Business Spotlight: Columbus Area Children's Museum
A Place to Learn, Play and Grow
Downtown Columbus has a new addition that's making waves with families - the Columbus Area Children's Museum (CACM). Since its grand opening in February 2024, CACM has quickly become a hub for fun, learning and community engagement for children and families across the region. But this playful and interactive space didn't happen overnight -- it's been years in the making, driven by community input and a powerful vision.
A Community Driven Journey
The journey began back in 2017, when a failed bond for a new Library/Cultural Arts Center sparked broader community conversations about family need. Around the same time, a Community4Kids survey revealed a high demand in Columbus for both an indoor playground and a children's museum.
This need led to the creation of the CACM Project in 2018, which evolved into a City Council-appointed advisory board in 2019. The Board conducted feasibility studies, joined the Association of Children's Museums (ACM) and gathered insights from similar communities nationwide. Their efforts paid off in 2020 when a new bond passed -- this time with space allocated for a children's museum inside the new Columbus Community Building.
From there, things moved quickly. In 2021, CACM became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and by 2022, they had partnered with Heartland Scenic Studios to begin the exhibit design and build process. Exhibit installation took place in 2023, and in 2024, the dream became a reality.
Hands-On, STEAM-Focused Fun
CACM offers STEAM-based interactive exhibits that reflect the Columbus community and encourage children to explore and learn through powerful, hands-on play. One of the museum's most loved features is the custom 24-foot tall corn cob slide - a must-try for kids and kids-at-heart.
The museum is also proud to participate in the Museums for All program, offering discounted admission and memberships to families facing financial hardships, ensuring all children have the opportunity to play and learn
More Than Just A Museum
CACM is deeply embedded in the community. From hosting Cutie Crawl baby races during Columbus Days to participating in the County Extension's STEM Days and County Fair, they are active collaborators in creating a fun and educational environment for families.
In 2025, CACM launched its new Parents Nights Out program, giving parents a well-deserved break while kids enjoy the museum in a safe, fun setting. And through partnerships with the Fieldhouse, Pawnee Plunge and Pizza Ranch, CACM offers a Ticket to Play weekend experience encouraging families to explore even more local attractions.
A Bright Future Downtown
Located inside the Columbus Community Building at 2500 14th St, CACM is part of a thriving downtown ecosystem that includes the Columbus Public Library and a local coffee shop -- making it easy for families to spend an entire day enjoying all the area has to offer.
As the museum continues to grow, its rotating programs and ever-evolving play experiences promise new discoveries for every visit. And with offerings like their traveler membership, families can also access hundreds of other children's museums nationwide.
Plan Your Visit
Explore, learn, and play at the Columbus Area Children’s Museum!
📍 Location: Inside the Columbus Community Building, Downtown Columbus - 2500 14th St.
🌐 Website: columbuslearnandplay.org
📱 Facebook: facebook.com/CAChildrensMuseum
Whether you're sliding down a giant corn cob or discovering the wonders of STEAM, CACM is where curiosity and community come together.
