Why a Kid-Friendly Games Room Increases Bookings for Your Vacation Rental

If you host families in your Airbnb or short-term rental, adding a dedicated kids' games room can dramatically boost your appeal. A thoughtfully designed playroom doesn’t just entertain children—it gives parents a break, creates memorable guest experiences, and helps your property stand out in a competitive vacation rental market.

Whether you're looking to increase family bookings or earn better guest reviews, a fun and functional games room could be the upgrade that sets your listing apart.

Pictured: Peaks and Pines on Elni, MI

Top Benefits of a Games Room in Your Short-Term Rental

1. More family bookings:

Families actively seek out vacation rentals with kid-friendly amenities.

2. Higher guest satisfaction:

Kids stay entertained, which makes the stay more enjoyable for parents.

3. Increased repeat stays and reviews:

Happy kids = happy families = 5-star ratings.

4. Year-round appeal:

Especially valuable during holidays, rainy days, or downtime.

 

How to Design the Ultimate Games Room for Kids in Your Airbnb

1. Include Games for All Ages

Design your short-term rental’s games room to entertain toddlers, older kids, and even teens. A variety of options helps ensure there's something for everyone.

Games and toys to include:

• Wooden blocks, stacking toys, and soft play for toddlers
• Board games like Candy Land, Uno, and Guess Who
• Card games and puzzles for older children
• A gaming console or smart TV for teens (preloaded with family-friendly games)

👉 Download our FREE PDF with shoppable links to our favorite kid-friendly games and playroom decor

 

2. Use Kid-Safe, Durable Materials

Kid-friendly doesn’t mean chaotic. Choose materials and furnishings that look stylish but hold up to daily use.

Design tips for a kid-proof playroom:

• Use foam mats or rugs for soft, easy-to-clean flooring
• Choose wipeable wall finishes or decals for easy maintenance
• Add beanbags, poufs, or small-scale furniture for flexible seating
• Incorporate enclosed bins or labeled baskets to keep things tidy

3. Add Interactive Play Features to Boost Engagement

Maximize space (and fun!) with wall-mounted games and creative additions:

• Chalkboard or whiteboard wall
• LEGO baseplate wall
• Giant wall-mounted Connect Four or tic-tac-toe
• Magnetic or felt boards for storytelling and creativity

These upgrades are especially helpful for smaller short-term rentals where space is limited.

 Pictured: Kids Nook in Peaks and Pines on Elni, MI

4. Make the Space Instagrammable

Modern travelers love to share their vacations online—especially if the space is visually fun. Make your games room stand out in photos:

• Add a colorful mural or themed wallpaper
• Install a fun neon sign like “Let’s Play” or “Game Zone”
• Tie the design into your Airbnb’s overall aesthetic for cohesion

Pro Tip: Great photos of your kid-friendly space can help your Airbnb rank higher on platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Google Vacation Rentals.

Pictured: Riverside Retreat Games Room in Ellicottville, NY

 

5. Prioritize Safety in Your Games Room Setup

Safety is a major concern for parents, so don’t overlook the basics:

• Anchor shelving and tall furniture
• Avoid sharp edges and glass items
• Store small or choking-hazard pieces out of reach
• Use outlet covers and child-proof door locks if needed

 

Bonus Features That Impress Parents

To truly go above and beyond, consider adding these kid- and parent-friendly extras:

• Snack station with plastic dishes and a mini fridge
• Books and sensory toys for quiet time
• Sound machine or light-dimming features for nap breaks
• Baby gate if the room is in an open-concept space

 

Our Favorite Games and Decor Picks – Download the Free Guide

We’ve curated a list of our go-to items for designing a kid-approved games room that also photographs beautifully. From interactive games to storage solutions and decor, everything is short-term-rental tested and family-friendly.

👉 Click here to download the FREE PDF with shoppable games, toys and other essentials.

Final Thoughts: Turn Your Airbnb Into a Family Favorite

Adding a kid-friendly games room to your Airbnb, Vrbo, or vacation rental property is a smart investment that attracts more family travelers and helps your listing stand out. It’s a space that delivers value, creates memories, and supports 5-star guest experiences.

Looking to create a show-stopping family-friendly rental that dominates your market?
Book a design consultation with our team today — we specialize in hospitality design that converts browsers into bookers.

 

You May Also Like