Local Guides World
Top Museums in Austin, United States
Top Rated Museums in Austin
Bullock Museum Store
Dimension Gallery Sculpture Park
Elisabet Ney Museum
LBJ Presidential Library
Bullock Texas State History Museum
Neill-Cochran House Museum
Republic of Texas Museum
George Washington Carver Museum
Dolph Briscoe Center for American History
Austin Historical Society Museum
Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum
Austin Museum of Popular Culture
Top Reviewed Museums in Austin
Bullock Texas State History Museum
Museum of the Weird
Museum of the Weird
LBJ Presidential Library
Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum
George Washington Carver Museum
Elisabet Ney Museum
Museum of Illusions Austin
Neill-Cochran House Museum
Austin Museum of Popular Culture
Warren Wildlife Gallery
Texas Music Museum
Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum
Museum of Illusions Austin
Neill-Cochran House Museum
Austin Historical Society Museum
Texas Music Museum
Museum of the Weird
Dimension Gallery Sculpture Park
Elisabet Ney Museum
Museum of the Weird
Austin Museum of Popular Culture
Bullock Texas State History Museum
Outdoor Sculpture of David Strohmeyer
Reviews
Absolutely wonderful! We drove almost 3 hours to visit the museum and attend the members reception for the new sharks exhibit. The food was awesome, the party hopping. Totally worth the drive and hotel stay!
It's free on the 1st Sunday of every month.
This is a must-visit if you're interested in the history of Texas or looking to get away from the heat. The Museum is rich in Texan history. Three floors were worth of Texan history, starting almost 13,000 years ago to today. The parking is located under the structure and closes at midnight.
This is a must-visit if you're interested in the history of Texas or looking to get away from the heat. The Museum is rich in Texan history. Three floors were worth of Texan history, starting almost 13,000 years ago to today. The parking is located under the structure and closes at midnight.
This was such a fun place to visit! Soooo much to read and look at that it would take me hours to actually get through it all. Also the building itself is really cool - perfect for a museum of this nature.
It was great, not the Smithsonian so if that's what you're looking for then you're going to be disappointed... like walking through a season of Ripley's believe it or not. Really enjoyed it with my kid, who is into weird stuff.
Truly incredible to see such a well preserved home and collection of art work. Well worth stopping in. Completely free also.
Awesome little place with cool history and pieces!
Great exhibit of some really wonderful history covering the history of sideshows, and the birth of “oddities”. There’s some really gray pieces here worth seeing. The museum has some gorgeous pieces of work.
Now an item of concern is the second floor two headed exhibit. It has the beginning of some small pest infestation that if not dealt with, will destroy the pieces in this area.
This is an older building, with several small fights of stairs, so if you’re limited in mobility, you’ll only be able to access the first floor. The positive is they will discount the entrance fee if you are not able to traverse the stairs.
I love the gift shop area, some great shirts and fun little items. I wish they carried some local artist pieces, but I understand they are limited on space. It could however take this location to the next level.
I recommend this to see, for all ages, especially if you love classic horror, and sideshow history.
Great exhibit of some really wonderful history covering the history of sideshows, and the birth of “oddities”. There’s some really gray pieces here worth seeing. The museum has some gorgeous pieces of work.
Now an item of concern is the second floor two headed exhibit. It has the beginning of some small pest infestation that if not dealt with, will destroy the pieces in this area.
This is an older building, with several small fights of stairs, so if you’re limited in mobility, you’ll only be able to access the first floor. The positive is they will discount the entrance fee if you are not able to traverse the stairs.
I love the gift shop area, some great shirts and fun little items. I wish they carried some local artist pieces, but I understand they are limited on space. It could however take this location to the next level.
I recommend this to see, for all ages, especially if you love classic horror, and sideshow history.
This museum is totally freaky with squeaky doors, old winding staircases and hidden things to find. Older wax museum for the first horror movies. Some pretty gruesome animals and freak show pictures. Only for those who like the creepy freak side show ambiance.
