For parents who have the option to work remotely, whether full-time or on occasion, the flexibility can be a godsend.
Setting up a work space at home is convenient, comfortable, and for many parents means not having to shell out the big bucks for a sitter or daycare. But we also know that working from home all day can make anyone go a little crazy – especially if you’ve got a little one to keep an eye on.
For those days when you have work to get done and a child(ren) to entertain, pack up your laptop and head to any of these places around Indianapolis!
Where to Work Remotely with Kids in Indianapolis
Carter’s Play Place
17219 Foundation Pkwy #100, Westfield
(317) 763-1568
This spot prides itself on being a truly inclusive place for all kids who want to play. During open play hours at Carter’s Play Place, let your kids loose in the big play room while you enjoy free wifi, couches and chairs for working. Admission allows you to leave and then come back later should you need to!
The Little Village Playroom
9850 N Michigan Rd, Carmel
(317) 936-6191
The Little Village Playroom was designed with the busy parent in mind. For adults, it offers free Wi-Fi, free coffee, tables and chairs, plenty of outlets, and a take one/leave one adult library. For kids, there are two playhouses, a reading area, puppet theater, train table, and more. Drop in anytime Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 4:00pm. Read more and find daily admission rates here.
IKEA
11400 IKEA Way, Fishers
(888) 888-4532
IKEA has a supervised play area called Småland near the front entrance where you can drop off your kids for one hour (up to two hours for IKEA members) for free. Your kids have to be within a certain height range to enter, so check the requirements here. This space allows you to shop in peace or utilize the free WiFi and tables to get a little work done. Coffee is free for members and low-cost for nonmembers, and kids eat free on Tuesdays!
Kid City
100 Surina Way, Greenwood
(317) 881-4545
This two-story space is a year-round indoor play zone for children in Greenwood’s Community Center, with STEAM-focused activity centers that incorporate educational themes, art, science and music. Parents can enjoy free wifi, as well as microwave and refrigerator use (bring lunch!). Don’t let the two stories deter you – you can see your kids from practically anywhere in there!
The Treehouse at Plainfield Community Church
800 Dan Jones Road, Plainfield
(317) 839-2384
Head to the Treehouse indoor playground in Plainfield Christian Church’s Children’s Center on Tuesdays and Thursdays to enjoy free admission, free wifi, free coffee, and sometimes free snacks. Your kids will love the playground and we think you’ll love the coffee!
The Park at Traders Point Northwest
6590 S. Indianapolis Road, Whitestown
(317) 769-5557
With a variety of fun areas and indoor activities for kids of all ages, needs, and abilities, the Park offers something for every child. Note that it can get crowded and seating is limited, so get there early! Admission is free.
Nine Lives Cat Café
1315 Shelby Street Suite 1, Indianapolis
(317) 602-5287
You’d probably spend all your time supervising a really young kid, so we recommend this spot for older kids who are a little more self-sufficient. Let them hang out and play with the cats while you enjoy coffee, pastries, and free WiFi. The cats are adoptable and your child may or may not beg to take one home. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.
SkyZone
Multiple Indy locations. Find your nearest one here.
For parents, SkyZone has free wifi and tables for setting up shop. And for kids, there’s free climbing, parkour blocks, a ninja warrior course, and much more. The Fishers location has an upper level with seating where you can see pretty much everything from above!
Public Libraries
We personally think libraries are the best. With free WiFi, ample tables and chairs, books, computers, and typically some sort of kids activity area, your local library is a great free option for getting out of the house and keeping your kids entertained. Indianapolis and its surrounding areas have many to choose from, and we encourage you to explore and find your favorite. Here are a couple of ours with great kid play areas and programming:
- Central Library, Indianapolis
- Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library, Zionsville
- Plainfield-Guildford Township Public Library, Plainfield
- Hamilton East Public Library, Noblesville and Fishers
- Hancock County Public Library, Greenfield
- Greenwood Public Library, Greenwood
Monon Community Center
1235 Central Park Drive East, Carmel
(317) 848-7275
A membership at the Monon Community Center grants you access to the KidZone, an indoor playground and area for kids 6 months – 12 years old. The KidZone features a creative arts area, a reading space with many books, a treehouse playground, and computers for interactive learning. Whether you need to squeeze in a midday workout or utilize the center’s wifi and get some work done, you can let the kids play and have peace of mind just a few feet away.
Did we leave off your favorite spot to work remotely with kids in tow? Let us know! [email protected]
