COSI (Center of Science and Industry) is a scientific museum located in downtown Columbus, Ohio. COSI is known for being a family-friendly museum, and was named America's #1 science center for families in Parents Magazine in 2008. Although much of COSI is geared toward young children, the museum has a variety of interactive and educational exhibits, which make it perfect for anyone of any age that has a thirst for knowledge and a sense of curiosity.
Best and Worst Times to Go to COSI
The best time to visit COSI is between the months of May-August because that is when the museum is open every day (with the exception of July 3). The worst time to visit COSI is between the months of September-April because the museum is closed for over two weeks in September and may be closed on certain days for the rest of that time.
Must See/Do at COSI
Visitors should walk through the Life exhibition, where they can explore the human journey from birth to death and also have the opportunity to watch Ohio State University researchers work in the visible Labs in Life spaces located throughout the exhibition.
The Ocean exhibition at COSI is the perfect hands-on experience where visitors can interact with the 14-foot wave tank and play with water cannons in order to learn more about the physical nature of water.
In the Progress exhibition visitors can learn about our society's rapid technological progress by traveling in time down a street from 1898 and sending a message via telegraph and then turning the corner to find themselves in 1962 where they can broadcast the evening news on TV.
Admission to COSI
General admission to COSI ranges from $14-$19. Extra experiences, such a National Geographic Giant Screen Movie or a Planetarium Show cost an additional $4-$8. Children under the age of two can visit the museum for free.
Parking and Public Transportation to COSI
It is easiest to travel to COSI by private car. COSI has its own parking lots located to the west of the museum. These parking lots are able to accommodate over 600 vehicles. There is a fee for parking, which can be paid at the box office upon arrival or when exiting the parking lots.
Food at COSI
COSI has its own restaurant on-site called the Atomic Café. The Atomic Café serves items such as pizza, salads, and deli sandwiches. There is also a Kids LiveWell Menu, featuring meals that are less than 600 calories, such as whole wheat pasta with marinara sauce and a fruit cup. Prices at the Atomic Café range from $2.59 for a side dish to $21.99 for a whole pizza.
Insider Tip for Visitors to COSI
Those hoping to save on admission prices should visit COSI on Family Friday Nights, which occur on the last Friday of each month from 5-9 p.m. Admission only costs $11 for anyone over the age of two, and includes a free screening to a movie in the National Geographic Giant Screen Theater.
Author's bio: Miranda Roehler has lived in Northwest Ohio for her entire life. She studied Creative Writing and History at The University of Findlay and has been published in multiple international journals.