymore? $6 for a visit is one thing, $12 is another. Thinking of taking my daughter but worried about the bottom line, especially if she starts begging for extras.

Just went there for the first time this morning-Bethesda location. I didn't find it to be dirty at all. The LO had a great time without any of the paid activities and we left just as it was getting crowded. Definitely worth 6 bucks in my opinion.

this is the first I have heard of this...I have an almost 1 year old - would he have fun there and have things to do?

I just went to the DC one for the first time this past weekend. It wasn't my son's speed, a lot of dress up stuff, etc. But, he did enjoy himself, especially the sand boxes, the live animals, the room with the boat and train set, and, surprisingly, the tea set. I didn't find the DC location dirty; I haven't been to the original. The staff was nice. I went on Sunday and it wasn't crowded. I cannot imagine, however, going when the place is full. It would be way too crazy.

Anonymous wrote:Does anyone know if they have fixed the "ball-room" entrance? When our family went it was partially enclosed with a broken pressure fit baby gate that was down on the floor most of the time we were there. Kids were tripping over it. Seemed dangerous.

The "ball room" is now an eye doctor's office with vision related toys, books, etc as well as some building toys. And the baby area is now a model Dominos pizza area where kids can use fabric cutouts to make pizza. I think the science area is now a dentist office. They may have changed more since the last time we went - it's been several months.

They've changed quite a few things around and repainted. I've never found it dirty (except for typical mess caused by kids and their parents who don't clean up after them). Never was preached at. We went at times when they were less crowded, but the few times they were crowded we just rolled with it. Not a big deal, imo. Doing the free stuff is plenty to keep them entertained - but adding a buck or two to make something in the bakery is fun for an occasional treat. Story time was fun, and when Gina realized I was interpreting for the kids while they sat on my lap she then involved them and asked me to show her some signs so she could teach the other kids and use them. I thought that was cool.

Our oldest had a pee accident on the floor and our youngest cried. We weren't asked to leave or anything else outrageous - they were actually very understanding and accommodating.

I've noticed sometimes they have less staff then others. Sometimes there's plenty, sometimes there is not enough. That and the accessibility/space issue. Other then that - I think it's a fun place.

Anonymous wrote:
Those of you complaining are rich and spoiled and should think of others just for a minute"

I'm not rich and the place IS dirty, overcrowded and toys broken. There are other places to take our kids for the same money or free (playground anyone?). At least they aren't charging for infants anymore.