The Austin Nature and Science Center in Zilker Park is a small but appealing natural history and wildlife rehabilitation centre, particularly well-suited for families with children. The exhibits cover the natural history of the Texas Hill Country — geology, native plants, reptiles, birds, and mammals — with live animal displays featuring injured wildlife that cannot be released back to the wild.
The Native Wildlife gallery typically includes eagles, owls, and other raptors; snakes and turtles from the local environment; and a variety of small mammals. The Dino Pit — an outdoor sandbox where children can excavate replica dinosaur bones — is a reliable crowd-pleaser. The centre is free to enter, though donations are welcomed. The surrounding grounds connect to the hiking trails of Zilker Park and provide easy access to Barton Springs Pool.