When asked why people should visit the Texas Memorial Museum, Dr. Ed Theriot, professor, diatom wrangler and director of the Texas Natural Science Center, said, “Whether they like dinosaurs and fossils or gems and minerals, or are curious about evolution or Texas wildlife, everybody finds a ‘wow,’ a personal connection.”

In the photos above, explore the Texas Memorial Museum’s exhibits of Texas wildlife, fossils, dinosaur remains and more.

“Looking at the 30-foot Mosasaur with its four-inch teeth, which was found in South Austin, and realizing that 65 million years ago, it swam in the exact spot where they are standing. It’s astounding and humbling, and it makes you think,” Theriot said.