Austin is bursting at the seams with art, history, and culture. From 14th century portraits to wacky, contemporary collections, there’s no shortage of exciting exhibits. Soak up the fascinating displays at one of Austin’s numerous museums. You absolutely must visit these eight museums in Austin.
- The Harry Ransom Center
Harry Ransom Center/Facebook Gape at the first photograph ever taken and stare at one of 21 complete Gutenberg Bibles. In addition to these dazzling staples, The Harry Ransom Center has seasonal exhibitions roll through. You won’t want to miss out on what’s new at The Harry Ransom Center located at 300 W 21st St.
- The Elisabet Ney Museum
Elisabet Ney Museum/Facebook This museum stands with regal beauty at 304 E 44th St. This castle, once an extensive art studio, now celebrates the life of acclaimed sculptor Elisabet Ney. Many of her pieces are on display at the Texas State Capitol, and her life was every bit as vibrant as her artwork.
- The Museum of Natural & Artificial Ephemerata
Museum of Natural & Artificial Ephemerata/Facebook This house-museum is nearly the last of its kind. The Museum of Natural & Artificial Ephemerata, located at 1808 Singleton Ave, showcases five collections ranging from urban phantasmagoria to unique snow globes. Tours take place most Saturday afternoons for a small donation. For more information, visit www.mnae.org.
- The Thinkery
Tiff T./Yelp This mind-expanding museum in the Mueller area dazzles children daily. Specializing in education and science, this massive building is full of exciting hands-on exhibits. The Thinkery isn’t just for kids, however. Adults can join in on the fun during Thinkery21 nights. These events have different themes each time, and they always include a cash bar. Visit The Thinkery at 1830 Simond Ave.
- The Blanton Museum of Art
Ethan Lundgaard/Flickr Almost 18,000 works of art grace the walls at The Blanton. This magnificent museum, located on the University of Texas campus, has a wide variety of art on display. Their permanent collection ranges from 14th century European art to contemporary works. Their temporary displays will bring you back again and again. Visit The Blanton Museum of Art at 200 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd.
- The LBJ Presidential Library and Museum
Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum/Facebook Also on the UT campus sits the LBJ Presidential Library. History buffs will adore the detailed timelines and exhibitions. Even if you’re not fascinated with history, this museum bursts with the colorful culture of the LBJ era. Walk through a scale model replica of the Oval Office and take a peek inside Lady Bird Johnson’s former office. There’s so much to see at The Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library located at 2313 Red River St.
- The Mexic-Arte Museum
Mexic-Arte Museum/Facebook The Mexic-Arte Museum, located at 419 Congress Ave, is dedicated to showcasing the art and culture of Mexican, Latino and Latin Americans. In addition to their gorgeous displays, they also host a variety of exhilarating events. To learn more about their upcoming parades and festivals, visit mexic-artemuseumevents.org.
- The Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum
Bullock Texas State History Museum/Facebook If the massive star outside doesn’t reel you in, the intriguing displays will. Travel through Texas’ rich history at The Bullock Museum. This building has a corkscrew layout, so you can learn about The Lone Star State’s rich past in as you travel from floor to floor. Immerse yourself in history at 1800 Congress Ave.
What’s your favorite museum in Austin?
Harry Ransom Center/Facebook
Gape at the first photograph ever taken and stare at one of 21 complete Gutenberg Bibles. In addition to these dazzling staples, The Harry Ransom Center has seasonal exhibitions roll through. You won’t want to miss out on what’s new at The Harry Ransom Center located at 300 W 21st St.
Elisabet Ney Museum/Facebook
This museum stands with regal beauty at 304 E 44th St. This castle, once an extensive art studio, now celebrates the life of acclaimed sculptor Elisabet Ney. Many of her pieces are on display at the Texas State Capitol, and her life was every bit as vibrant as her artwork.
Museum of Natural & Artificial Ephemerata/Facebook
This house-museum is nearly the last of its kind. The Museum of Natural & Artificial Ephemerata, located at 1808 Singleton Ave, showcases five collections ranging from urban phantasmagoria to unique snow globes. Tours take place most Saturday afternoons for a small donation. For more information, visit www.mnae.org.
Tiff T./Yelp
This mind-expanding museum in the Mueller area dazzles children daily. Specializing in education and science, this massive building is full of exciting hands-on exhibits. The Thinkery isn’t just for kids, however. Adults can join in on the fun during Thinkery21 nights. These events have different themes each time, and they always include a cash bar. Visit The Thinkery at 1830 Simond Ave.
Ethan Lundgaard/Flickr
Almost 18,000 works of art grace the walls at The Blanton. This magnificent museum, located on the University of Texas campus, has a wide variety of art on display. Their permanent collection ranges from 14th century European art to contemporary works. Their temporary displays will bring you back again and again. Visit The Blanton Museum of Art at 200 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd.
Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum/Facebook
Also on the UT campus sits the LBJ Presidential Library. History buffs will adore the detailed timelines and exhibitions. Even if you’re not fascinated with history, this museum bursts with the colorful culture of the LBJ era. Walk through a scale model replica of the Oval Office and take a peek inside Lady Bird Johnson’s former office. There’s so much to see at The Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library located at 2313 Red River St.
Mexic-Arte Museum/Facebook
The Mexic-Arte Museum, located at 419 Congress Ave, is dedicated to showcasing the art and culture of Mexican, Latino and Latin Americans. In addition to their gorgeous displays, they also host a variety of exhilarating events. To learn more about their upcoming parades and festivals, visit mexic-artemuseumevents.org.
Bullock Texas State History Museum/Facebook
If the massive star outside doesn’t reel you in, the intriguing displays will. Travel through Texas’ rich history at The Bullock Museum. This building has a corkscrew layout, so you can learn about The Lone Star State’s rich past in as you travel from floor to floor. Immerse yourself in history at 1800 Congress Ave.
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