Austin: From Weird to Wonderful - A Museum Hopping Adventure for the Curious Soul
So you're in Austin, Texas, land of breakfast tacos, live music, and...museums? That's right, buckle up history buffs, art aficionados, and those who just really like looking at cool stuff, because Austin's got a museum menagerie that'll tickle your fancy.
From Presidents to Peculiarities: Austin's Hall of Fame (of Halls)
-
Living in the White...House (Kinda): Ever wondered what it's like to be President? Stick your toe in the Oval Office replica at the LBJ Presidential Library and learn all about Lyndon B. Johnson's legacy. Bonus points for practicing your best Texas drawl.
-
Texas: Bigger Than Your History Book: Brush up on your Alamo knowledge (or lack thereof) at the Bullock Texas State History Museum. Important Note: Texas history is a whole other beast, so be prepared to have your mind blown by tales of cowboys, oil barons, and maybe even some Bigfoot sightings.
-
The Weird, the Wonderful, and the Downright Strange: Austin's got a museum for that too! The Museum of the Weird is a must-see for those who appreciate the bizarre and the unexplained. Think two-headed calves, shrunken heads, and enough oddities to fuel your nightmares (or conversation starters, at least).
Art Aficionados Assemble!
-
Classy with a Splash of Texas: The Blanton Museum of Art boasts the largest art collection in Central Texas. From European masterpieces to modern marvels, there's something for every artistic taste. Plus, they might have some sweet air conditioning, which is a Texas-sized perk in the summer.
-
Modern Muse Approved: Looking for something a little less traditional? The Contemporary Austin has two locations showcasing innovative and thought-provoking contemporary art. Be prepared to have your mind bent and your perspective challenged.
-
Sculptures Under the Texas Sun: Take a stroll through the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum, a beautiful outdoor haven featuring sculptures by Charles Umlauf and visiting artists. Pack a picnic basket and make a day of it!
Beyond the Big Names: Austin's Hidden Gems
Austin's got a museum for just about everything, so here's a taste of the unexpected:
-
Thinkery: The Science of Fun: Got a curious kiddo in tow? Thinkery is an interactive children's museum where they can play, learn, and maybe even discover their inner scientist (or mad scientist, no judgment).
-
Mexic-Arte Museum: Immerse yourself in Latino art and culture at the Mexic-Arte Museum. Exhibits celebrate the rich artistic heritage of Mexico and the Mexican-American community.
-
The Elisabet Ney Museum: Step back in time and explore the life and work of sculptor Elisabet Ney. This historic house museum is a hidden gem for history and art lovers alike.
This is just a taste of the many museums Austin has to offer. So, lace up your walking shoes, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore the weird, the wonderful, and the downright fascinating in Austin's museum scene!
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
