Indoors or out, always a hit!
1 / 10

Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary

4.5
·922 reviews·McKinney, United States

Discover dinosaurs, explore nature trails, and step back in time at this unique science museum and wildlife sanctuary.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall Mornings

Pleasant weather for trails

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Indoors or out, always a hit!

Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary

Best Time

Spring & Fall Mornings

Pleasant weather for trails

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover dinosaurs, explore nature trails, and step back in time at this unique science museum and wildlife sanctuary.

4.5
(922 reviews)

"A fantastic blend of nature, history, and thrilling animatronic dinosaurs for the whole family!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Check Exhibit Schedules

Popular exhibits like 'Dinosaurs Live!' and 'Bugs Live!' have specific dates. Plan ahead!

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be exploring trails and exhibits, so good walking shoes are a must.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dinosaurs Live!

Dinosaurs Live!

Outdoor Exhibit

Roam among life-sized, animatronic dinosaurs that roar and move – a thrilling experience for all ages!

Bugs Live!

Bugs Live!

Outdoor Exhibit

Explore the fascinating world of insects through giant, colorful animatronic displays.

Nature Trails & Wildlife Sanctuary

Nature Trails & Wildlife Sanctuary

Outdoor Trails

Wander through beautiful trails, spot native Texas wildlife, and enjoy the serene gardens.

1880s Prairie Village

1880s Prairie Village

Outdoor Exhibit

Step back in time and explore a charming collection of historic buildings.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Dinosaurs & Bugs

The Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary features popular seasonal exhibits like 'Dinosaurs Live!' and 'Bugs Live!' which draw crowds. Check their schedule for these and plan your visit accordingly to maximize your experience, especially if traveling with kids.

Embrace the Outdoors

Much of the Heard Museum's appeal lies in its extensive nature trails and outdoor exhibits. Wear comfortable shoes and consider bringing insect repellent, especially during warmer months, to fully enjoy the wildlife sanctuary and its diverse flora and fauna.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall Mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for trails
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends during 'Bugs Live!'
Why
Experience the popular exhibit
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Holidays at the Heard is just 3 weeks away! Be sure to get your tickets now. Link in bio. Holidays at the Heard brings the beauty of the holiday season into nature. Bundle up your family, get out of the house, and experience the most unique family-friendly holiday event in North Texas. @NBCDFW @Visit McKinney #dfw #mckinneytx #texas #holidays
@heardnsm
127 likes • 1.9K views

🎟️ Check Exhibit Schedules

Popular exhibits like 'Dinosaurs Live!' and 'Bugs Live!' have specific dates. Plan ahead! Instagram

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be exploring trails and exhibits, so good walking shoes are a must. Instagram

DID YOU KNOW THERE IS A BUTTERFLY GARDEN IN MCKINNEY? 🦋💛 📍 1 Nature Pl, McKinney, TX 75069 We stumbled upon it at the Heard Museum & honestly… walking among all these fluttering beauties is so precious.🌸✨ We even made a stop at the dinosaur trail 🦖 first, so it really was the best of both worlds! 📅 Open June 8 – Sept 28, 2024 🎟️ 6+ Adults $16 | 3-12 Kids $12 | 2 & under FREE #native #texas #butte...
@rubys_foodies
267 likes • 6.8K views
Join us this weekend for an adventure in nature with life-size dinosaurs and much more! 📍Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, McKinney, TX
heardmuseum_connectwithnature
32 likes • 899 views

☀️ Pack Sunscreen & Repellent

Protect yourself from the Texas sun and any pesky insects on the nature trails. Reddit

🧺 Picnic Lunch Option

Bring your own food and enjoy a meal by the pond or at designated picnic areas. Reddit

NOW OPEN! Step into the fascinating world of insects at the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary near Dallas! 🦋🐜 Their brand-new outdoor adventure, Bugs Live, running from March 15th to June 29th, takes you on an unforgettable journey through the colorful and diverse world of insects. This attraction brings nature to life through giant animatronic bugs. Whether you’re a nature enthu...
thetexasfamily
1.8K likes • 67.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Check Exhibit Schedules

Popular exhibits like 'Dinosaurs Live!' and 'Bugs Live!' have specific dates. Plan ahead! Instagram

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be exploring trails and exhibits, so good walking shoes are a must. Instagram

☀️ Pack Sunscreen & Repellent

Protect yourself from the Texas sun and any pesky insects on the nature trails. Reddit

🧺 Picnic Lunch Option

Bring your own food and enjoy a meal by the pond or at designated picnic areas. Reddit

🚗 Easy Parking Available

Ample parking is usually available, making your arrival smooth. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(922 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary for its engaging outdoor exhibits, particularly the life-sized dinosaurs and fascinating bug displays. The well-maintained nature trails and the charming 1880s prairie village are also frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects of the visit. While generally positive, some visitors note the desire for more companions for the resident animals.

"It was amazing! I had a great time! The trails are so beautiful, and the museum is very kid friendly. The butterfly exhibit was gorgeous. Its a pretty easy trail to take if you're just getting into hiking/walking trails. There's a bit of up and down, but its very clearly marked. The employees were all very kind and well educated. I do hope they get a little friend for the racoon, though!"

Stephanie LeBlanc

"Even on the rainy day we chose to come to the museum, we had a great time! Our toddler loved seeing the dinosaurs and the animals that they have, and loved walking around the wooden village."

Eden Wood

"Lots of fun! Great museum space indoors and outdoors. Well- kept trails. Fun anamatronic dinosaurs are a bonus"

Doris Weiner

What People Like

Life-sized animatronic dinosaurs
Engaging 'Bugs Live!' exhibit
Beautiful nature trails

What People Dislike

Animal companion requests

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary is located in McKinney, TX. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors mention it as a great day trip from Dallas. Instagram+1

Public transportation options to the Heard Museum are limited. It is best accessed by car. Consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving. Instagram

From Dallas, take US-75 North to exit 41 for TX-5 N/Virginia St. Turn left onto Virginia St, then right onto Country Club Dr. The museum will be on your right. Always check a GPS for real-time traffic. Instagram

Yes, the Heard Museum is generally stroller friendly, especially on the main trails and indoor exhibits. Some of the more rugged nature trails might be challenging with a stroller, so a stroller with larger wheels is recommended. Instagram

Typically, only service animals are permitted at the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary. Please check their official policy for the most current information. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary based on age and special exhibits. It's recommended to check the official Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary website for the most up-to-date admission fees and to purchase tickets in advance. Reddit

The museum sometimes offers special promotions, like free admission for bringing plastic bags or bottles during Texas Recycles Day. Keep an eye on their social media and website for any available discounts. Instagram

Operating hours can vary seasonally and for special events. It's best to consult the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary's official website for their current hours of operation before your visit. Instagram

While not always mandatory, booking Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or for popular exhibits like 'Dinosaurs Live!' to ensure entry. Instagram

General admission typically includes access to the indoor museum exhibits, the outdoor nature trails, and the wildlife sanctuary. Special ticketed events or exhibits may require an additional fee. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors can explore life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, a 'Bugs Live!' exhibit with giant insect displays, an 1880s prairie village, and extensive nature trails with native Texas wildlife. Instagram+2

The 'Dinosaurs Live!' exhibit features life-sized, moving, and roaring animatronic dinosaurs, not actual fossils. It's an immersive experience designed to bring these ancient creatures to life. Instagram+1

The sanctuary is home to native Texas wildlife, including deer, various bird species, and other small animals. The nature trails offer opportunities for spotting these creatures in their natural habitat. Instagram+1

Yes, toddlers often enjoy the Heard Museum, especially the dinosaurs, the prairie village, and the indoor exhibits. There's also a small play area and sandbox mentioned by visitors. Instagram

A visit can range from 2-4 hours, depending on how much time you spend on the nature trails and exploring each exhibit. Some visitors have hiked up to 4 miles of trails. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary typically has a small gift shop that may offer snacks or drinks. However, many visitors recommend packing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is a popular option. There are designated picnic areas, and it's a great way to save money and enjoy the natural surroundings. Reddit

McKinney, TX, has a variety of restaurants located a short drive from the Heard Museum, offering diverse dining options if you prefer to eat out. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The animatronic dinosaurs, the 'Bugs Live!' displays, the 1880s prairie village, and the scenic nature trails all offer fantastic photo opportunities. The butterfly exhibit is also a popular spot. Instagram+1

Photography is generally allowed for personal use at the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permission. Instagram

Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer lighting for photography on the nature trails. During special events like 'Holidays at the Heard,' the illuminated lights provide unique nighttime photo ops. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary is a fantastic destination for families. The 'Dinosaurs Live!' and 'Bugs Live!' exhibits are huge hits with children, offering interactive and exciting encounters with life-sized creatures. Instagram The 1880s Prairie Village provides a fun, historical element, and the nature trails are perfect for little explorers to discover wildlife. InstagramReddit

Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, and ensure everyone has comfortable shoes for walking. The indoor museum also has a small play area that toddlers often love. It's a great place for kids to learn and have fun outdoors.

🚶‍♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers

For those who love the outdoors, the Heard Museum's extensive nature trails are a major draw. With over 6 miles of paths, you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of North Texas, spotting native wildlife like deer and birds. Instagram+1 The trails are generally well-maintained and offer varying levels of difficulty, making them accessible for most fitness levels. Reddit

Remember to pack essentials like water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. The gardens and pond areas also provide peaceful spots to relax and enjoy the scenery. It's an ideal location for a refreshing hike combined with educational exhibits.

📚 Educational Visitors

The Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary offers a rich educational experience for all ages. The interactive exhibits, from the roaring dinosaurs to the detailed insect displays, are designed to be both entertaining and informative. Instagram+1 The 1880s Prairie Village provides historical context, and the wildlife sanctuary offers a living classroom for understanding local ecosystems. Instagram

Staff are often described as knowledgeable and helpful, enhancing the learning experience. It's a perfect spot for school field trips or anyone looking to deepen their understanding of natural science and local history.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Wildlife Sanctuary

The Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary boasts over 6 miles of nature trails winding through diverse habitats, including forests, meadows, and wetlands. These trails are perfect for spotting native Texas wildlife like white-tailed deer, various bird species, and smaller mammals. Visitors often describe the trails as well-marked and manageable, even for those new to hiking. Instagram+1

Remember to wear comfortable shoes and consider bringing binoculars for a closer look at the fauna. The sanctuary also features beautiful gardens and a pond, offering serene spots for reflection or a picnic. It's a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature and experience the local ecosystem firsthand. Reddit

Seasonal Exhibits: Dinosaurs & Bugs

Two of the most popular attractions at the Heard Museum are its seasonal outdoor exhibits: 'Dinosaurs Live!' and 'Bugs Live!'. 'Dinosaurs Live!' brings prehistoric giants to life with life-sized, animatronic dinosaurs that move and roar, creating an immersive experience akin to stepping into a mini Jurassic Park. Instagram+1

The 'Bugs Live!' exhibit, running for a limited time, showcases the fascinating world of insects through giant, colorful animatronic displays. These exhibits are a huge draw for families and are often highlighted in visitor reviews for their engaging and educational nature. It's advisable to check the museum's schedule for the availability of these exhibits and plan your visit accordingly, as they can attract significant crowds. Instagram+2

A Glimpse into the Past: 1880s Prairie Village

Step back in time at the Heard Natural Science Museum's 1880s Prairie Village. This charming outdoor exhibit features a collection of historic buildings that offer a glimpse into pioneer life in North Texas. Visitors can explore structures like a one-room schoolhouse, a general store, and a blacksmith shop, providing a tangible connection to the region's past. Reddit

This exhibit is particularly engaging for children, allowing them to imagine life in a different era. It complements the museum's focus on natural science by showcasing the human history intertwined with the Texas landscape. The village is well-maintained and offers a unique educational experience alongside the wildlife and dinosaur exhibits. Instagram

You may also like