Houston Tours

Space Center Houston Tickets

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Astronauts and rover in an exhibit at Houston Space Center






Space Center Houston is the official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center and a must-visit for anyone curious about space exploration. Located just 30 minutes from downtown Houston, it offers a close-up look at real spacecraft, astronaut gear, and the future of space travel.

Why visit Space Center Houston

Saturn V Apollo exhibit outside the Houston Space Center
Spacesuits and astronaut apparel display at Houston Space Center exhibit.
NASA Tram Tours at the Houston Space Center
Artemis Mission exhibit at Houston Space Center
Diorama of space station on the moon, rover and planet earth in the back at the Houston Space Center
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Walk under the Saturn V rocket

Mighty and massive, the Saturn V rocket sent Americans to the moon. Of the three on display worldwide, this is the only rocket with fully flight-certified hardware, made of various unused rocket components. Walk under this giant, which stands 363 feet tall and weighs 6.2 million pounds when fully fueled.

Learn about an astronaut’s life

On display is a comprehensive collection of spacesuits and astronaut apparel, used from training flights to spacewalks on the Moon. From Pete Conrad and Michael Collins to Judy Resnik and Sally Ride, the collection includes some of the biggest names from the space industry. Don’t forget to catch a glimpse of the Crew Portrait Wall, featuring every NASA astronaut who has flown into space—goosebumps, indeed!

Go behind the scenes at NASA

Book a seat on the NASA Tram Tour—one of the most exciting experiences while here, and roll right into the Johnson Space Center. This is the training base for NASA astronauts and the site of Mission Control, from where the Earth team supports our men and women in space.

Catch a glimpse of the space-future

From the Artemis Exhibit, an interactive exhibit highlighting the return of humans to space after 50 years, to Mission Mars, which discusses everything there is to know about humans’ mission to the Red Planet, these exhibits allow you to dive into the future of space.

Fuel your inner science nerd

Kids and parents, grab your camping gear and head to the space center for a multitude of experiences—they are seriously fun. Participate in robotic challenges and space-themed interactive experiences, and camp out under the starry sky for overnight experiences, which include building STEM skills  (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) through hands-on learning.

Things to know before booking your tickets

  1. Tickets to the space center are timed, meaning you must choose a specific time slot for your visit.
  2. Entry is free for children under 3, but you should book them a time-stamped entry ticket.
  3. Tickets can be booked for every half hour, from the opening of the center (either 9 or 10am) until 3:30pm.
  4. The NASA Tram Tour included in the general admission tickets requires a boarding pass—these can be collected on the day of your visit at the Guest Services desk.

Attractions you simply cannot miss

Saturn V rocket

Saturn V rocket

Walk beneath the massive, fully restored rocket that launched astronauts to the Moon. It’s one of only three left in the world—and the longest ever built.

Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) dispayed outside the Houston Space center
Astronaut Training areas accessed via NASA tram tour at the Houston Space Center.
Exhibits at the Houston Space Center
Mars rover exhibit at Mission Mars in Houston Space Center

Permanent exhibits at the Space Center

Airplanes stacked outside the Houston Space Center

Independent Plaza

Experience the world's only shuttle replica, Independence, mounted atop the original NASA 905 shuttle carrier aircraft. You can enter both the shuttle and the aircraft to explore interactive exhibits about the Space Shuttle Program and its impact on current and future space exploration.

Kids at the interactive exhibits at the Houston Space center

Starship Gallery

Home to flown spacecraft and national treasures, the gallery features the Apollo 17 Command Module, Mercury 9, Gemini 5, and a full-size Skylab trainer. Visitors can also touch a real Moon rock and learn about the history of human spaceflight.

Space suit exhibit with wires connected at Houston Space Center

Spacesuit collection

The gallery showcases one of the world's most comprehensive collections of astronaut apparel. It includes spacesuits from various missions, such as those worn by Apollo, Skylab, and ISS astronauts.

Lunar Module LTA-8 exhibit at Houston Space Center with detailed interior view.

Mission Mars

An interactive exhibit that delves into NASA's plans for Mars exploration. You can experience a simulated Orion capsule, touch a Mars meteorite, and learn about the technology that will take humans to the Red Planet.

A wax figurine of Stafford reaching his hand out of the rocket at Houston Space Center

International Space Station Gallery

This gallery provides insights into life aboard the ISS, the largest structure built in space. It features interactive live shows, a Robonaut, and actual flown space station artifacts. It celebrates over two decades of continuous human habitation in space.

Staff giving presentations to guests at Houston Space Center

Films & live presentations

Enjoy educational films and live presentations that provide updates on current NASA missions and insights into astronaut life aboard the ISS. These are included with general admission and are held in venues like the Mission Briefing Center and Destiny Theater.

The Control Room at Houston Space Center

Science Deck

Participate in real space science experiments and learn about the importance of scientific research conducted in space. The Science Deck offers hands (and brains)-on activities that demonstrate the impact of space science on our daily lives.

Houston Space Center exterior facade

NASA Tram Tour

A behind-the-scenes tour of the NASA Johnson Space Center, which includes visits to the historic Mission Control, astronaut training facilities, and Rocket Park, home of the massive Saturn V rocket. You can book this by visiting the Guest Services Desk on the day of your visit.

Plan your visit

Houston Space Center exterior facade
  • Opening hours: Varies by month, typically between 9 and 10am.
  • Last admission: Varies by month, typically between 5 and 6pm.
  • Closed on: December 25 and Thanksgiving Day.
  • Best time to visit: Within one hour of opening and on weekdays.
    Weekends, holidays, and summer time (June-August) are crowded.

