Space Center Houston

Science museum · Clear Lake

Space Center Houston

Science museum · Clear Lake

3

1601 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX 77058

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Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null
Space Center Houston by null

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Space artifacts, rockets, astronaut suits, and interactive exhibits  

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1601 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX 77058 Get directions

spacecenter.org

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1601 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX 77058 Get directions

+1 281 244 2100
spacecenter.org
SpaceCenterHouston
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@SpaceCenterHou

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Aug 20, 2025

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@travelleisure

10 Best Aviation Museums in the U.S.

"Serving as the visitor center for the NASA Johnson Space Center, this destination focuses on space exploration with cutting-edge exhibits and experiences. Its collection exceeds 400 space artifacts—must-sees include a SpaceX Falcon 9 and the Apollo 13 lithium hydroxide canister prototype—and it houses the world's most comprehensive assemblage of astronaut apparel and spacesuits, including the suit worn on the Apollo 12 moonwalk by Pete Conrad." - Lydia Mansel Lydia Mansel Lydia Mansel is a writer with more than eight years of experience editing and writing for both brands and online publications—with a particular focus on travel, fashion, and lifestyle. She’s also the founder of the travel site justpacked.com.  Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-aviation-museums-in-the-us-11748082
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@travelleisure

20 Things to Do in Houston — From Rodeos to Art Museums

"Get inspired by paying a visit to Space Center Houston, where science comes to life. From its NASA tram tour to its space suit collection, it will have you yearning to join a STEM program ASAP." - Travel + Leisure Editors

https://www.travelandleisure.com/things-to-do-in-houston-texas-6950870
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@cntraveler

The Weekend Guide: Barbecue, Rothko, and Space History in Houston

"Smithsonian-affiliated museum with highlights including a flown SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and the Apollo 17 command module."

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/weekend-guide-houston
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Autumn Springer

Google
My STEM kids loved this visit. Even my kids who aren't into science loved it. There are so many interesting things to see and learn. You can touch a Martian and Moon rock. The staff are all very friendly and helpful. We spent 3 hours and were able to see everything plus did the tram ride to rocket park to see the Saturn V. Added bonus was seeing long horned cows on the way. There are 2 other tram tours that we did not do. We went on a weekday during the summer and it was very busy. Can only imagine that a weekend would have been packed. Tickets are cheaper if you buy in advance.

Rene Sanchez

Google
If trips to the moon and space rockets are your thing, you have to visit this place. It's simply spectacular, full of information and surprising objects related to the conquest of space. The day seemed too short for me, exploring every corner of the place and enjoying the entire space center. It has a space dedicated to food and drinks, and although a bit pricey, it's worth trying something to experience it (it's not a place you'll visit frequently).

Michael Preiss

Google
A Great Interactive Museum Experience This museum is beautifully designed and thoughtfully laid out. There are many interactive stations where you can try things out yourself, making the visit both fun and educational. The exhibits are impressive and very well presented — you can see everything up close and in great detail. One of the highlights is the variety of experiences available. There’s a cinema, virtual reality stations, and lots of opportunities to touch and interact with different elements. It’s a great place for visitors of all ages. If you’re in the area, this museum is definitely worth a visit!

Krunal Shah

Google
Visiting the NASA Space Center was truly a mind-blowing experience. It’s absolutely amazing to witness what humans have achieved in the field of space exploration — things that are beyond imagination. Every exhibit and artifact is a marvel of science and engineering, reminding us just how far curiosity, innovation, and determination can take us. The place is beautifully designed, clean, and very visitor-friendly. Each photograph and display tells a story — each one inspiring in its own way. From the massive rockets to the astronaut suits and moon artifacts, everything left me in awe. The staff were outstanding — friendly, knowledgeable, and always willing to share interesting facts. There are plenty of food options available, which makes it great for families or longer visits. One important tip: Make sure to check the weather before your visit, especially if you’re planning to take the tram tour to see the astronaut training facilities or mission control. If the weather isn’t cooperating, the outdoor tours will be cancelled, and that’s a big part of the experience. Overall, this is a must-visit destination — a place that celebrates human potential and inspires future generations. Don’t miss it!

Colby Morrison

Google
It was great! It was busy but it all flows good and not a lot of waiting in lines. The food was quick to get out and was okay but it is pretty pricey. It was a long day but totally worth it! There was so much fun activities for the kids to do.

Robert Mclaughlin

Google
Had a great time on the VIP tour, wish I would have done the afternoon on also. Souch to see and so much to do. The cafeteria was interesting paying but the food was very good. The static displays were fun and well done. The store was large and had something for everyone.

Elmo Scheffer

Google
Space has always been a fascinating topic and going to the space center is quite impressive. The displays are great and a number of things to see and do. There are team rides tonother parts of the facility outside of the main centre. I opted to go and see the training facility. This was a bit of a let down. We took the team in 30 degrees and got to the training facility. We went inside and could only see the inside of what is a huge hanger with loads of stuff. It was a Sunday so no one was training. The tour guide explained some stuff and then it was over. I expected a bit more. Anyhow. Still nice to see.

