Mini City celebrates one year of play, learning, and inclusion

One year ago, in September of 2023, downtown Mt. Pleasant welcomed Mini City, a new imaginative and inclusive space for children within the Centennial Hall building.

Co-owned by Priscilla Fife and Kayla Boyd, this mini-metropolis features 12 unique rooms that mimic everyday businesses—from a theater to a grocery store and even a gym—inviting children to step into the roles of Mt. Pleasant city workers and citizens.

Photo credit Courtney Jerome / Epicenter Mt. PleasantMini City co-owners Priscilla Fift (left) and Kayla Boyd (right).
“It’s so nice to see the kids enjoy it, as it’s really all for them,” shares Fife about the work they’ve put into the multi-room space over the past year. “The small details like grocery lists which are specific to the grocery store items; in the movie theater we have tickets and signs that are all made for Mini City. It's just really nice to see them enjoying all the hard work that went into here. And the parents really like it, too.”

Photo credit Courtney Jerome / Epicenter Mt. PleasantFrom custom movie posters to hand-painted details on the walls, Fife and Boyd have worked together to create a safe and educational space for young children.While shoeless one to eight year olds enjoy everything that’s their youthful size, Mini City is more than just a fun escape. It's a carefully designed and clean environment that seamlessly blends play and learning. Each room encourages role-playing, problem solving, and creativity—making the experience not only enjoyable but educational as well. 

Boyd recalls many special moments from their first year in business where youngsters have shown creativity and imagination, noting even the parents enjoy watching their kids do things they’re not expecting. 

“One time the kids were Door Dashing from the grocery store to the home,” says Boyd. “It’s cute what they come up with all on their own.” 

Since opening, Mini City has earned glowing reviews from parents—particularly those with children on the spectrum or who are nonverbal. The inclusive atmosphere and thoughtful design have made it a space where all children feel welcome, with sensory-friendly activities that cater to a range of needs. 


Photo credit Courtney Jerome / Epicenter Mt. PleasantOpened in September 2023, Mini City celebrates its one-year anniversary in downtown Mt. Pleasant.“We also focus on being really clean,” says Fife. “We go out and clean frequently while the kids are playing. We don’t let it get super destroyed—to keep it magical. We also don’t have shoes in there to keep it clean and more like a cozy feeling.” 

All types of gripper socks are allowed, and Mini City has socks available for purchase if needed. During the weekdays, it's $8 per child and there's one adult included per child. Additional adults are $5. On the weekends, one adult is included per $12 child charge. 

Photo credit Courtney Jerome / Epicenter Mt. PleasantIn addition to the 12 interactive playrooms in Mini City, the hallways also have interactive activities.
As Mini City celebrates its first year, it has already become a cherished part of the downtown Mt. Pleasant community, fostering connection, creativity, and the kind of imaginative play that sparks lifelong learning in children.

To learn more about the educational and interactive playrooms in Mini City, visit www.minicitymtp.com.