A First Look at Outer Space Seattle

Back view of the play structure at Outer Space Seattle.

We spent the evening on Alki last night and had so. much. fun! I know you can’t WAIT to attend the grand opening of our newest indoor play space. As a mom of a kid who’s wired a little differently myself, the experience left us feeling accepted and exercised too.

A First Look

First look, the space is tall with parental seating scattered throughout and cubbies and bathrooms easily accessible. The front door area is gated, so there’s no risk of small escapees. While there is plenty of room to play (a fact my sore muscles can attest to) you’ll notice that the overall footprint is smaller than some of the other play structures like Playdate SEA or Funtastic Playtorium.

Socks and a waiver are required to play. The structure is designed for kids from 1 to 12 and is strong enough to support parents. Unlike the other indoor play platforms I’ve been too, the colored panels are a hard plastic, not a soft (and questionably sanitary) foam. The walls are a hard mesh. Everything feels incredibly sturdy.

The floors each have different playthings and fun obstacles like vertical and horizontal rollers, viewing bubbles, and spinners.

If your kid demands that you play too, you’ll find the climb up and down doable but pretty tight. Look for tumbling feet coming right at you! Some parent’s found the rocket side a little tighter crawl, but my non-existent abs made it up and down both sides without much trouble.

In addition to watching for the raining feet, I did also have to closely monitor my own limbs to avoid bopping littles in the face in more crowded locations.

Once you get up top, you’ll find that the room really spreads out with a spacious “penthouse” and full standing room at the balance bridge. There’s also quite a great view out the windows pointing towards Alki.

Accessibility

Sensory support backpacks near the cubbies.

A standout characteristic of this facility is its commitment to inclusivity. According to the owner, it’s “a space-themed indoor play space for kids of all abilities.” Unique in its commitment to the idea that play is for all children, the play space boasts supportive gear for children who can’t handle strong lights and noises. There is a sensory room in the back that my son loved. While not bothered by the excitement himself, he stopped about four times to recharge with fun space-themed toys and books. In here the lights are dimmed and there are soothing colors instead.

For those with mobility issues, the sensory room is easily accessible and there are toys and fun on the lower levels of the play structure. The slide is accessible on just the second level — about standing height for the average adult.

Know Before You Go

This space is new. Some things are still being added or are on the way. The experience is still worth it, but it will also get better. That said, I think I can help with a few pro tips so far:

Water is free via drinking fountain. You will not dehydrate, but LaCroix and Honest Juice are reasonably priced onsite too.
Snacks are available — and I’d look for this menu to expand over time. If you need some additional eats, the Alki Beach strip is full of options.
There IS additional parking available. Ask about this at the front desk.
Alcohol — stay tuned for updates on their page. But don’t forget the location between Cactus and Locust Cider!
The visibility is great if you can convince your child to play without you — you won’t lose track of them as happens in some of the larger play locations.
The staff understands kids who are a little different, working graciously with me to communicate “walking feet” with a child with communication issues.
Bathrooms - yes, onsite. Clean and spacious.
Parent athletes - some spots can be a little tight, or perhaps my dimensions are a bit non-squeeze friendly? Watch your fit and flexibility, as well as your knees.

Try it yourself — it’s outta this world!