Museums in Austin

Nestled in Austin, the Bullock Texas State History Museum stands as a portal to the past, offering a sweeping view of Texas history through dynamic, interactive exhibits. Across its three floors, visitors encounter the diverse narratives that shaped Texas, from indigenous histories to modern achievements. The museum's rich collections, coupled with state-of-the-art facilities like the IMAX® Theatre, provide a deep dive into the pivotal events and figures that define the Lone Star State.

Dedicated to both preservation and education, the Bullock Museum serves as a vibrant educational hub. It not only showcases Texas's milestones but also celebrates its cultural diversity and resilience, engaging visitors with compelling stories and insights. This sanctuary of history is a haven for enthusiasts, families, and anyone keen on immersing themselves in the compelling tales of Texas. By fostering a deeper understanding of Texas's past, the museum enhances public appreciation for its heritage, contributing significantly to the narrative of American history.

Founded in 1983 by a group of Austin parents and educators, Thinkery has established itself as a leading nonprofit children's museum dedicated to reimagining the joy of learning. Evolving from the Austin Children's Museum, Thinkery now spans 40,000 square feet of engaging indoor and outdoor learning environments. Its commitment to the Austin community is evident in its continuous growth and provision of innovative educational and cultural opportunities aimed at children's development through play.

Over the decades, Thinkery has significantly expanded its reach beyond its Mueller museum walls, promoting STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) learning experiences that are backed by thorough research. Through the STEAM Learning Institute, Thinkery emphasizes the value of inclusive, play-based learning and its critical role in fostering children's ability to thrive. By conducting inclusive research and offering professional development, Thinkery ensures that its mission touches the lives of an even broader audience within Central Texas and beyond, supporting a thriving future generation.

Since its establishment in 1960, the Austin Nature & Science Center (ANSC) has been a focal point for nature-based education and recreational activities. Situated on the western edge of Zilker Park, the center is committed to fostering awareness and appreciation for the environment through dynamic, hands-on exhibits and programs. Catering to visitors, educators, and children of all ages, ANSC is a beacon for environmental exploration and learning.

The Center boasts an extensive array of programs tailored for different age groups, including preschoolers, kids, families, and adults, covering diverse topics from butterflies to caving. This enriching environment offers a unique platform for participants to engage intimately with the natural world, enhancing their understanding and respect for nature's intricacies.

The Neill-Cochran House Museum is located just a short walk from the University of Texas at Austin campus. Established in 1856, it is one of the oldest historic residences in the city and features Austin's only remaining intact slave quarters.

The museum offers a glimpse into the history of Austin and Texas from the city's founding in 1839 through to 1930. Visitors can explore historically furnished spaces that depict various aspects of the era and enjoy a variety of rotating art and history exhibitions that further enrich the understanding of the region's past.

The Neill-Cochran House Museum is under the stewardship of the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America in Texas, emphasizing its commitment to preserving and sharing this important historical site.

The Capitol allows for self-guided tours of its building and grounds each day, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore at their own pace. Free brochures detailing the self-guided tour are available for pickup at both the Capitol's north entry and the Capitol Information and Guide Services Office located in Room 1S.2.

It is important to note that the Capitol is closed on major holidays, including Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. Visitors are encouraged to check the hours and contact information provided for any specific inquiries.

The self-guided tours highlight crucial areas within the Capitol, offering insights into its architecture, Texas history, and the legislative process. While these tours are complimentary, visitors should be cautious of the premises, which may contain uneven floors and narrow staircases that could pose hazards. For those interested in accessibility, further information can be found on the Accessibility Services Page.

Tours originate from the South Foyer near the tour guide's office, with departures typically scheduled every 30 to 45 minutes, each lasting approximately half an hour. Special arrangements can be made by calling in advance for foreign language tours. Visitors are permitted to take photographs, although they may need to be mindful of their surroundings to avoid blocking pathways as others navigate through the area.

Following the completion of a tour, visitors are encouraged to explore the expansive 22-acre Capitol grounds located in the vibrant center of Downtown Austin. The area boasts 22 monuments, several historic buildings, and majestic trees, all set within meticulously landscaped lawns. This presents an ideal opportunity for exploration, picnicking, or deepening one’s understanding of Texas history. Complimentary brochures and monument maps are available for pickup at both the Capitol Information and Guide Service room and the Capitol Visitors Center, aiming to enhance the visitor experience.

At The Contemporary Austin – Laguna Gloria, visitors experience an oasis of tranquility just five miles from downtown Austin. The estate offers a seamless blend of natural beauty and contemporary art, featuring works from international artists scattered across its serene, wooded pathways. Monumental sculptures and intimate art installations invite contemplation and discovery, making Laguna Gloria a unique cultural haven in the heart of the city.

Laguna Gloria is not just a site for art exploration; it also houses the historic Driscoll Villa, a sought-after location for weddings and events, and the Art School at The Contemporary. The Art School offers courses that foster creativity, visual awareness, and skill development across various media, enriching the artistic community in Austin. With its café, shop, and visitor center, Laguna Gloria provides a comprehensive cultural experience.

The Texas Governor's Mansion holds a significant place in the state's history, having been the official residence for governors and their families since 1856. It is recognized as the fourth oldest continuously occupied governor's residence in the United States and the oldest west of the Mississippi River.

In June 2008, the mansion suffered extensive damage due to arson. At the time of the incident, the building was unoccupied, with its valuable contents secured in storage. The arson led to considerable structural and architectural harm, raising concerns about the future of this historic site.

In the wake of this tragedy, strong support emerged from preservationists, elected officials, and the general public, all united in their determination to preserve the state's heritage. This collective effort ensured that the arsonist's actions would not define the legacy of the mansion. Following a comprehensive restoration, the Governor's Mansion has been returned to its former glory, set to house governors and their families for generations to come.

