Nick’s Magnificent Luxury Indoor Playground Opens in Issaquah

Nick’s Magnificent lives up to its name — it is truly magnificent! Nick Phillips, the dreamer behind the new luxury indoor playground, created this space after his own parenting experiences with five children. After years of unpleasant and overstimulating birthday parties with his kids, he decided to make a space that both kids and adults would enjoy.

Phillips wanted to offer a different kind of play experience: one without screens, flashing lights, loud noises, flashy machines, overpriced junk food, prize redemption programs that leave kids disappointed, and uncomfortable yet sparse seating for parents.

Instead, your kids will delight in using their imaginations in the playground’s Tiny Town, burn energy in the large play structures, and challenge their coordination skills by using the custom-designed working cranes. There aren’t any inherent competitive opportunities — the design fosters cooperative and imaginative play, something all of our kids need more of in our busy world.

The art deco design style of Nick’s Magnificent is easy on the eyes and gives a more luxurious feel than your typical play place. Parents can sit back and enjoy conversing with other adults, enjoy quality food and drinks, or get some work done while using the free Wi-Fi.

Our experience in the play space

I took my three best entertainment testers (ages 4, 6 and 8) to check out the new space. We were greeted by Phillips — as a big kid himself, you will likely find him dressed in a loud suit and top hat. We were given grip socks (no nickel-and-diming here!) before stowing our shoes in the cubbies. Then my kids were off and running!

I thought my kids would instantly go to the two big playgrounds that sandwich the Tiny Town space, but instead they donned police uniforms and took turns chasing “bad guys.” They were particularly enamored with the antique typewriter within the jail. Authentic antiques are peppered throughout to fit the art deco theme. Even the exit signs are on theme.

Next, my kids explored both large double-decker playgrounds, which have climbing structures, slides, air cannons with foam balls, a fun zip line feature, and a (future) ball pit.

Parents and caregivers will appreciate that there’s seating everywhere, including on the upper levels to observe the playgrounds or have a bird’s-eye view of Tiny Town. This also allows parents to enter the playgrounds from the top, when needed, instead of having to climb through an entire jungle gym to reach a kid in need of a rescue.

Phillips’ attention to detail gives me confidence that the playground is committed to cleanliness and safety. There’s only one entrance/exit. All other doors have emergency alarms on them. Kids are not allowed to enter without an adult, and adults are not allowed to enter without a child.

Imaginative and focused play in Tiny Town

Tiny Town is a custom-built row of a police station, city jail, fire department, market and hospital, designed for kids to use their imaginations and role play. All but the market have costumes to dress the part.

Snap a mugshot photo in the city jail. Climb into the authentic vintage fire truck and flash the working lights — one of Phillips’ favorite features. Push all the buttons on the market’s antique cash register. Hobble into the hospital for an X-ray and treatment.

Three fully functional cranes were custom-built as 1930s replicas and line the edge of Tiny Town — because, as Phillips says, “What kid doesn’t love cranes?” Each crane is slightly different and provides a bit of challenge in hand-eye coordination, problem solving and controlled movements. My sons became hyper-focused on moving shipping containers to their container ships. They kept coming back to the cranes, working independently and together.

Teeny Tiny Town for younger kids

Teeny Tiny Town has its own separate and almost fully enclosed area to the right of Tiny Town, with one small entrance that makes it easy to watch for runners. This area is designed for little kids (as young as 6 months) to play safely without getting toppled by older children. Kids who are taller than the railing should not play in this area.

Some of my favorite things about this space are the large windows letting in natural light and the playful art on the walls from Phillips’ children’s book. The rubber floor offers cushioning for crawlers and unsteady walkers. Kids will enjoy riding and parking the various cars in the mini replica of Tiny Town.

The custom-made airplane climber is another favorite focal point of Phillips’. Soft blocks and other age-appropriate toys are also provided in the space. Phillips plans to add small slides. Adults can sit comfortably on bench seating bordering this space. I imagine this to be a well-utilized playdate space, especially on rainy days. It’s definitely something I wish I had when I was a new mom looking for alternatives to the mall play areas.

Café menu and treats

Dining tables and a railing bar on the second level allow families to have a snack or meal in between play. The café has a full-service coffee bar for specialty drinks. Phillips is committed to providing fresh and healthier food options for families, so you won’t see your typical junk food, sugary candy or soda here. Instead, premium sparkling soda with clean ingredients is offered. Juices and milk are also available. If you need a light bite, grab-and-go snacks like applesauce pouches and charcuterie packs are stocked.

For more substantial options, Nick’s Magnificent is easing into their full menu, which highlights freshly made flatbread pizzas, salads, soups, made-to-order sandwiches and more. I’m excited for the future items, including locally made sushi and Blazing Bagels. Adults can enjoy local beers, wines, and two champagne options, including the iconic Veuve Clicquot. Cheers to quality food and drink options at a children’s play place!

Outside food and drinks are not allowed except for baby food and items necessary for children with dietary needs or allergies.

Private birthday parties

Birthday parties are expected to be offered starting in May. One large indoor playground can be closed off to the public for private parties. Birthday parties have a private bathroom, indoor playground and dining area. Any food must be purchased from Nick’s Magnificent, but outside cake can be brought in.

Plan a visit

When it was time to leave, I could only pry my kids away by promising a return visit. They could have stayed a few more hours, and I’m confident I could have caught up with a friend or gotten some work done with few interruptions from my very happily occupied kids.

Phillips hopes that Nick’s Magnificent will become a space with regulars, fostering community and allowing families to have fun together in a mutually enjoyable space. I can see this being an easy meet-up spot for families where everyone will leave happy, with the kids tired (in a good way!) from burning energy exploring all it has to offer.

Tickets can be purchased online or upon arrival. Purchasing a ticket online is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. While timed tickets ensure a steady flow of visitors, you may stay as long as you wish once you arrive for your ticket time. You can even leave and re-enter on the same day. If you plan to visit more regularly, a monthly membership might be more cost-effective.