NASA Johnson Space Center — Houston, Texas

Discover the Johnson Space Center Tour in Texas

Explore the heart of America’s human spaceflight program with a visit to Space Center Houston, the official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center. This world-class attraction offers behind-the-scenes access to historic and active space facilities, interactive exhibits, astronaut training areas, rocket displays, and mission-control heritage unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Why it’s special: Space Center Houston provides unprecedented public access to NASA’s working campus. Visitors can tour real astronaut training spaces, see flown spacecraft, witness cutting-edge robotics, and stand inside the legendary Mission Control where Apollo astronauts once communicated with Earth.

History/Story of Johnson Space Center

Established in 1961, Johnson Space Center became the home of NASA’s human spaceflight operations, including astronaut training, spacecraft development, and mission control communications. From the Gemini and Apollo programs to the Shuttle era and today’s ISS and Artemis missions, JSC has played a defining role in global space exploration. Space Center Houston opened in 1992 to share that story with the public through immersive exhibits and official tram tours.

What You’ll See & Do

• Ride the NASA Tram Tour to visit Johnson Space Center’s working facilities

• Step inside Historic Mission Control, restored to its Apollo-era state

• Tour astronaut training areas, mockups, and robotics labs (based on tour type)

• Explore flown spacecraft, including the shuttle carrier aircraft + shuttle replica Independence

• View the massive Saturn V rocket at Rocket Park

• Experience hands-on exhibits, live science shows, and spaceflight simulations

Visiting Information

Hands-On Elements
Visitors can touch a real moon rock, try interactive space simulations, and explore hands-on engineering and robotics exhibits designed for all ages.

Photo/Video Policy
Photography is allowed in most visitor areas. Some active NASA facilities on the tram tour may restrict photos.

Souvenirs & Extras

• Gift shop with NASA apparel, toys, collectibles, and mission patches

• Dining options inside the center

• Space-themed events, talks, and rotating exhibits

Practical Info
Space Center Houston is open daily, typically between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM, with extended hours on weekends and holidays. NASA Tram Tours run throughout the day.

Pricing

Admission:

• Adults: ~$34.95

• Children (4–11): ~$29.95

• Seniors (65+): ~$32.95

• Children under 4: Free

• Tram Tour: Included with admission

Pricing includes access to galleries, exhibits, Rocket Park, and the NASA Tram Tour (subject to availability).

Nearby

• Kemah Boardwalk — Waterfront dining, rides, and entertainment

• Armand Bayou Nature Center — Hiking, wildlife, and educational programs

• Clear Lake — Watersports, boating, and scenic views

FAQs

1. How long should I plan for a visit?
Most guests spend 4–6 hours exploring exhibits and taking the NASA Tram Tour.

2. Is the NASA Tram Tour included with admission?
Yes, though seating is first-come, first-served for scheduled departures.

3. Can I see astronauts training?
Depending on the day and facility schedule, tram tours may pass by active training locations.

4. Is the center good for young children?
Absolutely—there are hands-on exhibits, interactive play zones, and educational programs for all ages.

5. What is the most popular attraction?
The Apollo-era Mission Control and the Saturn V rocket at Rocket Park are visitor favorites.