Pioneer Farms offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Texas history through its expansive grounds featuring seven distinct themed historic areas. Guests can embark on walking tours of an 1841 Tonkawa Encampment, an 1853 Walnut Creek Greenbelt, an 1866 German Emigrant Farm, an 1878 Texian Farm, an 1873 Stage Coach Stop, an 1886 Cotton Planter's Farm, and an 1899 Sprinkle Corner rural village. Each area provides an opportunity to experience different aspects of Texas's diverse past, allowing families to explore and learn together in a beautiful, wooded setting that spans over 90 acres.

In addition to the historical sites, the Scarborough Barn offers interactive experiences where visitors can engage with various farm animals, enriching the educational experience. The presence of volunteer interpreters dressed in period costumes enhances the atmosphere, providing insights and narratives that bring the historical context to life. The number of interpreters available may vary, giving each visit a unique quality.

Pioneer Farms maintains a family-friendly environment with strict policies against smoking and vaping on the museum grounds, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests. The site is open for public visits from Thursday to Sunday, welcoming individuals and families to explore and connect with the rich heritage of Texas.

The Bee Cave Sculpture Park, operated by the Bee Cave Arts Foundation, provides an engaging art experience in the City of Bee Cave. This park is characterized by its extensive trails that wind through a natural landscape, showcasing a diverse collection of 30 sculptures. It serves not only as a venue for art appreciation but also as an educational resource set within a tranquil environment.

Spanning 7 acres, the park features a natural pond and includes 22 species of native plants, enriching the overall experience for visitors. Conveniently situated just off Highway 71, it is easily accessible at the intersection with Highway 620. Visitors can locate the park within The Shops at the intersection and take a quick right turn, finding it directly across the street from the Bee Cave Police Station.

Admission to the Sculpture Park is free, allowing visitors to explore and enjoy the sculptures from sunrise to sunset. The park also welcomes leashed dogs, making it a suitable destination for pet owners looking to enjoy a scenic walk alongside art installations.

The Blanton Museum of Art, located in Austin, offers visitors a chance to engage with world-class art experiences. The museum features a variety of major exhibitions that are currently on view, showcasing diverse artistic expressions and cultural narratives.

In addition to the ongoing exhibitions, the museum provides information on upcoming events and programming, encouraging visitors to stay informed about the latest art happenings. The Blanton Museum also hosts virtual events, making art more accessible to a wider audience.

Furthermore, the museum has a rich history of past exhibitions, allowing visitors to explore the breadth of its collection and the artistic journeys it has highlighted over the years. The Blanton Museum of Art stands as a significant cultural destination in Austin for art enthusiasts and the general public alike.

The Contemporary Austin serves as a hub for contemporary art, showcasing a diverse range of exhibitions and commissions. It emphasizes the importance of education in the arts, providing valuable learning opportunities for various audiences. The organization also maintains a notable collection that reflects the broad spectrum of contemporary artistic practices. Through its multifaceted approach, The Contemporary Austin aims to engage the community with innovative art experiences and educational programs.

The George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center is situated in a spacious 36,000 square-foot facility that encompasses a variety of resources and spaces. This includes four exhibit galleries, a conference room, a classroom, a darkroom, a dance studio, a 134-seat theatre, and archival space. Among its showcases is a core exhibit titled The African American Presence in 19th Century Texas, alongside a permanent exhibition dedicated to Austin's African-American families. Additional galleries highlight local artists and feature a Children's Gallery that focuses on African-American scientists and inventors.

Adjacent to the museum is the George Washington Carver Genealogy Center, located in an 1,896 square-foot building that has historical significance as Austin's first library. Originally established in 1933, this facility was relocated to better serve communities of color, ultimately becoming the first African American neighborhood museum in Texas. When the Carver Museum and Cultural Center opened in 2005, the building transitioned into a genealogy center in 2007, continuing to provide invaluable resources for Austin's Black community and others seeking to explore their family histories.

The mission of the Carver Museum revolves around the preservation and exhibition of African American material culture and history. By creating an environment that celebrates the global contributions of Black individuals, the museum connects local narratives to broader themes of Blackness, fostering a deeper understanding of the community's past and its significance.

The Texas State Cemetery, located just east of the State Capitol, serves as the final resting place for numerous prominent Texans, including Governors, Senators, Legislators, Congressmen, Judges, and other notable figures who have significantly contributed to the state's history and identity.

The origins of the Cemetery date back to 1851, following the death of General Edward Burleson, who was notable for his role alongside Sam Houston in the Battle of San Jacinto and for serving as Vice President of the Republic of Texas. Over the years, the site has become the burial ground for other influential figures, such as Stephen F. Austin, General Albert Sidney Johnston, Governor Allan Shivers, Governor John Connally, and Lieutenant Governor Bob Bullock.

Since its establishment, the Cemetery has undergone several transformations. A pivotal change occurred between 1994 and 1997 when Lieutenant Governor Bob Bullock led a major restoration project aimed at revitalizing the grounds. Additionally, a three-member Texas State Cemetery Committee was formed by Governor George W. Bush to oversee its operations. This committee's mission is to ensure that the Cemetery continues to honor and commemorate the legacy of individuals who have helped shape Texas.

The UMLAUF Sculpture Garden + Museum showcases the creations of Charles Umlauf alongside a variety of visual and performing artists, set within a picturesque museum and garden space. It offers a platform for educational and cultural exploration, fostering an appreciation for the convergence of nature, sculpture, and the arts. This institution stands as a testament to the enrichment that comes from engaging with artistic expressions in a serene environment.