Expansive science complex featuring permanent exhibits on paleontology, astronomy, chemistry, and wildlife alongside a planetarium, butterfly center, and giant screen theater.
General Information
Friday to Sunday: 9am to 6pm
Free Tuesdays: 5pm to 8pm (last entry 7:30pm)
Last entry 30 minutes before closing
Children (3–11): $16
Seniors (62+): $16
Military (with ID): $16
Infants (2 and under): Free
Members: Free
Free admission Tuesdays 5pm–8pm (permanent exhibits only)
How to Get There
Take US-59 South, exit Main Street, turn left on Hermann Drive, and follow signs to the museum entrance near Hermann Park.
Overview
The Houston Museum of Natural Science (HMNS) is one of the most visited museums in the United States, offering a vast array of exhibits that span the natural sciences. Located in Houston’s Museum District, the museum features permanent halls dedicated to paleontology, gems and minerals, chemistry, wildlife, and ancient civilizations. Highlights include the Morian Hall of Paleontology, home to towering dinosaur skeletons, and the Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals, showcasing dazzling specimens from around the world. The museum also houses the Burke Baker Planetarium, the Wortham Giant Screen Theatre, and the Cockrell Butterfly Center, making it a multifaceted destination for science lovers of all ages.
Founded in 1909, HMNS has grown into a premier educational institution, offering a wide range of programs, lectures, and hands-on activities. Its rotating special exhibitions bring global wonders to Houston, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to cutting-edge space science. Whether you're exploring the cosmos, walking among prehistoric giants, or marveling at live butterflies in a rainforest habitat, the Houston Museum of Natural Science delivers an unforgettable experience that blends education with awe-inspiring discovery.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the Houston Museum of Natural Science, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
