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.

Ways to explore

The Space Center is one of Houston's top attractions, so it's best to reserve general admission and add-ons, such as the tram tour of the Historic Mission Control, in advance. The early access tour, meanwhile, offers a guided look at the Starship Gallery and other exhibits before they open to the public.

Houston sightseeing tours often drive past downtown landmarks, from City Hall to Market Square Park, and end at the Space Center. To explore independently, book a self-guided tour with downtown shuttle service, or opt for the Houston CityPASS® that includes the Space Center, Downtown Aquarium, and other highlights.

Accessibility

Space Center Houston is wheelchair accessible, including the tram tours, and wheelchairs are available to rent for a fee. Service animals are allowed, and the attraction provides resources for guests who are blind, deaf, or autistic.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Bottled water, camera

What to wear

Dress for the weather, as the tram tour takes place outdoors, and wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the exhibits on foot.

Not allowed

Pets (besides service animals), outside food and alcoholic beverages, oversize bags, tripods

Amenities

Dining options, restrooms, gift shop, nursing room

Address 

Space Center Houston is located in the city’s Clear Lake district, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) southeast of downtown’s main attractions. If you’re traveling without a car, it’s best to get there via taxi, rideshare app, or on a guided tour that includes transportation from downtown Houston.

Driving

From downtown Houston, take Interstate 45 south toward Nassau Bay, and you’ll find the paid parking structure on East NASA Parkway. The drive takes roughly 30 minutes each way.

Public transportation

The 247 Metro bus runs from downtown Houston and stops 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) away from the Space Center, but only on weekdays. Take it to the Bay Area Park and Ride stop, then call a car to the attraction.

Best times to visit

You can easily spend the whole day at Space Center Houston, so arrive early to maximize your time. Plus, crowds are smaller and temperatures are cooler in the morning.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are the best time to visit the Space Center in relative peace, as Saturdays and Sundays are the attraction’s busiest days.

Best months to visit

For a more enjoyable experience on the open-air tram tours, avoid visiting Space Center Houston in the hot, muggy summer months—go from February–April or September–November instead.

Special events

Around the holidays, the weeks-long Galaxy Lights festival allows you to explore the Space Center after-hours, with space-themed light shows and family activities on offer.