Top 10 Science Museums in Ohio, United States

The Cummings Center for the History of Psychology collects, preserves, provides access to, and interprets the historical record of psychology and related human sciences. The Center houses the Archives of the History of American Psychology, the National Museum of Psychology and the Institute for Human Science and Culture.

Visit cincymuseum.org for details on updates regarding the museums, programs, events, hours and more!

The Center of Science and Industry (COSI), located in Columbus, Ohio, is a dynamic, hands-on science center with more than 55 years of award-winning expertise in providing engaging, inspiring, and transforming learning experiences. From hands-on interactive exhibits in themed exhibition areas, and state-of-the-art planetarium, to traveling and education outreach programs, COSI delivers science and science educational experiences both in its building and far beyond its walls. With unprecedented and one-of-a-kind partnerships, including with the New York City-based American Museum of Natural History (AMNH), COSI has positioned itself as a national powerhouse museum with content and experiences for people of all ages. Located in Central Ohio, COSI stands as a leading cultural institution and destination attraction for regional, national, and international audiences. For more information on COSI's reopening and COVID-19 policies, please visit cosi.org.

The year was 1969 and the mood was as high as the man on the moon. Neil A. Armstrong had done what no man had done before him. From his hometown of Wapakoneta, across the United States, and around the world, people wanted to honor his feat.The Apollo 11 crew had completed the greatest journey in human history putting men on the moon and setting the course for the future of the nation's space program.The impact of that journey is still felt in Wapakoneta today. Businesses and streets in the community reflect the pride the city has in its native son, the first person to walk on the moon.On July 20, 1969, Ohio governor James Rhodes proposed a museum as a monument to the achievements of not only Armstrong but "all Ohioans who have attempted to defy gravity," as well as to the history of the space program itself.After the state of Ohio pledged $500,000 for the museum, Governor Rhodes challenged the local community to match, dollar for dollar, the funds to build the facility. "Neil Armstrong is the man of the century and we want to perpetuate his achievements here in Ohio," Rhodes said.Wapakoneta residents met that challenge head on. Businesses and individuals alike donated to the cause. Even school children saved their pennies and nickels in order to take part in this once-in-a-lifetime project.When the governor returned to Wapakoneta, he was presented with a check for $528,313.55. Citizens of Wapakoneta had raised over half of the total cost.Plans for the museum were unveiled during the groundbreaking ceremony in 1970. The design was unique. Earth was mounded around the steel-reinforced concrete building, giving the building the semblance of being underground. Designed to accommodate the Astro Theater for multimedia film and sound presentations, the central sphere dominates the entire complex. The fifty-six feet wide dome enhances the futuristic moon-base design.On July 20, 1972, three years to the day after Neil Armstrong's walk on the moon, the Armstrong Air and Space Museum opened to much fanfare. Armstrong himself was present to help open the facility, and Tricia Nixon Cox, standing in for the President, presented moon rocks brought back to Earth from the Apollo 11 mission.As space exploration has evolved, so have the exhibits at the Armstrong Air & Space Museum. But the focus has remained the same: to stand not only as a repository of Ohio's aeronautical history and a monument to Ohio's contribution to aviation and space exploration, but also as a tribute to Ohioan Neil Armstrong, whose "one small step for a man" was indeed a "giant leap for mankind."

The Boonshoft Museum is the premier destination for family learning in the Miami Valley. It is a natural history museum, science center, children's museum, planetarium, observatory and zoo!

The beautiful 3D display shows real-life examples of the 118 known chemical elements. It include interactive screens displaying various apps related to the periodic table. Stories and examples relating the elements to labor law, art, history, cosmetic, smoke detectors, the Flint water crises and music are included. The display changes with time and visitors can contribute and leave their mark.

Great Lakes Science Center makes science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) come alive for more than 300,000 visitors a year through hundreds of hands-on exhibits, exhibitions, the Cleveland Clinic DOME Theater, Steamship William G. Mather, daily science demonstrations, seasonal camps, and more. We're home to the NASA Glenn Visitor Center, where you’ll find an awesome space experience with galleries, interactive exhibits, fascinating artifacts and amazing NASA media. Visit The Cafe, located on the lower level of Great Lakes Science Center. See spectacular views of North Coast Harbor as you enjoy delicious meals and nutritious snacks, including oven-baked homemade pizza, hand-crafted sandwiches, homemade soups and seasonal salads. Burgers, chicken tenders, hot dogs and fries are always available as well! Don’t forget to stop at the Cleveland Clinic DOME Theater concession stand located on the main level for fresh popped popcorn, theater candy and assorted beverages.