Nature & Natural History Museums in Texas

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 Houston Museum of Natural Science (abbreviated as HMNS ) is a natural history museum located on the northern border of Hermann Park in Houston , Texas , United States. The museum was established in 1909 by the Houston Museum and Scientific Society, an organization whose goals were to provide a f

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 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.

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 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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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 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.

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

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 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 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 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.

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 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.

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 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 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.