Austin has museums of all varieties to explore. Whether you’re interested in art, science, Texas culture, or natural history, there is a museum that fits the bill—right in our own backyard. Check each museum’s website for hours and admission costs. Some are even free!
Austin Nature & Science Center
301 Nature Center Dr.
(512) 974-3888
Dig in the sand and uncover bones in the Dino Pit, check out the indoor and outdoor hands-on exhibits, and bring natural treasures to the Trading Counter. This museum focuses on appreciating the natural elements found around us.
200 E. MLK Blvd.
(512) 471-7324
The Blanton features both temporary exhibitions from around the world and across genres and mediums, and ages, as well as permanent exhibitions. Be sure to check out Austin, the 2,715-square-foot stone building designed by Ellsworth Kelly, with luminous colored glass windows, a totemic wood sculpture, and fourteen black and white marble panels. Free admission on Thursdays.
1800 N. Congress Ave.
(512) 936-8746
Take in some Texas history at the official history museum of the State of Texas. In addition to the permanent and temporary exhibits, patrons can see a movie on the huge IMAX screen or take part in one of the many events that they host throughout the year. Admission is free on the first Sunday of every month.
Laguna Gloria
3809 West 35th St.
(512) 458-8191
The Jones Center
700 Congress Avenue
(512) 453-5312
Explore the grounds of Laguna Gloria and the residence that prominent Austinite Clara Driscoll called home. Free admission on Tuesdays. You can also view the museum’s other location downtown, which offers a dynamic schedule of exhibitions in nearly 8,000 square feet of museum space.
304 East 44th St.
(512) 458-2255
See works of art created by German sculptress Elisabeth Ney as you explore her studio and the surrounding grounds. The museum offers a range of educational programs, exhibits, special events, workshops, and lectures throughout the year. Free admission!
George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center
1165 Angelina St.
(512) 974-4926
Learn more about Juneteenth and the history of African-American scientists and inventors in our country. Free admission!
2313 Red River St.
(512) 721-0200
Gain insight into the life and accomplishments of our nation’s 36th President and the political climate when he governed.
419 Congress Ave.
(512) 480-9373
Mexic-Arte features exhibits by Mexican, Latino, and Latin-American artists. Free admission every Sunday at 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.
2310 San Gabriel St.
(512) 478-2335
The Neill-Cochran House offers its visitors an intimate view of the fabric of the lives of prominent Austinites and some of those who lived among them from the mid-19th through early 20th centuries.
10621 Pioneer Farms Dr.
(512) 837-1215
Pioneer Farms is a working living history museum featuring five themed historic areas: a Tonkawa Indian Encampment, a German Emigrant Farm, a Texian Farm, a Cotton Planter’s Farm, and a rural village called Sprinkle Corner. Check the event calendar for special events throughout the year.
112 East 11th St.
(512) 305-8400
Visit the oldest state office building in Texas and learn about soldiers during the Texas Revolution, ranching, construction of the Capitol, and famous writer O. Henry, who worked in the building. LEGO fans will appreciate the giant LEGO replica of the majestic Texas State Capitol. Free admission!
Texas Memorial Museum – currently closed but reopening Fall of 2023
2400 Trinity St.
(512) 471-1604
Exhibits at the Texas Memorial Museum are based on the 5.7 million collected specimens from research conducted at the university. Exhibits focus on prehistoric life, evolution, rocks and minerals, and Texas wildlife.
2200 West 35th St., Bldg. 6
(512) 789-5659
The museum explores the story of the Lone Star State’s militia and volunteer forces from 1823 to 1903, when Congress created the National Guard, as well as the story of the Texas Army and Air National Guard and the Texas State Guard in peacetime and war. Free admission!
1830 Simond Ave.
(512) 469-6200
Get wet in the Currents exhibit, tinker at the Innovators’ Workshop, climb in the courtyard, and experiment with light at this children’s museum. Visit on Wednesday nights from 4–8 pm for Community Night, when you pay by donation.
605 Azie Morton Rd.
(512) 445-5582
This sculpture garden houses over 100 works of art, many of which are coated in wax and therefore available for gentle touching, primarily to benefit visually impaired guests. Be sure to check the themes for each month’s Family Day happening on the second Sunday of each month.
