ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center
About
ImaginOn is a one-of-a-kind destination where a children's library meets a performing arts theater, creating an interactive wonderland for young minds. Kids can explore hands-on exhibits, attend live performances, participate in story times, and discover creative learning spaces all under one roof,making it Charlotte's premier indoor destination for curious children and families.
Highlights
- ✓Interactive StoryBox where kids create digital animations and stories
- ✓Children's Theatre performances with professional productions designed for young audiences
- ✓Regular story times and author visits in engaging presentation spaces
- ✓The Loft teen area with gaming, music recording studio, and creative technology
- ✓Hands-on exhibits that change periodically, encouraging literacy and imagination
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on weekends as story time sessions and special performances fill up quickly,check their online calendar to reserve spots for popular events
- 2.Park in the 7th Street Station parking deck directly adjacent to the building for easiest access with strollers and young children
- 3.Visit the StoryBox exhibit on the second floor where kids can create their own digital stories and animations,it's a hidden gem many visitors miss
- 4.Bring library cards for the whole family (free for Mecklenburg County residents) to check out books, movies, and unique items from the creation station
- 5.Plan your visit around a live theater performance in the Children's Theatre,productions are specifically designed for young audiences and are exceptionally high-quality
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday, 9:00-11:00 AM) offer the least crowded experience for exploring exhibits and browsing books. Saturday afternoons can be busier but offer more programming options. Evening hours on weekdays are perfect for after-school visits when older kids can enjoy the space without younger crowds.
What to Know
Admission to ImaginOn and most exhibits is completely FREE, though theater performances require purchased tickets. The facility is fully accessible with elevators, and while there's no café on-site, outside snacks are welcome in designated areas.
Seasonal Notes
Summer reading programs offer extra incentives and special events from June-August. Holiday-themed performances and story times are especially popular in November-December and often require advance tickets. The venue is climate-controlled, making it an ideal year-round indoor option.
Nearby Eats
7th Street Public Market is just two blocks away with multiple food vendors including kid favorites like Not Just Coffee (with pastries) and Pasta & Provisions. Amelie's French Bakery on Tryon Street (5-minute walk) offers sweet treats and light lunch options kids love.
More Activities Near Charlotte
Charlotte Motor Speedway
Charlotte Motor Speedway delivers high-octane family fun beyond race days! Kids get star-struck taking guided tours of the legendary NASCAR track, exploring behind-the-scenes areas like pit road and victory lane. The venue transforms into a winter wonderland during the famous Speedway Christmas light show, making it a year-round destination for motorsports-loving families.
Carolina Raptor Center
The Carolina Raptor Center offers an unforgettable up-close experience with hawks, eagles, owls, and other magnificent birds of prey. Kids will be mesmerized by the flight demonstrations and educational programs, while the peaceful nature trails winding through the 14-acre facility make this both an exciting and educational outdoor adventure for the whole family.
Freedom Park
Freedom Park is Charlotte's beloved 98-acre urban oasis that offers something for every age, from its expansive modern playground to paddle boat adventures on the scenic lake. With wide open fields perfect for kite flying, well-maintained walking trails, and plenty of shade trees for picnicking, it's an ideal spot for families looking to spend quality outdoor time without leaving the city.
Main Event
Main Event in Charlotte is the ultimate one-stop entertainment destination where families can spend hours enjoying bowling, laser tag, an exciting gravity ropes course, and a massive arcade under one roof. With dining options on-site, parents can easily make this an all-day adventure without having to worry about multiple stops or hungry kids.