Mission
Using play to inspire and educate the future of Ashtabula.
Vision
The most accessible children’s museum for Ashtabula County.
Objectives
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Be a destination and place of respite for local families and tourists alike.
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Provide a place of inclusiveness for children and families, regardless of zip code, socioeconomic background, physical and/or mental disabilities, or color: A Safe Harbor
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Cultivate a sense of belonging through community engagement and education by providing opportunities to explore and learn through play
Core Values
These are the values that anchor Wonder Harbor — guiding how we design exhibits, welcome families, and inspire lifelong learning.
Imagination
Curiosity
Playful Learning
Community
Accessibility & Inclusion
Innovation
Collaboration
Respect for Nature
Safety & Well-Being
Lifelong Learning
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ABOUT THE MUSEUM
Wonder Harbor Children’s Museum is being developed to bring an innovative, hands-on learning destination to Ashtabula County—one that inspires imagination, strengthens families, and drives community growth.
Why Ashtabula?
Ashtabula City Schools are a Title I district, and families consistently voice the need for more accessible, child-centered opportunities. A children’s museum directly addresses this need by creating a safe, enriching space where children can learn through play and caregivers can connect meaningfully with them. It also positions Ashtabula as a cultural and tourism destination for families across Northeast Ohio and beyond.
Our Plan
Wonder Harbor will feature interactive exhibits designed to spark creativity and curiosity—ranging from water play and imaginative towns to rotating exhibits showcasing global cultures, new technologies, and local industries. Core experiences will be paired with flexible programming, multipurpose classrooms, and community partnerships, ensuring relevance and repeat visits.
The museum will be housed in a facility of at least 20,000 square feet, with tall ceilings, ample parking, ADA accessibility, and expansion potential for future enhancements like rooftop greenspace and a signature entrance. Downtown Ashtabula is the preferred location, maximizing accessibility, proximity to transit, and visibility within the community.
Impact
The museum will operate with a lean, skilled team supported by volunteers and community partners. Exhibits will be designed for sponsorship by local businesses, highlighting the county’s industries while building civic pride. With support from donors, grants, and partnerships, Wonder Harbor will become a regional hub of learning and play—contributing to both educational equity and economic vitality.
Vision
More than a play space, Wonder Harbor will be a cornerstone of Ashtabula’s future—fostering imagination, education, and family connection while showcasing the community’s strengths. With donor partnership, this vision can become a reality within the next two to five years.