Opened in 1980, Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum is moving to a new location. The business has been in the same location for decades, but because of redevelopment plans in Farmington Hills, it must relocate.
The business was started by Marvin Yagoda in Tally Hall. After a trip to the food court with his family, Yagoda decided it was a good place to display some of his vintage items.
“My mom took me to Tally Hall and thought what a great place for my dad to get some of his collection out of the house” said Jeremy Yagoda, Marvin Yagoda’s son.
The business grew until they were leasing three spaces within Tally Hall full of games. When the property was closed and redeveloped, Yagoda moved the museum into its own building. Now it will be moving for the second time into the Orchard Mall in West Bloomfield.
Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum is an interactive, family-friendly experience. There’s coin operated games, video games, collectors' items, movie posters, memorabilia, photo booths and rides. Admission is free, and there’s a cafe with free Wi-Fi. Playing games earns tickets that can be traded in for prizes. The museum is also full of antiques and nostalgia like model airplanes and neon signs, as well as t-shirts and other souvenirs.
The new space in Orchard Mall will give the business, now run by Jeremy Yagoda, room to expand.
“We will almost be three times bigger,” said Yagoda. He intends to add new machines and private rooms for birthday parties and other events. “I hope it will only continue to grow.”
Since its opening the museum has been a staple in the community. A fun activity for all ages, Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum offers engaging, vintage games.
“I think the response shows how much the community appreciates what my father started out of passion," Yagoda said.
The museum has also been recognized by media corporations such as US Weekly, Bizarre Magazine, The World Almanac, Hour Detroit Magazine, The Metro Times Monthly, The Antiques Roadshow, WWJ and WJR AM News radio, and many more.
Open 365 days a year, the business hours are 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. on Sunday. The website linked here offers contact information, photos, and information on reserving for parties.
