Grand Opening

〰️

3/20

〰️

Grand Opening 〰️ 3/20 〰️

Where Every Bite Refuels Discovery

Take a break and recharge for your next big adventure! Playgrounds Café is your dedicated fueling station, designed to keep explorers of all ages ready to learn. Whether you’re a parent in need of a high-quality caffeine boost or a junior scientist ready for a healthy lunch, our menu is built to satisfy.

Local Flavors, Fresh Choices We are proud to partner with our neighbors to bring you the best of Salem:

Caffeine Kick: Enjoy specialty coffee roasted by Odolla Coffee Roasters.
Fresh & Fast: Grab-and-go meals and snacks provided by Isaac’s Room, perfect for a nutritious mid-play refuel.

From fresh salads and hearty sandwiches to allergen-friendly snacks, we provide the nourishment needed to power through a full day of play. This is a space where our community of caregivers can connect and catch their breath while children enjoy making their own healthy choices.

Hours: Wednesday – Sunday | 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Location: Inside the museum near the Erector Set Maze

History of the House

Little Gem Grocery Store (1925)

Originally located on the corner of Chemeketa and 17th Street, the Little Gem Grocery was a classic “mom and pop” neighborhood store — a single room lined with shelves, selling milk, bread, eggs, and canned goods to the surrounding community. In 1996, the Court-Chemeketa Historic Renewal, Inc. led the effort to rescue the building from demolition. It was moved to its current location and restored in 1998, with major funding from local businesses and residents. Today the Little Gem serves the museum as our new Playgrounds Café.