Doug Hudson

Google
Fantastic place. Amazing history and presentation, literally so much to see. We just about managed most of it in 3hrs. For the price it is great, even the general admission. Parking is $10 which isn't too bad in my opinion too. They have a 50 min move which you can watch about the Apollo missions narrated by Tom Hanks, although quite long, it's fascinating and worth a watch. It's a shame you have to pay extra for the simulator as it seemed a bit basic for the price required but otherwise a great day out.
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Stacey C.

Yelp
I visited the Johnson Space Center for the second time recently and the experience was just as good as the first time! The tickets are so worth it. I definitely recommend getting there early to book their tram tours and booking the Mission Control tour in advance. I did the Mission Control tour, the self guided rocket park tour, and walked around the whole museum. It was really cool to see all of the history and learn a little about what the smart engineers, researchers, and astronauts do behind the scenes. The gift shop is awesome too! I left with many items and wanted to buy more. You could spend a whole day here! I definitely look forward to coming back.
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Trinity P.

Yelp
Kabooooooooooom! Is that even the sound of a rocket? Anyways, this place was BOOMING about space! It was awesome and there was so much to learn and see, I can say it was worth my money! Some of the exhibits-or most, are also interactive! Tours were also worth it in my opinion, it was educational and slow-paced. Shoutout to my tour guide, it did not feel like she was rushing! The place is also big and the "food lab" sells some good bites to eat, as a little snack or lunch time. Restrooms are clean as well. I will tell you: Go here if you are in Houston! There is plenty to find here.
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Ray L.

Yelp
Space Center Houston is a must-visit destination. My wife purchased the tickets online. Here are some improvements needed: Routes: There are three NASA tram tours. Many people were waiting for the first tram to Rocket Park. We also got tickets for visiting the Astronaut Training Facility. The current system requires visitors to return to the main building to switch open-air trams between Rocket Park, the Astronaut Training Facility, and Mission Control, which is really inconvenient and time-consuming. Direct routes between major attractions would be more efficient. Movie Theater: Some people were walking back and forth between doors, causing much distraction. Better organization is needed. Food Court: The food court was very crowded, with long lines at the kiosks. After leaving, we learned that they had mobile ordering, but we did not see any signage. It would be much more efficient to use an app for ordering food and ensure it is well-promoted. Outside Building: The line to the second floor was long and confusing, with people cutting in. Clearer signage and crowd management would help. Expect the huge crowd, but don't expect those issues. More staff handled tour trams, and some of them should be assigned to various locations. Overall, the visit to Space Center Houston is unforgettable and highly recommended!
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Ryna D.

Yelp
Since I visited Kennedy Space Center in Florida, I also wanted to visit Johnson Space Center in Houston. This is smaller and there are less things to see compared to KSC. I was able to see everything within a few hours. It's still interesting and it's nice to be able to go inside an actual space shuttle but if you are trying to decide between KSC and JSC then I'd say Kennedy in Florida is better. Entrance fee here is cheaper though, so there is that.
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Jonathan L.

Yelp
Engineering. Think about the engineering necessary to bring these huge rockets to outer space WITHOUT all the technology we know now a days? When you head to the Saturn V shed, you realize, dang, that's a big friggin rocket. Look at the boosters and the intricacies of the piping and plumbing needed to achieve their mission. Breathtaking. The age and rust make it that much more commendable. Definitely a place to bring the family and inspire future engineers
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Miriam Y.

Yelp
I haven't been to space center in over 10years but when my family came into town, this was something they really wanted to do. So despite my lack of enthusiasm, we took a trip to the space center. Just a pro tip: make sure you have at least 6hours to spare because it's a big place! First the pro: -all the workers seemed helpful. They had an unexpected large crowd over thanksgiving and they handled it with grace. -it was pretty cool to see all the equipment that the astronauts use. Definitely makes you appreciate how much detail goes into these missions. -love the little free shuttles to other locations of the space equipments. If break ups the crowd and allows one to explore and learn more about other equipments. -Great place for kids including a space to just run around and release some energy and fun! -The cafeteria food was decent! I can only speak on the fries but they were fresh and crispy! The price was appropriate for the portion too! The snack stand though was overpriced! Now for the cons -So much of the extra activities you had to pay for separately including the virtual reality (which most of my family loved) -The film and Q and A is a great concept but it was not engaging and exciting. It was monotone and had older interviews. (This put me to sleep. So maybe it can be a nap time for those that need it) With the space of the auditorium, I can see a huge potential of maybe even putting on an overhead screen and transporting people to space(maybe that's coming up in the future, who knows) -Amazing opportunities like being able to talk to an astronaut is like $200, which is way over most people's budget unfortunately. So would I come back again? Not unless I have to :)
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Jando S.

