What is Space Center Houston?
This number-one attraction for international visitors is also a favorite of Houstonians. It is the official visitor’s center of NASA Johnson Space Center, and its 250,000 square feet will keep you enthralled at every turn. Gaze up at a towering SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, imagine yourself wearing one of the famous astronaut flight suits on display in the Starship Gallery, and stand at the lectern where John F. Kennedy delivered his “Moonshot” speech. You can even climb into the shuttle replica Independence atop an original NASA 905 shuttle aircraft carrier—it’s the world’s only shuttle and carrier open to the public.
Is Space Center Houston worth visiting?
With virtual reality simulator experiences, simulator rides, and a replica of the shuttle Independence, Space Center Houston is fun for people of all ages. It’s educational and awe-inspiring, and everyone from space enthusiasts to the merely curious will find something to love here. From the moment “Houston, we have a problem” was uttered by Apollo 12 astronaut and commander James Lovell, this city has become synonymous with space, so don’t miss the opportunity to discover why.
What’s the best way to see Space Center Houston?
Parking is easy and free, and even bus and camper parking is available. Once you enter the facility, you’ll want to purchase a boarding pass for the Historic Mission Control tram tour. You’ll visit the actual mission control facility behind both the Gemini and Apollo missions, as well as the first lunar landing mission. Two other tram tours are available at no additional cost: the Astronaut Training Facility tour and the George W.S. Abbey Rocket tour, so if you have time, check them out!
What’s good to eat near Space Center Houston?
You don’t have to leave Space Center to find great food, and if you want to stay on theme, grab lunch at the Food Lab, an on-site market and eatery that operates like a food court. The Outer Crust, Velocity Grill, Galaxy Greens, and Deep Space Deli ensure that there’s something for every taste. If you’d like to explore the Clear Lake area, Tokyo Bowl and Seabrook Classic Café are nearby.
