Explore These Must-See Columbus Museums
Feed your imagination, boost your spirits and laugh out loud at the engaging array of exhibits you'll discover in the museums of Columbus
It's a great way to get out of the cold during the winter or escape the heat of summer, and a delicious way to expose yourself to art, science and history. Bring the family along—the kids will love the interactive, hands-on exhibits at many of these museums in Columbus, Ohio.
Art With a Twist
The Wonder Room at the Columbus Museum of Art is your first hint that this isn't your everyday museum. Kids get to act in costumes, build and climb on indoor tree houses, and play storytelling games. Older kids and teens stay engaged even through the more traditional galleries when they're put in charge of dialing the cellphone codes on the interactive guided tour. Don't miss the paintings and lithographs by George Bellows, the famous painter who grew up in Columbus. Linger over lunch in the museum's Schokko Art Cafe, or grab something light and head out to the patio and sculpture garden.
Science, Industry and a Touch of Nostalgia
Looking a bit like a spaceship that's landed in town, the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) is a museum where your family can spend hours without seeing and doing everything. True to its name, it offers experimental labs, gadgets and big machines for kids to explore. You'll see old-time industry at work in the Columbus Historical Society's exhibit, and then watch an exciting nature film on a giant screen in the theater. Take in a super high-tech show projected onto the 60-foot dome of the planetarium. The Atomic Cafe even has a science-themed menu with kid-pleasing foods and accommodations for those with special dietary requirements.
Cartoons Gone to College
The Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum is a great excuse to venture onto the Ohio State University campus—that's where it's located. Yes, it's a scholarly collection, but no, you don't have to be a student or a researcher to visit and enjoy it. The exhibits change several times a year. Expect to find treasures ranging from famous political cartoons to old “funny paper" classics. Take a stroll through the OSU campus to enjoy the classic architecture, beautiful grounds and energetic atmosphere while you're there.
Golf's Greatest Story
If you golf or have even followed the careers of the golfing greats, visiting the Jack Nicklaus Museum is a peak experience. A hometown boy who rose to fame and championships on links around the world, Nicklaus was instrumental in placing this mecca of golfing history on the Ohio State University campus. Follow his career in the display of photos, trophies and mementos in the main room. See exhibits honoring other legends of golf, as well as layouts of great golf course designs and a touching display of his own family's memorabilia.
Old Ohio Comes to Life
Slip back in time at the Ohio History Center, where you'll find snippets of the state's story dating back to prehistoric times. The featured exhibits change every few months, but they're designed to give an interactive, authentic view of important parts of Ohioans' lives. Admission includes a visit to Ohio Village, a reproduction of local life in an earlier century. Kids love following the actors playing the roles of villagers, and you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at life before modern conveniences.
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