Imagination Station | Toledo

What is Imagination Station?

Imagination Station is a hands-on science center designed to inspire curiosity and learning for visitors of all ages. It focuses on interactive exhibits that encourage exploration of science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM). The center is ideal for families, school groups, educators, and anyone interested in discovering how science works through engaging, playful activities.

Location and Hours

Address: 1 Discovery Way, Toledo, OH 43604

Hours of Operation:

Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Monday: Closed (occasionally open on select holidays or special events)

Admission and Pricing

Imagination Station offers several ticket options, including packages that combine access to exhibits, theater shows, and special rides or events:

Ultimate Experience Ticket (Science Center + Theater + SIM Ride + HOCKEY exhibit):

Adults (13-64): $24.50

Seniors (65+): $23.50

Children (3-12): $22.50

Children under 3: Free

Science Center Only Ticket:

Adults: $17.00

Seniors: $16.00

Children: $15.00

Children under 3: Free

Theater Admission:

All Ages: $6.50

Members: $4.50

Discounts:

Lucas County residents get discounted rates.

Children 12 and under from Lucas County enjoy free admission every Saturday.

The Museums for All program offers $3 admission for families with food assistance benefits (SNAP/WIC).

Exhibits and Attractions

Imagination Station features a wide variety of hands-on, interactive exhibits designed to engage visitors in scientific concepts:

Air Cars: Visitors build cars powered by compressed air and learn about Newton’s Third Law of Motion by racing them.

Ames Room: This exhibit uses an optical illusion that makes people appear to grow or shrink depending on where they stand.

Animation Station: Create your own stop-motion animation, learning about frame-by-frame motion and storytelling.

Ball Refinery: A colorful model of an oil refinery where visitors separate “crude oil” into gasoline, kerosene, and other products.

Circuit Table: Build electrical circuits with components such as switches, lights, and fans to understand electricity flow.

Energy Transfer: Explore how energy moves from one source to another through various interactive setups.

For younger children, Little Kidspace offers:

A treehouse play area

Water play stations

Pretend grocery store and other imaginative play zones

Additionally, the Energy Factory exhibit, supported by BP and First Solar, showcases interactive displays related to energy science, including solar power, robotics, and sustainability.

Theater and Special Events

KeyBank Discovery Theater hosts educational films, live shows, and special events.

Current and upcoming features include:

HOCKEY: Faster Than Ever — An immersive exhibit focused on the science behind hockey.

WICKED Movie Sing-Along — Special screenings with sing-along participation.

Accessibility and Visitor Services

Imagination Station is committed to providing an inclusive environment for all visitors:

Mobility: ADA-compliant parking spaces, wheelchair-accessible pathways and seating, and free wheelchair rentals available on-site.

Vision: Braille signage, large-print maps, and audio descriptions during theater presentations.

Hearing: Assistive listening devices and closed captioning offered for theater shows.

Sensory-Friendly: Sensory-friendly hours take place on the third Sunday of each month, with accommodations and quiet spaces for visitors with sensory sensitivities.

Planning Your Visit

Parking is available nearby with accessible spaces.

The center encourages visitors to plan ahead by checking their website for current exhibit schedules, special events, and holiday hours.

Food and drink policies, group visit options, and membership programs can also be explored on their official site.