Temporary Closure 

As part of the Barton Springs Bathhouse Rehabilitations project, the Beverly S. Sheffield Education Center is closed for renovation.  Renovation construction will begin in February 2024 through spring 2025. The Beverly S. Sheffield Education Center team will use this time to disassemble the exhibit and move out before construction begins. For more information, visit the Barton Springs Bathhouse Rehabilitation project page.

Past Exhibits

Splash! Into the Edwards Aquifer Exhibit 

Enter into a simulated limestone cave to experience the mysteries of Barton Springs and the Edwards Aquifer. Learn about the inner workings of the aquifer and why it is Austin’s most important natural resource through multi media displays, interactive exhibits and games. Native species on display demonstrate the diversity of life dependent on water quality of local springs, creeks, and rivers.

Living Springs 

A small theater inside the exhibit is home to Living Springs, a documentary series in which viewers can access several dozen videos that tell the story of the Springs from many different perspectives.  For more information or to view the series online, visit livingspringsaustin.org

Living Springs, a documentary about Barton Springs

 

Delicate Balance: Metamorphosis of the Monarch Butterfly

Opening June 15th, 2023 Delicate Balance: Metamorphosis of the Monarch Butterfly. Come see the photography of Theresa DiMenno featuring intimate portraits of the iconic Monarch Butterfly throughout its mesmerizing metamorphosis from caterpillar to butterfly. On view at the BSSEC through September 3rd, 2023.

Zebra Mussels 

Learn about the negative impacts of invasive species on our native habitats can be devastating. Zebra mussels are no different but present an even greater challenge to our aquatic ecosystems. Visit the Beverly Sheffield Education Center to learn more about this uninvited visitor and meet a few of our native freshwater mussels. 

Zany Zilker

Learn strange and unexpected stories from Zilker Park’s history, including how Barton Springs got its name and where the reptile farm used to be. 

Zany Zilker, tap icons to learn about the history of Zilker Park