About

Looking for a free Austin attraction that's fun for the family, rich with nature and stunning vistas? Look no further than the Austin Nature and Science Center.

This vibrant educational haven was founded to nurture the bond between humans and nature. Since opening in 1988, the Austin Nature and Science Center has enlightened visitors with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.

Over the years, it has become an essential destination for anyone eager to learn about the environment, wildlife conservation, and the science underpinning the natural world around us.

The Austin Nature and Science Center hosts many indoor exhibits and a 15-acre expanse, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature. From captivating dinosaur tracks to Native Texas Wildlife exhibits, it offers a unique, engaging experience that encourages curiosity and inspires a deeper respect for our planet.

Austin Nature and Science Center: Fun Facts & Cool Features

As part of Zilker Metropolitan Park, the Austin Nature and Science Center is another facet of a crown of discovery. Guests may stroll around the pond and soak their feet in the stream while exploring nature's wonders.

The Dino Pit provides a hands-on fossil dig site experience that transports you back millions of years to when dinosaurs roamed the earth. This interactive exhibit allows aspiring paleontologists to unearth replicas of dinosaur bones, fostering an understanding of ancient ecosystems and the creatures that inhabited them.

The Wildlife Rehabilitation Facility is another highlight, where injured and orphaned animals find refuge and care. Come face to face with a bobcat or an owl in the Birds of Prey exhibit. One thing is sure: getting close to fantastic animals is an exhilarating experience.

The Human Sundial is a unique and fun hands-on exhibit for all ages. Guests use their shadows to determine the current time by standing on a stone that correlates with the current month.

The facility also offers children's camps, school programs, and adventure getaways throughout the year, making it an excellent resource for teachers and families.

A visit to the Austin Nature and Science Center is a must on any Austin vacation, not just for its educational value but for its fun and fascination.

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions to the Austin Nature and Science Center from downtown:

Start on N Congress Avenue, heading towards E 5th Street.
Turn left onto W 6th Street and continue for about 1.5 miles.
Use the right two lanes to turn slightly right onto Lake Austin Blvd.
Continue straight to stay on Lake Austin Blvd.
Turn right onto Red Bud Trail.
Take the left onto Zilker Park Road; the destination will be on your right after 0.5 miles.
Parking facility address: 2389 Stratford Dr, Austin, TX 78746

Local Tips

The Center opens at 9:00 a.m. Getting there early helps avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
Free parking is available beneath the Mopac Bridge.
Check the Center's calendar for special programs and events that might be happening during your visit.
Pack a lunch and enjoy the available picnic areas.
Pets are not allowed.

Staging environment