Space Center Houston

The basics

The space center is one of Houston’s top attractions. During a self-guided tour, ride a tram on a Space Center orientation, see fascinating exhibitions of full-size rockets and moon rock samples, and marvel at a life-size replica and the Apollo 17 space shuttle. The “Lunch with an Astronaut” program lets families dine with a real-life astronaut and hear a firsthand account of what space is like. Kids can take a break from science and play at the Kids Space Place while parents relax.

Things to know before you go

• While everyone will appreciate the offerings at Space Center Houston, the attraction is especially worthwhile for families.

• Plan to arrive at the center right when it opens—you can easily spend the entire day here.

• Take the tram tour first: Not only does it help you get oriented, but lines can get long and the non-air-conditioned trams get very warm by the afternoon.

• Consider a guided Space Center Houston tour and Houston sightseeing combo.

How to get there

Space Center Houston is about a 30-minute drive or a 90-minute bus ride from downtown Houston. There is ample paid parking at the center.

When to get there

The Space Center Houston is open year-round, except for Christmas Day and some other major holidays. Hours are generally 10am to 5pm, though these are subject to change; check the website’s calendar.

Can’t-miss experiences at the Space Center Houston

While there are myriad points of interest within the Space Center Houston, there are a few must-do experiences. The NASA tram tour takes visitors to the iconic Apollo Mission Control Center, where all space shuttle missions and activity onboard international space station assembly flights are directed. The tour also visits the Saturn V Complex at Rocket Park to see an expendable rocket used by NASA’s Apollo and Skylab programs. The Starship Gallery, another must-see, is home to the world’s largest collection of moon rocks, plus space trainers, capsules, and rocket models.

How much time do you need at the Space Center Houston?

From museum artifacts to a used spacecraft, there’s enough at the Space Center Houston to fill a full day. Plan to spend at least 4-5 hours there; that’s enough time to cover key highlights and take a NASA Tram Tour to the neighboring Johnson Space Center (JSC), home to Mission Control.

How long is the tram tour at the Space Center Houston?

Choose from two NASA Tram Tour options, each taking approximately 90 minutes: one to Rocket Park and the Johnson Space Center’s (JSC) Mission Control; and another to Rocket Park and JSC’s Astronaut Training Centre. You can opt to take both; and outside busy times, they’re sometimes combined into one 2-hour tour.

What can you not bring to Space Center Houston?

You can’t take luggage, such as oversized backpacks and suitcases, into the Space Center Houston, but luggage storage is available and costs around US$7 per bag. Other banned items include weapons, alcoholic beverages, large quantities of food—unless it’s for dietary or medical purposes—and bulky camera equipment.

Can you bring your own food to Space Center Houston?

No, you can’t bring your own food into the Space Center Houston—unless you have medical or dietary requirements. Instead, you’re invited to eat at the center’s on-site kiosks or restaurants, or you can bring a picnic for the outdoor picnic area near the front entrance.

Do you have to pay for parking at Space Center Houston?

Yes, parking at the Space Center Houston is US$10 per car. When you buy a ticket online, you’ll automatically be charged parking for one car. If you’re not reserving tickets online, you’ll need to pay at the parking booths. Alternatively, buy a Space Center membership, which includes a year’s free general admission and parking.

What are the ticket types for Space Center Houston?

Standard Space Center Houston tickets grant you access to the museum, including the Starship Gallery and Independence Plaza. Some tickets also include a Mission Control tour. For the ultimate experience, choose a NASA VIP Tour, which gives you a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the center or the chance to have breakfast with an astronaut.