Fixed locationIndoor Playgrounds

Kids Empire Merrillville

Southlake Mall, Merrillville, IN

Large all-day indoor playground in Merrillville with a multi-level climbing structure, toddler area, and party booking.
Plan This Visit

Best for

best for toddlers to about age 10

Hours

Monday 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Visit style

active free play

Birthday parties

Available

Profile

Strong profile coverage

Atlas Perspective

Editor's Take

A dependable pick for high-energy open play when you want a flexible, longer visit instead of a short timed session.

Atlas Perspective

Best Fit

Best For
  • Toddlers through grade-school kids who like climbing and active play
  • Families who want all-day admission with same-day re-entry
  • Birthday parties with straightforward online booking
Less Ideal For
  • Families looking for a quieter or more sensory-friendly setting
  • Parents who want a cafĂ©-style hangout with stronger food options
  • Visitors who prefer staff-led activities over free play

At a Glance

Venue type

Indoor playground

Age groups

ToddlersPreschoolersBig kidsMixed ages

Play features

Toddler areaSoft playClimbing structureSlides

Family amenities

Food available

Birthday party options

Birthday partiesParty packages

Accessibility and comfort

Socks required

Visit options

Open playDrop-in visits

Price range

Mid-range

Toddler-friendly

Yes

Operator type

Commercial

Play model

Full-day open play

Supervision model

Caregiver supervised

Max recommended age

Under 13

Inside a larger venue or attraction

Yes

Inside mall or shopping center

Yes

Plan Your Visit

Hours

Monday10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
SocksNon-grip socks required for everyone; socks sold on site
WaiverWaiver required
ReentrySame-day re-entry allowed
ToddlersChildren in diapers must use the toddler area
Food PolicyNo outside food or drinks for general admission
Play WindowAll-day play
SupervisionCaregiver supervision required at all times

Pricing Snapshot

Adult PolicyTwo adults included per child admission; extra adults $5 each
Infant PolicyAges 0-11 months free with a paying sibling
Child Admission$19.90 per child
Multi Visit Option10 admissions for $159

About the Venue

Kids Empire Merrillville is a shoe-off indoor playground built for active open play, with climbing structures, slides, and a separate area for toddlers in diapers. Admission is sold as all-day play with same-day re-entry, which makes it easier for families who want a longer visit with breaks. It is a strong fit for toddlers through elementary-age kids, with caregiver supervision required throughout the visit.

Atlas Perspective

Indoor Play Atlas Notes

Age Fitbest for toddlers to about age 10
Noise Levelhigh
Visit Styleactive free play
Energy Levelhigh
Parent Comfortmoderate
Booking Frictionlow

Birthday Party Snapshot

NotesOfficial location page promotes parties and events but does not clearly publish package tiers
FormatBirthday packages and private event booking through the official location page
Parties OfferedYes

Accessibility & Comfort

Sock PolicySocks required for all guests
Sensory NotesOfficial rules note loud music, dimmer lighting, and a high-energy environment that may bother some autistic children
Caregiver AccessAdults are encouraged to accompany children where allowed
Socks required

External Links

Nearby Alternatives

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Quick Summary

Best for

best for toddlers to about age 10

Hours

Monday 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Visit style

active free play

Birthday parties

Available

Contact Information

Address

2255 Southlake Mall

Merrillville, IN, 46410

Source & Verification

Last updated

April 18, 2026

Verification summary

Last verified: April 7, 2026

Checked against 1 public source.

Reviewed as

Business website and booking-flow review

What Changed

April 7, 2026

Verified official location details, hours, admission structure, and visit rules.

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