Explore the Wonders of Space at Space Center Houston
Discover the universe at Space Center Houston, where interactive exhibits and astronaut encounters bring space exploration to life.
A brief summary to Space Center Houston
- 1601 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, Clear Lake, Texas, 77058, US
- +1281-244-2100
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Space Center Houston stands as the official visitor center for NASA's Johnson Space Center, making it a premier destination for anyone fascinated by space and science. The center houses a vast array of exhibits showcasing the history and future of space exploration. Visitors can marvel at actual spacecraft, including the impressive Saturn V rocket, and gain insights into astronaut training programs. The center's immersive experiences include interactive displays, allowing guests to engage with the science behind space travel. One highlight of a visit is the opportunity to meet real astronauts who share their experiences and stories about life in space. These encounters provide a personal touch that enriches the understanding of the challenges and triumphs of space missions. Additionally, the center offers special presentations and films that delve deeper into NASA's ongoing projects and achievements. Families will appreciate the center's commitment to education, as it offers hands-on learning experiences for children and adults alike. The center regularly hosts events, workshops, and educational programs designed to inspire the next generation of scientists and explorers. The surrounding area is also a pleasant setting, complete with outdoor exhibits and shaded spaces for relaxation. Visiting Space Center Houston promises not only an educational experience but also the chance to feel the excitement of discovery that defines humanity's quest to explore the cosmos.
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
- Check the schedule for astronaut appearances and special presentations.
- Plan to spend at least 3 to 4 hours to fully explore everything.
- Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to skip the lines.
Getting There
-
Public Bus
From downtown Houston, take METRO Bus 102 from 'Main St @ Rusk St' towards the Bay Area. This bus will take you towards Space Center Houston. The ride will take approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on traffic. You will want to get off at 'NASA Parkway @ Space Center Houston'. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the entrance of Space Center Houston located at 1601 E NASA Pkwy.
-
Light Rail + Bus
Begin your journey by taking the METRO Light Rail from any downtown station on the Green or Purple Line. Travel to the 'Fannin South' station. Once there, transfer to the METRO Bus 102 towards Bay Area. Stay on the bus for about 30 to 40 minutes and get off at 'NASA Parkway @ Space Center Houston'. Walk a short distance from the bus stop to reach the center.
-
Rideshare
If you prefer a more direct option, use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Open the app and enter 'Space Center Houston' or the address '1601 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX 77058'. The ride will take approximately 30 minutes from downtown Houston, depending on traffic conditions. Ensure to check the estimated fare before confirming your ride.
-
Bicycle
For the more adventurous, consider biking to Space Center Houston. Start from downtown Houston and use the dedicated bike lanes towards Clear Lake. The journey is approximately 25 miles and will take around 2 hours. Follow the bike paths that lead towards NASA Parkway, and once you reach the area, navigate to 1601 E NASA Pkwy. Ensure you have a bike lock as you will need to secure your bike upon arrival.
Attractions Nearby to Space Center Houston
- 1940 Air Terminal Museum
- Houston Botanic Garden
- Halfmoon Shoal Lighthouse
- Smither Park
- Eclectic Menagerie Park
- Graffiti Park Downtown Houston
- Old Chinatown, Houston
- Houston Legendary Graffiti Building
- Hermann Park
- McNair Asian Elephant Habitat
- McGovern Centennial Gardens
- Houston Zoo
- The Health Museum
- Children's Museum Houston
- BS Tours Houston
Landmarks nearby to Space Center Houston
- Historic -- First Airplane Flight Over Texas
- San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site
- San Jacinto Museum
- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Statue
- Constitution Bend Texas Historical Marker
- We Love Houston Sign
- Giant Beatles Statues
- Temple Beth Israel - Historical Marker
- Mahatma Gandhi Monument
- Mural of Hope
- Clayton House
- Sam Houston Statue at Hermann Park
- Nouveau
- Melrose Building
- Montrose District