Children’s Imaginarium Unveils a World of Wonder for Young Explorers

The First Big Attraction in the Downtown Wausau Development Zone Opens December 6

Through years of sheer determination, co-founders Maggie Gordon and Tammy Szekeress have successfully brought Children's Imaginarium to downtown Wausau. This remarkable achievement fulfills their vision of being a cornerstone in an area ripe for collaboration and growth. The children's museum stands as a shining example of the power of a community coming together to create something extraordinary.

"If not for WOZ (Wausau Opportunity Zone) and the city coming together, this location would not exist," Gordon said.

She believes the museum will bring new energy to downtown, serving as a hub for families to gather, bond and learn. With its arrival, Wausau is bound to become a family destination.

According to the Association of Children's Museums, more than 30% of children's museums are part of downtown revitalization projects, and the members' total economic activity exceeds $440 million. The average museum visitor tends to spend money at nearby restaurants and shops beyond the cost of admission.

Children’s Imaginarium boasts an impressive 10,000 square feet of fun. Julie Bollmann, the executive director, said that its STEM-focused exhibits and rooms create a hands-on and immersive experience. The main features include:

1. Wind-powered Play sponsored by Greenheck Group
2. STEM Tree
3. Construct It
4. Drip Drop Discovery
5. Farm to Fork Market sponsored by Marathon Cheese Corp.
6. STEM Lab
7. Multi-Purpose Rooms
8. Changing Gallery/Large Group Space
9. Comfort Nook sponsored by First Impressions

Bollmann pointed out that the museum is a gift to the community that was built on partnerships, shared experiences and collaborative initiatives. "Collaboration is the heartbeat of our vision," she said.

Memberships Make Great Gifts

This holiday season, give the gift that gives all year. With a $150 membership, a family of four can get free annual admission. Other benefits include exclusive museum hours for members, discounted program pricing and special rates for birthdays and room rentals. The ticket price is $10 a day without a membership and infants up to 12 months are free. Visit the membership page for more information.

How to Purchase

Retail sales events, including membership purchases and gift cards, occur on Black Friday, November 24, and Small Business Saturday, November 25, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. During this time, visitors can get a sneak peek at the gallery spaces, but the floor will not be open.

Gift cards are also available on the museum website

Grand Opening and Hours of Operation

The highly anticipated grand opening is Wednesday, December 6 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. After that, regular museum hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Members-only hours are Tuesday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Plan Your First Visit

Plan your first visit to Children's Imaginarium and make a day of it by exploring downtown Wausau. After enjoying the museum, have a delicious meal or visit the new shops recently opened downtown, including Object Homewares, Venado Cerveceria, Forward Beverage and The Pinery Coffee Co.

How to Make a Difference

To get involved and contribute to the community, Bollmann encourages volunteering, offering time and talents, serving on a committee, following Children's Imaginarium on social media, subscribing to the newsletter or becoming a part-time employee.

Another New Façade

In addition to the Children's Imaginarium, HOM Furniture has also revamped its facade and main entrance facing Washington Street, further enhancing the vibrancy of the downtown area.