Built in a renovated Masonic Temple, Roto began work on Discovery World in 2019 with a focus on creating experiences for children from toddler-age to 8-years-old that incorporated features connected to the local Parkersburg, WV, community. These local touches are found throughout the 13,000 square-foot space in exhibits that encourage visitors to engage in hands-on learning and exploration.
When the new children’s museum officially opened in April 2023, nearly 600 students in central Ohio could also consider themselves part of the team of “makers” who helped bring the Mid-Ohio Valley’s only children’s museum to life.
As part of Roto’s development process of designing and fabricating exhibits for the new space, students from 17 school groups participated in evaluation sessions at Roto to test Discovery World experiences.
This included a 19 feet tall “Ball Factory” inspired by the local manufacturing industry, two 200-gallon capacity water tables, multiple makerspace activities, and an Ohio River-themed gallery that includes an interactive digital exhibit and kid-sized sternwheel boat.
Features
- 13,000 sq. ft. of exhibits in three galleries with features inspired by the Parkersburg community
- 19 ft. tall “Ball Factory” climbing structure and interactive play feature
- Two 200-gallon capacity “River Adventure” water tables
- Immersive Ohio River-inspired “Riverbank Creature” digital space
- Hands-on Design Studio for exploring STEAM concepts, experimentation, and design-thinking activities
