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Oh Wow Children's Center for Science & Technology

4.6
·678 reviews·Youngstown, United States

A vibrant hub for young minds, OH WOW! sparks curiosity with hands-on science, technology, and art exhibits.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
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Catenary Arch

Oh Wow Children's Center for Science & Technology

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant hub for young minds, OH WOW! sparks curiosity with hands-on science, technology, and art exhibits.

4.6
(678 reviews)

"This was my second visit, but my grandsons first. He loved it. There is so much to do."

Vertical photo
TIP

📚 Library Pass Hack

Borrow free passes from your local library to save on admission!

🅿️ Parking Strategy

Opt for the $5-$7 all-day lot down the street if street parking is full.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive STEM Exhibits

Interactive STEM Exhibits

Engage with hands-on science and technology displays designed to spark curiosity in kids of all ages.

Arts and Crafts Room

Arts and Crafts Room

A popular spot for creative expression, offering a variety of engaging projects for young artists.

The Maze

The Maze

Kids love exploring this multi-level maze, providing hours of active fun and adventure.

Rock Wall Adventure

Rock Wall Adventure

Challenge young climbers on the indoor rock wall for a fun and active experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Maximize Your Visit with Library Passes

Save money by checking if your local library offers free passes to OH WOW! These often provide admission for multiple people, making a family outing much more affordable. It's a popular option, so plan ahead and be prepared for a potential waitlist.

Parking and Winter Comfort

While street parking can be full, consider the $7 all-day lot down the street for convenience. Be aware that winter visits can involve a cold walk, so bring warm coats and utilize the available lockers to store them.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Saturday afternoons
Why
Still manageable crowds, lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Our team loved doing this project at OH WOW! The Roger & Gloria Jones Children's Center for Science & Technology.
crowescabinets
2 likes • 75 views

📚 Library Pass Hack

Borrow free passes from your local library to save on admission! Reddit

🅿️ Parking Strategy

Opt for the $5-$7 all-day lot down the street if street parking is full. Reddit

Happy 11th Birthday to OH WOW! The Roger & Gloria Jones Children's Center for Science & Technology in Youngstown, Ohio 🥳🎂🎉🧪 We had an awesome time celebrating with our community and STEM! #stem #stemeducation #stemisawesome #nhra #pdra #youngstownohio #visityoungstown #stemactivities #ohwow #ohwowchildrenscenter #happiestplaceinyoungstown #stemforkids #youngstown #birthdayparty #happybirthday ...
martinomotorsports
35 likes • 3.8K views
In this episode of Bottom Line with the Business Dean, we talk with Marvin Logan, Jr, Executive Director at OH WOW! Children's Center for Science and Technology about how he's fostering an interest in STEM for future generations. Hear Dr. Elad Granot speak with Marvin about his career and why he's passionate about the work OH WOW! is doing. Stream where you listen to podcasts!
bolerjcu
12 likes • 1.1K views

🧥 Winter Coat Storage

Utilize lockers for coats during cold weather visits. Reddit

🧘 Sensory Room Relief

Take advantage of the sensory room for kids needing a calm break. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📚 Library Pass Hack

Borrow free passes from your local library to save on admission! Reddit

🅿️ Parking Strategy

Opt for the $5-$7 all-day lot down the street if street parking is full. Reddit

🧥 Winter Coat Storage

Utilize lockers for coats during cold weather visits. Reddit

🧘 Sensory Room Relief

Take advantage of the sensory room for kids needing a calm break. Reddit

⏳ 3D Printing Patience

Be aware that 3D prints can take time; follow up if needed. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(678 reviews)

Reviews Summary

OH WOW! Children's Center is a highly engaging destination for kids, praised for its wide array of interactive STEM exhibits and creative spaces like the arts and crafts room. Families appreciate the thoughtful amenities such as restrooms on each floor and a sensory room. While some exhibits show minor wear, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, offering hours of educational fun.

"This was my second visit, but my grandsons first. He loved it. There is so much to do. I can't wait to see what gets added. Street parking was full but there are a few handicaps close if anyone needs one. We used a lot on the one way street behind oh wow. $7 all day parking. It's a cold walk around in the winter but plenty of places for coats including lockers. $10 admission for adults. I Can't remember for children."

Theressa Lesnoski

"Super nice and helpful staff! Loved all the exhibits and that there is a restroom on each floor. Would come back again! Was not crowded on a Saturday and we got in for free with our carnegie museum membership!"

Casandra Wagner

"This is such a great place to take the kids. We got our passes from the library (you borrow the backpack from your local library when available, then have one week to use 4 free passes for one visit). So if you have multiple children and it gets expensive paying for everyone, then it's definitely worth the wait to get the library passes.

There are many activities for kids of any age. At our most recent visit, I noticed the place is beginning to show some signs of age. Some of the exhibits are missing pieces or broken. Still definitely worth a trip. We got 2 hours out of the lower and main levels, and then the kids loved the maze on the upper level so much, we spent another hour with them running through that."

