A hands-on museum, a NASA visitor center, and one of Houston’s most awe-inspiring attractions

Houston, we have a museum—and it’s out of this world.

Located just 30 minutes from downtown, Space Center Houston is a must-visit destination for families, science enthusiasts, and anyone who's ever looked up at the stars and wondered, What’s out there?

As the official visitor center of NASA Johnson Space Center, this unique museum brings the history, technology, and future of space exploration to life. With real spacecraft, immersive exhibits, and behind-the-scenes tours, it’s no wonder Space Center Houston is one of the top attractions in Texas, drawing more than a million visitors each year.

What You’ll Discover at Space Center Houston

With over 250,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor exhibits, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.

Independence Plaza

The only place in the world where you can walk inside a shuttle replica mounted on top of a Boeing 747. It’s more than a photo op—it’s a full exhibit on shuttle era innovation and flight history.

Starship Gallery

Home to real spacecraft and artifacts from every era of American spaceflight—including the Apollo 17 Command Module, lunar tools, and a piece of moon rock you can actually touch.

Mission Mars

An interactive, immersive experience that lets you explore the science and strategy behind traveling to and living on Mars. A must for kids (and adults) dreaming about humanity’s future beyond Earth.

Astronaut Gallery

Get a closer look at real astronaut suits from the Mercury, Gemini, Apollo, and ISS programs—including suits worn on actual missions.

NASA Tram Tour: Go Behind the Scenes

One of the primary reasons to visit Space Center Houston is access to NASA's Johnson Space Center via the NASA Tram Tour, included with your ticket.

You’ll get to:

Visit Mission Control (yes, the historic room from the Apollo days and its modern successor)
See Rocket Park, home to a massive Saturn V rocket
Learn about astronaut training and spacecraft development

Pro tip: Arrive early—tram tours are first-come, first-served and often fill up quickly.

Great for Kids and Families

Space Center Houston makes science fun and accessible for visitors of all ages. Families love:

The Kids Space Place: hands-on exhibits designed for younger explorers
Live presentations and science shows are held throughout the day
Interactive exhibits with buttons to push, things to climb into, and areas to explore freely
A packed gift shop with astronaut food, NASA gear, and educational toys

It's a perfect balance of education and entertainment, making it a favorite for school groups, homeschoolers, and summer break day trips.

Hours, Tickets, and Planning Your Visit

Hours: Open daily from 10 AM – 5 PM (hours may extend in peak season)
General Admission: Discounts available for children, seniors, and military
Online Reservations Recommended: Especially during holidays and weekends
Parking: $10 flat rate (paid at entry)
Free Admission Days: Rare, but check spacecenter.org for community events and local free ticket offers

How to Get There

Address:
1601 NASA Parkway, Houston, TX 77058

Located in Clear Lake, just south of downtown and near Galveston, Space Center Houston is easily accessible by car. Expect about a 30–45 minute drive from central Houston, depending on traffic.

Combine your visit with a stop at nearby Kemah Boardwalk or Armand Bayou Nature Center for a full day of adventure.

Why Space Center Houston Is More Than a Museum

This isn’t just a place to see things—it’s a place to experience the past, present, and future of space exploration.

It connects us to Houston’s role as “Space City” and NASA’s home of human spaceflight.
It honors the bravery, intelligence, and teamwork of those who make space travel possible.
It shows kids—and adults—that science isn’t just in textbooks. It’s happening right now.

One Small Step That Inspires Big Dreams

Whether you're a local or a visitor, Space Center Houston is one of the best things to do in Houston year-round. It’s inspiring, educational, and uniquely local—because when the world thinks space, it thinks Houston.

So bring your curiosity, bring your family, and bring your sense of wonder. There’s no better place to feel like a part of something bigger.

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Space Center Houston: Explore Where History and the Future of Space Come Together