Yelp
A perpetual tourist attraction and educational hub for the youngins, the Space Center will forever be etched in the fabric of Houston's identity. Through its storied history with NASA, the Space Center opened just over 30 years ago and has been one of the most popular museums ever since. Having visited multiple times over the last couple of years, it has become a home away from home especially when I have guests in town. Some key things to note: :: Out of towners might call this Houston, but it's really Nassau Bay, which is just outside of Clear Lake. (#1) :: There is a McDonald's (#2) located just outside of the venue across the street along NASA Pkway with an astronaut out front. Stop by and take a picture before or after visiting the Space Center. :: Because it is both an indoor and outdoor venue, inclement weather makes this place extremely difficult to enjoy. Avoid summer if at all possible since AC is too hard when doors are propped open. :: Want to avoid the crowds? Go on a weekday. Enjoy the claustrophobia of people? Go on Saturday at 11am. :: This is extremely family friendly. Unless of course, no one understands the concept of space and time. Then it's incredibly boring friendly. :: What a lot of people may not realize is that this is more of a campus than it is a museum. As the home of Mission Control and astronaut training, there are actual employees that commute and work here daily. :: Tours are free. Book them. One can do so on the spot near the information desk out front. :: The cafeteria / food hall is unsurprisingly mediocre for food standards. However, it is also incredibly affordable by tourist / museum standards. Don't worry if there are oodles of people hogging the seats. Something will open up quick. Also, when in doubt, go for the quesadillas. :: I've seen many families sneak in food and simply eat them in the cafeteria. This is kind of brilliant on many levels. The most egregious site I've seen is someone who brought an actual pot that was full of biriyani. I was somewhat horrified, but also incredibly jealous. :: The souvenir store is fun for NASA enthusiasts, since there is a lot of exclusive merch that caters to brand devotees. If not, it's really just a souvenir shop with a variety of overpriced merch, knick-knacks, and gifts. :: Trolleys are nice way to see the campus, leave the museum, and peep rockets, and even longhorn steers (#3). The campus tours are a bit on the boring side, but one does get to see how enormous the land really is. :: Best photo-ops are going to be in the Saturn V Rocket facility. Size isn't everything (#4), but the enormity of the engines / launchers is really something. Most photos aren't going to capture the whole thing, unless one shoots in semi-wide angle. :: There's lots of dining near by but for those looking for lunch nearby, I highly recommend Himalayan Taj (#5) :: This whole process will take several hours of the day. There's multiple areas that are worth seeing, several stops along the Johnson Space Center when on tour, and a number of exhibitions that will require some fine perusing. Adults will be winded, kids will be tired, and everyone will achieve their step count goal. __________ (#1) No New Yorkers, there is no such thing as public transit that takes you here. It's time to learn how to drive. (#2) Micky 's: https://www.yelp.com/biz/mcdonalds-houston-22 (#3) Part of "The Longhorn Project" (#4) It's not the size of the rocket that counts. It's the trajectory of the launch. (#5) https://www.yelp.com/biz/himalayan-taj-houston
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Robert B.

Yelp
I was ready for this day for a while. Sadly it was such a disappointment. It's just a mess. Unorganized. And kinda dirty. After being at the NASA in FL this is pale in comparison. I can't say I recommend.
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Nadia A.

Yelp
The Space Center in Houston, Texas is an absolute must-visit if you're in the area, especially if you're even remotely curious about space exploration. I visited with my best friend, and despite not having much prior interest or knowledge about space, I was blown away by how interactive and engaging the experience was. The exhibits let you get hands-on with space history--you can even step into a space shuttle! Seeing everything in person, from rockets to spacesuits, gave me a whole new appreciation for space travel. It's both fascinating and a little intimidating to think about what it takes to venture beyond Earth. The center is very family-friendly, with plenty of activities for kids, and the interactive elements make learning about space exciting and accessible. While some of the extra experiences do cost more, the general admission is still packed with enough to keep you entertained and informed. If you're in Houston and looking for something fun, educational, and unique to do, I highly recommend checking out the Space Center. It's a popular attraction for a reason!
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Bhumi P.

