Have you heard about the two newest play places to hit the scene in Palatine? Sure, Odyssey Play Place and Kids Kustom Parties offer fun with open play time, but when it comes to celebrating a birthday, they go all out and make it extra special!
Although they are located down the street from each other, each play place is unique in their own way–especially when it comes to celebrating your youngins’ birthday.
Kids Kustom Parties
295 N. Northwest Hwy, Palatine
Newly opened in July, the 3,000 square facility offers preschool playtime from 9 a.m. to noon, Monday through Thursday. Kids can roll down a mini-roller coaster or chug around a small play train or jump in a trampoline. Tons of toys are available for your choosing–princess toys, vanities, a play kitchen, a baby doll area, blocks and more. It’s a great for your active child to burn some energy.
Best for: Kids ages 2-12
What they offer: Staying true to their name, Kids Kustom Parties really does customize your experience and birthday kids are treated like the VIP’s they are. With 18 themes to choose from you’re bound to find the perfect one. If not, run it by the owner, Dan. He and his team are very flexible and will try their best to accommodate you.
Either way, the entire experience is something special. “[We] are there to put a smile on kids’ faces,” said Dan. A few of the party amenities include food, themed party ware, themed party cake, characters, entertainment, games, crafts and gift bags.
Most popular type of party: Their most popular parties are none other than their character theme parties. Their princess parties and superhero parties include character visits.
Unique features: A fun entertainment room with an interactive projection theater; a salon, if you’re interested in primping; costumes for guests and photography services.
Price range: Packages (Gold, Silver, Bronze) start at $349 up to $549.
Odyssey Play Place
395 W Northwest Hwy, Palatine
This whimsical play area is so adorable and magical that even parents will want to play. Opened in March, the play area features sweetly decorated centers including a dress-up area and building area. There is even a gated section for crawlers. Even though the play area is as cute as can be, the real shining factor are the people behind the scenes–husband and wife team, Lina and Jario. The super friendly and adorable owners were hardly seen behind the counters as they were off playing with their youngest guests instead.
Best for: Younger tots age range 1-6. Parents that love and appreciate DIY, but don’t have time to do it themselves.
What they offer: Birthdays are super special and Lina makes sure everything is perfect, down to the last party hat. Starting with your own private hostess and a decorated party room with kid-sized tables and chairs, to the birthday cake and clean up, they do it all. You can lounge on their super soft carpet and watch the kids have the time of their lives.
Families are welcome to bring in their food of choice, as long as it’s peanut free. Photography and videography is also offered through Imagination to Capture. They also partner with Imagination Princess Parties if you’re interested in having your favorite princess or superhero visit.
Most popular type of party: Odyssey Play Place specializes in first birthdays. From a decorated highchair with a smash cake and monthly photos hanging on the walls, to playing unique games such as “Doljabi,” a Korean first birthday game where the child “chooses their future” by crawling to a different items (a paint brush = an artist, noodles = a long life, money = wealth).
Unique features: You won’t find cookie cutter invitations here; every party is different. Right down to handmade touches, it’s apparent how much love and passion is put into each detail. Past guests have claimed that it’s “Pinterest come to life.”
Price range: Packages range from $200-$600