The astroturf field- for classes and toddler play
On a cold, rainy February day I was desperate for something new to do with my daughter inside that would allow her to run around and expel some energy without wreaking more havoc on our apartment. I had heard about Upper 90, the new soccer store in Downtown Brooklyn/Boerum Hill with an indoor field. It was rumored that they had “open play” for toddlers every weekday morning from 10-12. So off we went.
They have ample stroller parking next to their 750 square foot field. The field is a child’s dream. It’s an expansive space covered in soft Astroturf with padded walls which make for soft landings. There are balls aplenty for practicing kicks and dribbles (or just running around hugging or gnawing on them, as is my toddler’s preference). The friendly staff are amenable to roaming and snacking toddlers hanging out on the benches outside the field in the store area, and they keep the energy up with a fun selection of music throughout the store.
Since our first visit, we’ve been back at least half a dozen times. The atmosphere is so relaxed and its great to have a place we can go as an alternative to the playground, when the weather is too cold, hot or rainy to be outside, where I don’t have to worry about her wandering or falling off a play structure. My daughter loves to scamper about the field dancing to the music and hugging her favorite red ball. A number of her neighborhood friends also frequent Upper 90, and it seems like a great place for parents and kids to congregate inside while still being active.
We’re still a few years away from being able to take advantage of Upper 90’s soccer school, but for parents of older children, they have daily afterschool classes for kids aged 3-12, as well as specialized soccer clinics and one-on-one sessions for serious players looking for some specific assistance. They also offer birthday parties, and their store is equipped with all the soccer gear from balls to shoes to custom team jerseys.
Open play costs $10 per day, or you can buy a 10-session pass for $80. If you go, try to call or email them in advance to ensure they have space – I’ve been a few times when there were more than 15 kids and it gets crowded!
Upper 90
359 Atlantic Avenue (between Hoyt St. and Bond St.)
718-643-0167
brooklyn@u90soccer.com
*****Review submitted by Alexa Suskin. Thank you Alexa! I had NO idea that the place was available for play space.