If you’re looking for something fun to do in Columbus, Ohio, consider spending an afternoon at the Center of Science and Industry (COSI). Located just west of downtown at 333 W. Broad Street, COSI is a nationally recognized science museum and research center that offers interactive learning experiences for all ages.
COSI is consistently recognized as one of the top-rated science museums in the United States—it was named the #1 “Best Science Museum” in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for the fifth consecutive year, highlighting its standout STEAM programming and immersive, hands-on exhibits.
COSI first opened its doors in March 1964 and later moved, in 1999, to its current home—a 320,000-square-foot facility designed by Japanese architect Arata Isozaki. The museum features more than 300 hands-on exhibits spread across themed exhibition areas.
COSI operates as a nonprofit organization and is well-known for its outreach efforts. Beyond the main campus, COSI on Wheels serves as a traveling science program for schools across central Ohio and beyond. Through both in-person workshops and videoconference outreach, COSI reaches more than 350,000 learners each year.
Visitors can explore what it’s like to work in a submarine environment, learning about the challenges of underwater pressure and experimenting with remotely operated vehicles used for scientific research.
This area features replicas of a space station pod. Guests can imagine life in the confined quarters of orbit while learning about zero gravity and the realities of space exploration.
A walk through this exhibit takes guests back to 1898, when electricity, automobiles, and canned food were brand-new innovations. As visitors move forward through the 1960s and into the present day, they can see how technology has shaped daily life over the past century.
A favorite for hands-on learners, Gadgets lets visitors test classic mechanical experiments with pulleys, levers, wind tunnels, and magnets. This interactive approach brings everyday scientific concepts to life.
This section explores the human experience through exhibits focused on the mind, body, and spirit, inviting visitors to reflect on what makes us human. It examines themes such as life, death, and how human cultures understand them, while also encouraging interactive learning, personal reflection, and a deeper appreciation for the diversity of beliefs, traditions, and practices across the world.
COSI is open to the public most days from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though it is usually closed on Mondays and Tuesdays to allow for maintenance and exhibit upkeep.
On the second Thursday of each month, COSI hosts a special 21+ event called COSI After Dark. This adults-only experience features rotating themes, live entertainment, activities, games, craft beer, cocktails, and delicious food—all without kids. It’s a popular way for young adults to enjoy the museum in a fun, social setting.
Food and drinks are available on-site:
For visitors who want to continue learning at home, COSI offers COSI Connects Kits. These themed science kits explore subjects like American innovation, animals, solar energy, outer space, and dinosaurs. Each kit includes hands-on experiments that let learners experience science the way professionals do—by testing, exploring, and discovering how the world works.
Relax in nature at Franklin Park Conservatory.
See where Ohio State football comes alive at Ohio State Stadium Tour.
Immerse yourself in art at the Columbus Art Museum.
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