By 1812Blockhouse
A new spark is lighting up the Buckeye Imagination Museum in downtown Mansfield. With the Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development on hand for a ribbon cutting, the museum officially unveiled a new electrical activity zone designed to make the science of electricity tangible, visual, and fun for older kids and teens.
Powered by Curiosity
The new electrical activity zone focuses on hands-on discovery. Visitors can complete working circuits, experiment with glowing components, and see electricity in action rather than just reading about it. One of the most popular elements lets kids safely handle equipment using real lineman gloves, offering a rare, tactile look at how power lines are worked on in the real world.
The project was supported by FirstEnergy, whose involvement reflects a broader push to connect STEM education with real careers and real-world systems.
The electrical activity zone is located on the second floor of the museum at 175 W. Fourth Street. That upper level is intentionally geared toward older children, with more challenging and competitive activities. Alongside the new exhibit, visitors will find climbing walls, interactive games, and other experiences aimed at ages 10 and up.
The first floor remains focused on younger children and imaginative play. Spaces like the Blue Room and Yellow Room feature role-play settings including a bank, fire truck, grocery store, and post office, all designed to encourage creativity and social learning.
Access, Hours, and Practical Details
For safety reasons, the second floor is limited to visitors at least 48 inches tall. Strollers, wagons, food, and drinks are not permitted upstairs, and the second floor closes daily at 3:45 PM.
The Buckeye Imagination Museum is currently open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with extended hours until 7:00 PM on Thursdays. Admission is $16 per person for anyone over age 1.
A Broader Impact Downtown
Beyond the exhibit itself, the addition strengthens the museum’s role as a downtown anchor and a family destination in Richland County. It also comes at a moment of transition and momentum for the organization. The museum recently named Justin Ross as its new executive director, signaling an intention to expand programming, partnerships, and educational reach.
This new electrical activity zone is not just an exhibit. It is a statement that hands-on learning, downtown vitality, and curiosity-driven education can all share the same circuit.
