Banner that read "Austin Nature and Science Center" over a photo of monarch butterflies on native blue flowers.


Since 1960, the Austin Nature & Science Center has provided hands-on nature exhibits, education programs, and recreation activities for adults, families, and children of all ages that increase awareness and appreciation of the natural environment. Located on the western edge of Zilker Park, ANSC is dedicated to the exploration and stewardship of the natural world.

 


HOURS

Monday - Saturday 9:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.

Sunday 12:00p.m. - 5:00p.m.  

Please keep these tips in mind for your visit: 

  • Masks are currently not required on the property
  • Parking is available underneath the Mopac Bridge
  • The entrance is located on Stratford Drive
  • Pets are not allowed on site
  • If you have any questions please contact us at anscprograms@austintexas.gov 
  • Trade Counter is staffed and open for trades Wednesday-Friday 10:00 am-1:00 pm, Saturdays 10:00 am-4:00 pm, and Sundays 1:00pm - 4:00pm.

Upcoming Closure Notice: 

Austin Nature & Science Center will be closed for our annual Maintenance Week and Austin City Limits Music Festival from Monday September 30, 2024 through Sunday October 13, 2024.

We will return to normal business hours Monday, October 14, 2024.

Please anticipate traffic and parking disruptions due to Austin City Limits Music Festival beginning September 16, 2024. You can find more information about Zilker road and park closures, including an Interactive Mobility Guide here.

If you have any questions please contact the Front Desk 512-974-3888.

 

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Volunteer with us!

Looking for a fun, rewarding, nature-based volunteer experience? Learn more about our Volunteer Opportunities and apply for a year-round position!

Or, join us for one-day special volunteer opportunities: 

Saturday, November 2, 2024: It's My Park Day! Check back later in September for sign-up information.

It's My Park Day Volunteer Sign Up, November 2, 2024

Join us at the Austin Nature & Science Center for a special volunteer day as part of the Roots & Wings Festival and It's My Park Day! Get your hands dirty and make a real impact on our local environment through hands-on activities. Help us remove invasive species to protect native plants, collect and organize seeds to learn about plant life cycles, and plant vibrant pollinator gardens to support butterflies, bees, and other essential pollinators. This event offers a unique educational experience and a chance to connect with the community while caring for our natural surroundings. We will have bilingual staff present to lead some groups in Spanish. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance our urban forest and make a difference!

 

Únase a nosotros en el Austin Nature & Science Center para un día especial de voluntariado como parte del Festival Roots & Wings y es el Día de Mi Parque. Ensuciarse las manos y hacer un impacto real en nuestro entorno local a través de actividades prácticas. Ayúdanos a eliminar las especies invasoras para proteger las plantas nativas, recolectar y organizar semillas para aprender sobre los ciclos de vida de las plantas, y plantar jardines de polinizadores vibrantes para apoyar mariposas, abejas y otros polinizadores esenciales. Este evento ofrece una experiencia educativa única y la oportunidad de conectarse con la comunidad mientras cuidamos nuestro entorno natural. Tendremos personal bilingüe presente para liderar algunos grupos en español.||¡No pierdas esta oportunidad de potenciar nuestro bosque urbano y marcar la diferencia!