Ohio History Center and Ohio Village are the perfect places to visit for some historical fun in Columbus.
Ohio Village is a full-scale 1890’s village, with characters ready to tell you about life in the 1890’s as you explore the buildings, homes, and participate in traditional activities.
Your visit at Ohio History Center features interactive exhibits exploring everything from life in the 1950s to extinct and endangered Ohio species to an exquisite collection of restored Civil War battle flags.
Ohio History Center
Ohio History Center is open Wednesdays–Sundays from 10 a.m.–5 p.m., in addition to special events.
Admission is $16/Adult, $14/age 60+ or college student with ID, $10/ages 4–12, and Free/age 3 & under. Ohio History Connection members enjoy free admission. Select special events may require additional fee.
Pre-purchase tickets are available, but not required. Walk-up admission is available anytime during open hours at the Ohio History Center front desk.
Read below for some of the upcoming events at Ohio History Center.
Exploring Ohio Village
Visit a reimagined 19th century community full of 1890s fun from Spring through late Fall, plus holiday events.
Set in the 1890s, Ohio Village features an era that represents a fascinating time in history, one in which technology, politics and everyday life was changing at a rapid pace.
Explore the community and meet and interact with citizens of Ohio Village; see our NEW villagers and hear their stories.
Visit the bicycle shop and discover cycling, the latest craze. Experience storytelling, food preparations and demonstrations with vintage recipe cards.
You can feed and tend to the chickens, play traditional games like croquet–an 1890s favorite–on the village green, and watch a vintage 19th century baseball game played by the Ohio Village Muffins.
Ohio Village upcoming closure and revitalization
This spring and summer will be the final time to visit Ohio Village in its current form
The 50 years of Ohio Village will be celebrated during Founders Day on Saturday, July 27 – the same date Ohio Village opened in 1974 – from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Featured programs will include live music from American Musical Productions, an array of local artisans and Vaudeville performances.
After the Ohio State Fair ends Aug. 4, Ohio Village will close until it reopens with a new and improved Village experience in 2026.
Part of building a better Ohio Village includes the addition of a nature-based play space, a reimagined town center (for performances and more), new experiences for visitors, expanded food and beverage offerings, a stronger physical connection between the Ohio History Center, infrastructure upgrades and a safer experience (walkways, lights, connectivity, hardscape streets) for everyone.
Food and Drink
The Ohio Village Emporium now offers a selection of grab-n-go foods and cold beverages every day from10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy your purchase at nearby picnic tables and other outdoor seating in Ohio Village, or bring your blanket for an old-fashioned picnic.
Ohio History Connection members save 10%.
Ohio Village Admission details
Open to the Public: During the summer, open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays
Admission: $16/Adults, $10/Children ages 4–12, $14/60+ or College student with ID, Free/Ohio History Connection member or age 3 and under. Parking is free. (included with Ohio History Center admission)
See ohiohistory.org/ohiovillage for additional ticketing information.
800 E. 17th Ave. (I-71 and 17th) in Columbus
Events at Ohio Village and Ohio History Center
New Hide & Seek Children’s Exhibit Opens at Ohio History Center
New exhibit, Hide & Seek: Finding Young Ohioans in the Archives, opened July 3 at the Ohio History Center.
This exhibit, which is in the third-floor lobby just outside the Archives & Library, delves into archival collections to depict Ohio youth from various time periods in the state’s history.
The themes of the exhibit are “Becoming, Belonging, Building”. It features wall panels and banners that tell such stories as those of Newark’s John Clem and Circleville’s Joseph Fissell, who served as drummer boys in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
The exhibit also displays objects from the archives and the history collections, including original documents, toys and an iconic red Cozy Coupe car made by Little Tikes, based in Hudson.
A hands-on, interactive space is included and at times, might be stocked with such items as Etch A Sketches, once famously manufactured by the Ohio Art Company.
The exhibit is open during museum hours, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Admission is free for members and children under 3; $16 for adults; $14 for ages 60-plus or college students; and $10 for ages 4–12.
