US Space and Rocket Center

The US Space and Rocket Center has something for just about everyone. Obviously if you are interested in the United States space program you will find a thing or two to catch your eye. There is the Rocket Garden with an example of every important rocket and several missiles from the last 50 years. This includes the most important of them all, the rocket that took man to the moon, the Saturn V. Inside the museum there are numerous artifacts from the program. A Lunar Excursion Vehicle (The Lunar Rover), the Apollo 16 Command Module, a Lunar Module (the part that lands on the moon), a moon rock, and on and on.

For those with only a superficial interest in space will still be impressed by the sheer size of not only the Saturn V, but of the Pathfinder. The Pathfinder is a full scale model of the Space Shuttle, with its exterior boosters.

For the kids (not so much smaller kids) there is quite an assortment of rides and simulators. They all have a space theme and the USSRC is constantly adding things to keep the facility fresh and modern. Rides like Space Shot (which sends 12 people rocketing into the sky) and the G-Force Accelerator (experience 3-gs) will keep the teenagers happy.

Smaller kids, under 8 years old, have a special area called the Energy Depletion Zone, where they can play.

In recent years they have added an Apollo Cockpit Simulator (just like what the Apollo astronauts trained in) and the Davidson Center for Space Exploration, which now houses the Saturn V.

Cost is $25 for Adults and $20 for Children. This includes admission, a movie, and the rides. For another $5 you can add a second movie. Hours are 9 to 5, 7 days a week