Lots of weird stuff / artifacts here. Owner Steve Busti created the store and collection with his wife Veronica, reflecting his lifelong fascination with the bizarre. There's a 3,000 year old mummy, and a replica skull of a Texan Bigfoot. There is a wax museum and also an exhibit with an iceman preserved in a freezer. Lots of crazy stuff to see and read.
The trip was my family's first time there. It's such a large, well ran, and Beautiful Museum. Kudos to the administration! From the curator, to antiquities, to marketing. They were personable and well versed. Wow, the gift shop even had copies of his biography: Jewel of the South, a civil rights biography of Rev. Dr. L.E. Bennett.
The reason for our trip was to see the new exhibit on my Father, Rev. Dr. L.E. Bennett. It honored his life in civil rights in San Antonio, Texas, and how he integrated Southwestern Bell/ AT&T in the early 60s. My 88 year-old Mother loved it and talked to Dad's photo. That touched my heart.
Thank you for collecting, recording, and safeguarding Texas History.
The reason for our trip was to see the new exhibit on my Father, Rev. Dr. L.E. Bennett. It honored his life in civil rights in San Antonio, Texas, and how he integrated Southwestern Bell/ AT&T in the early 60s. My 88 year-old Mother loved it and talked to Dad's photo. That touched my heart.
Thank you for collecting, recording, and safeguarding Texas History.
The folks who are working here just elevated the experience- loved it here. So rich in culture and history. Great grassroots exhibition.
This place is wonderful and a very nice place for family/friends/date (not just for viewing but also taking up the challenges presented for you on the table). I want to post many more pictures however I do not want to diminish the magic and wonder of the first time. Let me clearly state that I am making reservations for friends and family to go, and I will plan a later return for more planned photos for framing. P.S. you are required to make reservations online in advance (you will recognize why when you go through).
The museum was beautiful and a great way to spend a hot summer afternoon.
Free entry, but donations are accepted. Suggested donation amount is $10 per person. Very friendly staff!
Small, but impressive museum in Central Austin. I've driven past this museum hundreds of times and never noticed this mini-castle that's a block off of 45th street. If you're curious about Austin/Texas history, this museum is worth checking out. The architecture of the building is pretty cool see. Inside there's various sculptures of famous European and Texas figures.
The name says it all!!! You'll find anything from old clipped fingernails to mermaid fossils, wax figures, and more!! They have cool things at the gift shop as well. I tried mango habanero roasted cricket snacks and they actually good. The cashier told me they have to stock up on those regularly
Great small museum for visit even if you are not the sculptures expert, you can enjoy the story of this wonderful talented woman and her husband, loved the interior and atmosphere, you will have a list with names of presented sculptures. Absolutely recommended if you are in Austin, no cost, not crowded, located in green zone.
Modern day cabinet of curiosities featuring taxidermy, wax figures, movie memorabilia, an actual mummy, and various unexplained objects... all it was missing was the crystal skull. Quite a fun little time if you like this sort of thing, and well worth the price of admission. Also the AC was blowing quite cold, which was refreshing on such a hot summer day.
It is super affordable and not overly crowded. The garden is loaded with sculptures from both Umlauf but also visiting artists have work there as well. Plus I got engaged there so what's not to love!
Was pretty cool interactive exhibition. Not too crowded so you can take photos pretty easily. 4 stars because it's rather short of a visit. I went with a 4 year old and was in and out by 15 minutes. Fun, but tad bit overpriced for me. Also, reserving online was fine, but apparently you can buy tickets at the door as well. It didn't seem to follow the time slot scheduling at all.
Wow, this place is a gem among gems! We were met by an extremely helpful curator who gave us a history of the museum. The building is stunning and you simply must experience the charm of being surrounded by the sculptures. A must see in Austin!
Really nice walk through the history of Austin and the surrounding area. $5 donation well worth it.
A wonderful museum filled with Texas history. The best part was seeing the hull of La Salle’s ship the La Belle. It’s incredible.
It has interactive features throughout the museum. Take your time, watch the short videos, and disk it all in.
It has interactive features throughout the museum. Take your time, watch the short videos, and disk it all in.
It is a great and felt like a magical experience in the illusion museum. The staff was very friendly and polite also they help you in taking pictures and suggest how to take and in which angle. All the illusions present in the museum was awesome but the whole museum everything can be covered in 30mins. Disappointed because of the few illusions. It’s not a worth of $24. The cost should have been like $12 to $15.
I saw it on Facebook about this museum and got tickets 🎟 for my husband as a surprised birthday present. 🥳 We all had good time even though the museum is a bit smaller than I thought but so many to see and it takes time because of so many people in this small museum. Actually I didn't get to see all 🥺 because i feel bad when i see people waiting behind me so i skipped so many parts. 😔
🛑 I didn't like much about the set up for up-side-down one (for pricture). You can see in the picture that part of my body is cut or not at the place where it should be... (I am sorry for my poor English. I don't know how to explain it well but please zoom in the picture and you will see the mirror cut line which makes part of your body cut off or not in a right position.)
🚽 🤱 One sad thing and I don't understand why... I wish someone could explain me on this please... Why there is no baby changing station in the restroom? Is it because too much work for it?
Overall it was a good experience and I would like to come back again but this time, I would like to take more time for each thing and I will make sure not to miss any single one 😄😁
🛑 I didn't like much about the set up for up-side-down one (for pricture). You can see in the picture that part of my body is cut or not at the place where it should be... (I am sorry for my poor English. I don't know how to explain it well but please zoom in the picture and you will see the mirror cut line which makes part of your body cut off or not in a right position.)
🚽 🤱 One sad thing and I don't understand why... I wish someone could explain me on this please... Why there is no baby changing station in the restroom? Is it because too much work for it?
Overall it was a good experience and I would like to come back again but this time, I would like to take more time for each thing and I will make sure not to miss any single one 😄😁
The Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin is an exceptional tribute to the unique and vibrant history of Texas. It brilliantly curates the rich tapestry of the state's past, infusing every exhibit with detail and depth. From the sweeping three floors of interactive exhibits to the stunning IMAX Theatre, there's something for every history enthusiast here. The museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts that provide a tangible connection to Texas's past. The Story of Texas Cafe adds a delightful culinary twist to the visit. The museum staff are attentive and informative, enriching the experience with their knowledge. The Bullock Museum offers a comprehensive and captivating look into the heart of Texas history, making it a must-visit for residents and tourists alike.
We absolutely loved it.
We thought it was going to be short and boring, because of how small it was on the outside.
BUT, the museum just kept going and going and going, to different cool areas. It was soooooo worth it. Makes you think why they don't charge more. But I'm blessed they are nice enough to be more affordable, than the other museums.
Their gift shops had affordable prices too.
The staff were so sweet and nice and knowledgeable.
We live 3 hours away, but would go again.
I have so many pictures and videos from here.
We thought it was going to be short and boring, because of how small it was on the outside.
BUT, the museum just kept going and going and going, to different cool areas. It was soooooo worth it. Makes you think why they don't charge more. But I'm blessed they are nice enough to be more affordable, than the other museums.
Their gift shops had affordable prices too.
The staff were so sweet and nice and knowledgeable.
We live 3 hours away, but would go again.
I have so many pictures and videos from here.
An amazing collection of pictures, album covers and biographies of Texas musicians of many different genres. This is a real historical archive that preserves the memories of many musicians who might otherwise be forgotten.
We visited here when it was just opening and saw many ads online. We had a good time as there were lots of displays that takes about an hour or 2 to check it all out. There a lot of photo opportunities, but figuring out how the illusions worked was not all that easy, with other waiting their turn. There were several staff present to explain the illusions, but they were mostly busy. It would be great if there were some examples of the proper posing for photos!
The museum was an amazing tour. I had been there years ago with my now 21 year old son when they had a tour day when he was in first grade. Now we toured the museum with my daughter son-in-law and my granddaughters it was amazing. I hope to see that in time they will appreciate these type of outings and attend these facilities frequently.
Thank you for such an amazing day at the museum so peaceful and very clean. Downside is the garage parking fee $15 be ready to pay that!
Thank you for such an amazing day at the museum so peaceful and very clean. Downside is the garage parking fee $15 be ready to pay that!