Summer at the Center at Ohio History Center
There’s so much going on at Ohio History Center this Summer.
School may be out, but history is in! Explore different themes throughout the summer with story times, tours and hands-on activities.
On Thursdays there will be story times ideal for children (3-6) followed by a special activity related to the month’s storybook. Fridays will have museum tours on a variety of different historical subjects. On Saturdays there will be special activities for older kids in the museum. Details here.
Storytime at the Museum
Thursdays, JUNE 6, 13, 20 & 27, JULY 11 & 18 • 10:30–11 A.M.
Stop by with the little ones on Thursday for a special picture book storytime followed by an activity for kids age 3–6.
Museum Tours
Fridays, JUNE 7, 14, 21 & 28, JULY 5, 12 & 19 • 11–11:30 A.M. & 1–1:30 P.M.
Join a museum staff member for a tour that could cover a variety of different historical subjects ranging from natural history to textiles.
1950s Road Trip
Saturdays, JUNE 15 & 22, JULY 6, 13 & 20 • 11–11:30 A.M.
In this special 1950s-themed activity for kids age 6–12, participants help create the perfect ’50s getaway!
All “Summer at the Center” activities are included with general museum admission. It’s a great time to get a membership – you can enjoy the air-conditioned programs inside the Ohio History Center, and enjoy all of the fun activities at Ohio Village (free or discounted) too!
Storybook Village at Ohio Village
Saturday, June 8, 2024 from 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
At Storybook Village, see your favorite storybook characters magically come to life! Bring your little ones to meet classic characters and popular favorites from PBS including Pete the Cat and Elephant & Piggie. Ask Rapunzel to let down her hair, help Prince Charming in his quest, and visit with Cinderella!
This special event is made possible through a partnership with Columbus Metropolitan Library, Franklin Park Conservatory and WOSU Public Media.
See pictures and read more about Storybook Village.
Juneteenth – Jubilee Day Festival at Ohio History Connection
Sunday, June 16, 2024
Now a federal holiday, Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Originating in Texas, it’s been observed on the 19th of June annually since 1865.
Join Ohio Village for an 1890’s Juneteenth observation in the Ohio Village.
Featured activities will include historical interpretations, storytelling, and dance. Admission is FREE!
See more details about Juneteenth Jubilee Day Festival.
Ohio History Connection Annual Meeting: Midsummer on the Terrace
June 20, 2024 from 5 pm – 9 pm
Join us for an evening of fun and facts as we celebrate Ohio’s only World Heritage site, the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks.
Kick off the evening with news and updates for members, followed by a series of talks on World Heritage from a tribal perspective, and we’ll conclude with a sunset garden party (bites, brews from Seventh Son Brewing, DJ Mazeppa spinning Ohio jams on our terrace).
Drinks will be available for purchase at the cash bar. Member tickets include one complimentary drink ticket.
- 5–6:30 p.m. • Business meeting and speakers in the Arthur C. Johnson Auditorium Speakers: Chief Billy Friend (Wyandotte Nation), Chief Ben Barnes (Shawnee Tribe), Susan Knisley (National Park Service) and Megan Wood (Ohio History Connection Executive Director and CEO)
- 6:30–9:30 p.m. • Party on the Plaza Terrace
Tickets are free for member and $25 from nonmembers. Details and tickets here.
Independence Day Celebration at Ohio Village
July 6, 2024 from 10 am – 4 pm
Celebrate our nation’s independence, 1890’s style! Bring the entire family and engage with fun activities linked to July 4th.
Learn about how this momentous holiday was celebrated at the turn of the 20th century, visit with skilled artisans, vote in our mayoral election, and much more. Explore Ohio Village homes and businesses, get to know the residents and play old-fashioned games on the village green.
Regular admission applies; free for members. Read more about the Independence Day Celebration here.
History Mythbusting
July 13, 2024 from 10 am – 5 pm
Dig into the most common myths and misconceptions the 19th century has to offer! Engage with fun activities linked to some of our favorite history mysteries.
