Clothes, toys, and community: Everland is Philly’s sustainable playroom that has it all

This Queen Village business blends open play, clothing swaps, and eco-conscious community.

Between outgrown clothes, forgotten toys, and gear that barely gets used, childhood can be a pretty wasteful time for parents. But one Philly mom found a better way to play.

Melissa Donnelly, founder of Everland, envisioned a community space where sustainability and parenting could go hand-in-hand. Located in Queen Village, Everland is more than a play space — it’s a community hub, event venue, and eco-conscious retail shop designed to support families through early childhood.

“When I had my son almost six years ago, I was really overwhelmed with how many things you have to buy, even if you’re trying to be minimal about it,” Donnelly says. “They grow so quickly and some things you don’t end up using, so I knew there was an opportunity to have a better system of reuse.”

That spark of frustration became the foundation for Everland. For just $10 per child, families can drop in for open play in the 1,000-square-foot space — a more affordable option than many similar venues. Donnelly also offers a monthly clothing rental service for $60, giving families flexibility and variety without adding to landfill waste. Think of it like Nuuly — but for baby clothes.

And it doesn’t stop at play. Everland hosts toy and clothing swaps, prenatal and postpartum yoga classes, and even partners with a local farm CSA to bring nature into the learning experience. Everything in the retail shop is handpicked with purpose, aligned with Donnelly’s commitment to sustainability and impact.

Her background makes that commitment real. Before opening Everland, Donnelly worked in corporate sustainability – helping companies avoid greenwashing and make real progress. “I’ve overseen sustainability practices at the Fortune 500 level and at the startup level,” she says. “I understand what it takes to build that from within.”

Applying that knowledge to parenting isn’t always easy, but Donnelly is practical: “Not everything can be perfect, but I think it’s about starting somewhere that feels impactful and trying to build from that.”

And that impact includes building a community during a hard time becoming a parent. “Through Everland, we’ve found ways to support one another during a special and challenging time. We’ve been able to find ways to live sustainably and raise your family with sustainable products and more reuse in how we raise children.”

Everland may be designed for little ones, but it’s helping create a better future for everyone — one thoughtful play session at a time.

Photos courtesy of Melissa Donnelly