Otherworld: How To Enjoy This Immersive Art Space in Columbus With Kids

With Columbus, Ohio just an hour east of Dayton, Ohio, I went there plenty of times when I was growing up but love that there is still more to see whenever I still go now. After exploring the magical world of Meow Wolf in Sante Fe, these new immersive art spaces popping up around the US were on my radar and I couldn’t wait to check out Otherworld when it opened. A 32,000-square-foot immersive art experience unlike any other in the area, it’s a super fun family-friendly adventure if you’re looking for one.

I was looking for something to do in Columbus with kids, Otherworld offers an unforgettable journey through over 40 scenes of large-scale art, mixed-reality playgrounds, and hidden passageways. It suited our motley crew of kids and adults of various ages.

Planning to explore Otherworld in Columbus, Ohio? Here’s what to know:

Basic Info
A Fantasy World Awaits at Otherworld
- Art and Imagination Collide
Kid-Friendly Exploration with a Touch of Mystery
Why Otherworld is a Must-Visit

(This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.)

Basic Info

Address: 5819 Chantry Dr., Columbus, Ohio, US
Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Sunday: 10:00am ~ 8:00pm; Thursday – Saturday: 10:00am ~ 10:00pm
Tickets: Timed entry tickets are available online, ensuring a smooth experience without long waits.
Pricing: With general admission at $18 for children (ages 3-12) and $22 for adults, the experience offers value for its unique offerings.
Facilities: The venue includes a full bar and hosts various special events, from birthday celebrations to arts and crafts classes.

A Fantasy World Awaits at Otherworld

Imagine stepping into a world straight out of a sci-fi fantasy, filled with alien flora, mysterious creatures, and mesmerizing landscapes that may or may not make sense together. Otherworld, invites you to explore its enigmatic facility as a beta tester for Otherworld Industries… if you need a story to follow as you enter. You don’t need any reason other than interest in being inspired, humored, and thrilled though really.

Art and Imagination Collide

Otherworld is the brainchild of over 40 talented artists, including programmers, animators, sculptors, and creative writers. Their combined expertise has created an interactive realm that stands out among traditional museums and theme parks. It’s definitely something unique in Columbus to be enthralled by for an afternoon. It could take you anywhere from 1 to 3 hours to fully enjoy every space. It’s a new dimension of immersion, where every room tells a story and every artifact is part of a larger narrative.

There are over 190,000 LED lights, 54 projectors, and 47 rooms. You can go up, down, all around, and still find more hallways and entrances to discover. There’s no “one-way” to see Otherworld either. Get lost. Get turned around. And then circle back around and find yourself again… or the other you locked in a mirror world. It’s trippy to be sure.

Kid-Friendly Exploration with a Touch of Mystery

While Otherworld is an exciting exploration for kids, it’s worth noting that some areas have a slightly spooky ambiance. I was in there with a 7 year old though and she never seemed scared, but do stay close because it’s all a bit dark so it would be easy enough to lose sight of a little one if you’re paying attention.

That said, the overall experience is more magical than frightening, making it a great fit for children 7 and up. As you journey through the art installation, be ready for an array of fun photo opportunities and interactive elements that will delight you and your kids. Your kids will want to touch everything, climb, and will find all of the hidden elements and spaces. Get ready to be inspired right beside them.

Why Otherworld is a Must-Visit

Otherworld isn’t just an art installation; it’s a journey into a world of imagination and creativity. It’s a place where adults can rediscover their inner child, and kids can experience awe and wonder. For families looking for something to do in Columbus, Otherworld is a destination that promises a memorable experience for all ages.

Otherworld Accessibility

In our motley crew for this adventure one of our family members was in a wheelchair. While the space is generally accessible, some of the rooms were really small and narrow and her wheelchair needed to be backed out rather than going around the space as was intended. The majority of the spaces were fine, but not every space was so thoughtfully designed with accessibility in mind it seems.

If you’re planning a family trip to Columbus and wondering what to do, Otherworld should be at the top of your list. It’s more than just an attraction; it’s a portal to a world of imagination, making it an unforgettable part of your Columbus adventure.

Did you like this post? Pin IT!