Has cabin fever set in yet? Are you longing for the days when the kids can play outside, wear themselves out and sleep soundly? Me too. And winter hasn’t even really started yet. But, thankfully there is an alternative way to keep your little ones engaged, while also encouraging imaginative and interactive play — a hidden gem in Northern Kentucky called Totter’s Otterville.
If you haven’t visited this play destination located in Covington, right off of 275, then you need to seek it out on a cold winter day. It is somewhat hidden behind the old Johnny’s Toys, but once you’ve found it, you’ll be so glad you did. Totter’s Otterville is set up in sections, each one having a theme to encourage creativity and cooperative play. It’s geared toward children through age ten and has a little something for everyone.
A few of the areas include train tables, a large water table, an indoor playground and ball pit, an art center and a construction zone. There are also little rooms for boys and girls to perform their own puppet shows and pretend to be a veterinarian. On our recent visit, my two-year-old daughter loved the ballet area and my three-year-old son loved working the conveyor belt with a new friend. The layout is so convenient for parents as it is small enough that you can pretty much see across the entire space and also secure so children can’t stray too far.
While you are not allowed to bring in outside food (it is a peanut-free zone!), they offer a wide variety of food choices and a large area with tables, chairs and high chairs. We’ve always found the staff to be friendly, the toys and activities to be clean and the pricing very reasonable. I’ve heard they host wonderful birthday parties as well!
Totter’s Otterville is one of those places that when you visit, you wonder why you don’t stop by more often. Even if you’re not in Northern Kentucky, it is definitely worth the trip, especially if you have toddlers. My children gravitate toward a different section each time, as their interests change, and it’s so fun to see them grow in creativity and even in social skills. When you’re looking for a reason to get out of the house this winter, head to Totter’s Otterville for some playful fun!
Totter’s Otterville is located at 4314 Boron Dr., Covington, KY 41015. Hours and pricing can be found on their website here.
About Andrea:
A native Cincinnatian, Andrea has experienced life in all four corners of this city. After growing up on the west side, she headed north to attend Miami University, then moved east to Hyde Park and now lives in Northern Kentucky with her family.
When she’s not playing trains and doing the “hot dog dance” as a stay-at-home mom to her two toddlers, Andrea is busy writing for Cincinnati publications and brainstorming ideas for her next children’s book! With a newfound passion for fitness and overall health, she spends a lot of time at her family gym and loves to play outside.
Andrea worked in education for several years and has a special love for children’s literature. She loves showing her children all our city has to offer and enjoys sharing her finds with other parents. Her favorite spots include the Cincinnati Zoo (although she steers clear of the bird house), her local library and any playground.
