4th graders can now attend history museums in Ohio for free

Celeste Houmard
·2 min read

CLEVELAND (WJW) – Fourth-grade students can now attend history museums for free across Ohio, thanks to a new program.

The Western Reserve Historical Society, in partnership with America 250-Ohio, announced the 4th Grade History Pass Thursday, giving fourth-grade students across the state free admission to history museums.

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“As a member of the America 250-Ohio Commission, I am honored to represent WRHS and our work to help commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026,” President & CEO of the Western Reserve Historical Society Kelly Falcone-Hall said. “We are pleased to lead the effort to bring all 4th grade students to visit any participating history museum with their families, including two of our sites, the Cleveland History Center in University Circle and Hale Farm & Village in Bath Township.”

Starting Thursday, every fourth-grade student in Ohio will have the opportunity to visit nearly 20 institutions across Ohio, free of charge, when accompanied by a paying adult.

Participating institutions include:

  • Adena Mansion and Gardens

  • Campus Martius

  • Cincinnati Museum Center

  • Cleveland History Center

  • Fort Laurens Museum

  • Fort Meigs Historic Site

  • Hale Farm and Village

  • Harriet Beecher Stowe House

  • Historic Fort Steuben

  • Historic Zoar Village

  • John and Annie Glenn Museum

  • McKinley Presidential Library and Museum

  • National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center

  • National Road & Zane Grey Museum

  • National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

  • National Veterans Memorial and Museum

  • Ohio History Center and Ohio Village

  • Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library and Museum

  • Underground Railroad Museum (Flushing, Ohio)

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“We believe that this opportunity will inspire fourth-grade students to explore and appreciate Ohio’s history, fostering a sense of pride and connection to their roots,” Executive Director of America 250-Ohio Todd Kleismit said. “We hope this program brings enthusiasm to many families and students who are interested in learning more about Ohio’s contributions to the nation’s history for 250 years.”

Click here to learn more about the pass and to get one for your fourth grader today.

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