Farmington Hills Says Goodbye But Not Forever!
Farmington Hills, MI — After 25 memorable years at its current location, Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum is getting ready for a big move! But don’t worry, it’s not a permanent goodbye. In fact, you could say it’s just the beginning of a new adventure for this beloved vintage arcade, attraction, and family hangout.
Marvin’s was first established back in 1980 at Tally Hall, a much-loved spot in the area. After Tally closed its doors, the museum made its new home at Hunter’s Square in 1990, and since then, it has become a cherished part of Metro Detroit’s Jewish community. However, things took a turn during the pandemic when the museum, like many other businesses, faced significant challenges. Adding to the woes, plans to construct a new Meijer supermarket meant that the future of Marvin’s was very much in doubt.
But fear not! The current owner, Jeremy Yagoda, who is also the son of the original founder, Marvin Yagoda, has announced on social media that Marvin’s will be relocating to West Bloomfield! That’s right! The new spot will be in Orchard Mall, right next to Planet Fitness, occupying the former Sav-On Drugs location.
A Bigger and Better Home
Get ready, because this new space is going to be enormous! The new Marvin’s will be nearly three times as large, boasting a whopping 14,000 square feet. This means room for even more exciting games, vintage collectibles, and plenty of private party spaces for kids’ birthdays and events. And don’t worry; The Brain and all the other treasured animatronics will still be there to greet old and new friends!
Before the grand transition, though, fans can still enjoy their favorite retro games at the current Hunter’s Square location, which will close its doors for good on January 5. Jeremy plans to take a short break while the new space is being renovated, with hopes that the grand reopening will occur by late spring.
“We are so excited to start the next chapter for Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum,” says Jeremy. “My dad used to say, when life gives you lemons, make lemonade. That’s exactly what we’re doing here.” Jeremy took over the family business in 2017, after his father sadly passed away. Now, he wants to honor his legacy by expanding what Marvin’s means to the community.
The Community Rallying Behind Marvin’s
For years, the people of Metro Detroit have stood behind Marvin’s. During the pandemic, a GoFundMe campaign raised an impressive $75,000 to cover rent, while a recent Change.org petition saw over 54,000 signatures fighting to keep the museum in Farmington Hills. Now that the new location is set, the community is abuzz with excitement!
“I’m so happy that Marvin’s found a new home,” shares Marianne Milgrom Bloomberg, who’s been visiting since her teenage years. “It means the world to me and my family that we can pass down those magical memories to the next generation.”
Another community member, Sydnie Saltz, recalls her own grandmother taking her to the museum. “It’s a hometown Jewish staple that brings childhood memories back to life,” she says, eager for future generations to experience the joy it brings.
Even Marlee Shifman, a former employee, reflects fondly on her time there. She believes the museum has shaped so many lives in the community. “I wouldn’t be where I am now without my time at Marvin’s,” she adds.
A Bright Future Ahead
As exciting changes are on the horizon, Francie Fruitman is optimistic about Marvin’s new location in Orchard Mall. “It’s a perfect fit, and I can’t wait to see how it unfolds. The new space is bound to benefit everyone around it!”
It is clear that Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum holds a special place in the hearts of many. Jeremy expresses his gratitude, stating, “It’s humbling to see how much my father’s passion has impacted people.” The support from the community fuels the drive to push forward.
While Farmington Hills may have to say goodbye to its longtime favorite arcade, one thing is for sure: Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum is here to stay, and it promises to be bigger and better than ever!
