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Top 10 Austin Area Museums

By , About.com Guide

Austin is not only home to the University of Texas and the Texas State Capitol, the city also boasts an impressive number of museums. From state history to natural sciences, an unbelievable amount of information is showcased in an entertaining and informative manner at Austin's top museums.

1. Bob Bullock Story of Texas Museum

Bob Bullock MuseumDanno Wise
Many visitors to Austin, the Texas state capital city, are intrigued by the history of the Lone Star State. Luckily for them, the city is also home to the Bob Bullock Story of Texas Museum, which encapsulates the state's history and showcases it via a variety of interactive exhibits.

2. LBJ Library and Museum

Dedicated to former President Lyndon B. Johnson, the LBJ Library and Museum houses a variety of permanent exhibits - including a White House exhibit - as well as several temporary showcases, making it one of Austin's best tourist stops.

3. Texas Music Museum

The Texas Music Museum in Austin is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the musical history of Texas, as well as the contributions of Texas musicians to the national and world music scene.

4. Austin Children's Museum

The Austin's Children's Museum is THE place to take the kids while visiting Austin - the perfect place to learn and have fun.

5. Austin Nature and Science Center

The Austin Nature and Science Center provides nature exhibits and educational information for groups and individuals visiting Austin.

6. Austin Museum of Art

Located in downtown Austin, the Austin Museum of Art provides over 5,000 square feet of ever-changing visual art exhibits.

7. Elisabet Ney Museum

The Austin area home and studio of famed sculptor Elisabet Ney has been preserved as a museum, displaying her works, furnishings and tools.

8. Mexic-Arte Museum

Austin's Mexic-Arte Museum was founded in 1983 to preserve and promote traditional and contemporary Mexican and Latino art.

9. Capitol Visitors Center

Located on the grounds of the Texas State Capitol Complex, the Capitol Visitors Center is housed in the 1856-57 General Land Office building. Today, this historic building houses a number of displays showcasing the history of Texas and tells the story of the Capitol building itself.

10. Texas Natural Science Center

The Texas Natural Science Center is home to a variety of displays and exhibits showcasing Texas wildlife from pre-historic to modern times. The museum is housed on the University of Texas campus and often hosts well-known speakers and presenters.

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