Discover COSI: Columbus’ Favorite Destination for Curiosity, Wonder, and Family Fun

If you’ve lived in Central Ohio for any length of time, you’ve likely heard someone rave about COSI—and for good reason. The Center of Science and Industry isn’t just a museum. It’s an experience. A place where learning comes to life, curiosity is encouraged, and families can make memories that last for years.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend family adventure, an educational outing, or a fun date idea (yes, COSI After Dark is a local favorite!), COSI continues to be one of Columbus’ most loved destinations.

Why Locals Love COSI in Columbus

1. Hands-On Learning That Inspires Everyone  cosi.org

COSI takes the idea of “hands-on learning” to a whole new level. You don’t just look at exhibits — you touch, build, test, and discover. From physics and engineering to space, oceans, dinosaurs, energy, and the human body, there’s something at every turn to spark imagination for kids and adults.

2. Award-Winning Exhibits

COSI has earned national recognition as one of the top science museums in the country. Fan favorites include:

• The Planetarium – Ohio’s largest. 

• The Dinosaur Gallery – A partnership with the American Museum of Natural History.

• Gadgets Café – A hands-on spot for curious minds.

• Progress – A walkthrough time-travel experience.

• Ocean Gallery – A magical, immersive world under the sea. And each year, COSI brings in new rotating exhibits to keep things fresh.

  
  

3. Current Travel Exhibits to Note

Here are two of the standout traveling exhibits now at COSI:

• The Science Behind Pixar

• This exhibit takes visitors “behind the scenes” of beloved animated films from Pixar Animation Studios — e.g., Inside Out, Finding Nemo, Toy Story.

• It explores the key steps of the animation process including modeling, rigging, surfaces, sets & cameras, animation, simulation, lighting & rendering. 

• One particularly fun fact: the rendering process for an animated film can take up to 24 hours for a single frame. 

• Dates/Duration: Runs through May 25 (2026) at COSI. 

• Why this matters for families: It’s engaging for both kids and adults, blending pop-culture appeal with real science & animation-technology insights.

  
  

• Wild Kratts® Ocean Adventure & Creature Power

• Based on the hit children’s show Wild Kratts, this combined exhibit opens Sept 24, 2025 and runs through Jan 4, 2026. 

• Geared for younger kids (ages 3-9) and families. It invites exploration of animal habitats around the world and “Creature Powers®” such as stealth of a jaguar, hopping like a kangaroo, etc. 

• Habitats explored include: tropical rainforest, the Antarctic, Australian outback, seashore, deep sea and more. 

• Best for families with young children — structure, fun, interactive learning all built in.

  
  

4. The Perfect Rainy-Day (or Any-Day) Outing

Whether it’s hot, cold, rainy, or snowy (because Ohio keeps us on our toes!), COSI offers a full day of indoor fun. You can explore at your own pace, grab lunch on-site, and easily spend hours discovering something new.

5. COSI After Dark: Science Meets Social

For adults looking for something different, the monthly COSI After Dark events transform the museum into a 21+ experience. Each month features a new theme, hands-on stations, live entertainment, and local vendors. It’s fun, unique, and perfect for a night out with friends or a date night in downtown Columbus.

6. A True Community Favorite

As someone who loves celebrating Central Ohio, I appreciate how COSI continually invests in outreach and education for local students, teachers and families. Their work in making science fun and accessible is part of what makes our community such a special place to call home.

Planning Your Visit

• Location: 333 W Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215

• Hours: Typically 10 am–5 pm (check COSI’s website for any seasonal changes or special event nights)

• Tickets: Discounts available for military, seniors and memberships.

• Parking: Convenient garage attached to the museum.

• Pro tip: Visit on a weekday morning if you’d like a less-busy experience — great for younger kids or more relaxed exploration.

Final Thoughts

COSI is one of the reasons Central Ohio shines. It’s educational, inspiring, and just plain fun. Whether you’re heading there with your kids, your spouse, or your entire friend group, COSI offers an experience that sticks with you long after you walk out the doors.

With the new exhibits like The Science Behind Pixar and Wild Kratts® Ocean Adventure & Creature Power, there’s even more reason to plan a visit soon. If you haven’t gone in a while, add it to your list — it’s one of those places you can enjoy again and again.