Learn about how our modern view has gotten common subjects like fashion, medicine, and even etiquette wrong after all these years. Participate in experiments and activities in the village to debunk these popular myths.
While you’re here, explore Ohio Village’s homes and businesses, get to know the residents, and play old-fashioned games on the village green. Details here.
Ohio History at the Ohio State Fair
July 24, 2024 – August 4, 2024
Stop by and see Ohio Village and the Ohio History Center during the State Fair! Both sites will be open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. State Fair attendees will also receive free admission to Ohio Village and the Ohio History Center!
The Ohio History Center & Ohio Village will be open for members for free as always. Additionally, Ohio History Connection members will enjoy discounts on Ohio State Fair tickets. Just show your membership card at the fair gate and receive two FREE Admission tickets.
Our members must acquire their two free fair tickets in person at the State Fair gate and must present their membership card. The offer is not valid for tickets purchased online or in advance. Details here.
Incredible Ohio! Staff Highlight Tours
July 24, 25, 26, 27, 31 & Aug. 1, 2 & 3 at 2 p.m. Join Ohio History Center staff on a guided Staff Highlights tour of some of our favorite exhibit and artifacts!
Time Traveling Tales
July 24, 25, 26, 27, 31 & Aug. 1, 2 & 3 at 11 a.m. Explore Ohio History through children’s stories! Kiddos and their grownups can also participate in a hands-on activity related to the day’s tale. For ages 3-7.
Special Film Screening: The Lincoln School Story
July 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 31 & Aug. 1, 2, 3 & 4 at 3:30 p.m. Enjoy a special screening of the new documentary film that tells the inspiring story of a group of courageous African American mothers who fought for school integration in 1954 in the town of Hillsboro, Ohio. Screening provided by a partnership with Ohio Humanities.
Ohio Village 50th Anniversary Celebration – Founders Day
July 27, 2024
Celebrate Ohio Village’s official 50th anniversary with a truly special event, Founders Day!
Enjoy the sounds of the past as American Musical Productions recreates the music of Frederick L. Neddermeyer, Columbus’ leading bandmaster and composer at the turn of the century.
Two 45-minute concerts will take place at 11:30am and 1:30pm in the Ohio Village pavilion. Limited seating will be available around the village green, but we encourage you to bring your own blankets and chairs to embrace that 1890s feel.
While you’re in town, also be sure to explore the shops and residences, and learn all about how Ohio Village has changed over its 50 year history! Other programming will include:
- A variety of local artisans
- Vaudeville performances
- And much more!
Event included with Ohio State Fair admission, available at State Fair entrances or at the Ohio History Center museum entrance. Details here.
Crime and Corruption at Ohio Village
August 3, 2024, 10a.m.-5p.m.
Join us as we explore the seedy side of history with Crime & Corruption! Bring the entire family and engage with fun activities linked to Ohio’s diverse and unique criminal past. Learn about day-to-day crimes that people dealt with, investigate a crime scene, and even participate in circuit court trials in our Town Hall.
While you’re there, explore Ohio Village’s homes and businesses, get to know the residents, and play old-fashioned games on the village green.
Event included with Ohio State Fair admission, available at State Fair entrances or at the Ohio History Center museum entrance. Details here.
Pleasures of the Cup at Ohio Village
Tip your cup like they did in the 19th century with Pleasures of the Cup cocktail parties at Ohio Village. These progressive historic cocktail parties pair authentic adult beverages with stories, characters and the experience of days gone by. Read more about Pleasures of the Cup!
Tickets are $45 for adults, or $40 for Ohio History Connection Members. Advanced tickets required; must be over age 21. Alcohol is included with admission. Guests will receive a sample glass with admission.