Very unusual collection of Ney's sculpture art work and family history. There isn't an admission fee but donations are encouraged.
If you're into anything weird, spooky and just the macabre in general, this is the place for you! Me and my partner went earlier this week and had a blast! There were 4 separate areas and they all have really cool stuff to see and a lot of the objects/props have interesting stories to read about so I recommend taking your time! There are also 2 gifts shops with weird and unique goodies to buy (i recommend the Museum of The Weird comic) The staff was also very friendly and helpful! There's free 2 hour parking on the street if you can manage to get a spot as well. All in all it was a great experience and I recommend this to anyone who's looking for someone cool to do!
It was our first time here. We made reservations since they use crowd control; they do accept walk in thou. Is very interactive and a cellphone for pictures is a must. The only issue is that a lot of pictures online are from different city exhibits so we were expecting some backgrounds that are not from Austin. The duration of the entire walk thru is about 45 minutes, a little bit short for the $24 per person. Overall was a good entertaining experience.
Hosted our daughter's birthday party at the museum and the team went over and beyond. Delilah, Carson, & staff were simply amazing! They made the event easy, fun, and all were very helpful! Great customer service!
All of the kids and parents enjoyed the event. The museum was clean, exhibits were fun to explore, and the experience was overall great. Highly recommended!
All of the kids and parents enjoyed the event. The museum was clean, exhibits were fun to explore, and the experience was overall great. Highly recommended!
June 2023:
Years and years have gone by and today was sober enough to walk in to see the Museum of the Weird. Well not exactly not the sober part, but it was on my list of places to see over the summer. My first impression was this place was small but as I walked inside I enter a new realm. Just the lobby has lots to see. I bought tickets and my wife and I entered at our own risk. I don’t want to give out surprises but his place was amazing, and crammed full of weirdness and exotic trinkets. It’s much bigger than I thought with lots of rooms and floors to see.
As the sign said you will see shrunken heads, fee jee mermaid, cyclops pig, and much more like wax figures. There is even a second gift shop on the top floor. I was very fun to visit and see in keeping Austin weird.
Years and years have gone by and today was sober enough to walk in to see the Museum of the Weird. Well not exactly not the sober part, but it was on my list of places to see over the summer. My first impression was this place was small but as I walked inside I enter a new realm. Just the lobby has lots to see. I bought tickets and my wife and I entered at our own risk. I don’t want to give out surprises but his place was amazing, and crammed full of weirdness and exotic trinkets. It’s much bigger than I thought with lots of rooms and floors to see.
As the sign said you will see shrunken heads, fee jee mermaid, cyclops pig, and much more like wax figures. There is even a second gift shop on the top floor. I was very fun to visit and see in keeping Austin weird.
It was weird and funky. It was a perfect respite from the heat. Wasn't very busy when we went in, packed on the way out.
Make sure you look for the exits. it could be bad if something happened and you had to evacuate quickly. Safety first.
Make sure you look for the exits. it could be bad if something happened and you had to evacuate quickly. Safety first.
There are some great sculptures to take a look at and the grounds are great to walk around, but ultimately I give this only a 4 star review because there's not too much to see and some of the pieces or themes are a bit too repetitive.
Great old home with tons of history!
There are several photos on Google already. I am adding the wicker loveseat from 1880 during the time of the Neills. This is part of an original 5 piece set of which 3 remain. Tge arm chairs were already uploaded by someone else. This is the only existing slave dwelling in Austin. There are a few other exterior photos at different angles. Due to this not being an agricultural producing plantation the dwelling matches the exterior of the main house. However, it had a dirt floor and little is known about the residents. Approximately 10 ten enslaved persons lived in the two floors.
Unveiling Austin's Hidden History!
Prior to my involvement as a volunteer at the Neil-Cochran House Museum, I had no knowledge of the existence of surviving "slave quarters" in Austin. However, visiting the museum enlightened me about the realities of life in Austin during the 1800s. Contrary to popular assumptions of peace and idyllic surroundings, the museum offers a wealth of information on the tumultuous nature of that era. Visit the museum, you'll thank me later!
