Where Imagination Grows and Community Comes Together
We Create Safe Gathering Spaces for Children, Youth, Adults, and the Elderly Throughout Our Region
Building Community, Inspiring Minds
IMAGINATION FACTORY MISSION STATEMENT
The Imagination Factory Community Center strengthens our community by helping people of all ages learn, grow and belong. We are a welcoming hub where curiosity becomes confidence with hands on discovery, meaningful relationships, real-world skill building and critical thinking.
A children’s museum and youth center ignite imagination, support healthy develop and provide safe spaces for children and youth to explore who they are and what they can become. Adult activities, career education for all ages, and leadership development build skills, open pathways to opportunity, and empower people to contribute with purpose.
The Family Resource Room and Family Therapy Center offer practical support and compassionate care, connecting families to guidance, coping skills and services that meet them where they are.
We promote wellness at the Gus Macker Cafe serving affordable meals and snacks centered on whole foods and healthy eating habits.
Our mission is to create an inclusive accessible place where play leads to learning, learning leads to leadership and every person feels valued, supported and equip to thrive.
A Community-Powered Vision
We are excited to create a dynamic public space where learning, culture, creativity, and community come together. Our leadership in Iron Mountain is committed to providing meaningful programs that support families, schools, organizations, and businesses.
Visitors of all ages will enjoy hands-on exhibits, movement and activity rooms, training spaces, meeting rooms, VR experiences, and public forums.
The revitalized historical school building at 301 W. Hughitt Street will be recognized as a true community gem—a place that encourages reading, leadership skills, critical thinking, career exploration, and a lifelong love of learning.
As Executive Director, Team Leader Barb Reisner shared:
“We will expand access, engage more people, increase investors, deliver more high-quality programs, and enhance our ability to serve more children, families, and individuals.”
50 Interactive Exhibits and Play Stations
After obtaining nonprofit status in 2019 and opening our current museum in 2021, we are now focused on our new home! Construction and renovations began in Fall 2024 at 301 W. Hughitt Street. We will be opening the first-floor Children's Museum on April 18, 2026, with major funding coming from a federal grant issued by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and generous community donations.
The Amazing IFCC Building
Imagine a 50,000-square-foot facility designed for exploration, learning, and connections!
Children's Museum & Family Support
5 Exhibit Rooms, Tiny Town Room, Movement Room, Gus Macker Cafe, Commercial Kitchen, Family Resource Center, Conference & Office Spaces, Accessibility.
Floor 1
Youth Center Services & Large Gatherings
Career Room, Movement Room, Virtual Reality Room, 4 Club Rooms, Training Room (capacity #200).
Floor 2
Wellness & Community Forum
Family Therapy Center, Board Meeting Room, Public Forum/Catering Room (capacity #300).
Floor 3
Outdoor Fun & Active Play
Outdoor seating overlooking two pickleball courts, a 3-on-3 basketball court, an interactive play structure, an environment exhibit, and more.
Playground
Spaces Designed to Impact
The Imagination Factory Community Center will be a hub of innovation, supporting parents, promoting a 'love to learn' mindset, and implementing valuable training opportunities. Our special rooms include the Family Resource Room, Gus Macker Cafe, Quiet Sensory Play Room, Virtual Reality Room, Career Room, and Family Therapy Center, ensuring diverse and meaningful activities for all.
2025 Highlights
We are incredibly proud of the growth we've achieved together this past year!
Explore Our Services
Exhibits
Discover hands-on, interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity, imagination, and learning for visitors of every age.
Children's Activities
From Saturday programs to themed events, movement rooms, VR experiences, and Tiny Town-children learn through play, creativity, and exploration.
Community
Gather, connect, and grow together through workshops, training sessions, family resources, public forums, volunteer opportunities, and community events.
Support Our Community Vision
Every contribution, big or small, helps us complete the new Imagination Factory Community Center, ensuring a welcoming space for all ages. At the Imagination Factory Childrens Museum, every child goes home with a new childrens book.
Take the Next Step
Whether you have questions, want to partner, or are ready to contribute to our beautiful new center, we'd love to hear from you!