Imagination Station, Toledo: The BEST Kids Museum for Family Fun!
- littlewelchtravele
- Jun 26
- 4 min read
As anyone following our adventures knows, finding truly engaging and educational experiences for the kids is always at the top of my list when we travel. And let me tell you, if there's one museum that consistently hits it out of the park for our little Welch travelers (and for us parents!), it's the Imagination Station in Toledo, Ohio.
This place isn't just a museum; it's a vibrant hub of discovery, where science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) come alive in the most fun, hands-on ways. From the moment you step inside, you can feel the energy of excited kids (and adults!) exploring, tinkering, and creating. It's truly a place where "science is for everyone!"
So, what makes it so special? Let's dive into some of the highlights:
Exhibits Galore: Hands-On Fun for Every Age!
Imagination Station boasts hundreds of interactive exhibits, meaning there's literally something for every age and interest. My kids are always drawn to different areas, which is fantastic for keeping everyone engaged.
IDEA Lab: This is a fantastic space for budding inventors and problem-solvers. Kids can build cars and race them down a track, create animated cartoons, and even design structures to withstand an earthquake! It’s all about thinking, creating, and innovating.
Little KIDSPACE: For our youngest travelers, this area is a dream. It's designed specifically for pre-school and kindergarten-aged children, with imaginative play areas like a mini hospital, a construction zone, a grocery store, an ambulance, and even a treehouse! There's also a fantastic water table in the Wet Lab that's always a huge hit, so be prepared for a little splash!
Mind Zone: This area is full of optical illusions and a distorted gravity room that will twist your perception of reality! It's a great spot for older kids and adults to explore.
High Wire Cycle: This is one of those iconic experiences you won't forget! You can pedal a bicycle 20 feet above the ground on a single wire. It's included in admission, but note that riders need to be at least 54 inches tall and under 250 pounds, and must wear closed-toe shoes.
KeyBank Discovery Theater: For an additional fee, you can catch an educational film on their 4K, 3D-capable screen. Always check their schedule for what's playing during your visit!
They also frequently host cutting-edge traveling exhibitions, so there's always something new to discover. We've seen everything from dinosaur exhibits to those on the science of hockey – it keeps things fresh and exciting!
Admission & How to Save!
Let's talk practicalities. Here's a breakdown of the current admission prices for the Science Center (prices are subject to change, so always check their website before you go!):
Adult (13-64): $17.00 (Lucas County residents: $15.00)
Senior (65+): $16.00 (Lucas County residents: $14.00)
Kid (3-12): $15.00 (Lucas County residents: $13.00)
Children 2 & under: FREE!
Pro-Tip for Lucas County Families: Kids 12 and under who live in Lucas County get FREE Saturday admission with a paid adult admission! This is a fantastic deal! Also, Lucas County residents receive $2 off with proof of residency any other day.
Other great discounts:
Teachers get FREE science center admission with valid ID.
Active Military personnel receive FREE science center admission.
Museums for All: If you receive SNAP or WIC benefits, you can get admission for up to 8 people for just $3! This is such an incredible initiative.
If you're a member of an ASTC (Association of Science-Technology Centers) institution, you might qualify for reciprocal free admission! Check their website for exclusions.
If you plan on visiting often, or exploring other science museums, a membership can be a great value. Plus, some membership levels include free parking!
Parking and Other Helpful Tips:
Parking: Imagination Station doesn't have its own dedicated parking lot, but there are plenty of options downtown. We highly recommend parking at the Vistula Garage (610 N. Superior St.) and using the underground concourse that leads directly to the museum. It's super convenient, especially on a chilly or rainy day! Other recommended ParkSmart garages include Superior Garage and Port Lawrence Garage. Street parking meters are also available and are free on holidays and weekends.
Hours: Imagination Station is typically open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday from 12 pm to 5 pm. They are generally closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly!
Food: They have an on-site cafe, the Atomic Café, with kid-friendly options like deli sandwiches, pizza, and grill items. This is a lifesaver if you don't want to pack a lunch.
Bathrooms and Nursing Room: You'll find plenty of clean restrooms throughout the museum, including family bathrooms and changing stations. There's also a private nursing room inside Little KIDSPACE.
Wear comfy shoes! You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring.
Be prepared to get hands-on! This is not a "look, don't touch" museum. Encourage your kids to dive in and experiment.
The Imagination Station is more than just a place to pass the time; it's an investment in curiosity and a truly memorable family experience. If you're ever in Toledo, Ohio, this is an absolute must-do for families! We can't recommend it enough for little Welch travelers of all ages.
Happy exploring!
Tatyana
Creator, Little Welch Travelers