The Children's Art Factory - Guelph, Ontario

Ash

I don’t know how this place could ever have a negative review. We drove an hour and a half unplanned and were welcomed with a genuine smile. I wanted somewhere that wasn’t packed on a Wednesday morning and wasn’t loud or had a smell. I find most kid places smell unkept and items are always missing.

But this place is STOCKED! And my three year old got to play quietly and even played very well with other toddlers in the same area. The staff cleaned a few times when we were there there for 2 two full hours.

I like that food is not allowed, that’s when spills happen, people leave their garbage behind and then it starts to smell like outside food.
The price I see complaints about but that’s how these places stay open!!

It’s refreshing taking your child to a children’s place and not having two people chatting loudly about their business. You just watch your child in peace.

This place reminded me of classrooms like I had in 1996-2000. Endless creativity and sensory play.
Open rooms with art everywhere without it feeling overwhelming, over stimulating or underwhelming and boring.

I will keep making this drive just to see the joy on my toddlers face.

My photos don’t do this place justice. You’d have to see it in person. Right from the door step you’re in sensory heaven.

Andrew S.

This place is absolutely magical! I don't think any amount of superlatives could do it justice. So many different areas, it's pretty much guaranteed your kid will discover an area they'll love - painting, music, building, exploring, imaginative play, physical experimentation, everything is here. Nevermind the kids, as an older adult, it would be awesome to get to hang out here and explore creativity in its many forums.

This is the kind of place that makes me want grandkids sooner so I could bring them here!

Parking on Yarmouth is a hassle, but there's free street parking across from the library, mere steps to the Art factory. There's an accessible bathroom, and separate spaces for birthday parties/private events.

Stefanie C. (. P.

E-7yrs- it is awesome, it has sand and crafts and a kitchen with mops.

A-5yrs- there is a monkey kitchen with sand and a music stage with dress up.

A-3yrs - play play, sanding, soap and water and paint all on my fingers!

Mom - CAF is outstanding! They have thought of so many sensory and process art experiences that are epically engaging for the kiddos. This place was more than worth the 40min drive. My kids started asking for a membership before we even left. The staff are friendly and encourage the kiddos to play and explore. They were patient with my many questions and they also sell some amazing art supplies on site!! Most definitely recommended!!

I can't wait to go again.

Natasha M.

Enjoyed visiting The Children's Art Factory for the 1st time!
My children loved all the stations available. I baby wore my youngest and it was easy to navigate around that way. There were so many great self guided activities to explore that my kids didn't get around to everything in one visit. We definitely will need to go back to continue to explore more.
The only reason this is not a five-star review is because the lack of parking (due to the location only), and I noticed they sell water beads which are extremely dangerous if ingested by children. Again, there were no stations with water beads. This was only available for purchase if you chose to take the risk. Some parents are not aware of the dangers so it's probably best not to sell them at all in my opinion.
Overall, we will 100% be returning here.

Melanie H.

What an amazing experience my children ( 4 & 8) and I had here again! The themed areas for exploratory free play are well thought out and so creative. It kept my kids and I busy for hours. We purchased some take home creativity kits (wood working, potions and a tool box full of art supplies) and three weeks later my boys are still creating with them. As a speech therapist, I am a huge proponent of learning through play and the endless opportunities The Children's Art Factory provides makes it so effortless and fun to learn through play! We came from Hamilton to enjoy the factory and it is definitely worth the drive to Guelph!

princess T.

It's very nice for children because it's Montessori style. However, the booking system should be in place as we arrived once to find a locked door. Also, charging 15$ for a parent to stand is just wild. Terrible parking options.

G E.

I’ve always wanted to take my kids here and I think it’s unfortunate that adults have to pay an entrance fee as well. Perhaps if you’re coming in with kids of a certain age, such as toddlers who would need their parents help, etc. My kids are 5&7 and can play on their own. I find it ridiculous that the parents would be charged $15 for standing around and watching.

Christine M.

Can not say enough good things about this place! My 5 year old has done play lab many times and most recently the sewing program. Annie was amazing with the kids. She was kind and welcoming and passed on her love of sewing to all the children she worked with. My daughter learned a ton and was able to make several projects. Anything the kids could dream up, they were able to sew! What a unique and wonderful program.