Blog > Learn Something In Austin!
We spend the first couple of decades of our lives in school, day after day, learning. But who says our education has to stop once we’ve graduated? Austin is a treasure trove of educational facilities, many of which are family friendly!
Texas Museum of Science & Technology
TXMOST is located in Cedar Park and brings the world of STEM education to Central Texas. Previously known as the Austin Planetarium, the museum opened its doors in March 2015 with its premier exhibit, Body Worlds. The museum consists of a 33 ft planetarium- the largest in the Austin metro area!- as well as current exhibits, TUTANKHAMUN: “Wonderful Things” From the Pharoah’s Tomb”, and TimeWalk, a journey through the history of the Earth. Tickets to the museum are all-in and all-day! Kids 4 and under get in free, and prices increase up to $18 for adults.
Austin Zoo
One of the most special things about the Austin Zoo versus others is its dedication to rehabilitation- it is an animal sanctuary, meaning that almost all of the animals that live there were rescued. The zoo originated in 1990 as a goat ranch, and by 2000 was donated into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. With over 300 animals to meet, plus live animal educational shows and a train that takes you around the zoo for a breathtaking view of the hill country, the zoo is a great day trip for all. You’re welcome to bring your own food and beverages for lunch, or purchase them at the concession stand. Prices range from $8 for children up to $11 for adults, and the zoo is open year round. While you’re there, don’t forget to get a few bags of food to feed the animals!
The Bullock Texas State History Museum
The Bullock Texas State History Museum opened in 2001, and since then has hosted more than 8 million visitors looking to learn more about the Lone Star State. Here you can discover artifacts dating back to the earliest settlers in our neck of the woods, an interactive map of the state, and more history than you can shake a stick at. Classic Rock ‘N’ Rollers will appreciate the upcoming exhibit dedicated to Texas music legend Stevie Ray Vaughan, while younger kids and families will enjoy the creative workshops offered, as well as the current IMAX screening of Guardians of the Galaxy 2. H-E-B Free First Sundays allows all visitors free admission on the first Sunday of each month!
The Dinosaur Park
The Dinosaur Park opened in 2005 in Cedar Creek. While many dinosaur replicas featured in museums are skeletal, The Dinosaur Park stands out by providing viewers with realistic life-sized, scientifically accurate replicas in a natural setting, as well as wild rabbits, birds, and reptiles along the hike. At the end of your adventure, stick around for the Dino Dig, a sand pit where kids can uncover hidden fossils. Visitors to the park are allowed to bring their own lunches and beverages and may use provided picnic areas at no cost. The Dinosaur Park operates on the surrounding school calendars, so hours of operations may vary. Entrance fees are $8 for children ages 2+, and $9 for adults. Leashed pets under 30 pounds are also welcome here!