Yelp
For someone who was never really interested in space and did not have a good understanding of all the work astronauts and NASA do and just went to the space center for a friend, I will say I really enjoyed my time there and have learned so much and gained a major appreciation for all those working in and with NASA/space programs/etc. I purchased the 50$ ticket for general admission and Mission Control. The general admission ticket starts at 10am when they first open and last all day, from my understanding you are still able to enter at a different time slot. We chose the latest option for Mission Control (3 something) to ensure we have plenty of time to see everything else. We got there a bit before 10 just to find parking and ensure being able to secure passes for the tram tours, which was not an issue at all there is plenty of parking available. But it was nice to get there a bit early take a few pictures outside and wait in line to get our bags checked. I highly recommend downloading the app because along with the different exhibits and tram tours. There's plenty of shows/presentation happening at various times. The app allows you to see it all and better plan your day at the space center. Once we entered, the first thing we did was go to guest services to secure our passes for the tram tour to the astronaut training facility. We chose to do an earlier time, to accommodate the presentations/shows we were interested in watching, so I highly recommend doing that prior to picking tram times. We ended up not getting passes to the tram tour for the rocket park however, during both the Mission Control and astronaut training facility tours, we passed the rocket park so you were able to see the area just did not get the chance to step off and take pictures. The tram tours were organized and run very efficiently. I attended both the astronaut training facility and Mission Control ones. I highly recommend trying to sit in the front row at Mission Control, if possible, to be able to get the best pictures. When going on the tram tours, you pass through a small tunnel and I greatly appreciated the staff announcing to please remain quiet prior to entering and stopping announcements during the tunneled portion for individuals with auditory sensitivities. Both the training center and Mission Control buildings had quite a bit of walking and stairs (Mission Control had 87 steps up and down, I believe if I remember correctly). However, announcements were made for other available options for those who may need accommodations. There is a large cafeteria with plenty of food options and seating. The food is a bit over priced but that is to be expected. All the food orders are placed at kiosk throughout the cafeteria so, there are no options for substitutions or alternatives to menu items. However, there were items for a variety of dietary preferences including vegan/vegetarian. I had the pizza and my friend had a burger/fries and we were both satisfied with our meals. Make sure you take a look at your receipt and save it because when we went they were running a promotion for a free coffee with a purchase if you show your receipt to the cafe at 3pm. And let me say, even if the coffee wasn't free I would have needed to buy one to keep up with the afternoon there. There were 2 gift shops located at this facility, I am not sure why. They both had the same items however, one was just much smaller and closed earlier. There were plenty of souvenir options and all seemed reasonably priced/comparable to other souvenir shops in the area/at the airport. At the end of the day, the gift shop did get pretty crowded and the line was long but I still felt as if I was able to look around and get what I wanted before they closed. The museum is divided up into multiple different exhibits and I highly recommend prioritizing the topics you are interested in and going there first to ensure being able to see everything. Although we spent all day there, we had to rush through the Orion and Mars exhibits. Most of the exhibits have interactive areas and staff members present to answer any questions and show you additional imaging/etc. My absolute favorite exhibit was definitely being able to go inside the plane and space shuttle. I highly recommend trying to attend one of the space memories talk with the astronauts and the presentation on a day in the life at the ISS. Also recommend bringing a jacket because although it can get warm during the tram tours, it was quite cold inside the auditoriums. For someone who was not interested in space, I spent all day there from opening to closing 10am-5pm and enjoyed every moment. On the app/website you can also find recommended itineraries based on how long you want to spend at the facility.
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Hyun C.

Yelp
Really fun for the kids and family. But writing the review bc their nursing room for us newborn parents was great! Clean, spacious, and ample cleaning supplies. go on the way to Galveston!
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Nicolette M.

Yelp
This place is HUGE and there is so much to do. Staff is helpful from the start getting my handicapped mother a wheelchair. Entrance was easy and they snap your photo you can purchase - we did and it's a great keepsake. Food options are a little lacking - I would plan in advance and pack a picnic or snacks. This place definitely takes the whole day - we were not intending to stay that long but we did and we were busy the whole time. The only regret I have is the training facility tour. You have to request a time slot and wait your turn to ride on the trolley over to the center. It was a Saturday and it was empty. The equipment and things in there were extremely impressive but it would've been interesting to see actual people in the facility like many of the photos showed. This is kind of a one in a lifetime thing - so do it!
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Joanna M.

Yelp
We purchased our tickets online as they are $5 cheaper per ticket. There is lots of parking in front and you just need to scan the QR code and setup for payment. There is a longish long for security when you go earlier in the morning. If you want to do the Astronaut tour, go immediately to Guest services to grab tickets. The rocket tour leaves every 10 minutes and you don't need tickets for it. There is several displays and lots of information to check out. We had a lot of fun with the tours and exhibits. Definitely learned some stuff. The gift shop is pretty good as well.
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Andrew W.

Yelp
Nice Christmas illumination in the area! Feel the vibe and have a fun time together! Cheeers
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Mindy L.

Yelp
Cool stuff, not a great experience. Expect crowds similar to weekends at Disneyland, long lines to wait in to see exhibits, and to pay for more things (food, gift shop, photos, simulations) in addition to your entry ticket. All of that is pretty understandable but I'm giving this a 1 star because of how poorly the staff treated us at the exit -- when viewing our souvenir photos, my friend pulled out her phone to take a photo which is a no-no. They quickly said 'no photos' and she put it away. We were scrolling through deciding on a background when someone grabbed the photo voucher out of our hands and told us to GET OUT. She ripped up the paper and said it again. We were in serious disbelief because we already put the phone away like they asked and were literally about to buy a photo. I reported the worker (Hailey) to their management after she wouldn't give me her name. None of her coworkers wanted to say anything cos she would come after them next. Shes a brat and a bully and I can't imagine all the good experiences she ruins of visitors with that attitude. Treat people with decency and respect!!!!
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Michelle W.