- February 10, 2024: Ohio On the Rocks
- April 6, 2024: Once Upon a Cocktail
- May 11, 2024: Drinks of the Speakeasy
- August 17, 2024: Mad for Martinis
- September 28, 2024: Spooky Spirits
- November 9, 2024: Bad Medicine
¡Celebrando! – A Dialogue on Latinx and Hispanic Cultural Experiences
September 15, 2024 from 1 pm – 5 pm at Ohio History Center
We’re uniting with cultural organizations from around the state to pay tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans/Latinx Americans who have enriched our nation and society. Learn about Latine heritage from the perspectives of Ohioans with different cultural backgrounds.
Activities include dance and music performances, special community dialogue sessions, hands-on activities, food vendors, and an artisan market with El Mercadito Cositas Lindas.
This event is free to the public; advanced ticketing purchase is available and recommended. Registration information coming soon.
Columbus Member Advantage Program
If you’re a member of select Central Ohio attractions, you can save $3 on general admission to Ohio History Center and Ohio Village and other attractions through the Columbus Member Advantage program. No coupon is necessary.
Simply show your valid participating membership card when you visit! Limited to 4 discounts per membership per day; can’t be combined with other discounts.
Member Advantage partners for 2023 include:
- Columbus Museum of Art and Pizzuti Collection (see our article)
- Columbus Zoo and Aquarium (see our article)
- Dawes Arboretum (see our article)
- Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (see our article)
- LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Columbus (see our article)
- National Veterans Memorial and Museum (see our article)
- Ohio History Center & Ohio Village (see our article)
- Wexner Center for the Arts (see our article)
- The Works: Ohio Center for History, Art and Technology (also qualifies for ASTC reciprocal admission)
- Columbus Metropolitan Club
Ohio History Center
800 E. 17th Ave.
Columbus, OH 43211
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Special events; tba for upcoming year
Ohio Cup Vintage Base Ball Festival
tba
Celebrate the end of summer with us at Ohio Village. More than 25 teams from across the nation will come to Ohio Village experience 1860s-style base ball with you and compete for the Ohio Cup.
Special activities all day for kids, including historic games and sports and a chance to try your hand at 1860s-style base ball with our own vintage team, the Ohio Village Muffins. Free for Ohio History Connection members or with museum admission. Learn more HERE.
Ohio Archaeology Day
tba from 10 am – 4 pm.
Learn what it takes to be an archaeologist, participate in a mock dig on site and hear from experts in the field. Activities will include presentations, partner booths, pottery making, flint knapping, atlatl throwing and mastodon crafts.
Special day exploring Ohio archaeology. More details to be announced.
All Hallows’ Eve Sleepy Hollow at Ohio Village
tba from 5:30–9:30 p.m.
Enjoy a traditional 19th Century Halloween with family-friendly haunted events in the village. Activities include pumpkin carving, fortune telling, crafts, games, and Halloween traditions from the 1890’s.
But beware… the Headless Horseman will visit during a bonfire reading of Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow each night.
Join in the 19th century masquerade party, meet the strange characters roaming the Village, and explore the funeral parlor to learn about 19th century funeral practices.
Special event requires tickets for members and non-members. Purchase on the website.
Celebrate a traditional 1890’s Halloween at All Hallows’ Eve at Ohio Village
Victorian Dance Workshop
tba
Learn the thrilling and surprisingly accessible art of ballroom dancing in this Victorian Dance Workshop! Register here.
Dickens of a Christmas
tba
Ohio Village celebrates a Victorian Christmas with Dickens of a Christmas, inspired by the stories of Charles Dickens.
Wander the Village and visit with characters from Charles Dickens’s “A Christmas Carol” and the residents of Ohio Village. Enjoy cooking demonstrations, hands-on crafts, decorations, caroling, readings by candlelight, and many more Victorian holiday traditions.
Join the villagers in music, dancing, and activities of the era.
Advanced registration required, see more details here.
La Posada
tba
Celebrate La Posada, a festival celebrated in Mexico around the winter holidays, with Ohio History Center and El Mercadito Cositas Lindas. Learn about the origins of this festival, watch dance and music performances, try out our indoor piñata, and do some last-minute holiday shopping with El Mercadito’s many talented artisans.
Regular admission applies. Details on Ohio History Center.