Address: 1601 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX 77058, United States | Find on Maps

Getting here from Downtown Houston:

  • By bus: Houston Metro Bus 247 and 249 on weekdays. Get off at Bay Area Park & Ride, and then take a 5-minute cab to Space Center Houston. This service is unavailable on weekends.
  • By cab: Uber or Yellow Cab Houston taxi services are available.
  • By car: It is a 30-minute drive on I-45 S highway. Parking is available at $10 + an additional service fee.
Wheelchair accessibility

The space center is equipped for various disabilities, including physical, visual, and hard-of-hearing. General facilities include:

  • Restrooms
  • Nursing rooms
  • Parking spaces
  • Wheelchairs for rent
  • Allowance of service animals (proof of disability required)
People waiting in line looking at the US Rocket outside the Houston Space Center

Quick visit (2 hours)

  • Explore the shuttle carrier aircraft at Independent Plaza.
  • Visit the Starship Gallery to see real flown spacecraft and national treasures.
  • Wrap up with a live presentation or short film at Destiny Theater.

Half-day (4 hours)

  • Take the NASA Tram Tour to Rocket Park.
  • Explore Mission Mars with Mars-focused exhibits. 
  • Visit the Independent Plaza before breaking for lunch at The Food Lab.
  • Swing by the Starship Gallery to check out national space treasures.

Full-day (7+ hours)

  • Start your day with the NASA Tram Tour, visiting all three stops.
  • Explore all the exhibit zones—Starship Gallery, Mission Mars, ISS, and more.
  • Wrap up your visit with multiple live presentations, feature films, and talks with astronauts at Destiny Theater.
Restroom Sign
  • ATM
  • Restrooms
  • Parking facilities
  • Restaurants
  • Gift shop
security check
  • Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled entry.
  • A security check is a must.
  • Oversized luggage and backpacks are not allowed; carry a small backpack.
  • The facility covers an area of 183,000 square feet—dress comfortably to walk around.
  • Outside food and beverages are not allowed, except baby food and formula.
  • Except for service animals, no pets are allowed.
  • Large camera equipment is not allowed—tripods, monopods, external lighting, etc.
  • Aerial drones are not allowed on-site.
  • Visitors are not allowed to enter wearing costumes or character masks.
Sandwiches

The Food Lab is a multi-concept eatery with a marketplace, coffee bar, and various food stations, such as:

  • The Market: Serves grab-and-go salads, sandwiches, hot entrees, and snacks.
  • Grounds Control: Serves a selection of espresso drinks and all-day pastries.
  • Community Kitchen: Serves dishes inspired by Houston and regional cultures, including street food, Tex-Mex, and BBQ. 
  • Deep Space Deli: Bite into freshly made sandwiches, available pressed or cold.
  • Galaxy Greens: Build-your-own salads featuring fresh ingredients and micro-herbs grown on-site.
  • Outer Crust: Serves freshly baked flatbreads, pizzas, and other baked specialties.
  • Velocity Grill: Serves classic grill dishes and healthier options.
Nasa Cap sold at Space Trader, the official gift store at Space Center Houston

Visit Space Trader, the official gift store at Space Center Houston, for official NASA merchandise, toys, gifts, memorabilia, and more.

Location: 1601 NASA Parkway Houston, TX, 77058 | Find on Maps

Timings:

  • Monday-Friday: 10am-5pm
    Saturday-Sunday: 10am-6pm

The Space Center has an online gift shop with a selection of merchandise, including apparel, toys, and memorabilia.

Astronaut spacesuit displayed at the Houston Space Center
  • Expedition 72 | Crew Debrief & Welcome Home Ceremony: Meet the astronauts of Expedition 72 as they return from the International Space Station.
  • AAPI Month Speaker Series: Join Samantha Sequeira as she discusses her role in advancing space technology and research.
  • Family Overnights: Spend the night under the stars—indulge in themed activities and challenges.
  • Space Center U: A hands-on program for students who want to train like astronauts.
  • Mission Control Space Center U: An advanced program with real-time pressure to build leadership and communication skills.
  • Space News & Brews:  It’s science, socializing, and snacks—all in one stellar evening.
  • Atmospheric Space Center U: Explore topics like atmospheric layers, storm tracking, and planetary weather patterns.
Woman with glasses smiling while checking her phone

Frequently asked questions about Space Center Houston tickets

Should I book my Space Center Houston tickets in advance?

It's advisable to book your Space Center Houston tickets at least a week in advance of your visit date. This is especially important during peak times like weekends, holidays, and school breaks, when the center experiences higher attendance.

Are tickets free for children?

Children aged 3 and under can enter for free. Reduced-price tickets are available for kids aged 4–11.

What does my general admission ticket include?

General admission gives you access to all permanent exhibits, galleries, films, live shows, and the NASA Tram Tour (boarding pass required on-site).

Are there any on-site services that I must pay for?

Yes, rentals like strollers, wheelchairs, and scooters have a small fee. Food, souvenirs, and paid parking ($10 per vehicle) are not included in the ticket price.

What if I miss my entry time slot?

Try to arrive on time, but if you're late, staff will usually accommodate you at the next available slot, subject to crowd levels.

Where can I collect my NASA Tram Tour boarding pass?

You can pick it up inside the center, at the Guest Services desk. It’s first-come, first-served, so collect it early in your visit to avoid missing out.

Is Space Center Houston worth it?

Absolutely. It’s one of the most engaging science centers in the country—with a real spacecraft, interactive exhibits, and access to NASA’s Johnson Space Center.

Can I cancel or reschedule my Space Center Houston tickets?

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance with full refund.

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