Nook and Cranny
Hamden's first indoor playroom for children under 9.
Walk-Ins or By Appointment
Welcome To Nook and Cranny
Nestled in 900 square feet of thoughtfully designed play space, Nook & Cranny invites children under 8 to explore, create, and connect. Whether your child loves building, pretending, or diving into messy art — there’s room for it all. Our cozy space is curated for curiosity and built for repeat visits.
What To Expect
Sessions of open play are up to two hours long
Parents stay and supervise
15 children max per session to provide a more cozier atmosphere
$17.50 a play session, or save more with a package
Areas to Explore
Lego and Magnatile Wall
Open Art Studio
Dress-Up Theatre
Infant and Waddler Space
Kid's Loft
Sensory Tables
Table Top Activities
Host Your Child's Birthday
Celebrate your child’s special day with a private, playful, and stress-free experience in our thoughtfully designed play space, perfect for children ages 1–8. Our birthday parties are created to spark imagination, encourage exploration, and make joyful memories for the whole family
Each Party Includes:
Two hours of private access to our indoor play space
Admission for 15 children (including the birthday child)
20 minutes of early entry for setup- decorations are allowed
A free return pass for the birthday child
10% off coupons for all guests on returning one 2 hour play slot
Cleanup handled by our team, so you can focus on the fun
Party Add-Ons
We’re excited to offer exclusive discounts on photography and pizza through our local partners! To enjoy these special rates, families will need to contact the photographer and pizzeria directly to book and pay. This helps you avoid extra fees and ensures you get the full discount.Contact details and discount info will be provided once your party is confirmed.If you have any questions, please reach out—we’re here to help!
Additional children (up to a total of 20 children) are $10 each. Adults are welcome and are not counted in the child total.Although outside food and drinks are welcomed, Nook and Cranny does not provide any access to a fridge, oven, utensils or kitchen.The final headcount is due 2 days before your event. Additional children may be paid for on the day of the party upon arrival. Early weekend slots may be available with at least 3 months' notice, but not guaranteed. Please give us a call to request a different time slot or to discuss any additional accommodations—we’re happy to help!
Looking to Rent Our Space?
Private Group RentalsLooking for a private play experience for a small group? Nook and Cranny offers exclusive access to our indoor playground for small gatherings or group activities.If you’re interested, please reach out to us with three preferred dates and times, and we’ll get back to you to confirm availability.Pricing:1 hour: $65 plus tax
1.5 hours: $90 plus tax
2 hours: $130 plus taxImportant Details:Rentals are for small groups only (no birthday parties or celebrations)No outside food or decorations allowedPerfect for playdates, homeschool groups, or small activity meetupsPrivate Rentals can be before, during, or after typical hours depending on availabilityContact us via email at [email protected] today to reserve your private space and give your kids a fun, uninterrupted play experience!
Let's Get In Touch
Winter Hours of Operation:We are currently open to both walk-in and appointment, Please feel free to schedule your session in advance through our online booking system or walk-in to play. Availability may be limited. While hours may vary slightly each week, here’s a general guide to our open play availability:Monday & Tuesday: Closed for the WinterWednesday: 9:30 am - 11:30 am - Tiny Ones Social (0-24 months)
12 pm - 5 pm Open Play, unless a private party is scheduledThursday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM Open PlayFriday: Open play from 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM, unless a private party is scheduledSaturday : 9:30 am - 4:30 pm, unless a private party is scheduledSunday: 8:00 am - 3 pm, unless a private party is scheduledWeekend hours may vary based on birthdays and events.🕒 Online booking is currently not required for all visits.
We update availability weekly — be sure to check the schedule before arriving!
Address: 4133 Whitney Ave, Suite 2C, Hamden, CT 06518Phone: (203)-233-3250Email: [email protected]For Hours of Operations: please refer to our online calendar under "Book a Play Session" for any available slots
About Us and The Play Philosophy
Nook's Play Philosophy
At Nook and Cranny, we believe that play is not just a way to pass the time—it’s the foundation of learning, confidence, and connection.Our space invites children to explore freely, express themselves creatively, and engage with the world around them at their own pace. We view every child as curious, capable, and full of potential. Our environment is designed to spark wonder, encourage open-ended play, and support the development of the whole child—socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively.We also believe in the power of connection—between children and their caregivers, between peers, and between families and the wider community. Our play space is a shared environment where relationships grow, conversations unfold, and little ones learn the value of empathy, collaboration, and belonging.At Nook and Cranny, play is not just an activity—it’s a language. One that children use to understand themselves, others, and the world.
About The Owners
Nook and Cranny was founded by two passionate early childhood educators, both Hamden locals through and through, with a vision to create a unique and peaceful space for young children and their families. Our focus on sustainable toys, recyclable materials, and providing a platform for children to lead their play using loose parts and their imagination sets us apart. We are dedicated to promoting imaginative play and fostering creativity. Our team is committed to providing a memorable and enriching experience for every child who walks through our doors, encouraging children to "just be". We invite you to explore our story and discover what makes Nook and Cranny the perfect place for your child's playtime and special events.
Give the Gift of Play!
Looking for the perfect gift for a family with little ones?
Nook and Cranny gift cards are a wonderful way to inspire creativity, exploration, and fun for children under 9!How It Works
Gift cards can be purchased online in any amount.They can be used toward our two hour play sessions.Gift cards are delivered instantly via email or text, making them a great last-minute present!Why Choose a Nook and Cranny Gift Card?
