You won’t find a more varied and eclectic mix of museums to visit than in Columbus, OH. There’s no shortage of themes to explore, and something for everyone no matter your interest or curiosity! Check out the top facilities in the area to spend an entire day with your family.
Center of Science and Industry
More commonly known as COSI, this museum has a rich history dating back to its opening to the public in 1964. Standout exhibits include Big Science Park, and the American Museum of Natural History Dinosaur Gallery (very popular with kids!) There is also a mix of classic and virtual exhibits, a giant screen theatre, a planetarium, and a very unique Atomic Café to stop for lunch where it’s encouraged to play with your food!
National Veterans Memorial and Museum
The National Veterans Memorial’s purpose is to honor the legacy of the courageous men and women who serve the country; it also serves to connect, inspire, and educate all visitors. One of the newest facilities in the area, a walk through the landscaped Memorial Grove is an absolute must, with its beautiful elm trees and rooftop sanctuary. Various exhibits provide first-hand viewpoints from the front lines of combat war veterans through letters and photos.
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
This 88-acre complex is an absolute treat for visitors as the greenhouses and gardens take you on a journey across so many different landscapes from the desert to the rainforest. There are more than 400 species of plants in the gardens, including a spectacular Palm House, which is a popular location for local weddings. Perfect for the entire family, there’s also a two-acre adventure course for children to explore and appreciate Ohio’s landscape.
Columbus Museum of Art
The Columbus Museum of Art specializes in sculptures, paintings, photography, and glasswork from American and European artists across the 19th and 20th centuries. There are plenty of community events held year-round in the atrium such as festivals, performances, and lectures. A museum store that has many fun and functional gifts to purchase will complete your experience here, and admission is free on Sundays!
Orton Geological Museum
The Orton Geological Museum is a hidden gem located on the Ohio State University campus. It’s a research facility that specializes in geological preservation, housing more than 54,000 specimens. You can explore rocks, minerals, and fossils from around the world – and even from outer space! Dinosaur enthusiasts will love it here with the newest display of a 24-foot-long early Jurassic dinosaur fossil – and best of all – admission is free.
Ohio History Center
The Ohio History Center is all about the history of Ohio itself, spanning from sports to the changing geological state landscape. Interactive exhibits pull you into the inventions and innovations over the years, and the role that pop culture has played at different periods. Ohio Village is located in the same complex and is a living history museum that takes you back to village life in Ohio in the late 1800s.
Jack Nicklaus Museum
Golf enthusiasts will thoroughly enjoy visiting here, located in the heart of The Ohio State University sports complex. Columbus native Jack Nicklaus’s career achievements are showcased, with more than 2,000 pieces in the vast collection in this 12,000 square-foot historical facility.
Try something different to shake up your routine and visit one or more of these fantastic sources of knowledge!
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