'Ka ni Kim

Every space nerd knows that when you’re in Houston, you’ve got to visit the Space Center. And the well-prepared space nerds know that you can save some money by getting your tickets online!

Our trip to the Space Center was a ton of fun. We started the day with a tour of the Astronaut Training Facility. This is one of NASA’s tram tours that come free with admission. We got an eagle-eye view of the building where every astronaut that NASA has launched into space learned the ropes.

The tram tours aren’t just about the destination. On the way to the facilities, we passed by a gated-off field where some longhorns were grazing. They get to enjoy 35 acres of grazing pastureland thanks to the Longhorn Project, a nonprofit organization that serves to care for the longhorns and give students hands-on learning opportunities about animal husbandry.

And the learning doesn’t stop there. Students also get education on vegetable cultivation, aquaculture, and composting – all of which are vital areas of research for space travel. The cherry on top is that longhorns are also an icon of Texas’ cultural heritage. There really isn’t a more perfect place for them to hang out.

We took a breather at The Food Lab and had a quick lunch. There are a few different options available, depending on what kind of food you’re craving. I got a pizza from the Outer Crust (geography joke!). I don’t drink coffee anymore, but I loved that their coffee shop is called “Grounds Control”.

The other tram tour we took was to the George W.S. Abbey Rocket Park. On these grounds, the Saturn V rocket stands. This is the actual rocket that NASA used for the Apollo program. The walls are adorned with photos and information on the history of the US’s attempts to land a man on the moon, culminating in the historic successful mission with Apollo 11.

After the Space Center, we made a quick side trip to the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park. This mammoth of a fountain stands at an impressive 64 feet tall. Water cascades down the walls, both inside the structure and out. That’s 78,500 gallons of water circulating through the Waterwall. It’s a cute spot for a selfie – just watch out for the spray!

Admission is $34.95 for adults ($29.95 online), $32.95 for seniors 65+ ($27.95 online), and $29.95 for kids 4-11 years old ($24.95 online). Kids below 4 get in free.

The Space Center Houston is located at 1601 East NASA Parkway. They are open from 10am to 6pm. Check out their website for more updates and information.

The Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park is located at 2800 Post Oak Boulevard. It’s open every day. The fountain operates between 8am and 9pm. Learn more on the Uptown Houston website.