Yelp
Love this place! You can easily spend hours here. Parking was easy. You scan a code that goes to the parking website, enter your license plate and enter your card information so it can charge you on your way out. We purchased tickets at the ticket counter upon arrival. Not a big crazy line. I have not been here since before the pandemic and I was used to a big play area for kids right when you walk in however they removed it. They added exhibits where it used to be. We spent a little over four hours here. My little one liked the exhibits, but really enjoyed the Mars 2 Moon Festival they had going on. The entrance fee included admission to the tents outside and games. They were going to have live music. Definitely offers for something for everyone. We had a really good time exploring and with the total solar eclipse coming up there was a lot to learn.
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Tabitha C.

Yelp
I recently visited Space Center Houston while chaperoning my daughter's summer camp field trip. I really enjoyed seeing the Space Shuttle replicas and having the opportunity to touch moon rocks brought back by the Apollo missions. It was also wonderful to watch my daughter engage with the on-site exhibits and demonstrations, particularly the one on density. The facility also features a cafeteria and a gift shop, making it convenient for visitors to spend the entire day there. I plan to return with just my daughter to fully take advantage of everything the center has to offer, as I felt there was so much more to explore and experience.
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Nick S.

Yelp
It seems a bit pricey for what you get with the basic entry fee ($29.99 if you buy online per adult; $34.99 at the ticket window). There are several trams to other locations outside the main building (like the massive Saturn V rocket), but some of the trams are an extra charge. Similarly, there are VR exhibits that cost about $10. You could spend a couple of hours there with friends or, if you have kids, maybe a bit longer to interact with various exhibits within the main hall. There are definitely awe-inspiring images and experiences (like walking through the 747 that transported the space shuttle). The gift shop is pretty large and the pricing for t shirts and toys didn't seem too unreasonable. Parking was also a breeze (you pay from your phone when you're ready to leave). But it just misses out on being 5 stars due to cost, upcharges, and wanting more of a wow factor across the board.
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Toni S.

Yelp
I surprised my husband with tickets to NASA for his birthday present since he wanted to be an astronaut when he was growing up. We had general admission and Mission Control tickets. The inside is beautiful, just what you would expect. There were a couple shows and some interactive activities. However, I will say that it's really for young kids. The Mission Control tour was for adults. It was very interesting. If you have problem climbing stairs, there is an older elevator but it is reserved for people who have disabilities or carrying young children. Also, the food court is interesting. You order at a kiosk and pick up your order. They also have a food truck that I would advise you check out before ordering. The drinks are expensive as well. The staff are very friendly and helpful. They will take pictures for you and give you directions if you look lost. If you have kids who like science and space, this is something they will enjoy!
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Andy L.

Yelp
I recently visited Space Center Houston with my family and, unfortunately, my experience fell short of expectations. I do have to mentioned that I had been to Kennedy Space Center under 2 years ago, so a lot of my experiences are in comparison to that. The exhibits that we went to, while interesting, are not as engaging for young children. It feels like it is more geared towards teenagers and above. It was difficult keeping a little one entertained since so many of the exhibits are non-interactive, and the ones that were, about half were out of order. The tram tour was also lack luster. Only one was available when we want, and it was basically just a short ride to another buliding that housed a Saturn V tocket. Certainly not a tour. Overall, the educational content is rich, but the overall execution and visitor experience need significant improvement. It doesn't seem like it was geared towards inspiring the younger generation and more of just a cash grab because of the name. I can definitely see potential but it currently falls short in several key areas. I hope they address these issues to make it a more inclusive and engaging destination in the future.
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Alex C.

Yelp
Best experience we had here in Houston , it's worth it to take the Mission Control tour , you get to sit in authentic seats and live through the moments Armstrong stepped foot on the moon . Get the package with general admission and the control room tour also take a phone charger or cord you can find plugs in the cafeteria and theater for free you'll need it for pictures ! Plan on a Good for hours or more
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Emely R.

Yelp
Loved the Houston Space Center (NASA)!!! Please keep in mind it is smaller than the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Staff were very friendly educating people all around the buildings. There are three separate sections to check out including indoor and outdoors. Parking is $10 for all day and they charge your card after you leave. Around the space center there are plenty of places to eat and drink. Highly recommend to anyone to visit! (:
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Keandra P.

Yelp
I had such a good time at Galaxy Lights! This was my first time visiting for Galaxy, but have been to Space Center many moons ago in my youth. I came on a Saturday, with my friend. It was actually the college national football championship weekend. And the Michigan alumni had an event there. So it was a sea of Michigan folks decked out in their school merch. I love space. I'm not sure why I don't visit more often? I came with a friend for the last Galaxy Lights weekend. So glad that I did. Beautiful light designs of space themed objects, sponsored by Reliant. After walking through all of it. We realized they also left some of the inside space exhibits open. We took our time and really enjoyed reading and learning about the space program and its impact on Houston, science, and technology. We got to tour Independence Plaza with mission control and see Falcon 9 (spaceX) Would recommend going, if you love to learn! Family friendly. Only downside, have to pay to park and for your ticket.
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Winnie C.

