PlayNation Set to Open First Location in Eastway Crossing
'Screen-free' indoor playground aims to support child development with help of 'Play Pros'
Described as a new “screens-free” indoor playground concept for kids aged 0-13, PlayNation plans to open its first location in the Eastway Crossing shopping center in east Charlotte this year, a release announced on Wednesday.
The 14,257-square-foot facility will be located in the space that was previously home to Smartway, connected to US Foods CHEF’STORE and perpendicular to Tommy’s Pub. It’s expected to open in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Billed as a “purpose-driven” playground, PlayNation emphasizes movement over screens, supporting child development while providing parents with peace of mind.
The facility will feature a variety of interactive play zones tailored to different age groups, including sensory experiences and tactile elements that are built to encourage exploration and creativity. Younger children will have access to softer, slower-paced areas designed for safety and comfort while older children can engage in more active, high-energy play, the release stated.
“We created PlayNation to fill a real gap we saw as parents,” said Kevin Miller, general manager of PlayNation. “Too often, kids’ spaces revolve around screens or don’t fully work for both children and adults. We wanted to create a place where play feels natural again, where kids can move, explore and stay engaged, while parents can relax and actually enjoy the experience alongside them.”
Staff members called “Play Pros” will supervise play areas, which will have a strong emphasis on safety and cleanliness, Wednesday’s release stated. PlayNation will also offer options to host birthday parties and group activities at the location.
Miller said PlayNation chose Eastway Crossing for its first location because of the strong sense of community and growing community of young parents.
“This area is full of people who value local businesses and shared experiences, but there aren’t many indoor spaces like this that allow kids to stay active year-round,” he stated. “We saw an opportunity to create something that families can return to again and again.”
Collett, the real estate firm that leases and manages Eastway Crossing, says PlayNation is one of several new tenants coming to the shopping center, which has seen a rejuvenation in recent years.
Recognized as Best Strip Mall in Queen City Nerve’s Best in the Nest issue in 2020 and Best Hangout for the Day in 2022, Eastway Crossing is home to Tommy’s Pub, Book Buyers, Open Door Studios, Gear Goat XCHG, Sen Mee Noodle House,Tortilleria Elizabeth, Upcycle Arts, and VisArt Video, among a slew of other local businesses.
Stanford Garnett, senior leasing associate with Collett, said his firm has been purposeful in choosing partners that make a good fit in the neighborhood.
“Eastway Crossing continues to attract concepts that bring meaningful experiences to the community, and PlayNation is a perfect example of that,” Garnett said. “PlayNation is more than a place to play — it’s a space designed to support how children grow, learn and connect, and we’re excited to welcome it to the center.”
After opening its first location in Eastway Crossing, PlayNation has plans for future expansion into additional markets, Wednesday’s release stated.
Visit the PlayNation website for more information.
