Photographer: Kevin Stillman

Away from the hustle and bustle of the downtown area on the campus of Laredo Community College, this oasis offers a learning experience about plants and animals found in the Rio Grande Watershed. Four outdoor ponds feature a breeding pair of American alligators in one area, large gar, catfish and bass in another, one with five species of turtles, and another featuring a wetland area where young alligators are placed. The planted area includes more than 50 types of native vegetation numbered for easy identification. A cactus garden, wildflower hill, and two areas of South Texas brush plants can also be examined. Indoors, species of fish, amphibians, reptiles and rodents are displayed in aquaria and terraria. On Laredo Community College Campus at West End Washington St. Admission fee.

Now home to a new state-of-the-art planetarium, one of only 50 in the world. This planetarium offers an immersion viewing experience. All sights and sounds are created digitally with breathtaking 3-D images covering a full dome screen and surround sound enveloping viewers. Housed within a 3-story glass pyramid. Special sky shows and telescope nights offer a hands-on look at the South Texas night sky. 5201 University Blvd. 956/326-2001. www.tamiu.edu/coas/planetarium.