20 Best Museums in Austin, Texas for All Ages
Whether you’re an art lover, a science enthusiast, or simply someone looking for fun and educational things to do in Austin, the city’s museum scene has something for everyone. From renowned institutions to hidden gems, here’s a curated list of the best museums in Austin, Texas.
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Free Museums in Austin
Recently reopened, this natural history museum focuses on fossils, geology, and Texas wildlife.
Located near Zilker Park, this center offers indoor and outdoor exhibits for all ages about local wildlife, geology, and sustainability.
Located in a functioning fire station, this museum features historical gear and celebrates the legacy of local firefighters.
A small but passionate museum preserving the state’s rich musical history, including jazz, blues, Tejano, and more.
Explores African American history and culture in Texas with rotating exhibitions and educational programs.
Top Art Museums in Austin, TX
Located on the University of Texas campus, this acclaimed museum houses more than 21,000 works from European classics to modern and Latin American art. The iconic Ellsworth Kelly-designed building, “Austin,” is a local landmark.
A contemporary art space that features rotating exhibitions, rooftop installations, and works by local and global artists. A must-visit for art lovers.
Dedicated to Mexican, Latino, and Latin American culture, this downtown museum offers vibrant exhibits and hosts events like Día de los Muertos.
An open-air garden and indoor space showcasing the work of Charles Umlauf and other modern sculptors.
Dougherty Arts Center The Dougherty Arts Center (DAC) serves as a vibrant hub for Austin’s arts community. The DAC offers a variety of visual, performing, and digital arts experiences.
Cool Interactive & Science Museums in Austin
A STEAM-focused museum perfect for families and kids. Thinkery encourages hands-on learning with exhibits on science, technology, engineering, arts, and math.
Recently reopened, this natural history museum focuses on fossils, geology, and Texas wildlife.
Located near Zilker Park, this center offers indoor and outdoor exhibits for all ages about local wildlife, geology, and sustainability.
A visually striking museum that chronicles the dynamic story of Texas through multimedia exhibits and artifacts.
Quirky & Specialty Museums in Austin
One of the most unusual Austin museums, it features oddities like shrunken heads and paranormal artifacts.
Takes you on a nostalgic trip through a display of vintage toys, action figures, comics, and arcade machines.
Located in a functioning fire station, this museum features historical gear and celebrates the legacy of local firefighters.
Explore the life and legacy of President Lyndon B. Johnson with engaging exhibits and rotating displays.
A historic Greek Revival home with period furniture, rotating exhibits, and a restored slave cabin.
A small but passionate museum preserving the state’s rich musical history, including jazz, blues, Tejano, and more.
Explores African American history and culture in Texas with rotating exhibitions and educational programs.
Showcases the history of the Texas National Guard and military contributions through weapons, uniforms, and tanks.
A humanities research library and museum featuring literary archives, photography, and cultural exhibits.
Tips for Visiting Fun Austin Museums in 2025
From immersive art to scientific wonders and quirky curiosities, Austin museums reflect the city’s vibrant and diverse culture. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or you’re a local exploring new places, these are the best museums in Austin, Texas, to add to your list.
Looking for fun things around ATX? Check out our weekly updates with the best picks for Things to Do in Austin this Weekend — all curated by a local.