Yelp
If I can give this a zero star, I would. I can't imagine a worse museum experience. It was like they were actively trying to make it miserable. The crowd was absurd, shoulder to shoulder with no breathing room. It wasn't just busy; it felt dangerous, like the kind of crush you'd hear about on the news. And yet, they kept letting people in, cramming more bodies into an already unbearable space. It was so blatant that the only thing they cared about was squeezing as much money as possible out of the day. The lines were an insult. Two hours to even get into a tour, and that's if you could figure out where the line actually started. Once we finally got on a tour, it felt like we were being shuffled around like cattle, but worse because at least cattle get to move. We stood in place for what felt like an eternity, overheating and getting shoved around. No one knew what was going on; no signs, no clear directions, nothing. It was chaos. The staff were hopeless, and I don't even blame them. It was obvious they'd been left to fend for themselves. There wasn't a single person in charge, just a bunch of overwhelmed kids trying to keep up with a situation spiraling out of control. People were skipping lines right in front of them, and they either didn't notice or didn't care. At some point, you could tell they'd just given up. This wasn't just a bad visit; it felt like the museum itself was broken at every level, poorly run, poorly staffed, and completely indifferent to the people who'd paid good money to be there. It was a giant scam with a gift shop at the end. I honestly can't believe they get away with it. Do not recommend. Total nightmare.
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Mike M.

Yelp
When I think of tourist attractions in Houston, Space Center Houston always comes to mind as the first choice. It is the definitive space museum in the dominant space oriented country in the world. I visited last week for the first time in about 16 years. You get a better price if you buy tickets online instead of at the ticket booth. Parking is purchased when you arrive by scanning a QR code on many signs in the big parking lot. $10 plus tax. After going through basic security gates inside almost everything is located on the ground floor. Obviously they do a good job of documenting manned space missions starting in the 1960's (Mercury, Gemini and Apollo), the 70's with Skylab and 80's beginning with the Space Shuttle and continuing with the International Space Station and voyages to Mars. Then they have another section that details the upcoming Artemus missions back to the Moon. In the museum are many artifacts of all that history from spacecrafts to toothbrushes used by the astronauts. It is quite comprehensive. The newest addition of the Space Shuttle on top of a 747 offers 3 levels to explore both aircraft. There are NASA tours offered for an extra cost on trams that will take you in the Johnson Space Center that are also interesting. Back at the museum be prepared on weekdays when school is in session to be swarmed by students on field trips especially during the morning hours. During my visit they had students from Lafayette, LA there so you can see it's quite popular. Without taking a tram tour, I would budget about 3 hours to visit. Since they also show educational movies (about 30 minutes long) that time can change.
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Tom C.

Yelp
I drove out to the Space Center during my visit to Houston. It was a little far from downtown and can be exacerbated with copious amounts of traffic but I think it was worth it. The parking lot is massive and they tracking your time there via your plate number. You pay for parking when you leave by scanning the QR codes around the lot and entering in your plate number. There is a lot to do and see here. They have a few tours that you can take and they were very informative. Lots of opportunity to get up close with many of NASA's and its partners hardware. I really enjoyed seeing the Saturn V, Space X, and the Independence shuttle. It's a lot of fun for the whole family!
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Rita C.

Yelp
Back to the center a few years later. Can't say it's improved... Had a great time when I visited last time and wanted to share this with my husband. We were disappointed. Last time, we got on the tram and saw the full thing: Saturn V, the training facilities and the control center. Now these are 3 different trams. Training center is paid as well, and sold out for the day. Control center had 1 ticket, they "still had spaces" (people aren't good with grammar...) Cafeteria is a bit confusing as well, it's like the order and pay stations are hidden for us to prove we really want our food. At least it's fast..
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Kashmir M.

Yelp
I visited the Space Center on a Saturday by myself while on a business trip to the Houston area. This was a lot of fun as a solo visitor, but it would also be a great daytime date or family outing. Honestly, anyone would have an educational and entertaining day here. I booked my ticket online the day before and paid for the Mission Control Tour. I would recommend splurging on the Mission Control Tour, but not if you have young, rambunctious children. I would also recommend arriving when the Space Center opens with plans to spend the entire day. There are so many tram tours, exhibits, and demonstrations inside as well as outside. When you first walk in try to keep the stars out of your eyes (hehe) and go to the information desk first so you can sign up for the timed tram tours and Mission Control (if you had the upgrade). The rest of your day can be filled with exhibits between the tram tours. I downloaded the app which was somewhat helpful early in the day to keep track of tour and movie times, but towards the end of the day the schedule on the app started to reset to the morning events. There could be improvements to the app, but it was not detrimental to my day. Oh, and of course, be sure to save some time for the gift shop! As with most museums, water and snacks are a bit expensive. I also wasn't expecting parking to be $10. Just plan ahead for these extra costs.
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Grace C.

