Is there anything more enticing to a toddler than a small space of their own? Kitchen cabinets, old boxes, pillow forts–there's something completely irresistible about a world that's just theirs. But if you're tired of finding your pots and pans and couch cushions on the floor or if looking at that floppy old box is about to send you over the edge, it may be time to consider an indoor playhouse.
Indoor playhouses provide toddlers and big kids a place to let their imagination run wild. Even the simplest play tent can become a school for their stuffies or a castle to act out their royal fantasies. They're also an ideal place to snuggle up on a rainy day. Throw in a couple of blankets and a stack of their favorite books and hours can disappear in a flash.
Related: 8 outdoor playhouses that kids will play in for hours and hours
While there are tons of options out there, indoor playhouses are generally affordable and easy to put up and take down. We've rounded up some of our favorites that welcome hours of play but also look good enough to keep up when they take a break. (After all, you're the one on the outside who has to look at it.) See ya, cardboard box. There's a stylish new abode in town.
Best Indoor Playhouses
Crate & Kids
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$199
Calling all California dreamers and mid-century loving mamas! We’re going to go ahead and deem this the coolest indoor playhouse on the market. I mean, after all, it may be the closest we’ll ever come to that Palm Springs pad we’ve been lusting after. And who doesn’t want better for their children than they have for themselves, right? Designed by whimsical artist extraordinaire Sarah Walsh, the canvas playhouse features the most delightful desert-inspired hues and illustrations along with a roll up door and roll out stone walkway.
Gushante
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$181.49
We love the simplicity of this fabric playhouse. The natural base and cheery colored banner won’t clash with your decor and provides an opportunity to imagine it as anything from a cottage to a grocery store. It’s roomy and durable with plenty of space to play or curl up with a pile of their favorite books. Short on space? No worries! The simple design is easy to put up and take down and packs into its own suitcase when ready to store.
Delta Children
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$85.99
Similar in style to Waldorf playstands that cost three times as much, this simple structure offers unlimited options for play. Sheets or blankets can be thrown over top to make a fort or adorn with light, airy fabrics for their next dance performance. As they get older, it easily transitions to becoming a cozy reading nook.
My Very Own House
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$43.64
What’s more fun than a cardboard box? How about one that’s also a grocery store? Kids will love to color their own little market and climb inside to welcome shoppers. The doors and windows pop open and closed and when playtime is over, it can easily fold for storage. Best of all, when it’s time to move on, all you have to do it put it on the curb for recycling.
Razee
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$76.99
Another simple option, we love the ethereal feel of this tent-style playhouse. There are three windows to keep it light and airy while the gauzy front can be tied open or closed. Wrap some tiny twinkle lights around the supports and you’ve got the perfect fairy house!
FoxPrint
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$23.99
If you’ve got a budding astronaut on your hands, this rocket ship tent is a must-have. It’s super simple to pop up and down and can comfortably fit a couple kiddos. The material is durable enough to hold up to rough toddler play and it’s tall enough at the point for them to stand.
Love Tree
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$142.99
Spacious and durable, this cotton canvas tent boasts an almost perfect rating from reviewers. It’s big enough for a few kiddos and can even fit a toddler bed inside! The side and front windows keep the air flowing while also giving the ability to check in without interrupting. There’s a zip opening at the front and back which can be tied in place and comes in pink trimmed and all beige options as well.
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