Beneath a bright banner and the buzz of excited kids, Chicago Ridge Mall officially welcomed families to its newest attraction: PlayTown, a color-splashed indoor play area designed to turn a mall trip into an afternoon adventure.
The grand opening celebration at 444 Ridgeland Ave. offered more than just slides and soft mats. Face painters dabbed butterflies and superheroes across eager cheeks. Parents snapped photos under balloon arches. Free snacks, balloon twisting, raffles, and customized Chicago Ridge coloring books made the event feel like a party for the whole community.
PlayTown is part of a broader investment aimed at turning Chicago Ridge Mall into more than just a shopping destination.
“PlayTown is a family-friendly space designed to encourage creativity, activity, and connection,” said Yahayra Argueta, marketing and community engagement manager at the mall. “Its design is inspired by the origins of the Village of Chicago Ridge, featuring play equipment that resembles trains, barrels, and logs. It brings that theme to life.”
Located by the entrance near Buffalo Wild Wings at 111 Chicago Ridge Mall Drive, the new play space spans 43 feet by 43 feet and includes slides, climbing structures, and interactive elements for kids 10 and under.
During the grand opening, mall staff handed out goodie bags, hosted raffles, and kept a line of eager children moving through face-painting and balloon stations — all while supplies lasted.
Argueta said construction on PlayTown wrapped up the week of July 7. The opening included a ribbon cutting with appearances from local officials and community partners, including Village of Chicago Ridge trustees, members of the fire department, Girl Scouts, and businesses such as OSF HealthCare, Chick-fil-A, Bank Financial, and Cilantro Taco Grill.
Though mall officials did not disclose the cost of construction, Argueta described PlayTown as “just one part of the extensive investment program being implemented by the center’s ownership group to refresh Chicago Ridge Mall as an active community hub.”
Argueta said the space fills a real need.
“PlayTown gives families a dedicated space to spend quality time together, meet up with friends, and connect with other community members,” she said. “Whether they’re visiting the mall to shop, dine, or attend an event, PlayTown adds a sense of adventure to their day. It’s a welcoming spot for families to gather, engage, and be part of our shared local community.”