The theater inside Columbus' Prototype Museum

Prototype: The Experimental Museum

Newly opened in late 2025, Prototype Columbus is Columbus' museum for curious, creative adults. Designed with grown‑ups in mind, every gallery encourages not just observation but full-on participation—making each visit feel like a fresh act of discovery. Whether you’re a thinker, a maker or someone who loves exploring ideas hands‑on, Prototype offers an interactive experience that’s built to spark your imagination and tap into your sense of play.

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About | Areas of the Museum | Events | Plan Your Visit | FAQs

What is the Prototype Museum?

Prototype is an experimental museum filled with hands-on installations that blend art, media, design and technology into experiences shaped by your interactions. It’s designed with adults in mind, so the exhibits feel playful and thought‑provoking—almost like stepping into a creative lab where you’re encouraged to explore, experiment and get inspired.

Top Exhibits & Interactive Experiences You Can’t Miss

Prototype’s six gallery spaces showcase around two dozen experiences that invite you to explore creativity, technology and human behavior in surprising, hands-on ways.

As you move through the museum, you’ll step into immersive environments shaped by light, sound and motion; playful, tactile stations that respond when you pull a lever or adjust a control; and digital tools that let you design something and watch it spring to life right on screen.

The final gallery doubles as a media theater and bar. A large-scale screen displays pieces created by guests earlier in the day. Enjoy the artsy vibes while sipping on a delicious cocktail, beer or mocktail at the theater bar—making it a great spot to unwind, compare creations and enjoy the energy of the space.

Seasonal Events & Special Exhibits

Part of Prototype’s mission is to stay dynamic: seasonal and time-limited programs, including art installations, late-night experiences, collaborations with artists and performance groups, are central to its identity. This makes each visit unique and encourages return visits. Check their events page to see what’s coming up.

A couple interacting with the Love Hug exhibit in Prototype Museum

Woman reaching out to touch large interactive eyeball at Prototype Museum

Couple looks at Tarot exhibit in Prototype museum

Group of people interacting with exhibit inside Prototype Museum

Plan Your Visit

Address: 540 Maier Place, Columbus, OH
Parking: Free on-site parking lot
Hours:
Wed–Thu: 1 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Fri–Sat: 1 p.m.– 8:30 p.m.
Sun: 11 a.m.– 6:30 p.m.
(Last timed entry is typically 90 minutes before closing)
Tickets: Timed-entry admission; advance online purchase required
Age Restrictions: Prototype is a museum designed for adults and high schoolers. Please note that guests under 16 will not be admitted.
Accessibility: Fully accessible building with a growing program available for sensory- and neurodiverse visitors
Cashless: Prototype does not accept cash; card and digital payments only

Timed-entry tickets help maintain a relaxed, open flow through the installations, so securing your preferred slot ahead of time. Because installations vary in scale and interactivity, most visitors spend between 90 minutes and two hours inside the museum.

Prototype Museum FAQs

How long does a typical visit to Prototype Museum take?

Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the museum’s installations.

What makes the Prototype Museum unique compared to other Columbus attractions?

Prototype’s installations are fully interactive and constantly evolving, emphasizing experimentation, creativity and immersive play. Many exhibits change throughout the year, making the experience different on each visit.

Are tickets required in advance to Prototype Museum?

Yes. Admission is through timed-entry tickets, which must be purchased online before arriving.

Is parking available at the Prototype Museum?

Yes, the museum offers a free on-site parking lot for visitors.

Is the Prototype Museum accessible?

Yes. The museum design ensures physical accessibility, and they’re building out additional sensory considerations and neurodiverse-inclusive programming.

What age groups are the Prototype Museum exhibits suitable for?

Prototype admits guests over 16. Certain experiences involve loud audio, flashing lights and other sensory elements that may be too intense for kids, while some installations explore abstract or mature themes.

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