Kwanzaa – A Celebration of Family, Community and Culture
tba. The Ohio History Center is hosting a portion of the Kwanzaa 614 celebration.
Kwanzaa, which means first fruits or harvest in Swahili, is a celebration honoring African American culture. Based on the Seven Principles of Nguzo Saba. OHC and TAWI Family Village will present two evenings of Kwanzaa that will feature African drumming, music, dance, storytelling and hands on art activities.
Noon Years Eve at Ohio History Center
tba from 11:30 am – 12:30 pm. Included with museum admission. Perfect for kids 7 years old and under and for those who don’t want to wait until midnight for festivities!
Are you a morning person or someone who always falls asleep before the ball drops on New Year’s Eve? Don’t sweat it! Ohio History Connection is hosting a Noon Year’s Eve party on Sunday the 31st. We’ll have games, crafts, and a special countdown to Noon with a special guest, Champ.
MLK Jr. Day Celebration
Monday, January 15, 2024 • 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at Ohio History Center, Columbus
Celebrate the life and legacy of civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King through visual and performing art performances. This is a unique opportunity to learn about the impact of Dr. King’s teachings and learn how his work changed the trajectory of the country.
More information on the program will be added to the website! Please check back here.
Seeds of Caring MLK Day of Service
Monday, January 15, 2024 at 12 pm, 1 pm, and 2 pm
Celebrate MLK Day as a “day on, not a day off” through 5 different service stations as part of the larger MLK Day Open House Celebration.
Program is for ages 2-12; adults must accompany children. Siblings of participants outside this age range are welcome, but may find the event to be less meaningful and fulfilling.
Seeds of Caring will provide 5 youth service stations as part of the larger MLK Open House Celebration.
Activities will include making posters with Pint Size Protesters, assembling personal care kits for neighbors in need, decorating and packing snack bags for unhoused neighbors, designing bookmarks promoting diversity in literature with Harper’s Corner, and creating take-home art inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. Learn more and register here.
Day of Service runs in conjunction with The MLK Open House Celebration, which is from 12-4pm with free admission. In addition to the service activities, you will find art activities, education, and live theatrical and musical performances honoring the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Wild Ohio Day
Saturday, January 27, 2023 • 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Ohio History Center, Columbus
Included with museum admission.
Join the Ohio History Center for a weekend full of natural history programing and learn more about the plants and animals that call Ohio their home! Check out the list of activities you can expect; more will be added.
Black History Month with Ohio History Connection
February 2024
Ohio History Connection is made up of the Ohio History Center and more than 50 historic sites throughout Ohio.
The Ohio History Connection celebrates Black History month with events at the Ohio History Center, and more at the Harriet Beecher Stowe House and the National Afro-American Museum & Cultural Center.
They offer a robust series of Black history programs including curator talks, discussions and interactive experiences. Some are virtual, so you can participate and enjoy from anywhere.
Film screenings of The Green Book: Guide to Freedom on Fridays, Feb. 2, 9, 16 and 24 at 3 p.m.
Film screenings of Columbus Neighborhoods: King Lincoln on Wednesdays, Feb. 7, 14, 21 and 28 at 3 p.m.
Story times on Fridays, Feb. 2, 9, 16 and 24 from 11 a.m. to noon featuring a book by an Ohio author with a story-related activity.
Planned daily exhibits at the Ohio History Center include:
- Creative Ohio, where guests can contribute to the “Say Their Names” community art project and learn about building a civic-minded world.
- Museum Quest, where guests can follow clues around the Ohio History Center to learn more about African American history in Ohio.
- Discovery Park, where guests can learn about Columbus through the eyes of Aminah Robinson, an Ohio artist whose work focused on black history.
- Visitors will also be able to create their own artwork about the world they see.
See registration and full offerings on the website.
The Tea Room featuring Black Woman Rise Poetry Collective
Saturday, February 17, 2024 from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
$25/Participant, $20/Ohio History Connection member
The Tea Room is a contemporary version of the African American Tea Ceremony which began in the mid 19th century. Annually held on February 15, enslaved people were given the left over teas, food and china from Valentine’s Day celebrations.
