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Houston Museum of Natural Science
Houston Museum of Natural Science
West University
view website1 Hermann Circle Drive
Houston, 77030
713-639-4629
Good-for-Kids Rating
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-KSchool-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Science & Nature Museum
Houston Museum of Natural Science Description
Kids walk in and immediately beeline for the Paleontology Hall, the spot towered over by all manner of prehistoric critters, including the diplodocus (that's "dip-low-dock-is," for all you parents). But the fun doesn't stop there -- venture on to see the ultra-cool mummies, an amazing glassed-in butterfly garden (it looks like a walk-through terrarium), IMAX movies, and much more. The Foucault pendulum may just keep you transfixed for hours -- it's a reminder (with proof) that we're actually moving in space.
Kid Tips
School-Age Kids: There's enough here to spend a full day exploring, but sensory overload can set in after a short while. Set a time limit for each exhibit, and plan to break up the day with an IMAX flick or a trip through the butterfly garden.
Pre-Teens & Teens: The good news about the Hall of African Wildlife is that it's fascinating -- it's the closest you'll probably (hopefully) ever get to a lion's mouth. The bad news: it's all taxidermy, which may disturb some kids this age.
Planning Notes
- Bigger than life. The museum is large and spread out. Make sure to ask for a map and plot out your visit before you start exploring.
- Extra charges. IMAX movies, the butterfly garden, the planetarium, and special exhibits require an additional fee.
- Free admission. In summer, the permanent exhibits are fee-free on Tuesdays from 2 to 8 p.m. IMAX and special exhibits still require an extra charge.
Just the Facts
Hours: June through late August, plus Labor Day: Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. (until 8 p.m. on Tuesday); Sun. 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; September through May: Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; IMAX and special exhibits operate at slightly different hours -- call for details.
Fees: $10-$20
Recommended Time: Half day
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