Northeast Ohio is packed with museums that make learning an adventure, whether your family is into art, history, science or something a little more quirky. From Cleveland’s world-class attractions to small-town hidden treasures, these destinations prove that curiosity comes in all sizes. Here are several of the area’s top museums, big and small, for your next family day out.
Akron Art Museum (akronartmuseum.org)
Blending historic architecture with a striking modern glass addition, the Akron Art Museum showcases a dynamic mix of contemporary and classic works. Families can explore vibrant paintings, thought-provoking photography, and large-scale sculptures that invite conversation. The museum’s Bud and Susie Rogers Garden provides a welcoming outdoor space for kids to move and play, while Family Days and drop-in art activities encourage creativity for all ages.
Tip: Stop by the Art Bar in the lobby, where visitors can make their own mini masterpieces inspired by current exhibitions.
Akron Children’s Museum (akronkids.org)
In this colorful and compact museum, designed to let curiosity lead the way, kids learn through imaginative play and discovery. Young visitors can shop for produce in the Farmers Market, operate a kid-sized bulldozer in the Construction Zone, explore motion and balance in the Wind & Air Tunnel, and much more.
Tip: Don’t miss the Lite Brite Wall, a giant version of the classic toy, where kids can create glowing masterpieces.
Akron Fossils & Science Center (akronfossils.org)
This small but engaging museum in Copley blends paleontology and hands-on science. Hold and touch real fossils on the Fossil Fun Tour, make a real take-home replica of a trilobite on the Fossil Replica Making Tour, or interact with the live animal collection on the Animal Adventures Tour.
Tip: Let the kids burn off some energy at the two-acre outdoor adventure park, which includes a giant slide, helicopter swing, challenge course and more.
Castle Noel (castlenoel.com)
Christmas is never out of season at Castle Noel, America’s largest indoor year-round Christmas attraction. Visitors to this Medina spot can see Hollywood movie props from classics like “Elf” and “The Grinch,” explore glittering window displays from New York department stores, feel what it’s like to squeeze through a chimney, and even glide down a replica of the Santa Klaus Mountain slide from the movie “A Christmas Story.”
Tip: Be sure to peek into the Blizzard Vortex tunnel — a swirling, snow-lit walkway that feels like stepping inside a winter snow globe.
Children’s Museum of Cleveland (cmcleveland.org)
Housed in a beautifully restored historic mansion, the Children’s Museum of Cleveland offers seven themed play areas that spark imagination and learning. Kids can splash in Waterways, play pretend in Adventure City, or build and tinker in the Wonder Lab. The space is designed for children from birth through age 8, with thoughtful touches for caregivers throughout.
Tip: Check the museum’s schedule for sensory-friendly play sessions, perfect for families seeking a quieter experience.
Cleveland Museum of Art (clevelandart.org)
The Cleveland Museum of Art is one of the country’s most distinguished art museums — and admission is always free. Families can explore more than 45,000 works, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to Impressionist masterpieces and contemporary pieces. Be sure to check out the interactive ArtLens Studio for hands-on art creation and digital exploration.
Tip: CMA’s armor court, filled with shining suits of armor and medieval weaponry, is a favorite with children.
Cleveland Museum of Natural History (cmnh.org)
From towering dinosaur skeletons to sparkling gems and a full-sized planetarium, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History brings science to life. Visitors can meet Balto, the famous sled dog, or explore the Ralph Perkins II Wildlife Center featuring live animals native to Ohio. Hands-on labs and rotating exhibits make every visit different.
Tip: Don’t miss “Dunk,” the museum’s massive, 360-million-year-old dunkleosteus fossil and Cleveland’s official prehistoric fish.
Federal Reserve Bank Education and Learning Center (clevelandfed.org/about-us/visit-us)
Tucked inside Cleveland’s Federal Reserve building, this free museum explores the fascinating world of money. Interactive exhibits show how currency is made and protected, and visitors can even lift a real gold bar or see a million dollars in cash on display. The museum is located inside one of the most secure buildings in Ohio — complete with massive steel vault doors.
Tip: Don’t miss the Money Tree, a whimsical display “growing” with shredded bills that once circulated through the U.S. economy.
Great Lakes Science Center (greatscience.com)
Located on Cleveland’s lakefront, this hub for curious minds features hundreds of interactive exhibits on science, technology, engineering and space — including the NASA Glenn Visitor Center. Families can watch larger-than-life movies in the Dome Theater, while those with young scientists can spend time in the Polymer Funhouse.
Tip: GLSC’s newest exhibit, “Handle with Care” for kids ages 8 and younger, incorporates STEM learning and fundamental engineering principles while fostering empathy and creativity
MAPS Air Museum (mapsairmuseum.org)
Aviation takes center stage at the MAPS Air Museum in North Canton, where visitors can get up close to military aircraft and vehicles from World War II through today. The museum’s knowledgeable volunteers offer fascinating stories and guided tours. Kids love climbing into cockpits and exploring the hands-on displays.
Tip: Many of the aircraft are outside, so plan accordingly by dressing for the weather.
Museum of Illusions (moicleveland.com)
This downtown Cleveland attraction is packed with mind-bending exhibits that challenge perception and make for great photo ops. Guests can walk through tilted rooms, shrink in size in the Ames Room, and puzzle over optical illusions that trick the eye.
Tip: Every illusion is rooted in real science and psychology, making it both fun and educational.
National First Ladies Library & Museum (firstladies.org)
This Canton museum brings American history to life through the stories of the women who shaped it. Families can tour the restored childhood home of Ida Saxton McKinley and explore interactive exhibits about the lives, fashion and causes of the nation’s first ladies. Kids especially enjoy seeing vintage gowns, campaign memorabilia, and photos that reveal the human side of history.
Tip: At the Education Center next door, families can design their own campaign buttons or step into a replica of the White House East Room.
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (rockhall.com)
Adjacent to GLSC, the Rock Hall celebrates the artists and music that changed the world. Trace the history of rock through instruments, costumes and memorabilia from legends like Elvis, The Beatles and Taylor Swift. Interactive exhibits invite visitors to mix their own tracks, dance through decades of hits and explore ever-changing special exhibits.
Tip: Head to The Garage, where you can pick up real instruments and jam along with your favorite songs — no experience required!
Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens (stanhywet.org)
At this Akron attraction, history and adventure meet across 70 acres of manicured gardens and winding pathways. Families can explore the grand 65-room mansion — complete with secret doors and ornate details — or wander through themed gardens bursting with seasonal color. The Playgarden invites kids to splash in fountains, climb through tunnels and let their imaginations run wild.
Tip: Visit in December for Deck the Hall, when the estate glows with more than a million lights, animated window displays and holiday treats for all ages.
The Troll Hole (thetrollhole.com)
A delightfully quirky stop, this Alliance museum holds the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of troll dolls — over 20,000 of them! Displays trace troll history from ancient mythology to pop culture, and there’s even a Troll-themed café next door.
Tip: Kids can join a scavenger hunt through the exhibits to earn a little troll. treasure at the end.