Housed in a blocky Art Moderne building designed by Paul Cret—for a while, the supervising architect of the UT campus—this 1939 museum is devoted to natural history and geology. The most impressive display is the one you can’t miss when you come in: a skeleton of the Texas Pterosaur, the largest flying creature on record, suspended from the ceiling. With its 40-foot wingspan, it looks very threatening—the better to thrill dino-loving kids. Other dinosaur skeletons, fossils, and rocks will impress geo-geeks of all ages. And in a state where many textbooks present creationism as one side of a complex issue, displays on evolution and the HIV virus are standouts. The staff is very knowledgeable too. Several exhibits, including taxidermied animals, look outdated and worn, however. For many years, there was no admission price, making this worth a quick visit. Now that there’s a fee, albeit a reasonable one, consider beforehand whether the subject matter really matches your interests.
Austin
Travel Guide
Austin› Attraction
Texas Memorial Museum
2400 Trinity St, Austin, TX, USA
Our Rating
Neighborhood
Central
Hours
Tues–Sat 9am–5pm
Transportation
Bus: UT shuttle
Phone
512/471-1604
Prices
$7 adults & teens, $5 ages 2–12, $2 college students
Web site
Texas Memorial Museum
Map
2400 Trinity St Austin TX USA AustinNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.