In the fall of 2016, Downtown Columbus, Inc., in partnership with COSI,  entered into a first-of-its-kind agreement with the American Museum of Natural History that would establish two significant new exhibition areas at COSI: the American Museum of Natural History Dinosaur Gallery and the American Museum of Natural History Exhibition Gallery, which would occupy a total of 22,000 square feet on the main concourse of COSI’s first floor.

In November 2017, this project was unveiled and Dinosaurs made their Columbus debut, permanently taking up residence inside COSI. The exhibit opened to glowing reviews from the young and young-at-heart, entranced by the life-size Tyrannosaurus rex model that greets guests as they enter the space. More than an educational opportunity, these giant creatures spark curiosity that spans ages. But the intergenerational appeal of the exhibit was no surprise, but rather part of a strategic effort by Columbus’ public and private leaders to attract a more varied audience to the institution. 

The temporary gallery hosts rotating exhibitry from the American Museum of Natural History’s extensive and internationally renowned collection.

As one of the premier cultural attractions in the world, the American Museum of Natural History draws attendance of approximately 5 million to its New York City campus each year.  AMNH has established research, exhibition and educational collaborations around the world, but this is the most extensive partnership of this kind, linking as it does a world-class natural history museum and a nationally recognized science center.

Check out the latest exhibits and updates to the American Museum of Natural History at COSI.