Celebrating Two Years of Magic: Inside the Newburgh Armory Center Magic Space in New York
- Tuesday March 17th 2026
- R. Ryan
- Merlin's Magic Wand Foundation, LEGOLAND® New York, Newburgh Armory Center, Magic Space
Three years ago, an idea began to take shape: what if a classroom could become a fully immersive LEGO® Educational Magic Space, where children don’t just learn, but build, experiment, and imagine their way into brighter futures. Thanks to support from LEGOLAND® New York, and Merlin Magic Making, that vision is now a reality, and today we are proud to celebrate the second anniversary of a space that has quickly become a heartbeat of creativity and opportunity for local children.
From the moment you step into the Magic Space, it’s clear this is no ordinary classroom. Every wall, surface, and screen is designed to spark curiosity and invite hands-on exploration. With a fully comprehensive LEGO curriculum and state-of-the-art technology to support teachers and students, the space brings STEAM learning to life in a way that feels more like play than schoolwork. Children are encouraged to experiment, collaborate, and problem-solve, building both models and confidence as they go.
Behind this joyful environment is a story of collaboration, commitment, and community support. Early planning began in August 2023, drawing on the talent, creativity, and expertise of internal teams across Merlin Entertainments. LEGOLAND New York team members and Merlin Magic Making specialists worked side by side, from initial concept designs to technical installation, ensuring every detail supported an engaging and accessible learning experience. Their passion for play and education is woven into every brick, blueprint, and interactive element in the room.
Today, around 2,000 children experience the Magic Space every year, taking part in sessions that connect classroom learning with real-world problem solving. The Magic Space itself delivers an incredible 14,000 magical experiences annually. For many children, this is their first time engaging with robotics, engineering concepts, or structured STEAM activities in such a playful, supportive setting.
“I would like to thank Merlin’s Magic Wand for their incredible generosity in creating a room that hosts a STEAM program for children. Your dedication to providing educational opportunities and sparking creativity is truly inspiring. The impact of your contribution will be felt for years to come. It was an absolute pleasure to work with every member of your team. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of these young individuals,”
As we celebrate two years of the Newburgh Armory Center Magic Space, we are also looking to the future. With every session, every new build, and every moment of “I did it!” from a child, the space continues to grow in meaning and momentum. This is more than a classroom; it is a testament to what can happen when communities, partners, and creatives come together around a shared belief in the power of play. We are honored to stand alongside Newburgh Armory Unity Center, LEGOLAND New York, and Merlin Magic Making in championing these children and their dreams, one brick at a time.
