Since 1960, the Austin Nature & Science Center has provided hands-on nature exhibits, education programs, and recreation activities for countless visitors, teachers, 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 of the natural world.
The Austin Nature & Science Center offers many programs for preschoolers, kids, families, and adults with topics ranging from butterflies to caving and much more.
HOURS
Normal business hours are 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
JUNETEENTH CLOSURE NOTICE
The Austin Nature & Science Center and all programs and camps will be closed on Monday, June 20, in honor of the Juneteenth holiday. We will resume normal hours and camps on Tuesday, June 21.
Summer Camp
Summer Camp registration available on RecTrac
- Registration Forms
- for all campers
- for full-day camps
- Permission Form if applicable, includes early sign-out days, non-custodial sign-out, permission to administer medication
- for half-day 4-5 year old (Tadpole) camps only
- Waiver linked above;
- Tadpole Admission Form;
- Tadpole campers attending more than three weeks of camp, please bring a vaccination record on their first camp day.
- Financial Assistance and Inclusion Support information
- Austin Nature & Science Center camp descriptions, dates, and fees
- General information about City of Austin Camps and Registration dates
Summer Jobs Opportunities
Spend your summer outdoors with us! Spend your summer facilitating daily activities that include swimming, biking, hiking, archery, crafts, and more!
Apply today!
- Pay rate $15.00/ hour
- Paid training begins 5/9/2022
- Certifications you could earn include CPR & First Aid, Lifeguarding, and Driver's Safety
- Camp is 6/6/2022 - 8/12/2022
Question about applying, contact PARKSNatureJobs@austintexas.gov or call 512-974-3888.
Zilker Metropolitan Park Vision Plan
The Zilker Metropolitan Park Vision Plan is a community-driven planning process to establish a guiding framework for the restoration and future development of Zilker Metropolitan Park. It is the first comprehensive planning initiative to encompass the park’s 350 acres and associated facilities. See the whole plan and more information here, including dates and registration for upcoming community meetings: Zilker Metropolitan Park Vision Plan.
Events
Nature and science-based events for members of the community, such as seasonal festivals, animal presentations, adult lectures, and more! EVENTS
