Level Up your Playdate at Mezanmi Play Cafe
Parenting toddlers is a tough gig.
As mine get older and more mobile, they often disperse in two different directions. I spend many days corralling them into a central location while my coffee remains untouched and cold on the counter.
Enter Mezanmi Play Cafe: when I discovered a place where my kids could safely roam and I could enjoy a hot coffee, I was ALL IN.
I’m always looking for indoor play activities to do with my kids, but if it involves chasing children or helping them navigate much older kids, I’m out. I want something that requires very minimal work and allows me to relax.
Asking too much? Maybe, but Mezanmi Play Cafe was created for parents just like me.
Mezanmi allows caregivers to book 90-minute play sessions in their immaculate facilities with toys galore AND a cafe for the parents.
Since so many parents loved their inaugural location in Vicksburg, Mezanmi expanded and opened a second play cafe in Mattawan in August 2022.
Why “Mezanmi?”
Mezanmi Play Cafe owner Renee’s family lived in Haiti for almost six years working with those in extreme poverty; Mezanmi is a Haitian Creole expression that explains the purpose of her business.
Her dream was to provide a space for children to play and caregivers to connect.
Mezanmi (may-zah-mee)
Oh my goodness! I’m going to go crazy!
Wow! I can’t believe my eyes!
Literal translation: My Friends
Mezanmi Mattawan is Now Open
With so many families flocking to Mezanmi in Vicksburg, the play cafe spread its geographic wings west, to Mattawan.
Their second location offers all of the same fun in an additional location for SWMI families to enjoy. You’ll still find a boutique, cafe, and PLENTY of toys for kids to explore.
What You’ll Find Inside
Both locations of Mezanmi Play Cafe are clean, bright and inviting.
As you enter, the sweet smell of coffee gives you a warm welcome. If you’re someone who doesn’t need caffeine to survive, you can choose from flavored lemonades, tea, Italian sodas, and bottled drinks.
The cafes are stocked with baked goods and snacks, too in case you need something to munch on.
Note: outside snacks are permitted, but they do request no outside beverages (other than bottles of course), and all food must be nut free.
Play Areas
The play area has different themed play spaces to keep every kid entertained, from infants to bigger kids (up to age six).
Lounge
The lounge overlooks the play area and is stocked with board games for older children and caregivers.
If you’re a work from home parent, the lounge is the perfect place to get some work done during play time AND maybe have a conversation with another adult!
Boutique
You can shop here too? Absolutely.
The Mezanmi Play Cafe boutiques features toys and unique items that help provide income for Haitian families. You can find different items at each cafe.
First Time Visitor Tips
Thinking about visiting Mezanmi for the first time? Here’s what you need to know:
• Where to Find It: Mezanmi Play Cafe offers two locations: in downtown Vicksburg near Main Street Pub and in Mattawan, just west of Bird Dog.
• Bring Socks: The play area is socks only. You can bring your own or the cafe has socks available for purchase.
• Reserve your Time Online: Booking ahead online is recommended to ensure there is space.
• Cost: 90-minute play sessions are $10/child and designed for children 0-6. Children under 1 are free with a paid sibling.
• Discounts are Available: If you become a frequent visitor, consider a bundle or monthly subscription to receive a discount.
Celebrate at Mezanmi Play Cafe
Mezanmi also offers a variety of party packages to celebrate birthdays and you can book online!
More Indoor Play Spots
EverPlay Cafe
6886 Cascade Rd Grand Rapids, MI 49456
(616) 805-4531
EverPlay Cafe in Grand Rapids features a very similar experience to Mezanmi Play Cafe. There is a cafe with coffee, other drinks, baked goods, and snacks. It also features a large play area for children.
Holland Playland
446 W 40th St Holland, MI 49423
(616) 395-3092
Located within an hour of Kalamazoo, this FREE indoor play area is for children 6 months – 11 years old. The play space is divided into two separate play areas: one for babies and toddlers (6 months – 2 years) and one for children 2-11 years. Socks are required.
Holland Playland also offers a cafe in the play area with food and drinks.
More to Explore
