With more than two million visitors annually, the Houston Museum of Natural Science (HMNS) is not only one of the most visited museums in Texas, it is one of the most popular in the country. Situated in the heart of Houston’s Museum District, the HMNS is a vast complex, featuring a wide array of both permanent and temporary exhibitions, including a planetarium and giant screen theatre.

  • What are the offsite locations of the Houston Museum of Natural Science?
    • In addition to its main location, the Museum has two offsite locations:
      • George Observatory
      • Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land
      These locations enable the Museum to preserve knowledge, enhance public interest, and foster appreciation for the natural sciences.
  • What is the Earth Forum exhibit?
    • The Earth Forum focuses on developing a sense of wonder in the natural world.
    • It features eleven interactive stations, including:
      • Seasons Interactive
      • Sand Dune Maker
      • Earthquake Table
      • Cloud Maker
      • Wave Machine
      • Spinning Currents Globe
      • Tornado Tube
      • Population Tubes
      • Tropical Terrarium
  • What is the Hamman Hall of Texas Coastal Ecology?
    • This exhibit highlights Texas’ coastal ecosystems, showcasing their economic and ecological importance.
    • Visitors can explore:
      • Dioramas of various habitats, including oyster reefs.
      • The recovery of species like the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle.
      • Topics like coastal restoration and conservation.
  • What are the Vintage Texas Wildlife Dioramas?
    • These dioramas have been a part of the Museum for several decades, with the oldest dating back to the 1940s.
    • The exhibit preserves:
      • The original educational intent of the dioramas.
      • The style of the era in which they were created.
      • Habitats such as the Prairie, Big Thicket, and Gulf Coast.
  • What is the Farish Hall of Texas Wildlife?
    • This exhibit features newly created dioramas showcasing Texas wildlife, including:
      • Wetlands
      • Coastal Prairie
      • South Texas Dry Forest
    • The exhibit represents 250 species across 450 specimens, emphasizing rare and endangered creatures.
  • What can visitors see at the Strake Hall of Malacology?
    • This exhibit explores malacology, the study of mollusks, from tiny snails to giant squid.
    • It features:
      • Fossils
      • Models
      • Living specimens
  • What is the Wortham Giant Screen Theatre?
    • Since opening in 1989, the Wortham Giant Screen Theatre has captivated audiences with state-of-the-art IMAX experiences.
    • Popular films include:
      • National Parks Adventure 3D
      • Wild Africa
      • Extreme Weather 3D
  • What can visitors experience at the Cockrell Butterfly Center?
    • This exhibit immerses visitors in the world of insects and features a 50-foot waterfall within the Rainforest Conservatory.
    • The Brown Hall of Entomology showcases:
      • Arthropods on the upper level
      • Insects on the lower level
      • A children’s exhibit on the main level
  • What educational programs are offered at the Houston Museum of Natural Science?
    • The Museum provides various programs for students and educators, including:
      • Student Overnights – Sleepovers with subjects like ancient Egypt and chemistry.
      • Girls Exploring Math and Science (GEMS) – Hands-on science and math experiments.
      • Corporate Teambuilding events.
      • International travel opportunities.
      • Behind-the-scenes tours.
  • What can visitors expect at the George Observatory?
    • Located in Needville, Texas, the George Observatory houses three domed telescopes.
    • The 36-inch Gueymard Research Telescope is one of the largest regularly available for public viewing in the U.S.
    • Depending on the season, visitors can observe:
      • Saturn’s rings
      • The Milky Way
      • Jupiter’s cloud belt
  • How can visitors plan their trip to the Houston Museum of Natural Science?
    • Visitors should check the Museum’s website for:
      • Exhibit hours
      • Admission costs
      • Special events
      • Accessibility information
    • The Houston Museum of Natural Science is located at:
      • 5555 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030
      • Phone: 713-639-4629

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