CLEVELAND (June 5, 2026) – Explore the natural wonders of the Buckeye State when “Ohio: Wild at Heart” opens on July 1 at Great Lakes Science Center.
Shown on the giant screen of the Cleveland Clinic DOME Theater, “Ohio: Wild at Heart” is a trailblazing adventure through the state’s scenic parks and waterways, highlighting the state’s most beautiful natural areas from Hocking Hills to Lake Erie’s shores.
Along the way, viewers will learn more about successful conservation efforts, meeting Ohioans working to protect and conserve our natural resources, including wildlife rehabilitators preparing orphaned bobcats for release to the wild, scientists charting the triumphant comeback of bald eagles and trumpeter swans, and volunteers turning once-polluted rivers into destinations for recreation enthusiasts and wild animals.
“Bringing Ohio’s great outdoors to the big screen is a great way to showcase why Ohio truly is the Heart of it All,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “We hope Ohioans go to the movies and experience the natural beauty and wonder of our state in a whole new way.”
Narrated by forming NFL running back and Ohio State graduate Archie Griffin, “Ohio: Wild at Heart” is a family friendly film that celebrates the unique natural areas that are found around the state and the joy of reconnecting with the natural world.
Mary Mertz, Director of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, hopes the film will inspire movie-goers to explore the different regions of the state.
“I’d love it if they’re motivated to get outside for themselves,” she said. “The benefits are countless, including less stress, more productivity, better health, greater imagination, and more. We hope this film can spark a curiosity in every viewer, of every age, to think deeper about our natural surroundings and how they can play a role in protecting our great outdoors.”
“Ohio: Wild at Heart” was produced by Ohio Department of Natural Resources and Academy Award-nominated producers MacGillivray Freeman Films. For showtimes and ticket information, visit GreatScience.com.
About Great Lakes Science Center
Great Lakes Science Center, celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2026, has reached more than 10 million visitors, and serves as a STEM education leader in Northeast Ohio. The Science Center produced Total Eclipse Fest in 2024, one of the largest free eclipse events in the country and is home to the NASA Glenn Visitor Center. The Science Center makes science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) come alive for more than 300,000 visitors a year through hundreds of hands-on exhibits, temporary exhibitions, the Cleveland Clinic DOME Theater, historic Steamship William G. Mather, daily science demonstrations, seasonal camps and more. The Science Center, a 501(c)(3) non-profit institution, earned a Charity Navigator Four Star Rating in 2025, receiving top scores for financial efficiency, sustainability and trust worthiness. The Science Center is supported in part by the residents of Cuyahoga County through a public grant from Cuyahoga Arts & Culture. Visit GreatScience.com for more information.