Early Television Museum
Step back in time at the Early Television Museum, home to over 150 vintage TVs and broadcast equipment, showcasing the evolution of a revolutionary me...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more time to explore
Early Television Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more time to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the Early Television Museum, home to over 150 vintage TVs and broadcast equipment, showcasing the evolution of a revolutionary medium.
"A fascinating hidden gem showcasing the incredible evolution of television technology."
Allocate Ample Time
Plan to spend several hours to fully appreciate the vast collection of vintage TVs and equipment.
Don't Miss the Camera Room
This dedicated space showcases an impressive array of vintage TV cameras and studio gear.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 138 reviews
Type
Museum
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mechanical Television Room
Dedicated exhibit space
Witness the ingenious early days of television with spinning discs and intricate mechanisms. A true marvel of engineering!
Vintage TV Collection
Main exhibition halls
Hundreds of rare and unique television sets from the 1920s onwards, showcasing incredible design and technological leaps.
Studio Camera and Equipment Display
Camera room
Explore the evolution of broadcast technology with a fascinating array of vintage cameras and studio gear.
RCA Dog Photo Op
Entrance area
Snap a memorable photo with the iconic RCA dog, Nipper, a beloved symbol of early television history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Nostalgia
Plan for a Deep Dive
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate Ample Time
Plan to spend several hours to fully appreciate the vast collection of vintage TVs and equipment.
Don't Miss the Camera Room
This dedicated space showcases an impressive array of vintage TV cameras and studio gear.
Appreciate the Evolution
See how far technology has come and gain a new appreciation for modern amenities.
Hidden Gem Alert!
This museum is a true passion project and a must-see for history enthusiasts.
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate Ample Time
Plan to spend several hours to fully appreciate the vast collection of vintage TVs and equipment.
Don't Miss the Camera Room
This dedicated space showcases an impressive array of vintage TV cameras and studio gear.
Appreciate the Evolution
See how far technology has come and gain a new appreciation for modern amenities.
Hidden Gem Alert!
This museum is a true passion project and a must-see for history enthusiasts.
Photo Opportunity
Take a fun picture with the iconic RCA dog, Nipper, at the entrance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Early Television Museum as a fascinating hidden gem, highlighting its extensive collection of rare vintage TVs and studio equipment. Many appreciate the opportunity to witness technological evolution and experience a wave of nostalgia. While some find the admission price a bit steep, the unique historical insights and the passion of the operators make it a highly recommended visit.
"It’s actually interesting to look at all the really old models. Some are just masssive with tiny screens and it makes you appreciate our modern amenities. There are several rooms, but my favorite was the camera room. It is a little pricey at $10 for an adult. I think anyone can appreciate this museum."
Thirteendays
"My friend and I enjoyed our visit very much. It was a much larger collection than I expected. There must be hundreds of vintage wood-cabinet televisions on display here, along with an entire room dedicated to mechanical televisions (!) and TV cameras of many shapes and sizes. I plan to visit again!"
Jason Knight
"This place is amazing! They have obscure, one-of-a-kind items from all over the world (the only remaining one known to exist). I'm not a big TV afficionado, but it was fascinating, and jam-packed. Located in the middle of nowhere, Ohio, it is clearly run by people who are doing this as a passion project."
Debi Krabach
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Early Television Museum is located in Hilliard, Ohio. While it's described as being 'in the middle of nowhere, Ohio' by one visitor, it's accessible by car. Check local listings for the most up-to-date directions and parking information.
Information on public transportation options to the Early Television Museum can be limited. It's recommended to check with local Hilliard transit authorities or use ride-sharing services if you are not driving.
Parking is generally available at the museum. As it's a passion project, the facilities are straightforward.
Yes, the Early Television Museum makes for an excellent day trip, especially if you're interested in history and technology. You can easily combine it with a visit to a nearby food hall.
After your visit, consider checking out the food hall located up the street for a bite to eat.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is reported to be a little pricey at $10 for adults. It's always a good idea to check the museum's official website or call ahead for the most current pricing information.
While specific discounts aren't widely mentioned, it's worth inquiring about potential group rates or special offers when booking your visit.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to consult the Early Television Museum's official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times.
Advance ticket purchase information is not readily available. It's generally recommended to purchase tickets upon arrival at the museum.
Information regarding accessibility for visitors with disabilities is not extensively detailed online. It's advisable to contact the museum directly to inquire about specific accommodations.
🎫 📺 Onsite Experience
You can expect to see a vast collection of over 150 vintage televisions, dating from the 1920s onwards, along with mechanical televisions, studio equipment, and rare, one-of-a-kind items. +1
Visitors recommend planning to spend several hours to fully explore and appreciate the extensive collection.
While not explicitly interactive in a modern sense, the sheer volume and variety of historical technology offer a deeply engaging experience. Seeing these 'relics' can be quite impactful.
Yes, children can appreciate the museum, especially seeing what 'back in the day' was like. It's a great way to show them how technology has evolved.
The camera room is a favorite for many visitors, featuring an entire room dedicated to TV cameras of many shapes and sizes, showcasing the evolution of broadcast technology.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the museum, allowing you to capture the fascinating vintage technology.
While specific restrictions aren't widely noted, it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography that might disrupt the exhibits or other guests.
Iconic photo opportunities include the massive vintage TVs, the intricate mechanical television displays, and the classic RCA dog statue.
Many visitors share their experiences on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, suggesting that video recording is common.
The RCA dog is a popular spot for a quick photo op. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit