Our Mission
The mission of the Houston Museum of Natural Science shall be to preserve and advance the general knowledge of natural science; to enhance in individuals the knowledge of and delight in natural science and related subjects; and to maintain and promote a museum of the first class.
The Houston Museum of Natural Science was founded in 1909 on the idea that science can enhance everyone’s lives. We continue to pursue our mission in every project, program and exhibition. In fact, over half a million school children visit on field trips every year, including every fourth and seventh grade class in Houston Independent School District.
As one of the most heavily attended museums in the United States, and a favorite thing to do in Houston, HMNS at Hermann Park has five floors of permanent exhibits, spanning astronomy, space science, Native American culture, paleontology, energy, chemistry, geology, seashells and Texas wildlife, alongside a slew of rotating special exhibitions. HMNS also houses three other venues: the Burke Baker Planetarium, Wortham Giant Screen Theatre and Cockrell Butterfly Center.
The Museum also maintains two satellite facilities: The George Observatory in Fort Bend County, which houses one of the largest public telescopes in the country; and the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land, which has exhibits on dinosaurs, physics and a newly opened Hall of Technology.
For a profile and overview of the Houston Museum of Natural Science, view our 2019 HMNS Fact Sheet and Profile.
Flash photography is ONLY allowed in the Grand Hall and the rainforest of the Cockrell Butterfly Center.
Selfie sticks, tripods and camera stands are not allowed anywhere in HMNS, HMNS at Sugar Land and the George Observatory.
Photography is not allowed in certain exhibitions. Please check for signs by the exhibit entrance for more information or ask a museum employee.
