Gymboree

The folks behind this kiddie clothing brand don’twant to just outfit your children—they want to educate them, too. With more than 550 locations in the U.S., Gymboree offers a variety of classes in music, arts and sports. Its popular family classes allow your whole crew to paint murals or learn to play an instrument together. Besides hosting birthday parties, Gymboree also puts the space to use for mothers’ playgroups and family reunions. So if you have to see crazy cousin Carol again, at least it will be on neutral turf. Admission is for members only; see website for membership and price details. Ages newborn to 5 years.