Cleveland, Ohio offers many diverse and educational attractions that will entertain kids of all ages and interests.
The NASA Glenn Visitor Center is sure to spark the interest and imagination of kids as they explore the interactive exhibits and historic artifacts located here. The Visitor Center, offering 6 galleries that cover 6,000 square feet, introduces children to the basic principles of science and engineering. Admission is free and the NASA Glenn Visitor Center is open 7 days a week. This facility is wheelchair accessible and easy to get to from Cleveland's major highways. Call (260) 433-4000 for additional questions about this attraction.
Cleveland's Children's Museum located in the middle of Cleveland's University Circle is especially interesting for young children 18 months to 8 years of age. Permanent exhibitions at the museum include a two-story climbing structure that teaches children the basic principles of the water cycle. This Splish! Splash! Exhibit also informs kids about water transportation and weather. Another permanent exhibit, Bridges to our Community, is designed to share information about Cleveland's rich cultural diversity. There is also an Art Studio within this exhibit that allows children to explore their creativity. Big Red Barn is a two-story interactive exhibit specifically created for children up to four years of age. The Big Red Barn is complete with a slide, reflecting pool, and apple orchard that parents are encouraged to experience with their children. The museum offers free parking and is open Tuesday through Sunday. More information about the museum can be obtained by calling (216)791-KIDS.
The Cleveland Metropark Zoo is home to 84 endangered species and set upon 168 rolling acres. There is also a 2 acre rainforest exhibit where 10,000 live flowers, trees, and shrubs and more than 600 animals can be found. Every 12 minutes, a tropical rainstorm complete with rain, thunder, wind, and lightning, occurs. Zootrams offer free transportation throughout the zoo and stroller and wagon rentals are available at the Zoo's gift shop. Picnic areas are available and there are many food concessions throughout the property. Parking is free and the MetroPark Zoo is open every day except Christmas and New Year's Day. More information about this location can be obtained by calling (216) 661-6500.
The Great Lakes Science Center is one of the largest science museums in the U.S. with over 250,000 square feet of space, 400 hands-on exhibits, and daily demonstrations. There is also an OMNIMAX theatre onsite that features a six-story domed screen with over 11,000 watts of digital sound. Science Phenomena exhibits allow curious kids to explore light and optics, motion and mechanics through interactive experiences. There are also Technology and Environmental exhibits on display. There is an attached parking facility at this location and a discounted rate is available for guests of the Science Center. Hours of operation are 7 days a week except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Additional questions about the Science Center can be addressed by calling (216) 694-2000.
