Ohio State is in the process of revising websites and program materials to accurately reflect compliance with the law. While this work occurs, language referencing protected class status or other activities prohibited by Ohio Senate Bill 1 may still appear in some places. However, all programs and activities are being administered in compliance with federal and state law.

Visit The Museum

ADMISSION

Admission to the Orton Geological Museum is open to all people, and free.

Our policy regarding admission and programming, which dates to the time of the Museum's founding, remains in effect, and is in full compliance with the provisions of “The Advance Ohio Higher Education Act" (Substitute SB No. 1),” which was passed by the 136th General Assembly of the State of Ohio and signed into law on March 28, 2025 by Governor Mike DeWine. If you have any questions or concerns about what we offer, please contact us.

 

HOURS

During the regular academic year (late August to early May), the Museum Gallery is normally open to the public from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Occasionally, it is also open on Saturdays. If you are planning to visit on a Saturday, please phone ahead (614-292-6896) to determine whether the Gallery will be open to the public that day.

We have found misinformation about the museum's hours posted on non-Ohio State websites. Please ignore what you find on other sites, and rely on what you read here.

Orton Hall is located on the south side of The Oval, the central part of the academic campus. Orton Hall is the most distinctive building on The Oval, as it houses a bell tower containing the University Chimes. The chimes ring every 15 minutes, which helps to identify the location of Orton Hall from quite a distance. 

ACCESS THE MAP

 

PARKING

On weekdays, the nearest parking is in the Ohio Union South Garage (1780 College Road South), which is located a short distance to the east of Orton Hall.

 

ACCESSIBILITY

An Accessibility Entrance to Orton Hall is located along Hagerty Drive, at the southwest corner of Orton Hall. An elevator is located just inside the building, near the accessibility entrance.

 

DIN-O-STORE

The Din-O-Store, which is located in the Gallery, has natural history-themed gifts for people of all ages. The Din-O-Store does not have posted hours of operation, but is commonly open when the Gallery is open. To confirm when it will be open, it is advisable to call ahead of the time of your visit (614-292-6896).

 

TOURS

Would you like to arrange a tour of the Orton Geological Museum?