JouJou
Des Moines, IA
Montessori-inspired Des Moines play studio for birth to age five with open play, classes, memberships, coffee, and parties.
JouJou leans calm, design-forward, and younger-child focused.
Photo 1 of 2. JouJou leans calm, design-forward, and younger-child focused.
Editorial notes
What stands out
A polished, calmer alternative to a traditional indoor playground, with the strongest fit for families in the birth-to-five stage.
Good fit
- Babies, toddlers, and preschoolers through age 5
- Families who like Montessori-inspired environments
- Caregivers who want coffee, conversation, and community feel
Consider another option if
- Older kids wanting big climbing structures
- Families looking for a loud, high-energy destination venue
- Visitors who only want the cheapest possible open-play option
Know Before You Go
- Socks
- Socks or house shoes are welcome
- Reservations
- Sunday morning play requires a reservation for the early session
- Timing
- Most weekday sessions run in the morning, with extended Wednesday hours
- Arrival
- Shoes are not worn in the play space
- Supervision model
- Caregiver supervised
What to Expect
For kids
- Babies
- Toddlers
- Preschoolers
- Sensory play
- Open play
- Drop-in visits
For caregivers
- Coffee available
- Caregiver supervised
- Designed to be comfortable for caregivers staying on site
- Visit type
- boutique play studio
Read more about this location
JouJou is a thoughtfully designed Montessori-inspired indoor play studio in Des Moines for children from infancy through age five. Compared with louder playgrounds, the experience here is calmer and more curated, with open play, classes, memberships, parties, and a caregiver-friendly atmosphere that includes complimentary local coffee and tea. It is especially well suited to families who value younger-child play, community feel, and a more intentional room setup.
Hours & Admission
Posted hours
Check posted weekly hours
View full weekly hours
| Monday | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Thursday | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM |
| Friday | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM |
| Sunday | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM |
Based on posted weekly hours. Holidays, private events, seasonal schedules, and special closures may differ.
Admission
| Visitor | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 child drop-in | $13 |
| 2 children drop-in | $22 |
| 3 children drop-in | $28 |
Admission details can change. Confirm current fees before visiting.
Birthday Parties
Starting at $350
JouJou offers private party packages in two main tiers.
Location
906 42nd St
Des Moines, IA, 50312
Other options nearby
Kids Empire Merle Hay Des Moines
Large indoor playground at Merle Hay with all-day access, re-entry, a toddler zone, parties, and late evening hours on weekends.
Source reviewedDes Moines Children's Museum
Hands-on children’s museum inside Valley West Mall with affordable admission, memberships, parties, events, and open-ended play.
Sources & Updates
Source-checked Apr 9, 2026 against 3 public sources
View source and update details
- Last check on record
- Apr 9, 2026
- Sources reviewed
- 3 public sources
Public sources
- Official websitejoujoudsm.com
Checked: location, hours, venue concept, pricing, party details
- Official Instagraminstagram.com
Checked: recent venue imagery
- Official Facebookfacebook.com
Checked: current venue identity
What changed
April 9, 2026
Reviewed against official venue sources and rewritten for production.