Attractions

Exhibits feature space science plus geology, archaeology and natural history. Open 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Mon.–Sat. and 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Sun. Admission charge. 1 Hermann Circle Drive, in Hermann Park. www.hmns.org. Of special interest are:

Burke Baker Planetarium — A planetarium that reproduces celestial patterns as they would be seen from any point on earth or in space. Celestial shows (fee) 1, 2 and 3 p.m. Mon.–Fri. and every half-hour 1–3:30 p.m. Sat.–Sun. Weekend evenings feature entertaining rock 'n' roll laser shows (fee). Planetarium also houses an array of scientific exhibits. 713/639-4629.

Cockrell Butterfly Center — A six-story glass cone houses about 2,000 live butterflies flying amid a tropical rain forest. Visitors can stroll within the 25,000 square-foot area to view flowers, medicinal plants, giant trees, a 40-foot waterfall and scores of exotic butterflies. Open daily. 713/639-4600.

Lillie and Roy Cullen Gallery of Earth Science — Displays the Sams Collection of more than 600 rare mineral specimens and hundreds of gemstones and the Cockrell Hall of Minerals with some of the best examples of gems and minerals from around the globe. There also is a Hall of Fluorescent Minerals and Hall of Gems and Jewelry.

Wortham IMAX Theatre — Features exciting films projected onto a six-story-tall screen. Shows are hourly 10 a.m.–8 p.m. Mon.–Thu., 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri.–Sat. and noon–8 p.m. Sun. 713/639-4629.