What Makes This Museum Great for Families
The Texas Science & Natural History Museum, located at UT Austin’s campus, is a great indoor spot to visit. With everything from dinosaur fossils to mineral and meteorite exhibits, it’s easy to spend a curious afternoon exploring together.
We hadn’t been in a few years since they renovated adding other levels and the kids discovery lab section. We parked at the San Jacinto garage and it was a quick walk over to the museum. They had scavenger hunts at the front office for the kids and a map for the adults and from there we were off! It used to be 2 or three levels but now it’s four full levels. We did go on a free day and I do believe this info is relevant… for the fact that we all get a bit overwhelmed when it’s busy and I don’t think my kids enjoy the experience as much when it’s busy. One of the new areas was all about natural materials and sustainable fashion and my tween loved that section the most. So the discovery lab was pretty busy but it was interesting. I don’t think we explored it to it’s fullest potential and definitely look forward to going back when it’s a bit calmer. It’s also a lot to try to read and look at all the areas with two kids that are in a hurry to get their scavenger hunt items lol. By the time we left it was pretty packed. The kids turned in their scavenger hunts for a dino sticker and we left. All in all it was about two hours we spent there.
Parking & Getting There
- 📍 Address: 2400 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78712
- Parking: Paid parking is available in the San Jacinto Parking Garage next to the museum. The garage has entrances on San Jacinto Boulevard and on Trinity Street. Paid parking is also available in other UT parking garages. The entry height for the San Jacinto Garage is 6 feet, 11 inches. The entry height for Manor Garage is 8 feet. Remember… always check online for events, because UT is a busy place!
Hours & Admission
- Open: Tue–Sat 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun 1–5 p.m. (closed Mondays and major UT football home games)
- Admission: $10 adults, $6 youth 5–17, free for 4 & under, seniors, UT affiliates, and on H-E-B Fourth Sundays.
Real Questions Parents Want Answers To
- Is it easy to navigate with a stroller?
Yes! These older buildings at UT are somewhat narrow, but large enough for a stroller, plus there is an elevator. - Are snacks allowed?
Water is fine, but no food inside… gotta head outside for snack time. - Are the exhibits interactive or just photo displays?
Some are interactive. A lot of the kids discovery area is touch and feel types of displays, but that is kind of the extent. - Is it too loud or overwhelming for shy kids?
It depends on the day you go. If you go on a free day like us, then yes, it might feel overwhelming. Especially towards the end, but other days I am sure are less busy.
Must-See Highlights
- 🦖 Dinosaur Hall & Ukranian Mosasaur Fossil – Kids are always drawn to the massive skeletons.
- 🪨 Geology Gallery – Features gems, minerals, and the famous Wichita County meteorite.
- 🐢 Wildlife Corridor – View reptiles, amphibians, and other Texas native species.
- 🌌 Discovery Center – Fun, rotating hands-on science exhibits for all ages.
Insider Tips From a Local Mom & Photographer
- Arrive just before opening to enjoy the Dino Hall before the crowds.
- Grab the scavenger hunt for your kids to complete.
- Bring snacks and drinks for the outside tables… they’re perfect for taking a break to refuel.
- There is a gift shop on the main floor, but we managed to avoid the kids begging lol.
- Plan your visit during the week to avoid large crowds.
If you’re the kind of parent who values wonder, exploration, and real moments… you’re my kind of people! I can help you turn your child’s everyday curiosity into art with a personalized portrait session, no museum pass required. Contact me to get started here!
