Toddler birthdays are special. So much changes for our babies in just one year, but something I never particularly wanted to do for my kids as toddlers was throw a big birthday party. Aside from inviting family over for cake and presents, I just wasn’t ready to mess with invitations, venues, etc. for a two-year-old who wouldn’t really care or remember it! But that doesn’t mean you can’t have a special day full of things your toddler will love.
So here are some great local and inexpensive activities for toddler birthdays…and the best thing is that all of these activities are indoors, so they can be enjoyed no matter the season or weather!
Pay your age at Build-A-Bear
At the Build-A-Bear factory in West Town Mall in Knoxville, kids can build their very own teddy bear with a beating heart, and only pay whatever their age is. So if your kid is turning three, you only pay three dollars! It’s up to you if you want to take home a “bare” bear or buy them $30 worth of outfits…all I can say is follow your heart. Be sure to join the club online to receive the deal!
Backyard Bouncers in Clinton
Backyard Bouncers offers several days a week of open play on their inflatables, where you only pay $10 for an hour of play. Follow them on Facebook to see the calendar and reserve a time. They are also a party venue and have bounce equipment for rent. They have an area for older kids, and a toddler-specific area. In the winter, they even dedicate some of their evening hours to glow play, which would be great for a cold or rainy birthday!
Lolli and Bobo’s Ice Cream
A newer addition to Oak Ridge, Tennessee, Lolli and Bobo’s Ice Cream, has both soft-serve and hand dipped ice cream. In the winter, they also offer coffee and hot chocolate, and my kids love choosing their kid-friendly toppings. Then, after they finish their treats, kids can play in the little toddler area. Lolli and Bobo are grandparents themselves and have made their ice cream shop very kid-friendly. Be sure to try their Tennessee twist cone!
