4 kid-friendly coffee shops around Seattle

Fall is in full swing and summer’s a distant memory. It’s time to trade the splash pools and outdoor parks for somewhere a little more roof-friendly. Enter a new trend of coffee shops, geared less toward hipsters and more toward families, offering parents a place to eat and drink whilst their kiddos play and stay dry. Here are some great options in Seattle and beyond.

Wunderkind, a “LEGO café” in North Seattle’s Bryant neighborhood, offers a place where kids can create and parents can unwind. Relax in one of the comfortable dining areas as your kids build creations at one of the many LEGO tables, some geared towards toddlers, others offering more complex sets for older kids. An excellent selection of food is available, and craft beer and wine will keep parents happy. Day passes are available for $6; monthly/annual passes are available for purchase. 3318 NE 55th St., Seattle, wunderkindseattle.com

Firehouse Coffee serves Caffé Vita coffee and a wide range of snacks and food, and offers parking in its lot (a nice bonus in busy Ballard). Kids can enjoy an entire playroom full of books and toys, and the sliding door keeps roaming toddlers (and tantrums) contained. 2622 NW Market St., Seattle

PHOTO: JOSHUA HUSTON Enjoy a coffee while the kids play with a life-size chess set at Honey Bear Bakery.

Lake Forest Park’s spacious Third Place Commons is a haven for families in North Seattle and beyond. Grab a coffee and a pastry from Honey Bear Bakery, then relax as your kiddos play in the enclosed play area or with the life-size chess set. To make a day of it, enjoy lunch at one of the many eateries in the food court, browse the shelves at Third Place Books, and check out storytime at the library downstairs. 17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park, honeybearbakery.com

Redmond’s SoulFood CoffeeHouse is a community-driven café frequently hosting live music, poetry readings and even the occasional drum circle. Most of their menu is organic, with plenty of gluten-free options and a special “just for kids” menu. Their play area is decked out with toys and books; follow up your visit with a walk on the neighboring Sammamish River Trail. 15748 Redmond Way, soulfoodcoffeehouse.com