LANCASTER, Ohio — In an effort to ensure every child has the opportunity to learn through play, the AHA! Children’s Museum has announced its continued participation in the national Museums for All initiative. The program significantly reduces the cost of entry for low-income families, reinforcing the museum’s commitment to community-wide accessibility.
Affordable Access for Families
AHA! Children’s Museum joined the initiative to welcome new and existing guests without the burden of high admission costs. Under the program, families who present a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card receive a deeply discounted admission rate:
- Admission Price: $3 per person (for ages 12 months and up).
- Family Limit: The discount applies to up to four people per family.
“This is a tremendous program for our community and those traveling from surrounding counties,” said Julia Hilty, Executive Director of AHA! Children’s Museum. She noted that the museum has already seen a positive trend in visitor traffic and enjoyment since implementing the benefit.
National Roots, Local Support
Launched in 2015 by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), Museums for All is a national movement that now includes more than 1,600 participating institutions across the country.
The program’s local longevity is bolstered by a grant from the R. Alvin Stevenson Fund at The Columbus Foundation. This funding ensures that the reduced admission will remain available at AHA! through at least July 2026, with museum leadership expressing intent to extend the benefit even further.
About AHA! Children’s Museum
Located in Lancaster, AHA! is an 8,000-square-foot facility designed for young learners aged 6 months to 8 years. The museum features:
- Over 60 hands-on exhibits designed to spark curiosity and imagination.
- The Raymond B. Martens Nature Playscape, an outdoor discovery area.
- Operating Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Families interested in visiting or learning more about available exhibits can visit aha4kids.org or call (740) 653-1010.
