Mayborn Museum Complex
Discover science, natural history, and a 19th-century village with interactive exhibits for all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Mayborn Museum Complex
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover science, natural history, and a 19th-century village with interactive exhibits for all ages.
"So much to see and do for little ones and bigger kids had fun as well!"
🎯 Start Upstairs with Kids
For families with young children, begin on the second floor for immediate engagement.
🎟️ Consider a Membership
If you're local or plan multiple visits, a membership offers great value.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Interactive Discovery Rooms
Second Floor
Hands-on exhibits designed for younger children, sparking curiosity and play.
Natural History Dioramas
First Floor
Immersive walk-in dioramas showcasing Texas wildlife and ancient creatures.
19th-Century Village
First Floor
Step back in time to explore a historic village with authentic buildings and artifacts.
Bubble Room
Second Floor
A fan-favorite spot, especially for toddlers, offering endless bubble fun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit: Timing is Key
Tickets & Memberships for Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Start Upstairs with Kids
For families with young children, begin on the second floor for immediate engagement.
🎟️ Consider a Membership
If you're local or plan multiple visits, a membership offers great value.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You can easily spend 3+ hours here; don't rush your exploration!
🧼 Don't Miss the Bubble Room!
A guaranteed hit for little ones, it's a highlight for many visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Start Upstairs with Kids
For families with young children, begin on the second floor for immediate engagement.
🎟️ Consider a Membership
If you're local or plan multiple visits, a membership offers great value.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You can easily spend 3+ hours here; don't rush your exploration!
🧼 Don't Miss the Bubble Room!
A guaranteed hit for little ones, it's a highlight for many visitors.
🎒 Pack Light for Toddlers
As kids get older, you might be able to ditch the bulky diaper bag.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Mayborn Museum Complex for its engaging and interactive exhibits that appeal to a wide age range, from toddlers to adults. The hands-on nature of the displays, particularly in the discovery rooms and the historical village, is a major draw. While some note that the food options are limited to snacks, the overall experience is highly recommended for family outings and educational trips.
"They have a pretty cool exhibit on Etruscan stuff right now, so there's something here for every age range. There are play areas upstairs for younger children, as well as exhibits downstairs for more advanced kids; younger kids should still be able to enjoy the exhibits downstairs, they just might not get as much out of it as older kids do. The gift shop is alright; they have lots of the Audubon plush birds! Plus a little area to grab some packaged snacks if you get hungry."
Catsur na
"The museum has a lot of activities that children will enjoy. It’s possible to spend more than 3 hours here, plenty of interactive exhibits too."
Jesse Vedad Haghi
"This Museum was very fun and fascinating the kids had a blast even us adults had a blast their were so many things to do and learn the exhibits were by far very interesting the kids play areas were so cute and my daughter really enjoyed them my girls baby sister enjoys the crafts area and I personally enjoyed their new Cats and Dogs exhibit I highly recommend visiting this Museum with the family or by yourself."
Miah Dee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mayborn Museum Complex is located on the Baylor University campus at 1300 S University Parks Dr, Waco, TX. It's easily accessible by car, and parking is generally available.
Yes, parking is typically available near the museum. It's advisable to check the museum's official website for the most current parking information and any associated fees.
Information on public transportation routes to the museum can be found on the Waco Transit System website. It's always a good idea to check schedules in advance.
The museum is generally stroller-friendly, with elevators and ramps to access different levels.
From downtown Waco, you can take University Parks Drive directly to the museum. It's a straightforward drive, often taking less than 10 minutes depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are generally around $10 for adults and $8 for children, but it's best to check the official Mayborn Museum website for the most up-to-date pricing.
Yes, discounts may be available through programs like the Pogo Pass, or for specific groups. Keep an eye out for special promotions mentioned by visitors.
While specific free days aren't widely advertised, it's worth checking the museum's calendar for any community outreach events or special promotions that might offer free or reduced admission.
It's highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance to save time and ensure entry, especially during peak seasons or special events. Check the official Mayborn Museum website for online ticketing options.
The Mayborn Museum Complex typically operates Tuesday through Saturday, with varying hours. It's essential to check their official website for the most current Mayborn Museum hours before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the interactive Discovery Rooms for kids, immersive natural history dioramas, the 19th-century village, and the popular bubble room. +2
Absolutely! The second-floor Discovery Rooms and the bubble room are particularly engaging for toddlers.
Most visitors find they can spend 3 hours or more exploring the museum, and some still don't see everything.
Yes, the museum is known for its numerous hands-on exhibits, including craft areas and interactive displays throughout both floors. +1
The Mayborn Museum often features special exhibits, including a 'Scooby-Doo' mystery-solving exhibit that is included with general admission. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum has a gift shop that also offers a small selection of packaged snacks. For full meals, you'll need to dine outside the museum.
The museum is located near Baylor University, so there are many dining options in the surrounding area, from casual cafes to restaurants.
Typically, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum exhibits. It's best to consume them in designated areas or before entering.
Yes, Waco has many family-friendly restaurants. Consider places with diverse menus that cater to children's tastes.
The gift shop usually stocks a variety of packaged snacks, which can be convenient for a quick bite.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography is allowed for non-commercial use. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits.
The 19th-century village, the natural history dioramas, and the interactive exhibits offer great photo opportunities. The bubble room is also a popular spot for fun shots.
Video recording for personal use is usually permitted, but always be mindful of other visitors and any specific museum policies.
Drones are typically not allowed inside museums or on university campuses. Always check local regulations before flying drones in public areas.
Visitors often share photos of their children interacting with exhibits, the historical village, and the unique displays like the sound tree.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
+1 Many visitors suggest starting your visit on this floor to immediately capture your child's attention and let them explore at their own pace. Beyond the dedicated play areas, the museum's general exhibits, like the 19th-century village and the natural history dioramas, can also be engaging for curious toddlers and preschoolers. The museum is generally stroller-friendly, making navigation easier. Consider visiting on a weekday morning for a less crowded experience.
🎒 Budget-Conscious Travelers
📚 Homeschooling Families
The interactive discovery rooms and the 19th-century village offer tangible ways for children to connect with historical and scientific concepts. Special events like STEMfest are particularly valuable for homeschool groups, offering themed activities that reinforce learning in a fun, collaborative environment.
Many families use the museum as a field trip destination, appreciating the opportunity for children to learn through exploration and discovery outside the traditional classroom setting. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Mayborn Museum's Diverse Exhibits
The second floor is geared towards interactive learning and discovery, featuring hands-on exhibits designed to engage visitors of all ages. This area includes the highly popular bubble room, a guaranteed hit for younger children, and various discovery rooms that encourage exploration and play. The museum also hosts rotating special exhibits, ensuring there's always something new to experience.
+1Beyond the permanent collections, the Mayborn Museum is a hub for educational programming. They host events like STEMfest, which focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math through engaging activities. This commitment to interactive learning makes the Mayborn Museum a dynamic destination for families and curious minds alike.
Making the Most of Your Visit with Kids
For older children, the first floor offers engaging exhibits on natural history and the 19th-century village. The museum's design encourages exploration, and visitors often note that even younger children can enjoy the exhibits downstairs, though they might not grasp all the details. The inclusion of special exhibits, like the 'Scooby-Doo' mystery, adds an extra layer of fun and engagement for various age groups.
To ensure a smooth experience, consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds. The museum's layout is conducive to spending several hours, so plan accordingly. The gift shop also offers a small selection of snacks, which can be helpful for quick refueling.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit