Opening November 1 · Plan your visit
Open Play
Settle in for two hours of pretend play, building and family games, with different things to do for little ones and bigger kids.
$10 per child for two hours.
Children under 2 attend free with a paid child admission. Supervising parents and guardians attend free. Please arrange your session in advance.
What's in the play areas?
Little ones & their grown-ups
Our colorful play area has a soft rug where moms and other grown-ups can sit and play alongside their little ones. Play pretend with a princess castle and firehouse made from 3D puzzles, complete with little play people, or build with Magna-Tiles.
There's also a playpen for smaller children and a diaper changing area.
LEGO & circuit sets
Bigger kids can dig into LEGO bricks, build something of their own, or experiment with our electronics sets, including Snap Circuits Explorer and the Elenco Electronic Playground 130.
Play dough & family games
Pick out a board game and spend some time playing together as a family. Play dough will also be available to purchase and use with our cookie cutters.
Computer time
Parents and guardians can book computer time while watching their children play. We're happy to assist! Computer time is $5 per hour, booked separately. We're working on getting more computers.
Online Open Play reservations
Open Play reservations will be available online when booking opens. Choose an available two-hour session and complete registration, payment and waivers through the booking process. We are not accepting play reservations by email.
Children under 13 need adult supervision throughout their visit. Participants and supervising adults must be registered and have a signed waiver on file. A parent or legal guardian must complete the paperwork for participants under 18.
Planning more visits?
Ask about our 8-visit punch card for $50.
Ask about a punch card → · Businesses: sponsor visits for local families →
Before you visit
Do supervising adults pay admission?
Supervising parents and guardians attend Open Play free. Computer time, Maker Lab equipment, workshops and project materials have their own prices.
Do we need to reserve ahead?
Yes. Reservations will be made online once booking opens, with registration and waivers completed as part of the process. You don't need a play reservation to browse Thrift & Gift.
Where is the center?
114 N. Michigan Ave., downtown Big Rapids. Planned hours (opening date to be announced): Tuesday–Saturday 11 AM–5 PM; closed Sunday and Monday.