Discover Interactive History at The Ohio History Center: A Fun-Filled Day in Columbus, Ohio

If you’re a Columbus local or have plans to visit, don’t miss out on The Ohio History Center! It’s seriously one of the best spots around, with a ton of awesome activities that both kids and grown-ups will love. From getting a glimpse into life in the 1950s to checking out some of Ohio’s now-extinct and endangered species, there’s so much to discover. And if you’re a history buff, you can’t miss their collection of restored Civil War battle flags. You could easily spend an entire day there, so be sure to add it to your itinerary!

Let’s take a closer look at what The Ohio History Center has to offer:

Exhibits

The Ohio History Center is home to a wide range of exhibits that cover a variety of topics. From life in the 1950s to extinct and endangered Ohio species, the center has something for everyone. There’s even a large collection of restored Civil War battle flags that are sure to fascinate any history buff.

• Discover the Indigenous Wonders of Our World at the Ohio History Center’s new exhibit, featuring the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks. These ancient earthworks were built by American Indians 2,000 years ago and are candidates for the United Nations’ World Heritage List. Learn how the American Indians used astronomy and geometry to align the earthworks with the cycles of the sun and moon, see 2,000-year-old artifacts, and gain a new appreciation for these sacred sites.
• Experience life in the 1950s at the Ohio History Center’s “1950s: Building the American Dream” exhibit. Explore 1950s pop culture and see a full-size prefabricated Lustron home built inside the museum. View a 1957 Chevy Bellaire, an Airstream trailer, Roy Rogers toys, and decorations, among other artifacts. Meet costumed interpreters portraying a Lustron salesperson, a doctor making a house call, or a mother baking a cake. The exhibit highlights themes such as family and gender roles, social and political issues, and popular culture of the 1950s.
• The Ohio Village: The Ohio Village is a recreated 19th-century town that allows visitors to step back in time and experience life as it was in Ohio during that time. You’ll be able to explore the different buildings, interact with the costumed interpreters, and learn about the crafts and trades of the period.
• Discover a unique way to learn about the “Great War” with a special display at the Ohio History Center, commemorating the centennial of the United States entering World War I. Immerse yourself in the experience by exploring military uniforms, weapons, and home front ephemera, and get a glimpse into the daily life of a soldier through souvenirs brought home from Europe. Through archival documents and images, witness the changing imagery of war, from mud-splattered battlefields to the bright and vibrant posters found at home.
• Archives/Library Research Room: If you’re interested in learning more about your family tree, head up to the Archives/Library Research Room, and learn more about your access to genealogy, print, audio, and video resources.
• State Historic Preservation Office: Interested in preserving homes? Head to the State Historic Preservation Office and learn more about resources for doing so!

Tips for Visiting

To make the most of your visit to The Ohio History Center, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• The Ohio History Center is proud to offer admission and membership discounts to their visitors, including Military, WIC, and Educator discounts. You can request a full list of discounts available.
  • When you become a member, you can enjoy admission to all 50+ sites and museums statewide. Don’t forget to pick up a passport when you arrive – it’s interactive and has information about each of the 50+ sites.
• The gift shop at the entrance is hard to resist, especially for kids! If you’re a member, you’ll even get a 10% discount.
• Don’t worry about food when you visit The Ohio History Center – you’ve got options! If you’re the plan-ahead type, feel free to bring your own lunch and take advantage of the spacious upstairs area with plenty of tables and chairs. Alternatively, head outside to Ohio Village and grab a spot at one of the picnic tables, or keep an eye out for the food truck on select days. And if you’re short on snacks or forgot to pack a meal, don’t fret – they’ve got a brand new little cafe upstairs for your convenience.
• If you’re looking to beat the summer heat, we recommend starting your Ohio History Center adventure at Ohio Village. The indoor exhibits offer a refreshing break from the outdoor heat and can give you and your crew a burst of energy to keep your visit gong.
• When you’re exploring Ohio Village, don’t worry about finding a bathroom – there are a couple of options available! You’ll find one inside the Hotel, as well as another in the nearby Village Green play area.
• If you’re interested in learning about your family tree, head to the Archives/Library Research Room to access genealogy, print, audio, and video resources.
• Ohio Village is open rain or shine. If there is inclement weather, some activities may be moved or canceled.
• Ohio Village and the Ohio History Center do not have an ATM on site. Cash, credit and debit are accepted at our admissions and retail areas.
• Smoking and the use of e-cigarettes are not permitted in Ohio Village or anywhere on the grounds of the Ohio History Center.
• Pets are not allowed on the grounds of the Ohio History Center or in Ohio Village.
• Wheelchairs are available in the Ohio History Center or at the John Hauck Foundation Welcome Center at Ohio Village.
• Remember that The Ohio History Center is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment.