This tradition evolved into gatherings held at churches and later black owned tea houses.
Designed to create an environment of fellowship and empowerment, the Tea Room will be a forum for participants to network and learn about the achievements of African Americans in Ohio.
Presidents Day
Monday, February 19, 2024
All programs included with museum admission.
Celebrate Presidents Day at the Ohio History Center! Stop by to create your own campaign memorabilia and meet several 1st-person Presidential presenters on the museum floor. Other themed activities will be available throughout the day as well.
- 11 a.m. & 2:30 p.m. – “I decline to stand up as the frightful example”: A Portrayal of Victoria Woodhull
- 1 p.m. – Storytime with Keila Dawson
- 1:30 p.m. – A Visit with Abraham Lincoln
- Ongoing – Political Buttons Table
The Underground Railroad in Ohio
February 22, 2024, 3 -5 pm
Did you know that Ohio played a pivotal role in the Underground Railroad? Thousands of freedom seekers traveled through Ohio, yet these stories have been obscured.
Join us as we speak with Kathy Schulz, author of The Underground Railroad in Ohio, as she shares the stories she’s uncovered and the research she delved into to learn about the past. Learn more here.
Women’s History Month at the Ohio History Center
March 1, 2024 – March 31, 2024
Included with general museum admission.
Learn about some of Ohio’s famous females through tours, activities, and film screenings and explore the important role women have had in the shaping of Ohio.
More program information coming soon; check here for more info.
Night at the Museum
Saturday, March 2, 2024 from 7–9 p.m.
Find out what goes on at the Ohio History Center museum after hours. Do the exhibits really come to life?
Dozens of different characters will be roaming the museum, and you can learn all about their unique place in Ohio history. Grab an autograph book (provided) and collect the signatures from your favorites! Several hands-on activities are available for kids.
This family event is so fun for all ages! See more details here.
Spring Thaw
Celebrate the end of winter and learn something new with the family this spring break! Join us at the Ohio History Center for a week of fun and interesting natural history programs from April 5th to April 9th. Details tba here.
Earth Day Celebration at Ohio History Center
Seeds of Caring’s Kids as Planet Protectors: An Earth Day Celebration at the Ohio History Center is FREE!
Kids are invited to participate in multiple projects, helping them to connect with our natural history, take action to protect our environment, and invest in our planet’s future. Indoor and outdoor activities will be geared toward kids ages 4-12 and will include educational scavenger hunts, litter clean-up, reduce and reuse activities, gardening, and more.
Families are also invited to explore the Ohio History Center for FREE during the event.
Families can get more information and register at https://www.seedsofcaring.org
Victorian Tea Time
Adult – $13, Senior (60+) – $11, Youth (4-12) – $7Child, (3 & under) – FREE
Ohio History Connection Member – FREE, College Students (with school ID) – $11
Drinking tea with your pinky up might not be as fancy as you think! Stop by to learn more about Victorian tea etiquette and see how to properly prepare, pour and drink tea with an Ohio Village character.
Ohio Village Opening Day Exposition
Saturday, May 25, 2024, 10a.m.-5p.m.
The Ohio History Connection will reopen Ohio Village for the summer season Saturday, May 25, with a full-day Exposition that reflects on the 50 years since its founding and looks forward to the next 50 years of storytelling in the living-history community.
The May 25 celebration will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will include activities centered around culture, fashion and technology from the turn of the 20th century. Those activities will include:
- A vintage “base ball” game played by 1860s-era rules.
- A 19th-century magic show.
- Live music and can-can dance performances.
- A petting zoo.
- An artisan market.
- Flea Circus performances.
This Opening Day Exposition also signals the start of a new era for Ohio Village and the Ohio History Connection’s entire Columbus campus on East 17th Avenue.
Regular admission applies. Purchase in advance or at the door. Read more about Ohio Village Opening Weekend.
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