All history museums and attractions to visit in Columbus

Columbus (Ohio) is a good place to visit if you are interested in history. Below we list all 10 history museums in Columbus, to lose yourself in the place's cultural heritage and local history.

Are you a real history buff and are you looking for the best history museums to visit in Columbus? These are the ones:

  1. Kelton House Museum and Garden1

    Kelton House Museum and Garden

     Columbus, OH
    The Kelton House Museum and Garden, located in the Discovery District of Downtown Columbus, Ohio, is a Greek Revival and Italianate mansion. This architectural style is a testament to the historical significance of the building and provides a unique aesthetic experience for visitors.
  2. Ohio History Center2

    Ohio History Center

     Columbus, OH
    The Ohio History Center, located in Columbus, Ohio, serves as a history museum and research center. It is the main museum for the history of Ohio and also functions as the headquarters, offices, and library of the Ohio History Connection. This makes it a significant location for anyone interested in learning about Ohio's past.
  3. Thompson Library3

    Thompson Library

     Columbus, OH
    The William Oxley Thompson Memorial Library, commonly referred to as the Thompson Library, is the primary library at Ohio State University's Columbus campus. It is the largest library of the university and serves as the central research library for the entire campus. Named in honor of the university's fifth president, William Oxley Thompson, the library houses the main stacks, special collections, rare books, and manuscripts, along with many departmental subject libraries.
  4. Museum of Catholic Art and History4

    Museum of Catholic Art and History

     Columbus, OH
    The Museum of Catholic Art and History, previously known as the Jubilee Museum and Catholic Cultural Center, is a significant cultural institution located on Broad Street in Downtown Columbus, Ohio. The museum reopened its doors to the public in late 2021 after a period of closure.
  5. Thurber House5

    Thurber House

     Columbus, OH
    Thurber House, located in Columbus, Ohio, is a literary center that was once the home of renowned author, humorist, and New Yorker cartoonist James Thurber. This historic house now serves as a hub for readers and writers, promoting the literary arts and commemorating Thurber's significant contributions to literature and art.
  6. Ohio Village6

    Ohio Village

     Columbus, OH
    Ohio Village, located in Columbus, Ohio, is a living history museum that provides a firsthand view of life in Ohio during the American Civil War. The museum is operated by the non-profit organization, Ohio History Connection. It offers an immersive experience into the past, allowing visitors to explore the lifestyle, culture, and history of Ohio in the 19th century.
  7. Statehouse7

    Statehouse

     Columbus, OH
    The Ohio Statehouse, a building of Greek Revival style, was inaugurated in 1857. This architectural style is characterized by its grandeur and elegance, making it a notable landmark in Columbus. The building's history and architectural style may be of interest to tourists who appreciate historical architecture.
  8. Central Ohio Fire Museum8

    Central Ohio Fire Museum

     Columbus, OH
    The Central Ohio Fire Museum, located in Downtown Columbus, Ohio, is a unique destination that offers a glimpse into the history of firefighting. The museum is housed in the former Engine House No. 16 of the Columbus Fire Department, a building with a rich history dating back to 1908. This historic building adds an extra layer of authenticity to the museum experience, making it a fascinating place to visit for those interested in history, architecture, or firefighting.
  9. National Veterans Memorial and Museum9

    National Veterans Memorial and Museum

     Columbus, OH
    The National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM) is a significant landmark in the United States, dedicated to the veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. It is situated in Columbus, Ohio, making it a notable destination for those interested in military history and the personal stories of veterans. The museum's location along the Scioto River between Franklinton and Downtown Columbus adds to its appeal, offering visitors a scenic view of the city.
  10. Columbus Historical Society10

    Columbus Historical Society

     Columbus, OH
    The Columbus Historical Society (CHS) is situated in the Franklinton neighborhood of Columbus, Ohio. This location is significant as Franklinton was the first non-native settlement in Central Ohio, and is surrounded by numerous historic and cultural sites. The society's office and museum building is a hub for local history and art exhibits, making it a worthwhile stop for tourists interested in the city's past.