Located an hour south of Houston, Texas, and just 15 minutes from the Gulf of Mexico, the town of Lake Jackson sits in the middle of a number of exciting and educational attractions for visitors. While many tourists may find the lure of the warm gulf waters too tempting, you don't want to miss out on museums, cultural centers and parks.
Located less than 10 minutes from the center of Lake Jackson, the Brazospot Center for the Arts and Sciences houses a planetarium, museum and symphony space. The planetarium features showings on Saturdays throughout the year and special weekday showings to private groups and school groups. The museum specializes in natural history, and according to its website, features the largest shell collection in the southern United States as well as dinosaur skeletons and other geological finds. The Brazosport Symphony Orchestra calls the symphony space home and is composed of local volunteer musicians.
Brazosport Center for the Arts and Sciences
400 College Blvd.
Clute, TX 77531
979-265-7661
bcfas.org
Housed in a 12,000-square-foot space, the Lake Jackson Historical Museum educates visitors on the history of the town as well as the surrounding area. The museum focuses on four different eras--prehistoric, plantation, industrial development and the founding of town. Along with the indoor complex, the museum also maintains the Jackson Plantation, a sugar plantation owned in the 19th century by Major Abner Jackson. As of 2010, the plantation is closed to visitors as the museum restores the entrance.
Lake Jackson Historical Museum
249 Circle Way
Lake Jackson, TX 77566
979-297-1570
lakejacksonmuseum.org/
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge sits just 15 minutes to the east of Lake Jackson. Many plant and animal species call the 5,000 acres of land home. The area offers activities such as wildlife viewing, hunting, fishing, hiking trails and photography. Educational opportunities lie in the Discovery Center outside of which guests venture across a boardwalk with benches and perfect spots for bird watching. The refuge's staff and volunteers offer educational programs for visiting school groups, which feature a hands-on approach to education. The refuge also offers a self-guided tour by car that spans seven miles. The area opens for visitors at dawn and closes at dusk every day.
Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge
24907 FM 2004
Angleton, TX 77515
979-964-4011
fws.gov
