Like to follow last-minute whims? Us too!

It's why Children's Art Factory is a drop-in art studio for kids aged walking and up - no reservations or pre-booking required!

Since the studio first opened in 2011, our drop-in model has offered an open-ended environment with a focus on play and process rather than take home art products that require instructions.

Drop-ins are on a first come, first serve basis, and entry is not guaranteed. Read our tips below to help prevent disappointment.

We can't wait to welcome you!

Have you previously pre-booked your visit?

We have returned to our roots as a drop-in studio and pre-booking is no longer available.

GET THE SCOOP

take a peek inside the factory

CAF features multiple hands-on art and sensory stations that are designed for open-ended exploration and creativity. Dress for mess and prepare for delight.

pricing and hours

  • SUGGESTED DROP-IN AGES

    We welcome children of all ages. The studio is geared to young children who are walking and up.

  • DROP-IN RATES (Grownups count too!)

    • $13 per person
    • Infants under 1 year are free with a paying sibling. 
    • Weekend Rates $15 per person (Friday. Saturday, Sunday)

    Drop ins are on a first come first serve basis. Entry is not guaranteed.

  • Drop -IN HOURS

    Monday- Thursday 9-12 and 1-6 pm

    Friday-Sunday 9-12 and 1-4 pm

    • some areas of the studio close 30 minutes prior to the end of each session
    • No food allowed. There is no snack area inside the studio.
    • Socks are required for all visitors. Grip socks are recommended. Socks are available for purchase at the front desk.

  • LOCATION & PARKING

    • Children's Art Factory is located at 37 Yarmouth St., in downtown Guelph.
    • For drop-in visits, please enter through the main entrance on the front of the building (polka dot door).
    • Our studio has five dedicated parking spots. Please keep strollers outside. We have locks to borrow, if needed.

  • ACCESSIBLITY

    Our studio is wheelchair accessible. Everyone is welcome here.

tips to help you plan a drop in visit

Our studio can be a busy place sometimes!

We are so grateful that there are so many many grown ups that want to visit with their littles. With a bit of pre-planning you can make sure everyone gets the most from their visit.

Our studio will be closed the week of Sept 11h-15th for renovations to our space,

  • 1. Socks

    We require both children and their grown ups to wear socks in our main studio. We recommend grip socks for little ones, as our studio floors can be slippery (due to the wax in the moonsand). Not too worry! We sell grippy socks at the desk, if you happen to forget.

    ***

    2. Arrive early!

    We occasionally have a line before our drop-in sessions begin at 9 a.m. & 1 p.m. We recommend coming 15-30 minutes before your desired session begins.

  • 3. Bring your entire friend group.

    We are unable to accommodate guests paying for friends who are not entering at the same time.

  • 4. Have a back-up plan!

    It's a good idea to know what is around our lovely city if you need to wait. The Guelph Public Library with a beautiful children's section is across the street from us, and there are a number of parks nearby.

    ***

    5. Dress for mess.

    Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty, painted, wet or moon dusty.

    ***

    6. Save snacks for later.

    Food may not be consumed anywhere in our main studio, with the exception of pre-booked parties where food may be consumed in the Party Room. Water may only be consumed in our entrance area.

Have more questions about visiting? Check out our helpful tips, policies, and answers to common questions.

Helpful Info and FAQs

frequent visitor?

If your littles are big Art Factory fans, consider a Frequent Visitor card to save on entry drop-in fees! Frequent Visitor cards are valid for drop-in studio play only.