A handful of these pictures are from a visit way back in 2016, which I first wrote this blog post! We’ve been huge fans of the Ohio History center for YEARS.

Don’t miss out on the Charm of Ohio Village, Just Behind the Main Museum at The Ohio History Center

Ohio Village is undoubtedly one of the most exciting parts of The Ohio History Center. This recreated 19th-century town offers a unique way to learn about the past while having a blast. As you wander through the different buildings, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with costumed interpreters, learn about the crafts and trades of the time, and even try your hand at some of the skills yourself! But that’s not all – they also have a Victorian-style playground that’s fun for kids.

A few things to do in Ohio Village:

• Enjoy old-fashioned outdoor games or relax on the Village Green.
• Learn about 19th-century funeral traditions at the Barrymore Funeral Parlor.
• Browse a variety of products available in a 19th-century Ohio town at the Village Mercantile.
• Channel your inner child by playing with toys of the day and discussing what it was like to be a kid in the 1890s at Spinner & Co. Toy Shop.
• Visit the Schmidt family home and learn about traditional farm life, peruse the heirloom garden, and stop by the chicken coop at Schmidt House & Garden.
• Check out the economics of the time period and the role of local banks in a small town at Bank of Ohio.
• See how this upper crust family has decorated their home at Burton House.
• Explore the news of the day and see what villagers are talking about at The Telegraphic Advertiser.
• Browse through magazines and check out items other travelers have left behind at Murphy’s Lodging House.

Special Events

Looking for a unique experience? The Ohio History Center offers a wide range of events and exhibits throughout the year that cater to a variety of interests. From exploring ancient American Indian sites in Ohio to learning about preservation efforts, to seeing artifacts used by early presidents, there’s something for everyone. You can even attend a workshop on genealogy to uncover your family’s roots.

We can’t wait for these three exciting events at Ohio Village!

• Ohio Village Opening Day-Carnival: Join the Victorian Carnival with your family as they open Ohio Village for the summer on May 20, 2023.
• Storybook Village: Interact with celebrated characters from popular fairy tales on June 10, 2023. This year’s theme is “Be a Water Warrior,” which focuses on water advocacy and conservation.
• Pleasures of the Cup Virtual: Once Upon a Cocktail: Join the virtual Pleasures of the Cup series on June 24, 2023, to create drinks along with our mixologist as you explore the dark and twisted world of fairy tales. Advance registration required. Must be 21 and over to attend.

Hours, Location, and Admission

The Ohio History Center is located at 800 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, OH 43211. They’re open Wednesday to Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.. Keep in mind that they’re closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Ohio Village is open and included with general admission to the Ohio History Center Saturdays & Sundays only starting April 2. Ohio Village will open for the summer season Wednesday–Sunday starting Saturday, May 20, 2023. Please note: The Ohio History Center and Ohio Village will close at 4:00 Saturday, April 22 to prepare for a special event.

Advance tickets are available but not required. Walk-up admission is available anytime during open hours at the Ohio History Center front desk. Members who wish to reserve tickets in advance can do so by calling 614-297-2300 during business hours.

Admission prices are as follows:

• $16/Adult
• $14/age 60+ or college student with ID
• $10/ages 4–12
• Free/age 3 & under
• Ohio History Connection members enjoy free admission
  • Included in this total ticket price is a 5% arts and culture fee on the base ticket as required by the City of Columbus. This fee supports exemplary artists, arts and cultural organizations and programs that educate and engage audiences of all ages throughout greater Columbus.

The Ohio History Center is proud to offer a variety of discounts, including Military, WIC, and Educator discounts. A full list of discounts is available upon request.