Starting your own business is an exciting venture, and when that business is an indoor playground or family entertainment center, it becomes even more rewarding. However, as with any business, the key to long-term success is ensuring a steady flow of visitors. So, how do you increase traffic to your indoor playground and keep families coming back? Attracting new customers and retaining loyal ones requires a combination of creative strategies and effective marketing tactics. For more insights into marketing strategies for family entertainment, visit Facebook for Business.
Attracting new visitors while encouraging repeat customers is the ultimate growth formula. Below are 17 actionable and proven strategies to help you increase traffic to your indoor playground—and turn it into the go-to fun destination in your community.
1. Host Special Events That Families Can’t Resist
Create themed events such as:
- Halloween trick-or-treat parties
- Christmas family fun nights
- Back-to-school bashes
These events generate excitement, attract new customers, and keep loyal guests coming back for more.
2. Launch a Loyalty Program
Encourage repeat visits with:
- Point-based systems to earn free snacks or entry
- Stamp cards (e.g., “Buy 5 visits, get 1 free”)
- Digital rewards via mobile apps
Loyalty programs are an effective tool to turn occasional visitors into regulars.
3. Promote Discount Days During Off-Peak Hours
Use pricing strategies to fill empty time slots, especially weekday mornings. Offer:
- “Toddler Tuesdays” with reduced entry fees
- Group discounts for moms’ meetups
- Sibling packages for families with multiple kids
4. Offer Special Discounts to Schools and Churches to Increase Foot Traffic
Design all-in-one birthday solutions with:
- Decorations
- Food and cake
- Entertainment and party hosts
Make it easy for parents and you’ll boost bookings and traffic effortlessly.
5. Organize Seasonal Day Camps
Run themed day camps during:
- Summer break
- Winter holidays
- Spring festivals
Provide structured activities, meals, and supervised care to appeal to working parents.
6. Partner With Local Schools and Churches
Offer:
- Special group rates
- Fundraising collaboration (share a % of sales)
- Field trip or graduation packages
These partnerships help spread awareness while giving back to the community.
7. Use Tickets & Redemption Prizes
Have an arcade or play zone? Gamify the experience:
- Reward kids with tickets or tokens
- Let them redeem for exciting prizes
This encourages frequent visits as kids work toward earning their favorite reward.
8. Get Media Exposure
Generate buzz by:
- Hosting a grand opening or reopening event
- Inviting local newspapers or TV stations
- Running community contests with fun prizes
A little media attention can go a long way in attracting new guests.
9. Create Unique Experiences
Go beyond basic play by offering:
- Circus-themed weekends with clowns and jugglers
- Animal petting zoos in your parking lot
- Indoor obstacle course challenges
Unique events create word-of-mouth marketing and increase visits.
10. Provide a Top-Tier Visitor Experience
Ensure your facility includes:
- Clean, safe, and well-maintained equipment
- Fun themes and decor
- On-site café or snack options
- Free WiFi and cozy seating for parents
Remember: a great experience = great reviews = more customers.
11. Hire a Friendly & Energetic Team
Your staff should:
- Love working with kids
- Be easy to identify with uniforms
- Stay engaged and enthusiastic
Consider hiring high school or college students who bring energy and friendliness to the environment.
12. Stay Active With Marketing
Don’t let your online presence fade!
- Post regularly on Instagram and Facebook
- Run seasonal Google Ads
- Keep your website updated with offers and new events
Aim to complete 2–3 marketing actions per week to maintain momentum.
13. Extend Your Business Hours
To attract more families:
- Open earlier and stay open later
- Be available on weekends and holidays
- Offer flexible hours for working parents
Convenience = increased foot traffic.
14. Give Back to the Local Community
Build brand goodwill by:
- Hosting charity events
- Offering half-price days for food bank donations
- Supporting school raffles or community fundraisers
People love supporting businesses that care about the community.
15. Refresh Your Playground Equipment
To keep your center exciting:
- Add new attractions or upgrade old ones
- Swap out arcade games periodically
- Rotate themes or play areas every season
A refreshed space draws returning visitors who want to see what’s new.
16. Ask for Reviews and Referrals
Encourage satisfied families to:
- Leave Google or Facebook reviews
- Tag your business in social media photos
- Refer friends in exchange for a free pass
Positive online reviews are crucial for local SEO rankings.
17. Consult a Professional for Growth Strategies
If you’re planning an expansion or new build-out, consider consulting an indoor playground specialist. The right partner can help you:
- Design efficient traffic flow
- Choose the best equipment
- Create a layout optimized for safety, fun, and profit
Final Thoughts
Increasing traffic to your indoor playground isn’t just about one big idea—it’s about consistently offering value, fun, and connection. Start small, implement a few of these ideas at a time, and soon you’ll see your foot traffic grow naturally and sustainably.
