About us

We decided to franchise Play Street Museum to address “the child space desert” that exists in Manhattan. We began our NYC journey nearly a decade ago. Then, as newlyweds, we lived and worshipped nearby—just off 97th and Columbus and at PS 163. Today, we are raising our kids in Harlem, and as parents of three little ones, Play Street Museum couldn't mean more to us—and we hope it means just as much to you! It is our desire for Play Street Museum Upper West Side to become your “home away from home,” where you experience radical hospitality, a caring team, and impeccable cleanliness. Our favorite feature of our location is our expansive 25-foot ceilings and natural light - it’s unlike anything in NYC! Our sons, Alexander and Xavier, would probably be most excited to show you the huge recycle truck or the massive train table—both are showstoppers in the museum! As owner/operators, you'll find us with our infant daughter Phoenix on the discovery rug, in our inbox, taking a call, or spending time with you—our guests! On behalf of our Assistant Manager, Ivon, and our entire hardworking team, we invite you to make a reservation and experience all that Play Street Museum UWS has to offer.

Play Street Museum Upper West Side is locally owned and operated by James and Kristina Payne of Payne Family Enterprises, LLC, based out of Harlem, New York City. They are one of the few Black-owned businesses on Manhattan's Upper West Side.

For over ten years, Play Street Museum has been on mission to inspire the world through play. As we seek to provide superior quality play and educational experiences for young children and their families, each location across the country seeks to serve, impact, empower, and inspire their local community. Initially created and launched near the Dallas area, our passion for children has grown and brought us to your backyard. 

Whether you’re visiting from out of town or part of our local community, we can’t wait to share all Play Street Museum has to offer! We look forward to seeing you and your family enjoy and make memories together during our playtimes, parties, craft options, and special events with our small business. 

The Payne Family James, Kristina, Alexander, Xavier, & Phoenix