Prior to my involvement as a volunteer at the Neil-Cochran House Museum, I had no knowledge of the existence of surviving "slave quarters" in Austin. However, visiting the museum enlightened me about the realities of life in Austin during the 1800s. Contrary to popular assumptions of peace and idyllic surroundings, the museum offers a wealth of information on the tumultuous nature of that era. Visit the museum, you'll thank me later!
Online it said they opened today at 11 but when we got there they were closed. There were no signs indicating when they might be open. Disappointing.
This is a fantastic little sculpture garden in Austin! It is a little small though, as you won’t spend more than 25 minutes here. The grounds were beautiful though, and I got free military admission which I appreciated!
A small historical and natural museum close to downtown.
Being in Austin, I wasnt aware of this place for a quite long time.
Visited for an Art exhibition. The sculptures were arranged and decorated with lot of efforts as you can see from pictures.
The place is well preserved from the old times including the staircases. The chair at the lawn and garden was very peaceful.
Checkout the timing in the Facebook page for any special events.
#HappyVisiting
Being in Austin, I wasnt aware of this place for a quite long time.
Visited for an Art exhibition. The sculptures were arranged and decorated with lot of efforts as you can see from pictures.
The place is well preserved from the old times including the staircases. The chair at the lawn and garden was very peaceful.
Checkout the timing in the Facebook page for any special events.
#HappyVisiting
4/2023
I was worried I did not purchased tickets beforehand but no problem where we just paid to enter. The place was busy but not too overcrowded. Your illusion experience starts right when you enter and the fun begins.
Take out your cellphone and begin your journey and take lots of photos. This place is 100% family friendly and kids there were going nuts over the illusions. The staff is very nice and help you take photos of you. It is pretty magical and has a nice small shop at front. I you are looking for a cool "I Love You So Much" mural shirt then come here and get it.
I was worried I did not purchased tickets beforehand but no problem where we just paid to enter. The place was busy but not too overcrowded. Your illusion experience starts right when you enter and the fun begins.
Take out your cellphone and begin your journey and take lots of photos. This place is 100% family friendly and kids there were going nuts over the illusions. The staff is very nice and help you take photos of you. It is pretty magical and has a nice small shop at front. I you are looking for a cool "I Love You So Much" mural shirt then come here and get it.
Beautiful museum. The exhibits are engaging for both adults and kids and show different facets of Texas. We especially loved the 3D movie , was very informative and interesting. The museum is designed in a modern and inviting way. A fun trip and unique experience. (Pay what you wish if you ask at ticket counter :) great gift shop too.
We loved this place. I love seeing old architecture in a place you wouldn't expect. There are many sculptures and paintings to see. There is also an upstairs to visit inside. Be aware that the stairs are narrow. Also outside is great for filming and taking pictures. The staff was very helpful.
Lots of great displays. Love the history.
Peaceful sculpture garden. Works are generally biblical or based on Greek mythology. Admission is only $7 for adults. Stop by if you have half an hour to kill.
A very cool place to visit. I went there for a wedding, walking around the museum was like experiencing life in that beautiful house. Highly recommended!
Nice relaxing spot. Very well kept and a pretty setting to view the nice collection.
To have a beautiful gem like this right in the center of town is one of those things that reminds me why I love living in Austin for over 30 years. It’s serene and contemplative, from the lush green trees to of course the art, the running water, and the gorgeous pond. I really love it here.
Very cool music history. Great relics of the recent past.
On a family vacation going all over Texas, specifically came to Austin to see this museum. Advertised online that they are open 12-4. Get there and the doors are locked with people inside just staring at us outside. Called 3 times and they don’t answer or have any updates saying they are closed.
I came by here Tues and wed. it's past 12pm. there is no sign saying someone is out, no times on the door or voicmail saying the times were open. I didn't have to come here just thought it would be interesting too see. so looks like im unable too see it. can't even tell if it's opening up!!
Not about the museum but Beerthoven at the museum is nice. The live Christmas music is fresh and jazzy. Thank you to Daniel, the coordinator, and the Tinsel Singers!
