Minot - The Magic City Discovery Center celebrated the completion of its one-of-a-kind hybrid children’s museum and science center during today’s building dedication ceremony. The MCDC Board of Directors was joined by more than 100 supporters and their families in marking the completion of the nearly $20 million project that was sparked by engaged community members 10 years ago.
"What a great time to live in Minot and the surrounding area!” said Mark Lyman, MCDC Board President. “With this new children's museum, we are truly showcasing how important the education of children and the support for families is for our community. We couldn't have made this all happen without the long hours put in by staff, volunteers, board members and hundreds of donors. We hope that everyone will come enjoy the Magic City Discovery Center after we are open to the public on May 5th."
The Magic City Discovery Center is a 28,000 square foot facility with four levels of educational fun that features 12 galleries housing over 150 hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) focused exhibits.
“The Magic City Discovery Center stands as an investment in the future of the Minot region, helping to enrich the lives of families and supporting the development and success of their children,” said U.S. Senator John Hoeven. “When the project first started in 2014, we quickly recognized the positive impact it would have. That’s why we worked to secure $6.3 million in DoD funding to enable the construction of this impressive new facility. We appreciate the hard work of everyone involved in making the Magic City Discovery Center a reality, ensuring this important resource is available to Minot and the surrounding area for years to come.”
"This is an exciting time to live, work and thrive in the City of Minot. The hard work and dedication the team put into making this center move from a thought to a reality is a case study in what a community can do when it works together,” said Tom Ross, Minot Mayor. “The location of the Magic City Discovery Center is perfect. It stands alone on a peak in the city as a constant reminder to us all that our city is dedicated to the future. As a father, walking through the doors of this center is something I look forward to sharing with my grandkids."
The dedication program featured speakers included the following: MCDC Board President Mark Lyman, U.S. Senator John Hoeven, Minot Mayor Tom Ross, Commander 5th Bomb Wing Col. Dan Hoadley, Commander 91st Missile Wing Col. Kenneth McGhee, MCDC Executive Director Wendy Keller and past MCDC Board President Karen Rasmusson.
The discovery center will be a premier destination to bring young children, caregivers, and families together in an interactive environment that inspires creativity, encourages play, and enhances education.
The center is welcoming charter members April 29-30, and May 2-3 utilizing regular operating hours. Charter Members are those who have shown their support for the discovery center by purchasing their memberships early.
The grand opening to the public will be held Friday, May 5 with doors opening at 10 a.m.
The mission of the Magic City Discovery Center is to engage children and families in the magic of lifelong learning through discovery, creativity, and play.
Information regarding annual and corporate memberships, admission, and hours can be found at MagicCityDiscoveryCenter.com and the center’s Facebook page.
