Photo: Bob Roehm
Photo: Ariel Wang
Photo: Rafael Curley
Columbus Museum of Art
★4.7(4,258 reviews)$Museum
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers thrive in the Wonder Room with its sensory-friendly activities, while elementary-aged kids love the art-making studios where they can paint, sculpt, and experiment with various mediums alongside the gallery exhibits.🧡 Saved by 47 families
About
The Columbus Museum of Art transforms the traditional museum experience into an interactive adventure perfect for families. With dedicated art-making studios where kids can create their own masterpieces and specially designed children's galleries that encourage touching and exploring, this museum proves that art appreciation can be hands-on and fun for even the youngest visitors.
Highlights
- ✓The Wonder Room,an interactive gallery designed specifically for children ages 0-8 with hands-on art activities
- ✓JPMorgan Chase Center for Creativity with open art-making studios where families can paint, draw, and craft together
- ✓Outdoor sculpture garden perfect for letting kids run and explore between gallery visits
- ✓Family-friendly audio tours and activity backpacks available at no extra charge
- ✓Regular family workshops and story-time programs on weekends
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on Thursday evenings when the museum stays open until 9:00 PM for a less crowded experience with extended studio time for kids to create
- 2.Head straight to the Wonder Room when you arrive,it's the most popular spot for young children and fills up quickly on weekends
- 3.Free admission is available for kids 12 and under, making this an budget-friendly family outing
- 4.Download the museum's family guide from their website before visiting to find scavenger hunt activities that keep kids engaged throughout the galleries
- 5.Park in the nearby garage on Gay Street for easy access with strollers and young children
Best Time to Visit
Tuesday or Wednesday mornings (10:00-11:30 AM) offer the quietest experience for families. Summer weekday mornings are ideal when special family programs are often scheduled, while Saturday afternoons tend to be the busiest.
What to Know
Admission is free for children 12 and under; adults typically pay around $18-20. The museum offers free street parking on Sundays and has a small café on-site for snacks, though families often pack their own for the outdoor sculpture garden picnic area.
Seasonal Notes
The museum is open year-round with climate-controlled galleries perfect for any weather. Special holiday programs and family festivals are scheduled throughout the year, particularly during winter break and spring break. Check their calendar for themed family days and free admission events.
Nearby Eats
North Market (5-minute walk) offers diverse food vendors with something for every picky eater in a casual, kid-friendly atmosphere. The Guild House (across the street) provides elevated comfort food with a dedicated kids' menu in a more sit-down setting.
More Activities Near Columbus
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Adventure
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Hayden Falls offers families a quick nature escape right in Columbus, featuring a beautiful 35-foot waterfall that's just a short walk from the parking area. The easy, paved trail makes this waterfall accessible for strollers and little legs, while the observation deck provides safe viewing for kids to marvel at the cascading water without the challenges of a strenuous hike.
Restaurant
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Ugly Tuna Saloona 2 offers a surprisingly family-friendly dining experience in Columbus's campus area with colorful, fun decor that keeps kids entertained. The casual atmosphere means parents can relax while children enjoy a dedicated kids menu and games, making it more than just a typical restaurant outing.