Support local, sustainable, and creative play spacesFlexible options for families to use whenever they wantEncourage open-ended play and imaginationPurchase Your Gift Card Today!To redeem your card: While booking your two hour play sessions, press "Pay in Store". When you arrive, present your gift card at the front desk.
We Can't Wait To Party With You!
Thanks for choosing Nook & Cranny for your birthday celebration— We cannot wait to host you!Here's a small to-do list prior to the big day!
1. Waiver & RSVP
Every attending family (including yours!) must complete our waiver:
Feel free to share it via Evite, email, or group text.2. Remaining Balance
Weekday parties are $325; weekend parties are $350.
If you booked a weekday party and you paid a $162.50 deposit, you owe $162.50.
If you're joining us on a weekend, your deposit was $175 and your remaining balance is $175.
The balance is due at check-in (card or cash welcome).
Note: Deposits are non-refundable. Rescheduling depends on availability.3. Food, Setup & Supervision
You’re welcome to bring themed decorations.
Parents may arrive 20–30 minutes early to set up—we’ll handle cleanup!
We provide one table and a side desk for food, but no kitchenware, refrigeration, or heating, so plan accordingly.
Children must be supervised by an adult at all times.Questions?
📧 [email protected]
📱 Call/text: (203) 233-3250Thanks for celebrating with us!
See you soon at Nook & Cranny—Imagine. Explore. Play.Warmly,
Courtney & Antoinette, the Nook & Cranny Team 💛
Birthday Add-Ons
Make your celebration even more special with our optional party add-ons! We’ve partnered with local businesses to offer exclusive discounts just for Nook & Cranny families.
Photo by KMariePhotographyAdd-On: Party Photography
Want to enjoy the celebration while someone else captures the magic?
Add a professional photographer to your party and receive beautiful, edited images to remember the day!Photography Packages:
✨ 30 Minutes – $99
• Includes 15 professionally edited digital photos
• Great for capturing cake time, play, and group moments✨ 1 Hour – $199
• Includes 30 professionally edited digital photos
• Perfect for full party coverage, from arrival to final smilesPhotos are delivered via a private online gallery within 14 days.Photographer availability is limited—
Book directly here:
(Don't forget to mention your Nook & Cranny party to receive the special rate.)
Skip the stress and let the pros handle the food!
We’ve partnered with Sergio's Pizza just down the road to offer a special discount for our party families.Party Deal Includes:1 Large Cheese- $15.00
1 Topping Pizza- $18.00
Easy pickup or delivery straight to your party.Order directly from Sergio's Pizza and mention "Nook & Cranny Birthday" for your exclusive rate.
📞 (203) 248-2564For a smooth, stress-free experience, it’s best to schedule pizza delivery about 45–60 minutes into the party. That gives kids time to play first and keeps them seated and settled mid-way through.
Sweet Add-Ons: Cakes, Cupcakes & Treats
Make your celebration extra special with delicious custom treats! We’ve partnered with a local baker, Made by Melissa who creates beautiful, themed cakes, cupcakes, and dessert trays designed to match your party’s style. From simple and sweet to fully customized creations, you can add the perfect dessert to your child’s big day!Let us take one more thing off your party-planning plate… and replace it with something yummy!
Thank you for signing up for our Mini Dance Session Trial in November ! 💖We’re thrilled to dance with your little one. We've designed these classes to give kids ages 3–6 a fun and playful introduction to ballet, jazz, and hip-hop.
What to Wear:
Leotard (or fitted shirt and leggings/ fitted pants)
Pink ballet tights (skin-toned or pink)
Ballet flats
Hair pulled back neatly (bun or ponytail)
What to Bring With You:
Water bottle
Mini snacks (granola, fruit, etc.)
Extra leggings or shorts (optional)
🩰 A few notes:Arrive 5–10 minutes early to get settledParents are welcome to observe the first few minutes of class. After that, we invite you to find a cozy spot in the adjoining room where you can still peek in while giving your child space to learn and build independenceWe can’t wait to dance and have fun with your little one!As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out at
203-233-3250 or [email protected]
The Great Give Back Magic Show
Join us For a Magical Night of Giving!
On December 19th at 5:30 PM, Matt Matthews Magic will perform a dazzling 40-minute magic show to support Keefe’s Community Center: Hamden Food Bank.The show will wrap up by 6:30 PM, perfect for families! This event is recommended for ages 4+, but all ages are welcome to enjoy the fun.
We are only accepting cash donations or non-perishable food items, but please note:
✨ The Hamden Food Bank can stretch a dollar much farther than we can—so cash donations truly make the biggest impact! ✨We kindly encourage a donation of $10 per person, but anything you are able to give is greatly appreciated. No minimum donations.
Every contribution helps fill the shelves and support families in need this season.Due to our cozy space, we can host a maximum of 15 families—we’ll gather on our main rug, and enjoy the magic of Matt Matthews, all for a great cause!Come enjoy the magic… and help make real magic happen for our community.
Hello Families!
We’re excited to host a free, cozy potluck created especially for Queer families looking for a safe, joyful space to gather. While there are many wonderful queer-focused events for adults and teens across CT, we’ve noticed a big gap when it comes to welcoming, affirming spaces for queer families — so we wanted to create one.This is our very first time hosting, and because we’re still learning how our space will hold a larger gathering, we’re keeping this event a bit more “word of mouth.” You are absolutely welcome (and encouraged!) to invite other families who would appreciate and enjoy a queer-friendly, family-centered potluck. Just please keep in mind that we can only accommodate the first 40 people who sign up.We’re so excited to share food, community, and warmth with you.Any questions, Call us 203-233-3250 or email, [email protected]Please make sure to reserve your spot above. We have a limited capacity amount.