Overview
Safari Run at 341 North Amphlett Boulevard in San Mateo is a multi-level safari-themed indoor climbing structure that has been a Peninsula staple for families for years. The main play area is a large jungle-themed structure with slides, rope climbs, tunnels, and open platforms, plus a separate toddler zone for younger kids. There's an upstairs cafe serving pizza, wings, and pasta for parents who want to eat rather than pack food. The facility caps session capacity on busy days to maintain density at a manageable level, so it doesn't feel like the chaotic free-for-all that larger commercial play spaces can become.
How to Do It
Safari Run San Mateo is at 341 North Amphlett Boulevard, San Mateo, 94401. It's a quick drive from Highway 101 via 3rd Avenue in San Mateo — take 3rd Avenue west, turn north on North Amphlett. Street parking and a lot are available nearby. Open play runs in two-hour time blocks, with sessions starting on the hour during open hours. The structure is designed for self-directed play with parent supervision required at all times — there's no additional staff in the structure. Parents can position themselves on the ground floor with good sightlines to most of the structure, or follow kids up into it. The toddler-specific zone is separate from the main structure, which keeps the size mismatch manageable for families with a mixed-age pair.
Tips & Tricks
Rainy winter weekdays are the peak demand scenario — if the weather is bad and it's a school holiday or weekend, the sessions can sell out or hit capacity quickly. Check the online play calendar before showing up unannounced on any wet holiday Monday. The staff cleans and sanitizes the play structure between sessions and does a nightly deep clean, so the facility tends to be cleaner than many comparable indoor play spaces — worth noting if that's a priority for your family. Socks are required for all participants including children in the toddler area — pack them or buy a pair at the door. The signed waiver covers all participants and must be current; if your kids have been before, the waiver may still be on file, but confirm when you book. The upstairs cafe runs food service during open play, so you can eat on-site rather than making a pre-visit lunch stop. Safari Run is notably closed on Saturdays and Sundays for open play — weekends are reserved for birthday parties. Build this into your planning: this is a weekday-only destination for drop-in visits.
Planning
Open play is approximately $21 per child for a timed session; adults and non-playing spectators can typically enter at no charge. Hours for open play are Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Closed Saturday and Sunday for open play (birthday parties only on weekends). Busy days — holidays and rainy school days — can sell out, so plan accordingly or call ahead. Bring: socks for all playing participants, water bottles, and a snack or plan to use the cafe. Recommended age range for the main structure is 4 to 10; the separate toddler area serves ages 1 to 3 well. Kids who are confident climbers on the older end of the range may find the structure less challenging after a few visits, but the 2-7 range gets consistent high engagement. Seasonal camps and fitness programs are also available for kids ages 3 to 12 if you're looking for a recurring program.