When it comes to taking the kids places, nothing is better than a lack of admission, am I right, parents? Don’t get me wrong, I don’t mind paying admission to see amazing things, but it can add up so ridiculously fast with three kids that it often prevents us from doing all.the.things.
A recent FREE adventure we enjoyed was to the playscape at the 242 Community Center in Ann Arbor. This place was SO fun for kids that love to run, climb, and be crazy. My kids have been begging to visit again!
If you aren’t familiar, 2|42 is a church with two locations — one in Brighton {the link takes you to a post about their amazing community center we also love}, and one in Ann Arbor.
Please don’t let the word “church” deter you if you are a non-believer. This is a place for all, and I promise you won’t get bombarded with pamphlets or people hounding you to join the congregation.
It’s simply a community center where all walks of life can gather. Isn’t that beautiful? I love that these free community centers bring people together, especially parents and grandparents that may feel isolated during the day with only little people to talk to.
What To Expect At The 242 Community Center in Ann Arbor
The playscape inside the Ann Arbor community center definitely has enough to keep little ones occupied for a chunk of time, especially on the cold or rainy days.
My sensory seeking kiddos especially loved doing flips into the foam pit, and all the options for climbing on the structures.
The slides were pretty huge, which was awesome for the older kids, but there also was a cute toddler area. I loved the hill addition — it really made it a unique play space for kids that is wonderful for motor development!
In the upper level, there even was a musical game, which was fun to play and required teamwork from my crew.
On the main level, there is also a large playing field, which is fun for playing catch, kicking a ball, or just running around.
If the kids get hungry, you may bring in food to eat, but there also is a cafe on the premises with options such as soups, sandwiches, chips, desserts, and coffee. I always try to get a little something as a thank you to 242 for opening their doors for FREE to families. That’s what being a good neighbor is all about!
This location also has rooms to rent for birthday parties and lots of special events, including movies for free on Mondays. Check their Facebook page events for upcoming fun.
Overall, I highly recommend checking out this spot out for an inexpensive day of fun with the kids.
TIP: A few nearby places we love: Goldfish Swim School – Ann Arbor {if you aren’t a member, they have family swim times that are open to the public}, County Farm Park and Gallup Park. There’s more A2 fun at this list, too!
Hours & Location
Always check the Facebook page for hours before visiting, and be cautious of church services as those may not be the best times to visit.
Community Center Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Sunday: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The 2|42 Community Center is located at 648 S. Wagner Rd., Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Have fun if you visit!
[…] Community Centers. The 2|42 community centers in both Ann Arbor and Brighton are absolutely FREE to visit, and there is absolutely no obligation to attend church […]