When we found out we would be in Texas over spring break, Kiley immediately asked if we could visit the Houston Space Center. We’ve already done an overnight trip to Kennedy Space Center here in Florida, so she wanted to add Houston to the places she’s visited.
Hands On Science in Houston
There were a lot of similarities between the two space centers, and a lot of differences. Overall we’d say that Houston had more of a “science center” feel and seemed less “theme park-y” to our family. While they each have different things to offer both space centers are fun for the whole family.
One of the things we loved about the Space Center were all the interactive exhibits. The kids had a blast trying out robotic equipment and tons of educational games and activities.
Take a Tour in Houston
One of our favorite activities in Houston was a behind the scenes tour of the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory. The facility has a gigantic swimming pool and submerged is a life sized replica of the International Space Station. This is where astronauts train for their missions.
This tour was a highlight for us and for the kids. My future astronaut especially loved seeing all the equipment and hearing about the training exercises. This tour was free, but we had to get our tickets first thing in the morning.
Space Center Houston had loads of attractions and exhibits for us to explore. It was easy to spend an entire day there. Our family was split on whether it was better than Kennedy Space Center. Two of us said yes and two said no.
If you’re in the Houston area I would highly recommend you stop by for a visit. There’s lots to do and see and learn for little kids and big kids.