Watching eclipse from the museum. Lots of interesting exhibitions, well organized, really inspiring of Texas history and cowboys. I really enjoyed the short films of Texas history, such a beautiful and well made firm, the rattlesnake story was funny and the surprise part got me jump out of the chair! Amazing 3D technique and projector. love the storyline.
Interesting place to visit, staff is very nice and knowledgeable about local sights and history.
Lovely little hidden gem in the shadow of downtown Austin! I had no idea it existed, nor the story behind the man behind the place. Excellent for meditation, reading, relaxing, escaping the chaos for a bit. The curator and docents are all kind, knowledgeable and wow approachable. I'll be back, frequently! ♡
We never knew this was here ! We all enjoyed it!
My husband found this place on a post from Instagram. We went to visit with our kids. We all didn’t know much about Elisabet Ney but after our visit we all learned something new. They provide a booklet of very informative information for you to read along the way. It also goes by numbers so you know what your reading on. I highly recommend and don’t forget to go upstairs
My husband found this place on a post from Instagram. We went to visit with our kids. We all didn’t know much about Elisabet Ney but after our visit we all learned something new. They provide a booklet of very informative information for you to read along the way. It also goes by numbers so you know what your reading on. I highly recommend and don’t forget to go upstairs
What an self pace experience to step back into history. One of oldest residences along side slave quarters attached is something heartbreaking but rich with culture. In person face to face experience of history is always one for my books.
Still a work in progress! More a 3.5, but... Loads of information about the Texas music scene! Trying to add to space and add to the information! Enjoy, wish there had been souvenirs.
Every time I come back to Austin, I try one new place to visit. I checked out the Umlauf Sculpture Garden! Tickets are only $7/person, which makes sense as the garden is rather smaller than I anticipated. I would say you will finish exploring the garden in about 40 minutes. But I still enjoyed it. I came on a Friday morning when they opened. The staff was nice and you get a sculpture guide so you can read more about each sculpture created by Charles Umlauf. When you're done, return the guide. I will say that there's very limited parking so if this garden is on your list, I recommend coming as soon as they open to get a parking spot close to the entrance, otherwise there's overflow parking down the street.
Take me back in time
Lovely little museum in the heart of the city. The museum is located one of the oldest buildings in Austin Texas. The building itself is incredibly beautiful and historic and the art within is such a nice treat. Many local artists are highlighted here.
we couldn’t go inside bc apparently they have odd hours or are changing locations ?? we enjoyed the outside though
This Texas treasure is a cool place to see what pride Texas has in the talent that this state has wether born and raised here, or got here ASAP! Such a wonderful and wide array of talent that was lost, but never forgotten! Stop by and pay some respect, and when you get done Stop by Planet K and get something to take to the ol lady
A lot of interesting history in this little town.
Free parking in the back, can’t believe it coz’ usually parking on downtown is an issue. There was a super knowable girl in charge the museum that answer all my questions. Museum was clean and open on Sundays. The history of the house is very interesting and well preserved, they even illustrate the kind of food they used to have.
Alot of cool things to check out. Definitely a recommendation for Austin traveler's.
Loved visiting with my husband and our friends. We enjoyed our time listening to Stephen Doster. We'll be back soon.
My wife said that the displays reminded her of her grade school scrap book projects. While the museum is long on displays and short on artifacts, it’s hard to criticize a museum that free and run by volunteers. I would take headphones to listen to the YouTube videos that are easily accessed through QR codes.
The first picture is Stokes castle the rest is the fire on Austin Summit
Cool unexpected find. Head shop was a surprise.
Weird AF.
I went there looking for a music agency who's P.O. Box os located here...found this strange shop instead. Was not disappointed.
Bought a vape pen -partially because I wanted to buy something from this place just to remind me of it, and partially because vape life. Neat little gizmo. Ran me $15.
I went there looking for a music agency who's P.O. Box os located here...found this strange shop instead. Was not disappointed.
Bought a vape pen -partially because I wanted to buy something from this place just to remind me of it, and partially because vape life. Neat little gizmo. Ran me $15.
Interesting place. I will need to go back to see what I missed while there.