Exploration Station
Where Play Has No Limits
Phase One of the Exploration Station is now complete!
Rooted in accessibility, inclusion, and nature, the Exploration Station in Sault Ste. Marie, MI was created to provide young children of all abilities, their families, and the community at large, with an outdoor space where exploration inspires curiosity, movement builds confidence, and play brings people together.
Designed for Every Child
Inclusion isn't a feature; it is the foundation of the Exploration Station.
Every child deserves opportunities to play, learn, and connect with others. The Exploration Station was intentionally designed to remove barriers and create experiences that welcome children of all abilities. Accessible pathways, inclusive playground equipment, communication supports, and sensory experiences help ensure that every child can participate, while creating opportunities for families to enjoy the space together.
Because every child deserves a place to belong.
Explore the Space
Every area of the Exploration Station has been thoughtfully designed to encourage young children to experience the outdoors in different ways. Whether climbing, creating music, exploring nature, or using their imagination, every feature supports learning through play. Designed primarily for children ages 6 months to 5 years. Younger and older siblings are welcome with appropriate supervision.
Active Play
Build strength, confidence, and coordination through climbing, spinning, sliding, rocking, and active outdoor adventures.
Discover & Create
Inspires curiosity through storytelling, nature exploration, interactive play, and creative learning experiences.
Music & Sensory Play
Explore sound, creativity, and sensory-rich experiences developed to engage children in meaningful and imaginative ways.
Connect & Imagine
Foster friendships, communication, imaginative play, and inclusive experiences where every child can participate.
Looking Ahead
The Exploration Station will continue to grow with our community.
Future phases may include additional inclusive play equipment, outdoor learning spaces, community programming, sensory-friendly gathering areas, a pavilion, a garden, and other improvements that continue to expand opportunities for children and families.
As new partnerships and funding opportunities become available, this page will be updated with the latest additions and announcements.
Partners & Supporters
Every child deserves a place where they can feel welcome, included, and inspired to explore.
Built through the power of partnership, the Exploration Station was made possible through the support, collaboration, and shared vision of many dedicated partners.
This work is made possible through funding from the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services (MDHHS) through the Healthy Community Zones Initiative, in partnership with the Eastern Upper Peninsula Intermediate School District, Sault Area Public Schools, Chippewa-Luce-Mackinac Community Action Agency, and many community partners who helped bring this vision to life.
Together, we are creating a welcoming place where children and families can explore, discover, connect, and grow for years to come.
The Exploration Station was shaped through a community needs assessment and ongoing collaboration with families, educators, and community members. Their ideas helped create a shared vision for more than a playground. Our tribal partners encouraged us to embrace the natural landscape while creating opportunities for movement, creativity, discovery, and connection while respecting the surrounding environment.
