Museums in Columbus Ohio: Where Discovery Meets Adventure
Museums in Columbus Ohio invite visitors of all ages to explore creativity, history, science, and nature in unforgettable ways. From hands-on learning centers to world-class art exhibits, the city offers a museum scene as diverse as its neighborhoods. Whether you’re a family seeking interactive fun or a solo traveler chasing cultural gems, Columbus’ museums turn education into adventure at every turn.
Discover engaging exhibits, immersive installations, and charming hidden gems throughout Ohio’s capital. Let’s explore the best museums in Columbus Ohio that promise inspiration around every corner.
Center of Science and Industry (COSI): Columbus’ Crown Science Destination
No roundup of museums in Columbus Ohio is complete without highlighting the Center of Science and Industry, popularly known as COSI. Located at 333 W Broad Street, along the Scioto River, this award-winning hub ranks as one of the country’s premier hands-on science centers. Families and curious minds alike flock here for gravity-defying experiments and engaging science activities.
Begin your adventure under the stars at the state-of-the-art Planetarium. With its 60-foot dome and cosmic digital projections, it offers unparalleled views of the universe. Kids will love the Big Science Park, an open-air discovery zone where scientific principles come alive through giant levers, wheels, and pulleys they can operate themselves.
Inside, explore the “Ocean” exhibit, climb aboard a life-size submarine, and simulate deep-sea missions. During warmer months, outdoor water features and physics-themed play areas make COSI an exceptional destination for sunny family afternoons. To avoid long wait times, purchase timed-entry tickets online and arrive early, especially on weekends and school breaks.
Ohio History Center & Ohio Village: Step Into the Past
Just off I-71 at 800 E 17th Avenue, the Ohio History Center dives deep into the state’s dynamic past—from Ice Age fossils to swinging ’70s style. This modern facility offers everything from ancient Adena artifacts to relics of presidential campaigns, all presented in engaging, accessible formats.
Next door, don’t miss Ohio Village, a lovingly recreated 1890s town featuring costumed interpreters, historic trades, and vintage games. Open seasonally, it transforms every visit into a time-travel experience. Families can stroll cobblestone walkways, interact with blacksmiths, or sip sarsaparilla in the old-time general store.
The museum offers free on-site parking and discounted combo tickets for the village and center. Visit during the All Hallow’s Eve event in October for spooky tales mixed with historical charm.
Columbus Museum of Art: A Creative Playground
Located at 480 E Broad Street, the Columbus Museum of Art (CMA) fuses classic works with bold contemporary creativity. Inside these walls, you’ll find everything from Monet and Renoir to modern abstract masterpieces. Among museums in Columbus Ohio, CMA stands out for celebrating imagination as much as aesthetics.
Younger visitors will flock to the Wonder Room, an interactive space where creativity flows freely. CMA also shines on “Family Fridays,” offering art kits and live experiences designed to inspire hands-on exploration for all ages. Adults can enjoy live music, curated gallery tours, and dining at the outdoor sculpture garden during special evening events.
Admission is free on Sundays, and activities like “Think Like an Artist Thursdays” offer immersive ways to interact with local artists. Visit the Schokko Art Café for seasonal bites before diving back into exhibits. Paid parking is available steps from the entrance or in nearby downtown garages.
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: Science and Art in Bloom
At 1777 E Broad Street, the Franklin Park Conservatory brings the beauty of nature indoors with lush tropical plants, curated botanical displays, and colorful Chihuly glass art woven throughout the scenery. Though technically a botanical institution, it thrives as one of the most immersive museums in Columbus Ohio.
Children can explore the two-acre Children’s Garden, designed to teach plant science through play. Treehouse towers, earth tunnels, and pollinator gardens make this space a favorite for both parents and kids. Meanwhile, art lovers can enjoy rotating exhibits that celebrate the interplay between nature and creativity.
Plan your visit around seasonal highlights like the springtime “Blooms & Butterflies” or relaxing yoga sessions in the gardens. Tickets are available online, and ample free parking makes for an easy visit. Consider pairing your trip with stops at the Kelton House Museum or nearby Topiary Park for a full day immersed in natural beauty.
National Veterans Memorial and Museum: Stories of Honor
Set along the waterfront at 300 W Broad Street, the National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM) dedicates itself to telling the stories of those who served. Unlike traditional exhibits focused on military strategies or weaponry, this museum highlights powerful personal journeys through multimedia installations and real-life artifacts.
The building’s circular layout takes visitors on an emotional narrative walk through letters, videos, artwork, and memorabilia from veterans across generations. Don’t miss the rooftop memorial—a serene space offering skyline views and a chance for reflection. It’s a meaningful stop for everyone, especially teens and travelers interested in American history.
The museum is open daily except Tuesdays. Military personnel and veterans enjoy free admission. With COSI located next door, it’s easy to plan a day incorporating fun learning and thoughtful reflection. Free parking is nearby, with walkable access to downtown restaurants and riverfront paths.
Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Museums in Columbus Ohio
In addition to its main attractions, Columbus nurtures several smaller institutions that offer specialized perspectives and quieter settings. These hidden gems elevate the city’s museum scene with unique collections and intimate experiences.
- The Jubilee Museum (57 S Grubb Street): Home to one of America’s most extensive collections of Catholic liturgical art, with guided tours that highlight intricate relics and baroque architecture.
- Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum (Sullivant Hall, OSU campus): The world’s largest collection of comic art and editorial cartoons lives here. It’s a must-visit for fans of animation, satire, and pop culture history.
- Central Ohio Fire Museum (260 N. Fourth Street): Set in a restored 1908 firehouse, kids can climb into antique engines and learn about fire safety through interactive play areas and kid-friendly exhibitions.
These under-the-radar favorites offer engaging alternatives to the crowd-heavy landmarks. They’re perfect for a short museum outing paired with brunch or a nearby event. For updates on pop-up exhibits or local free-admission weekends, check Experience Columbus before your visit.
Explore More at Museums in Columbus Ohio
Whether you’re uncovering ancient fossils, strolling through surreal art installations, or listening to veterans’ stories, museums in Columbus Ohio offer enriching experiences that leave an impression. Each museum sparks curiosity, builds knowledge, and connects visitors to stories that matter.
From popular destinations like COSI and CMA to offbeat treasures like the Cartoon Library and Central Ohio Fire Museum, the city’s cultural offerings are vast—and often just a few steps apart. So plan your route, grab your smartest walking shoes, and dive into one of the most dynamic museum scenes in the Midwest.
