Austin Museums for Kids
Above: Texas Memorial Museum
Many of Austin's museums offer special exhibits and
events of interest to the city's youngest visitors and residents.
Austin Children's Museum
The Children’s Museum sets out to make learning fun through
hands-on exhibits on all facets of science and technology. Some
popular permanent exhibits include the Whole Foods Market where
children learn about nutrition as they “play store,” the
Sound Track Studio where they learn about recording technology with
keyboards and microphones, and the Music Room where they can make
music and dance. Location: 201 Colorado St. in Downtown Austin.
Camp Mabry National Guard
Any kids wanting to play soldier can head down to Camp Mabry, headquarters
of the Texas Army and Air National Guard, for a look at the airplanes,
helicopters, cannons, and even tanks along the walking trail. If
that piques your youngster’s interest, stop by the Military
Forces Museum for a look at military memorabilia. Location: W. 35th
St. and Loop 1 (MoPac) in Northwest Austin.
John Henry Faulk Central Library
This central library was built at a cost of $6 million in 1979.
The library offers excellent youth programs and, for school-age
children, thorough resources for any school report. Reference assistance
is available on the first floor. Location: 800 Guadalupe St. in
Downtown Austin.
Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential
Library & Museum
Bring the little ones to awe at the six floors of red, gold-sealed
boxes containing the public papers of LBJ’s career. Children
enjoy a look at the moon rock, gifts given to the President from
people around the world, and especially the top-floor replica of
the oval office. Buy an inexpensive souvenir in the gift shop then
go outside for a picnic by the fountain. Location: 2313 Red River
in North Austin.
Republic of Texas Museum
Take the kids to play in “Great Grandma’s Backyard”
at this historic museum focusing on the years when Texas was an
independent republic. Children enjoy the hands-on collection of
artifacts that recall Texas’ early days in this museum run
by the Daughters of the Republic of Texas. Location: 510 E. Anderson
Ln. in North Austin.
Texas State Capitol
One of the top field trip destinations in Texas, this truly Texas-size
building leaves young travelers dwarfed by its massive proportions.
Paintings of Texas heroes will also impress youngsters. Starting
at the rotunda star, visitors can tour the recently restored structure,
and if the legislature’s in session, even sit in and watch
Texas government at work. Enter the third floor balconies for a
view of the House and Senate chambers. The legislature meets from
January through May in odd numbered years. Location: 11th St. at
Congress Ave. in Downtown Austin.
Texas Memorial Museum
Take your little dinosaur lover to this museum on the University
of Texas campus. Youngsters also enjoy a look at the gem and mineral
collection and the wildlife dioramas. Location: 2400 Trinity St.
in North Austin.
Return to Austin
Travel Guide
|
