Nature & natural history museums in Texas

The Natural Bridge Caverns, located near San Antonio, Texas, are the largest commercial caverns in the state. The name of the caverns is derived from a 60-foot natural limestone slab bridge that spans the amphitheater setting of the cavern's entrance. This unique geological formation was left suspended when a sinkhole collapsed below it, creating a striking visual feature for visitors.

The San Antonio Zoo, situated in the city of San Antonio, Texas, is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). This membership signifies that the zoo meets the highest standards of animal care and is committed to wildlife conservation, education, science, and recreational excellence.

The Perot Museum of Nature and Science, located in Dallas, Texas, is a museum dedicated to natural history and science. It was named in honor of Margot and Ross Perot, who made significant contributions to the museum. The museum offers a variety of exhibits and educational programs, making it a great destination for tourists interested in science and nature.

The Austin Aquarium, a for-profit institution, is situated in Austin, Texas, United States. It was officially opened to the public on December 12, 2013. The aquarium offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a diverse range of aquatic life.

The Houston Zoo, a 55-acre zoological park, is situated within Hermann Park in Houston, Texas. This expansive zoo is home to a diverse range of animals and offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages.

The Downtown Aquarium in Houston, Texas, is a unique combination of a public aquarium and restaurant, developed from two historic landmarks of the city: Fire Station No. 1 and the Central Waterworks Building. This establishment offers a unique blend of history, dining, and aquatic exploration, making it a fascinating destination for tourists.

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is a unique destination in Texas, serving as both a ranch and a wildlife refuge. This combination offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of Texas while also getting up close and personal with a variety of animal species.

The Dallas World Aquarium is a unique combination of an aquarium and a zoo, situated in the West End Historic District of Dallas, Texas. This for-profit institution is not just a place to observe a wide variety of aquatic and terrestrial animals, but also plays a significant role in animal conservation and education.

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden is a sprawling 109-acre botanical garden situated in Fort Worth, Texas. This expansive green space offers a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle, providing visitors with a chance to explore a diverse range of plant species and themed gardens.

The San Antonio Aquarium, located in San Antonio, Texas, is a for-profit establishment. It is owned and operated by Crysty Covino. The aquarium offers a variety of interactive exhibits where visitors are allowed to touch the animals, providing a unique and engaging experience.

The Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum, often referred to as the UMLAUF, is a unique combination of a museum and an outdoor sculpture garden. The main focus of the museum is on the artistic creations of the renowned American sculptor Charles Umlauf. The museum is a testament to Umlauf's artistic prowess and offers visitors a chance to explore his diverse range of works.

Cameron Park Zoo, situated in Waco, Texas, is a 52-acre natural habitat zoo nestled within the scenic Cameron Park and adjacent to the Brazos River. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a diverse collection of wildlife in a natural setting, enhancing their overall zoo experience.

The Waco Mammoth National Monument is a significant site located in the city of Waco, Texas. It is nestled within a park that spans over 100 hectares along the Bosque River. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area while learning about the historical significance of the monument.

The Sue & Frank Mayborn Natural Science and Cultural History Museum Complex, also known as MMC, is a large facility located at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. It was opened in May 2004 and spans an impressive 142,000 square feet. This museum complex is a significant part of the university and offers a wide range of exhibits and experiences for visitors.

The Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens is a part of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Located in the River Oaks community, this 14-acre facility is home to a vast collection of decorative art, paintings, and furniture. This unique museum offers a blend of art and nature, providing a unique experience for its visitors.

The Centennial Museum and Chihuahuan Desert Gardens is a cultural and natural history museum located on the campus of the University of Texas at El Paso. It is the oldest museum in El Paso, built in 1936 to commemorate the centenary of Texas independence. The museum focuses primarily on the natural and cultural history of the Chihuahuan Desert, promoting and sharing knowledge and understanding of the region's natural diversity and its people.

As of the beginning of 2021, the Fort Worth Zoo is home to a diverse range of approximately 7,000 animals. These animals represent over 540 different species, including 72 mammal species, 148 bird species, and 172 ectotherm species. This diversity offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about and appreciate the world's wildlife.

The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, located 10 miles southwest of downtown Austin, is the state botanical garden and arboretum of Texas. It is home to more than 900 species of native Texas plants in both garden and natural settings. The center is dedicated to inspiring the conservation of native plants and promoting the environmental benefits of native plant landscapes. It is also home to the most comprehensive native plant database in the U.S.

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is situated on the southeast shore of White Rock Lake, offering visitors a serene and picturesque environment. The garden is open to the public every day of the year except Mondays. There is an entrance fee, which contributes to the upkeep of the garden.

The San Antonio Botanical Garden is a sprawling 33-acre botanical garden situated in San Antonio, Texas. This non-profit private garden is a haven for plant lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape from the city. It is a member of the Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) and its herbarium code is SABG.

The Dallas Zoo, situated in the city of Dallas, Texas, is a recognized member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). This affiliation ensures that the zoo adheres to international standards of animal care and conservation, providing visitors with an ethical and educational experience.

Moody Gardens is a unique tourist complex located in Galveston, Texas. It is home to a botanical garden and an aquarium, both of which are major attractions for visitors. The botanical garden is a haven for plant lovers, featuring a wide variety of flora from around the world. The aquarium, on the other hand, is one of the largest in the world and houses numerous species of fish and other marine life.

The Texas State Aquarium, located in Corpus Christi, Texas, is a nonprofit organization with a mission to promote environmental conservation and the rehabilitation of the Gulf of Mexico's wildlife. As a visitor, you can expect to learn about the diverse marine life of the Gulf and the efforts being made to conserve and rehabilitate it.

Seminole Canyon State Park and Historic Site is a state park located in Texas, United States. It is situated off U.S. Route 90, to the east of the Pecos River High Bridge and 9 miles west of Comstock in Val Verde County. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors traveling from different parts of the country.

The Mercer Arboretum and Botanic Gardens is a vast 300-acre space dedicated to the cultivation and preservation of native Texas plants. It is a perfect destination for nature lovers and botany enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to explore and learn about the diverse flora of Texas.

The Ellen Trout Zoo, located in Lufkin, Texas, was established in 1967 by Walter Trout. This small zoo has since become a popular destination for animal lovers and families alike, attracting approximately 150,000 visitors annually. The zoo is currently owned and operated by the City of Lufkin, with the Friends of Ellen Trout Zoo (F.O.E.T.Z.) providing support through funding for major expansion and renovation projects.

The Zilker Botanical Garden, located in Austin, Texas, is a 31-acre botanical garden that specializes in local plants. This expansive garden is situated in a region with varied topography on the southern bank of the Colorado River, close to downtown Austin. The garden was established as a non-profit organization in 1955 and serves as the central hub of Zilker Park.

The Witte Museum, established in 1926, is situated in the scenic Brackenridge Park in San Antonio, Texas. This location offers visitors not only a rich cultural experience within the museum but also the opportunity to explore the surrounding park, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to their visit.

The El Paso Museum of Archaeology is situated in the scenic Wilderness Park, nestled at the base of the Franklin Mountains. It is adjacent to the National Border Patrol Museum and is surrounded by the Castner Range National Monument. This location not only offers a rich archaeological experience but also provides visitors with breathtaking natural beauty.

The El Paso Zoo, situated in the city of El Paso, Texas, is a recognized member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). This membership signifies the zoo's commitment to the highest standards of animal care, conservation, and education. Visitors can expect a well-maintained facility with a diverse range of animals.

The Lubbock Lake Landmark, also known as Lubbock Lake Site, is a significant archeological site and natural history preserve located in the city of Lubbock, Texas. The preserve spans an impressive 336 acres and is protected as a state and federal landmark. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and natural beauty of the region.

The Texas Museum of Science & Technology, located in Cedar Park, Texas, opened its doors in March 2015. It is home to the first planetarium in the Austin area, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the cosmos. The museum also hosts a variety of traveling exhibitions, providing a constantly changing array of scientific and technological displays. One of the permanent exhibits at the museum is the Timewalk exhibit, which showcases a collection of fossils and dinosaur bones that have toured the world.

The Beaumont Botanical Gardens, also known as the Tyrrell Park Botanical Gardens, is a sprawling 23.5-acre space that includes a variety of botanical gardens and the 10,000 sq ft Warren Loose conservatory. This expansive area offers visitors a chance to explore a diverse range of plant life and enjoy the tranquility of the gardens.

Gladys Porter Zoo, a zoological and botanical park, is situated in Brownsville, Texas, United States. The zoo was officially inaugurated on September 3, 1971. It offers a unique blend of botanical beauty and zoological diversity, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

The Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center is a privately managed botanical garden and preserved natural area spanning 252 acres. It is located in Orange, Texas, United States. This expansive area offers a unique blend of botanical gardens and preserved natural landscapes, providing visitors with a diverse range of flora and fauna to explore.

River Bend’s mission is to connect people to the natural environment of Texas. Through educational activities and events, River Bend Nature Center promotes the value of environmental awareness and conservation to students, families, and their communities. River Bend Nature Center (RBNC) in Wic

Goliad State Park and Historic Site is a vast 188.3-acre state park situated along the San Antonio River on the southern edge of Goliad, Texas. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it an interesting destination for tourists.

The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is a significant nature study center, arboretum, and botanical garden that spans across 155 acres. It is located in Houston, Texas, United States. This center provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about nature in a serene and beautiful environment.

The Lynn R. Lowrey Arboretum is a sprawling 285-acre arboretum that spans the entire Rice University campus in Houston, Texas. This vast green space is home to a diverse range of plant species and offers a tranquil escape within the bustling city.

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, located near Glen Rose, Texas, is a non-profit conservation center. The center is dedicated to the breeding of endangered species, public education, scientific research, and natural land management. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about and interact with a variety of species, while also contributing to important conservation efforts.

The South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, also known as Corpus Christi Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, is a sprawling 180-acre nature center and botanical garden. It specializes in native Texas plants, making it a unique destination for those interested in botany and the natural flora of Texas. The center is privately managed by the non-profit organization, The Botanical Nature Institute of South Texas, Inc.

Austin Zoo is a non-profit rescue zoo situated in the southwestern unincorporated Travis County, Texas, to the west of Austin. As a rescue zoo, it provides a safe haven for a variety of animals, making it a unique destination for animal lovers and conservation enthusiasts.

Amazing venue that lets the kids to get literally hands on the exhibits to learn about the nature and its history. Free entrance.

The Riverside Nature Center, located on the Guadalupe River at 150 Francisco Lemos Street in Kerrville, Texas, is a non-profit arboretum. It serves as a sanctuary for wildlife and native plants, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about the local flora and fauna.

Enjoy a lovely family afternoon in the zoo admiring and learning about its lovely, fluffy, hairy, smelly and slimy inhabitants.

Dedicated surfers and fans of water sports will be most interested in this museum which exhibits classic and modern boards and plays movies.

The Caldwell Zoo, located in the city of Tyler, Texas, spans across an impressive 85 acres. It is home to a diverse range of animals from all corners of the globe. This vast expanse allows for a variety of habitats and exhibits, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore and learn about different species in a setting that closely mimics their natural environments.

The Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center and Botanical Gardens is a nonprofit organization that is part of the Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the Chihuahuan Desert. The center is home to botanical gardens that showcase the region's native plants, providing a fascinating insight into the desert's ecosystem.

The Abilene Zoo, located in Abilene, Texas, spans 16 acres and is home to over 800 animals from more than 175 species. This diverse collection of wildlife offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore and learn about a wide range of animals from around the world, all in one location.

The Zaragoza Birthplace State Historic Park is situated next to Presidio La Bahía in Goliad State Park and Historic Site, in Goliad County, Texas. This location is significant as it is the birthplace of Ignacio Zaragoza, a hero of the Battle of Puebla, which is commemorated each year by Cinco de Mayo celebrations.

The Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History, located in Bryan, Texas, is a museum dedicated to the fields of science, nature, and cultural history. It offers a diverse range of exhibits and collections that cater to a wide variety of interests.

Frank Buck Zoo is a quaint establishment located in the expansive Leonard Park in Gainesville, Texas. Founded in 1930, the zoo is nestled within 30 acres of land, providing a spacious environment for its inhabitants and a serene setting for visitors.

The Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute (CDRI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to scientific research and education. It is situated in the foothills of the Davis Mountains and was established in January 1974. The institute aims to raise public awareness about the biodiversity of the Chihuahuan Desert region and foster appreciation and care for this eco-region through research and educational work.

The Odessa Meteor Crater is a significant landmark located in the southwestern part of Ector County, southwest of the city of Odessa in West Texas, United States. It's a unique site that offers a glimpse into the cosmic events that have shaped our planet. The crater is easily accessible and is a fascinating destination for those interested in astronomy, geology, or simply the natural wonders of the world.

The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History is situated in the city's Cultural District at 1600 Gendy Street, Fort Worth, Texas 76107. This location is easily accessible and is surrounded by other cultural attractions, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the area.

The Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary is a private nonprofit organization that was established in 1967. It is located in the city of McKinney, in the state of Texas, United States. This museum and sanctuary is a significant attraction in the city, welcoming a large number of visitors each year.

The museum dedicated to tell the story of Texas forests. Great educational exhibits and tours.

Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site is a state park situated along the Pedernales River in Gillespie County, Texas. It is located to the west of Johnson City and to the east of Fredericksburg. The park was established to honor Lyndon B. Johnson, a national and world leader, and it opened to the public in 1970.

The Mt. Blanco Fossil Museum, located in Crosbyton, Texas, is a creationist museum that opened its doors to the public in 1998. The museum is known for its collection of fossilized skeletons and cast replicas, providing a unique insight into the world of ancient creatures.

The Permian Basin Petroleum Museum, located in Midland, Texas, offers a comprehensive look into the oil and gas industry of the Permian Basin, which spans west Texas and southeast New Mexico. The museum's exhibits provide an in-depth understanding of the region's significant role in the petroleum industry.

The East Texas Arboretum and Botanical Society, also known as ETABS, is a significant botanical destination located at 1601 Patterson Road, Athens, Texas. The arboretum spans over 100 acres, offering a vast space for exploration and appreciation of nature.

The McAllen Botanic Garden, also known as McAllen Nature Center or the Valley Nature Center, is a botanical garden and nature reserve that spans 20 acres. It is a municipal administration located in McAllen, Texas, United States. This expansive garden is home to a variety of native and exotic plants, making it a great place for nature lovers to explore.

Cedar Hill State Park is situated on FM 1382 and the eastern shore of Joe Pool Lake in Cedar Hill, Texas, which is ten miles southwest of Dallas. This location makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists alike, offering a convenient escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

The Science Spectrum, located in Lubbock, Texas, is a unique combination of a science and technology museum and an aquarium. It offers a diverse range of exhibits and experiences that cater to a wide variety of interests. Whether you're a science enthusiast or an animal lover, the Science Spectrum has something to offer.

The museum's namesake, John E. Conner was the first History professor at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. See exhibits on ranching, farming, culture, and natural history of South Texas. The Museum's Hall of Horns features over 200 animal mounts collected by rancher & hunter Graves Peeler.

Become an expert in marine science! The visitor's centre displays hundreds of species of sea animals and plants in their seven aquariums.

The Naranjo Museum of Natural History, situated in Lufkin, Texas, was established by Neal Naranjo, a doctor of neuropsychology. This museum is a testament to Naranjo's lifelong passion for collecting fossils, which he began at a young age.

Learn about the delicate ecosystem of the estuary and its role in the local ecology. The exhibits and presentations are intriguing.

Hidalgo is a desert town and the pump used to carry water to the fields to make them fertile. Great for engineering maniacs!

The centre is well worth a visit as you will be given information on the Big Bend State Park's fauna, flora, history and some useful tips.

The Museum of South Texas History, situated in Edinburg, USA, offers an extensive exhibition that covers the history of the Rio Grande Valley and the rest of South Texas. This provides a comprehensive understanding of the region's past, making it an informative destination for tourists interested in history.