HMNS Events

Three times a year, HMNS offers Sensory Friendly events where exhibits and venues are modified for those with sensory sensitivities. Exhibits and venues are modified to create a sensory neutral environment. The Burke Baker Planetarium and Wortham Giant Screen Theatre also offer modified 2D shows with house lights on and the volume reduced. Sensory Backpacks, which include ear defenders, sunglasses, and fidgets, are available to check out with an ID at the Museum Services Desk, and Touch Carts with tactile specimens to explore will be available throughout the museum’s permanent exhibit halls. To pre-register for free permanent exhibit hall entry, please click the link below.

2024 Event dates:

• Saturday, April 27, 2024: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
• Saturday, September 28, 2024: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
• Monday, December 2, 2024: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Individuals with disabilities and their families will receive free admission to the Permanent Exhibit halls for Sensory Friendly Events at HMNS! To pre-register for these events and to book your visit please click the “Pre-Register” button below or email us at accessprogramming@hmns.org.

There are currently no upcoming events related to King Tut’s Tomb Discovery Experience.

Please check back later for updates.

Ring in the New Year surrounded by the magic of the Houston Museum of Natural Science! Dance among the dinosaurs, savor delicious food on the sundial while counting down the moments, or share a romantic kiss under the stars in the Planetarium. Enjoy live music from the Joilux Band and DJ Hype. Celebrate midnight with snow falling over the sundial and confetti filling the Grand Hall and Glassell Hall. This enchanting evening is the perfect way to start your year with unforgettable memories!

General tickets only: Purchase your champagne toast wristband at the box office or online for just $12, and visit the designated champagne locations near midnight to pick up your celebratory toast!

Looking for a more exclusive experience? Our VIP package offers access to two private VIP areas—the Morian Hall of Paleontology Overlook and a section of the Gems and Minerals Hall. Enjoy a complimentary drink ticket, a champagne toast at midnight, and a food voucher redeemable at any sundial food vendor. Celebrate in style and make your night unforgettable!

VIP Menu Coming Soon

*Explore all first and second-floor exhibits, open exclusively for this event.

*Enjoy continuous shows throughout the night in the Burke Baker Planetarium, culminating in a special midnight countdown. Free for all attendees.

*Wortham Giant Screen Theatre will be playing The Great Gatsby (2013) on a continuous loop during the event, also free of charge.

*Additional exhibits will open as guest attendance grows to accommodate the flow of the event and enhance the experience for all attendees.

Please note – This event is for adults 21 or older.

To provide increased safety for our beloved guests (you), law enforcement will be using metal detection wands to briefly scan each party-goer on their way in.

No outside alcohol will be allowed into the museum.

HMNS is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. With that in mind, the museum security staff has implemented additional security measures ahead of Mixers and Elixirs: New Year’s Eve. We encourage attendees to arrive early to allow extra time to get into the special event. You and your belongings may be searched upon entry. If you elect not to consent to the searches, you will be denied entry into the museum.