Stephanie Neethling

What People Like

Interactive STEM exhibits
Arts and crafts room
Sensory room

What People Dislike

Exhibit wear and tear
Parking challenges

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

OH WOW! is located in Youngstown, Ohio. Visitors often drive and find parking on the street or in nearby lots. Public transportation options may be limited, so driving is generally recommended. Instagram

Street parking can be competitive, especially on busy days. Many visitors opt for a paid lot nearby, typically costing around $5-$7 for all-day parking. Reddit

Information on public transport accessibility can vary. It's best to check local Youngstown transit schedules for the most up-to-date routes and times if you plan to use public transportation. Instagram

Yes, there are a few handicap parking spots available close to the center, particularly on the one-way street behind the building. Reddit

In winter, be prepared for a cold walk from parking. Bringing warm coats is essential, and lockers are available inside for storage. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices can vary. One reviewer mentioned $20 for two people (adult and child), while another noted $10 for adults. It's advisable to check their official website for current pricing. Reddit

Absolutely! Many visitors recommend checking with your local library for free 'backpack' passes that offer admission for multiple people. This is a great way to save money. Reddit

Yes, some visitors have reported getting in for free with their Carnegie Museum membership, so it's worth checking if your membership offers reciprocal benefits. Reddit

Operating hours can change, especially around holidays or special events. It's best to consult the official OH WOW! website or their social media pages for the most accurate and up-to-date hours of operation. Instagram

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially if using library passes or during peak times, can help ensure entry and save time. Check their website for any online booking options. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

OH WOW! features a wide range of interactive science and technology exhibits. Popular attractions include a rock wall, a driving simulator, and an arts and crafts room. TikTokReddit

The center offers activities for a wide range of ages, from toddlers to older children. The maze and arts and crafts are particularly popular with younger kids, while the STEM exhibits cater to a broader audience. Reddit

Yes, reviewers have noted that there are restrooms conveniently located on each floor of the center, which is a great amenity for families. Reddit

The sensory room is a valuable addition, providing a calm space for children who may feel overwhelmed by the stimulating environment. It's a thoughtful feature for kids with sensory sensitivities. Reddit

Many visitors find that their children can easily spend several hours exploring the exhibits. One reviewer's five-year-old spent almost four hours there, highlighting the engaging nature of the center. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography and videography for personal use are allowed. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography that might disrupt exhibits or children. TikTokInstagram

The interactive exhibits, especially those with vibrant colors and dynamic action, make for great photos. The arts and crafts room and the maze can also offer fun photographic opportunities. TikTokInstagram

For commercial photography or filming, it's essential to contact OH WOW! directly to inquire about their policies and obtain any necessary permissions. TikTokInstagram

TikTok creators often focus on showcasing the hands-on nature of the exhibits, capturing kids' reactions, and highlighting the fun and educational aspects of the center. TikTokInstagram

With so many engaging activities, capturing candid moments of children interacting with the exhibits is quite easy. The bright and colorful environment also lends itself well to lively photos. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

OH WOW! is a dream destination for families. The sheer volume of interactive exhibits ensures that kids of all ages will find something to captivate them, from the popular arts and crafts room to the exciting maze and rock wall. TikTokReddit The center's commitment to STEM education is presented in a fun, accessible way, making learning an adventure. Remember to check for library passes to make your visit even more budget-friendly. Reddit

Practical considerations for families include the availability of restrooms on each floor and the valuable sensory room for children who need a break from the stimulation. While parking can be a minor challenge, the $5-$7 all-day lots offer a good solution. Reddit Be prepared for your kids to want to spend several hours exploring, as the engaging nature of the exhibits often leads to extended playtime. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious families, the library pass program is an absolute game-changer for visiting OH WOW! Reddit This allows for significant savings on admission, making a family outing much more accessible. If library passes aren't an option, keep an eye out for potential membership reciprocity programs, like with the Carnegie Museum, which some visitors have used for free entry. Reddit

Parking is another area where you can save. While convenient street parking exists, opting for the $5-$7 all-day lots down the street is often more economical than dealing with metered parking or circling for a spot. Reddit Pack snacks and drinks if allowed, as purchasing them inside can add to the overall cost of your visit.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The STEM Focus at OH WOW!

OH WOW! The Roger & Gloria Jones Children's Center for Science and Technology is dedicated to fostering an interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) for future generations. Instagram+1 The center achieves this through a variety of interactive exhibits that allow children to learn by doing. From building and experimenting to exploring concepts like flight and engineering, the hands-on approach makes complex subjects accessible and fun.

Many of the exhibits are designed to encourage problem-solving and critical thinking. For instance, the 3D printing station allows children to design and create their own objects, offering a tangible experience with modern technology. While some projects might take time to complete, the process itself is a valuable learning opportunity. Reddit The staff's dedication to STEM education is evident in their engagement with visitors, aiming to inspire the next wave of innovators and scientists. Instagram

Beyond the core STEM exhibits, OH WOW! also incorporates elements of art and creativity, recognizing the interconnectedness of these fields. The arts and crafts room is a testament to this, providing a space for imaginative expression. This holistic approach ensures that children develop a well-rounded understanding of how science, technology, and art intersect in the real world. Reddit

Navigating the Exhibits and Amenities

Visitors consistently praise the variety of activities available at OH WOW!, noting that children of all ages can find something engaging. The lower and main levels are packed with interactive displays, while the upper level features a popular maze that provides a fun physical challenge. Reddit The rock wall is another highlight, offering an adventurous activity for energetic kids. Reddit

Practical amenities enhance the visitor experience. The presence of restrooms on each floor is a significant convenience for families. Reddit Furthermore, the inclusion of a sensory room is a thoughtful touch, providing a much-needed quiet space for children who might become overstimulated by the vibrant and active environment. This demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors. Reddit

While the exhibits are generally well-loved, some reviewers have noted that certain exhibits are beginning to show signs of age, with occasional missing pieces or minor disrepair. Reddit However, the overall consensus is that the center remains a worthwhile destination, offering hours of entertainment and educational value. The staff are often described as super nice and helpful, contributing positively to the overall atmosphere. Reddit