Art & Things to See

Tour the walking timeline of John Glenn Columbus International Airport from its opening in 1929 to present day. This visual history lesson, which honors those who were pivotal to the airport's development, includes photos, news articles, political cartoons, time capsules and many other interesting bits of airport history.

Installed at John Glenn International in 1984, this striking sculpture is 25 feet tall and stands upon a five-foot tall base. Created by the late Roy Lichtenstein, one of the most influential and innovative artists of the second half of the 20th century and an alumnus of The Ohio State University.

Honoring veterans for their service and sacrifice, this 13-foot memorial stands in the sky-lit atrium near the ticket lobby escalator. An exquisite bronze eagle perched upon four military helmets rests on a granite base, inscribed with the poem Soldier by George L. Skypeck.

The rich culture of Columbus is captured in the images that make up the atrium's colorful window mosaic that serves as a perfect photo backdrop to say, “I am here!”

When inside the atrium, look up to see Speed Machines, a wall-mounted exhibit depicting the speed of flight. Purchased in 1995 from its creator, Roger Williams, this display illustrates the beauty and simplicity of flight.

In the center of the ticket lobby terrazzo floor is a large medallion that represents the vision of the Columbus Regional Airport Authority to connect Ohio with the world.

Impressive digital screens throughout the terminal showcase Columbus’ strong business and collaborative culture, community attractions, flight status and airport features.

The historic accomplishments of Ohio's most notable aviators, including our namesake John Glenn, are highlighted on six pylons located pre-security near the Concourse B checkpoint, featuring:

• Neil Armstrong
• Lonnie Carmon
• Cromwell Dixon
• Major Dominic Salvatore “Don” Gentile
• Captain Ed Gillespie
• John Glenn
• James Lovell
• Jerrie Mock
• Eddie Rickenbacker
• Kathryn Sullivan
• Tuskegee Airmen
• The Wright Brothers

New works of local artists rotate every two months in this exhibit space. The Columbus Regional Airport Authority collaborates with the Ohio Art League, a nonprofit visual arts organization, to provide the Gateway exhibits.

At the foot of the staircase to the baggage claim, a medallion in the terrazzo floor extends a warm welcome in languages from around the globe.