Yelp
The Overnight Experience was 5 stars! My 7yo and I joined our church group to sleep over at NASA, and it was really well run. Both she and I enjoyed it a lot! She keeps asking to sleep over at NASA again. The evening activities were fun and team-based, so if your child doesn't know anyone there or is super shy, he/she may not enjoy it as much. In the morning we got to watch an IMAX movie and go on a tram tour. It also includes dinner, breakfast, and 1 day admission to the Space Center so you can enjoy all it has to offer. The Space Center itself: without the overnight experience I would say it's best for kids and adults who are very interested in space exploration and astronauts. Most of the exhibits are heavy on the reading portion, so age 7-8 and up is best. There are interactive exhibits and a few games and movies, but overall it's not that great for young kids- better for older kids and up.
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Heidi M.

Yelp
This place is awesome! It's about a 30 minute drive from Houston. Plan ahead and decide which tours you want to do. We just did a the general admission which included the tram to rocket park which was good. I do wish we would have done the control center. The staff were very courteous and helpful. They have purrell sanitizer and wipes throughout. The food selection is great. They even have a coffee place that is good. Great place to learn and experience. Would definitely visit again!
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C N.

Yelp
Having grown up in the 1960s watching space launches, I was excited to visit. Unfortunately most of the main exhibits are old fashioned pictures with narratives. Very little interaction or excitement. The tram tour to the training center was the worst--only saw large room of equipment and nobody present. Would think they could have some videos or mockups to enter. The control center was the best as recreated a landing. Most kids seemed totally bored
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Rare R.

Yelp
Our family had the opportunity to spend the night at the Space Center for their overnight experience. This gives you the option to sleep inside the center or camp outside. We chose to sleep inside. Once we arrived check in was a breeze. There were various activities they offered like scavenger hunts for the kids to enjoy. There were multiple educational videos with great visuals both days. The workers were very organized and friendly. For dinner they served grilled chicken which was surprisingly good. You were allowed to bring your own food but no eating outside of the food area. We were curious to see how the sleeping arrangements worked out. After the rocket launch outside we grabbed our sleeping bags and were given directions on where to sleep. Thanks to our luck we got to "sleep under the stars" in the makeshift galaxy area. Once the lights were out it was really pretty to gaze at. We enjoyed touring the hugeeeee rockets! While also learning about space exploration.
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Mitzi W.

Yelp
What an amazing museum dedicated to the Johnson Space Center and space travel history. Purchase your tickets online for a discount. We Ubered easily from downtown and arrived just before opening. And ended up staying the entire day and didn't even see everything (missed some of the exhibits). When we arrived, we got in line at Customer Service for a pass for the training center tour. Got on the first tour. The speakers in our tram didn't work so we couldn't hear the sites but they are the same sites on the other tram tours. Cool to see the area where the astronauts train. There was hardly any activity though when we were there. We prepurchased the Mission Control tour. This was an amazing venue to sit where historical Apollo missions were manned. All I can say is wow since I was a kid during that timeframe and to relive the moon landing. The Rocket Park tour led to a jaw dropping visit of 3 Saturn V rockets, one that was housed indoors. And a great options for lunch at Food Lab. I had the burger and it was charbroiled to perfection. A wonderful museum filled with historical and also future space plans.
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John M.

Yelp
Last visit was 2017...some new thing to look at...main reason for the visit was our 13 yo GD and she loved it...some many cool thing to look at...really sad that they just dont teach this type of stuff in school and more...or at least not in her school....The Space Shuttle Program was active when the wife and I were in school, so it was part of our growing up. Showed her a bunch of older videos when we came back home, including the newest Artemis Program, and we rewatched the latest launch. Overall a good visit.
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Kevin B.

Yelp
Visiting Space Center Houston (the visitor center for Johnson Space Center) was absolutely our favorite thing we did on our trip to Houston. We had tickets to breakfast with an astronaut and that was so much fun; we met Ken Cameron and he was gracious and funny and it was a delight to hear his stories. We loved touring the museum as they have hundreds of interesting artifacts from space exploration and we absolutely loved being able to tour the original Mission Control from the moon landing in 1969; they've restored it to how it looked then and they overlayed video and audio to allow you to experience how it felt when that event occurred (from the perspective of Mission Control). It was very well done and it's definitely worth it to experience that. It's a great place overall!
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Sarah G.

Yelp
We have lived in H-town 3.5 years and FINALLY visited Space Center Houston. Of all days, we came on 10/14/2023... the day an Eclipse was happening!! SCH did an AWESOME job with the eclipse! There was so much educational stuff about it and they handed out FREE viewing glasses!! Price for adults was $30 at the door but $25 if you ordered ahead of time. Parking was $10 and you had to pay on your phone. We didn't spend NEARLY enough time here. We'll definitely have to come back. Other reviewers said they spent 5+ hours here, we spent a mere 1.5 hours. The tram tour wasn't an option since the Johnson Center was having a free open house. Like I said, we'll have to come back and spend more time for sure.
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Jon H.

Yelp
Returned to Space Center Houston for the first time in ... 15 years? This time bringing small children that didn't exist previously. And I have to say, it was disappointing to see how much it's change (not for the better). Previously the main floor was filled with interactive exhibits. Now that area is just a wide-open area. There are some exhibits off to the sides, but very limited in terms of interaction. Would no longer recommend coming here with small children, as there's not enough interaction to keep them engaged/interested. Especially for the cost.
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Colby K.

