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COSI (Center of Science and Industry), United States of America - Things to Do in COSI (Center of Science and Industry)

COSI (Center of Science and Industry)

COSI (Center of Science and Industry), United States of America - Complete Travel Guide

Columbus, Ohio, home to the renowned Center of Science and Industry (COSI), is a busy Midwestern city that perfectly balances educational attractions with urban sophistication. The city serves as Ohio's capital and largest metropolitan area, offering visitors a rich blend of science museums, cultural districts, and family-friendly attractions that make it an ideal destination for curious minds of all ages. Beyond COSI's interactive exhibits and planetarium, Columbus has a thriving arts scene in the Short North district, extensive park systems, and a burgeoning culinary landscape that reflects both Midwestern comfort food traditions and innovative contemporary cuisine. The city's compact downtown area and well-connected neighborhoods make it easy for visitors to explore multiple attractions while experiencing the welcoming atmosphere that defines Ohio's capital.

Top COSI (Center of Science and Industry)

COSI Science Center

spend time in hands-on scientific discovery at one of America's premier science museums, featuring interactive exhibits on space, ocean life, and technology. The center includes a planetarium, giant screen theater, and rotating special exhibitions that make learning engaging for visitors of all ages. Don't miss the signature exhibits like the high-wire unicycle and the recreation of historic scientific laboratories.

Booking Tip: Purchase tickets online in advance for $17-22 for adults, with discounts for children and seniors. Visit on weekday mornings for smaller crowds, and consider combo tickets that include planetarium shows for the best value.

Stroll Through German Village

Wander through this charming historic neighborhood featuring the largest privately funded historic district on the National Register of Historic Places. The area showcases beautiful 19th-century German architecture, brick streets, and cottage gardens that transport visitors back in time. Browse unique shops, cozy cafes, and the famous Book Loft with its 32 rooms of books.

Booking Tip: Free to explore on your own, though guided walking tours are available for $10-15 per person on weekends. Spring through fall offers the best weather for walking, and parking is readily available in the neighborhood.

Franklin Park Conservatory

Discover exotic plants and impressive botanical displays in this magnificent glass conservatory and botanical garden. The facility features biomes from around the world, including rainforests, deserts, and the Himalayan Mountains, plus rotating art installations that complement the natural beauty. The outdoor gardens provide additional seasonal displays and peaceful walking paths.

Booking Tip: Adult admission is $18-20, with free parking available on-site. Visit during weekday afternoons for a quieter experience, and check their website for special exhibitions that may require separate tickets.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Spend a day at one of the nation's top-rated zoos, home to over 10,000 animals representing 600+ species from around the globe. The facility is renowned for its conservation efforts and innovative habitats, including the Heart of Africa and Asia Quest regions. The adjacent Zoombezi Bay water park provides additional summer entertainment for families.

Booking Tip: General admission ranges from $19-24 depending on season, with online discounts available. Arrive early for the best animal viewing opportunities, and consider the zoo membership if visiting multiple times during your stay.

Tour Local Breweries

Explore Columbus's thriving craft beer scene with visits to innovative breweries throughout the city's diverse neighborhoods. The city has dozens of local breweries, from large-scale operations like BrewDog USA to intimate neighborhood taprooms offering unique seasonal selections. Many breweries also feature food trucks or full kitchens serving locally-sourced fare.

Booking Tip: Most breweries offer free tours with optional tasting flights for $8-15. Weekend afternoons are popular but crowded, while weekday evenings provide a more relaxed atmosphere for conversation with brewers and locals.

Getting There

Columbus is easily accessible via John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), located just 10 miles east of downtown with direct flights from major US cities. The city sits at the intersection of major highways I-70 and I-71, making it a convenient drive from United States (5.5 hours), Cincinnati (2 hours), or Cleveland (2 hours). Amtrak does not currently serve Columbus, but Greyhound and Megabus provide budget-friendly bus connections from regional cities, with the main terminal located downtown near the convention center.

Getting Around

Columbus offers multiple transportation options, with the COTA bus system providing complete coverage throughout the metropolitan area for $1 per ride. The downtown area features a free circulator bus called CBUS that connects major attractions, hotels, and dining districts. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available, while the city's bike-share program CoGo offers convenient short-term rentals with stations throughout downtown and surrounding neighborhoods. Most attractions are within a reasonable walking distance of each other in the compact downtown core.

Where to Stay

Downtown Columbus
Short North Arts District
German Village
Arena District
Grandview Heights
Upper Arlington

Food & Dining

Columbus has emerged as a significant culinary destination, blending Midwestern comfort food traditions with innovative contemporary cuisine and diverse international flavors. The city is famous for unique local specialties like Thurman Burgers, Jeni's Ice Cream, and Cincinnati-style chili, while the North Market provides a year-round farmers market experience with local vendors and artisanal food producers. The Short North and German Village neighborhoods offer concentrated dining scenes ranging from upscale farm-to-table restaurants to casual ethnic eateries, with many establishments emphasizing locally-sourced ingredients and craft beverages from Ohio producers.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Columbus

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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The Thurman Cafe

4.6 /5
(6666 reviews) 2

Cap City Fine Diner and Bar

4.6 /5
(4112 reviews) 2

Lindey's

4.6 /5
(2737 reviews) 3

Forno Kitchen + Bar

4.5 /5
(2458 reviews) 2

The Old Mohawk

4.5 /5
(2153 reviews) 2

The Guild House

4.5 /5
(1923 reviews) 3

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Columbus is during late spring through early fall (May through October) when temperatures are comfortable and outdoor attractions are fully operational. Summer months offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, perfect for exploring outdoor attractions like the zoo and conservatory gardens, though this is also the busiest tourist season. Fall provides beautiful foliage and pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds, while winter visits can be rewarding for indoor attractions like COSI, though weather can be unpredictable with occasional snow and cold temperatures.

Insider Tips

Download the COTA transit app for real-time bus tracking and easy fare payment throughout the city
Many downtown parking meters are free after 6 PM and on Sundays, making evening dining and entertainment more affordable
The Columbus Museum Of Art offers free admission on Sundays for Franklin County residents and discounted rates for out-of-state visitors

Activities in COSI (Center of Science and Industry)