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, the 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.
ANSC IS BACK OPEN FOR NORMAL OPERATING 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 required for each visitor over the age of 2 (unless expressly exempted in Section 2 of Mayor Adler's Order or by a City policy applicable to the premises or facility).
- Parking is available underneath the Mopac Bridge
- Entrance is located on Stratford Drive
- Pets are not allowed on site
- If you have any questions please contact us at anscprograms@austintexas.gov
Thanksgiving Holiday Hours:
The Austin Nature & Science Center will be closed Thursday, November 25 and Friday, November 26. Normal hours will resume Saturday, November 27:
Normal Operating Hours (new hours for Sundays!): Monday-Saturday 9:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.; Sunday 12:00p.m. - 5:00p.m.
Event Registration
Free Event! December 11, 2021, from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM get an up-close-and-personal encounter with some incredibly interesting dark phase animals and one of Austin's more notorious nocturnal creatures. Pre-registration requested.
Zilker Metropolitan Park Vision Plan and NEW Survey: Programming!
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.
We would love community input to ensure the Vision Plan addresses the needs and wishes of our visitors to Zilker Park! The second survey in this series is now available, focusing on programming: Zilker Vision Plan Community Survey #3. We'd love your feedback!