Yelp
In town for a birthday party and decided that taking the kids to the Space Center would be a good way to fill our day. We had such an amazing time and having the ability to actually go inside a space shuttle was a bucket list check off we didn't know we needed. We went Easter weekend which meant extremely long lines but honestly they moved pretty quick. Such an amazing time was had and highly recommend this for anyone who has even the slightest interest in space!
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Chris B.

Yelp
Ok interesting, fun, intriguing, informative and crowded. Well worth the visit but don't bother on Saturdays. Schedule your time to enter. Parking is an additional $10. Pay with a QR code seen in the parking area and at the entrance to museum. Advise you get your entrance time early EARLY in the day. Take the tram rides first. Some of the theaters line up quickly but they are short....15 min. Be patient but enjoy the experience.
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Rachel B.

Yelp
Highly recommend visiting the Space Center and if you can to book a VIP tour. Amazing tour, with very cool stops and max 10 people on each of the two tours offered (they are different).
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Jacy B.

Yelp
Overall was a great time. A lot of the kid demos were down or not working, a lot of it needs updated or just needs to be fixed. Lots of good photo opportunities. My son of 8 made it 4/6 hours there so overall I would say it was a win! People were nice. Bought ticket at 10:30 because the 10:00 said sold out, doesn't matter the time you actually go. Definitely do the hot spots first so you're not in lines for hours!
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Karin N.

Yelp
Very large complex. of things to enjoy and read up on. I love visiting this placeLots - but would have been better without thousands of screaming children. The videos from astronaut's perspective was amazing. Suggest a season (member) pass for the ability to come back more often if you are in the area or local for a few weeks.
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Joe H.

Yelp
Me and my family went two days after Christmas and there was a line for eveything. Line to get in, line to get on a tram, line to view a crazy simulator, line to get into the space shuttle. They should cap the number of tickets sold to make it an enjoyable experience for everyone. I would have rather not gone. Just money grubbing bs. I am sure it is good if you go on a weekday or something but this was an awful experience.
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Nick P.

Yelp
This was a very educational and Informative experience. Admission was $30 for an adult online - if you buy in person they charge you an extra $5. Not sure why they charge you for everything but parking is $10. They should waive this if you're already buying a general admission ticket. They have 3 different times of tram tours. 2 are free with your general admission ticket and 1 is an extra cost. Historic mission control is an extra $15. Astronaut training facility and George W.S. Abbey Rocket Park are free and first come first serve. I visited here on my first trip to Houston. It was intriguing seeing the shuttles and I did learn more. However, it's a one time visit for me. It's not one of those places I would revisit. I'm not a fan of all of the additional costs. If you have a family, those costs will certainly add up.
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Arie W.

Yelp
I visited the space center for the very first time on yesterday morning. I arrived a little before opening and stayed until about 1:30pm. I'm not sure if it's because I'm not interested in space, but the experience was underwhelming. I guess I was expecting more of an interactive experience, but I didn't get that. Luckily, I did not have to pay for my ticket, but if I did, I would have been frustrated, feeling like I'd wasted money. My kids referred to the space center as "boring," and I agree. The food court was refreshing. It is massive and has a wide variety of offerings. The employees were very friendly and explained the order/pickup process to me. I ordered online (from two different stations), and the food was ready when I went to pick up. The picnic tables outside were a nice place to sit and enjoy lunch. The lady leading the tram tour was rude, and I found her "jokes" to be quite condescending. I couldn't possibly see myself ever returning.

Nathi R.

Yelp
PLEASE READ. It's my 2nd time coming here, my family from out of town and I were very excited. We had already had brought the tickets online, but there was no point in that since we got there and it was a very long line that took about 30 minutes just to get in! We eventually got in and it was so full and everything was closed.Not to mention most of the interactive activities were broken and really really gettho.It was pretty expensive for how crappy it was anyways they only want your money thats all they want.
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Daniel K.

Yelp
A bit underwhelming experience. Some decent historical stuff. Good interpretative content. Price to value was way off. If you are really into space history worth a stop but I would pass otherwise.
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Lancer K.

Yelp
This is the MECCA for scientists, space enthusiasts, engineers, and geeks like myself. This is our "holy site" where you can see the equipment that culminates in advancing our species to the stars! Something that many thought was impossible. So bring your young and old dreamers and see the reality that we are building upon to reach ever higher into our solar system. You also may be interested in a podcast for such dreamers: http://SciFiThoughts.space
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Annabelle L.

Yelp
Very educational and great for kids who wants to explore My family visited here for the first time and even though we have visited the Florida location, the activities are different which is great. There's much to learn and the best part is the activities are engaging and hands on. There's also several stations where kids can explore ideas and tests theories. Upon arrival, park your car and scan the QR code at the lot to pay on mobile. As soon as you enter, go to the guest services station and book your shuttle ride time to their off site facilities for more activities. Then, explore away. Overall it's a good trip for kids who either enjoy science, being an astronaut or physicists or just being curious of space.