Franchise owner Joel Davis hopes Safari Run will be a place enjoyed by parents and kids alike.[/caption]

Kids are now enjoying Plano’s newest play destination. Safari Run at 2300 Coit Road near the intersection of Park Boulevard opened mid-June.

The fitness-based entertainment center features a multilevel animal-themed climbing structure with activity areas and large slides. There is also an expansive arcade.

The facility was built with kid ages 1 to 10 in mind. For $10 an hour, they can enjoy open play throughout the facility. Families who plan to visit frequently can purchase membership packages at on the company's website.

A party room is available for birthdays and other events. The Plano location will also offer fitness classes during the school year that focus on manners, body facts and nutrition and fitness skills. Safari Run will also eventually host camps where kids can enjoy craft making, games and nutritious snacks.

Franchise owner Joel Davis left a 30-year career in technology to start the venture.

“I wanted to do something that involved family,” Davis said.

The Plano party room features a custom-made giraffe mural that was inspired by the Dallas Zoo. There are other animal illustrations throughout the facility. Davis said the décor is a tribute to his wife, who was passionate about aesthetic design. She passed away in 2014. The event inspired Davis to re-evaluate his priorities.

“In the work-life continuum, it was time for me to step towards the life side,” Davis said. “I wanted to do something that involved family.”

After researching other opportunities, he settled on Safari Run after meeting Jodi and Rob Eichensehr, who founded the business in the San Francisco Bay Area in 2006. There are currently locations in San Mateo, California, and Sunnyvale, California.

Davis said he was impressed with their business model and philosophy, and hopes to put a North Texas stamp on the west coast business.

A Plano resident himself, Davis said his own children already love coming to Safari Run. He hopes his area neighbors will enjoy it as well.

“We want it to be an incredibly positive experience for parents and children,” Davis said.