Austin Nature and Science Center

301 Nature Center Drive Austin, TX 78746

Hours

Open Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sunday 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Cost

There is no charge for general admission, encouraging visitors of all ages and backgrounds to explore and learn.

Special Exhibits and Programs: Fees vary, so check the website for detailed pricing information.

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.

512-974-3888

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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.

Location

301 Nature Center Drive Austin, TX 78746

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good one-day itinerary in Austin?

If you find yourself with just one day to explore Austin, let me guide you through an itinerary that encapsulates the heart and soul of this vibrant city. Begin your day by awakening your taste buds with Austin’s renowned breakfast tacos and BBQ, a culinary experience that has earned the city national acclaim. According to Eater Austin, these local specialties are a “must-try” for anyone visiting.

Once you’re fueled up, immerse yourself in the unique charm of the Rainey Street Historic District. This neighborhood, dotted with converted bungalow houses that now serve as trendy bars and restaurants, offers a distinctive dining and drinking experience. As Time Out magazine puts it, Rainey Street is a “hip strip of unique watering holes” that embodies Austin’s laid-back vibe.

Music is the heartbeat of Austin, so make sure you catch a live show at one of the city’s legendary venues like the Continental Club or Antone’s. According to Visit Austin, these venues are among the “top places to hear live music.”

And if you’re craving outdoor fun, Lady Bird Lake and the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail offer breathtaking views of the downtown skyline. According to the Austin Parks Foundation, this trail is one of the “most used trails in Austin” with over 1.5 million visits annually.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Zilker Botanical Garden or the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum. And for those craving panoramic views, Mount Bonnell promises a sight that’s been named one of Austin’s “best photo ops” by Culture Trip.

As evening falls, head to the bat bridge to witness the spectacle of thousands of bats taking flight – a unique Austin experience that Lonely Planet describes as “mesmerizing.”

South Congress Avenue, or SoCo, is your next destination. With its eclectic mix of boutiques, art galleries, vintage shops, and food trucks, it encapsulates Austin’s diverse culture. The Austin Chronicle calls SoCo a “vibrant hub of unique shopping, dining, and nightlife.”

Finally, end your day by savoring a meal at one of the city’s many acclaimed restaurants, offering a range of diverse culinary delights that reflect Austin’s vibrant food scene. According to Food & Wine, Austin boasts some of the “best food in America.”

In a nutshell, this one-day itinerary offers a snapshot of what makes Austin so special. So why wait? Start planning your Austin adventure today!

What is the weather like in Austin, TX?

Discover Austin, Texas, where its distinctive climate contributes to its rising popularity among global travelers.

Enjoy the vibrant summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F (32°C), offering the perfect excuse to dive into Austin’s numerous natural swimming spots or relax under the shade of a live oak.

Winter in Austin brings mild weather, eliminating the need for heavy coats. Occasional cool fronts make it an excellent time to enjoy the city’s lively music scene and indulge in its famous BBQ comfortably.

For the ultimate Austin experience, consider visiting during spring or fall. These seasons provide the most pleasant weather, ideal for exploring music festivals, hiking scenic trails, or dining outdoors. Spring and fall in Austin are unmatched for experiencing the city’s dynamic culture and natural beauty!

What are the biggest main events in Austin?

With a year-round calendar packed with world-class events, Austin is a magnet for visitors from around the globe! Here’s a run-down of some of our biggest and most exciting events:

First up, there’s South by Southwest (SXSW), one of the biggest festivals on the planet. Each March, SXSW rolls into town, bringing with it a whirlwind of film, music, and interactive media. It’s not just a festival – it’s an experience. Expect a week-long extravaganza of conferences, screenings, performances, and networking opportunities that will leave you inspired and entertained.

Next, we have the Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival. Held over two weekends in October, ACL transforms Zilker Park into a music lover’s paradise. With a diverse lineup featuring artists from every genre imaginable, there’s something for everyone. But it’s not just about the music—the festival also offers delicious food, mesmerizing art, and other attractions that make it a must-visit event.

For adrenaline seekers, the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix is an unmissable spectacle. Every October, Austin hosts this prestigious international racing event at the state-of-the-art Circuit of the Americas (COTA), drawing motorsport fans from around the world.

Foodies, we haven’t forgotten about you. The Austin Food + Wine Festival is a culinary celebration like no other. Taking place in November, the festival showcases the best of Austin’s food scene and beyond, with tastings, cooking demonstrations, and seminars by acclaimed chefs and wine experts.

Finally, for film enthusiasts, the Austin Film Festival (AFF) is a highlight of the cultural calendar. Known for its focus on screenwriting and storytelling, AFF hosts film screenings, panel discussions, and workshops with industry professionals every October.

These events are more than just a good time—they’re a testament to Austin’s vibrant culture, diverse attractions, and welcoming spirit. So why wait? Start planning your Austin adventure today and experience the excitement for yourself. Trust us, you won’t want to miss a moment. Book your visit now!