When the Ohio winter chills to the bone, keeping kids entertained indoors becomes an adventure of its own. Luckily, the Buckeye State is packed with engaging indoor venues perfect for burning off all that youthful energy.
From trampoline parks to hands-on science centers, these twelve spots offer something for every child to enjoy, regardless of the weather outside.
Sky Zone Trampoline Park
Imagine a place where the floor is a giant trampoline and the walls are, too. Sky Zone Trampoline Park offers just that — an exhilarating experience for kids to bounce, flip, and soar.
With trampolines extending from wall to wall, children can practice their jumps and dives in an exciting and safe environment.
The park isn’t just about jumping; it hosts dodgeball games and fitness classes that add a competitive edge. For those less inclined to jump, Sky Zone offers a ninja warrior course and foam pits that allow kids to explore their acrobatic skills.
Sky Zone locations are designed to cater to a variety of ages and skill levels, making it suitable for both toddlers and teens. Comfortable seating areas are available for parents who wish to watch their kids have fun while enjoying a well-deserved break.
COSI (Center of Science and Industry)
COSI in Columbus is where science comes to life through interactive exhibits and live demonstrations. Children are transported into the fascinating world of science with hands-on experiences that make learning fun.
From exploring outer space in the planetarium to discovering the mechanics of everyday objects, every corner of COSI is filled with opportunities for exploration. The Little Kidspace is a special area designed for younger children, featuring exhibits that are safe and engaging for curious minds.
Events and workshops are frequently held, offering something new with each visit. With its inviting atmosphere and a variety of exhibits, COSI is an educational wonderland that captivates and inspires children and adults alike.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center
For children who love to build, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center in Columbus is a dream come true. Surrounded by millions of LEGO bricks, young builders can let their imaginations run wild as they construct anything from towering skyscrapers to intricate vehicles.
The center features a variety of attractions, including interactive rides, a 4D cinema, and LEGO workshops. The MINILAND exhibit showcases famous Ohio landmarks, entirely built from LEGO bricks, offering kids a chance to see their state from a new perspective.
Special events and themed build challenges provide fresh experiences with every visit. LEGOLAND Discovery Center is not just about building; it’s about creativity, exploration, and a bit of friendly competition.
Scene75 Entertainment Center
Scene75 is where entertainment knows no bounds. With an eclectic mix of activities, from arcade games to laser tag, this entertainment center caters to every interest.
Kids can race against each other on the go-kart track or test their skills at mini-golf.
For those who prefer a digital challenge, the extensive arcade offers a mix of classic and modern video games. The indoor glow-in-the-dark mini-golf course is a visual treat that combines fun with a touch of mystery.
Scene75 hosts special events and birthday parties, making it a favorite destination for families. Each visit promises a day filled with laughter, excitement, and friendly competition, ensuring kids leave with unforgettable memories.
Cleveland Museum of Natural History
Dinosaurs, gems, and stars — the Cleveland Museum of Natural History is a treasure trove of wonders waiting to be discovered. With its extensive collection of fossils and interactive exhibits, this museum offers a perfect blend of education and adventure.
Children can embark on a prehistoric journey, exploring the dinosaur hall where towering skeletons of ancient giants loom overhead. The state-of-the-art planetarium provides a glimpse into the cosmos, sparking curiosity about the universe.
The museum also features live animal exhibits and hands-on science stations, ensuring that every visit is as engaging as it is enlightening. It’s a place where the past meets the present, providing endless opportunities for learning and discovery.
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park
When winter’s chill becomes unbearable, the indoor water park at Great Wolf Lodge offers a warm, aquatic escape. Kids can splash and slide to their heart’s content in this temperature-controlled haven.
The park features thrilling water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river that promise endless fun. The interactive water play areas are designed with younger children in mind, ensuring safe and engaging experiences for all ages.
Alongside the water attractions, Great Wolf Lodge offers activities such as MagiQuest, an immersive adventure game that takes kids on a magical journey throughout the lodge. It’s a place where family fun is the order of the day, regardless of the weather outside.
The Children’s Museum of Cleveland
Creativity knows no bounds at the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, where immersive exhibits invite children to explore, learn, and play. The museum’s design encourages imaginative play through diverse themed areas.
The Wonder Lab offers hands-on science experiments, while Adventure City allows kids to role-play in a miniaturized urban landscape. Each exhibit fosters curiosity, creativity, and social interaction, making learning a joyful experience.
Special programs and workshops are regularly scheduled, giving children the opportunity to engage in new activities during each visit. The museum’s vibrant atmosphere and innovative exhibits ensure it remains a favorite destination for families looking to inspire young minds.
The Works: Ohio Center for History, Art & Technology
Tucked away in Newark, Ohio, The Works is a unique blend of history, art, and technology. This interactive museum captivates young minds with its hands-on exhibits that span various disciplines.
The innovation lab is a highlight, offering children a chance to tinker with gadgets and explore engineering concepts. The art studio invites creativity, allowing kids to express themselves through various mediums.
Special exhibits and workshops are frequently updated, providing fresh experiences with every visit. The Works is a place where imagination meets education, offering a well-rounded experience that keeps kids engaged and entertained.
Breakout Games
For those with a penchant for puzzles, Breakout Games offers an exhilarating challenge that engages the whole family. Set in a historic mansion, the escape rooms are designed with intricate storylines and mind-bending puzzles.
Participants must work together to solve clues and unlock mysteries within a set time, fostering teamwork and critical thinking. Each room presents a different theme, from pirate adventures to mysterious investigations, ensuring a new experience each time.
Breakout Games provides a unique opportunity for families to bond and create memories while testing their wits. It’s an adventure that promises excitement and satisfaction, regardless of the weather outside.
EnterTRAINment Junction
EnterTRAINment Junction, located in West Chester, is the world’s largest indoor train display and a paradise for train enthusiasts of all ages. Kids can marvel at the sprawling model train layouts that depict various historical and cultural scenes.
The interactive play area allows children to get hands-on with train-themed activities, while the fun house offers a maze of surprises and laughter. Special seasonal events add an extra layer of excitement, ensuring something new with each visit.
Beyond trains, EnterTRAINment Junction provides educational insights into the history of railroads, making it both fun and informative. The detailed craftsmanship and engaging displays capture the imagination and fuel a sense of wonder in every visitor.
Imagination Station
At Imagination Station in Toledo, science and curiosity collide in the most delightful way. This interactive science museum offers hands-on exhibits that make learning fun for kids of all ages.
The Energy Factory and Gravity Room are particular highlights, allowing children to experiment with the forces of nature. The museum’s Tinkering Space invites budding inventors to create and explore with various tools and materials.
Regular workshops and demonstrations keep the experience fresh and exciting. Imagination Station is a place where scientific principles come alive, fostering a love of learning and discovery that goes beyond the confines of a classroom.