9 Stellar Out-of-This-World Attractions in the US
When it comes to the cosmos, the US has quite the legacy. Space tourism, USA–style, is about as good as it gets—after all, this is where the Apollo astronauts were trained to walk on the moon, where rockets still light up the Atlantic, and where observatories discovered entire planets and cosmic rhythms. If you want to research our human connection to the stars, there’s nowhere better than right here.
Of course, the US is huge, and the nation’s best cosmic travel experiences are spread across the map. Let’s narrow it down with the below—here are nine space-themed attractions in the US that offer outta-this-world fun.
1. Lowell Observatory, Arizona
The birthplace of everybody’s favorite non-planet.
Flagstaff, Arizona, is the world’s first International Dark Sky Place, but that’s not the city’s only celestial claim to fame. This high-desert town is home to Lowell Observatory, one of the country’s most influential observatories. (It’s where Pluto was discovered, after all.) Lowell has been operating research telescopes since 1894—and still is—but the public is welcome in on the sky-charting fun, from the Giovale Open Deck Observatory to the brand-new Astronomy Discovery Center, which houses an on-site planetarium, a “universe theater,” and more. Regular stargazing events are can’t-miss, too.
Insider tip: If you’re into history, check out one of Flagstaff’s history tours—this wild-west town has quite the past, indeed.
2. International UFO Museum and Research Center, New Mexico
For otherworldly attractions in the US, this one takes the (little green) cake.
The little green guys aren’t taken seriously in much of the world, but they are in Roswell, New Mexico. Home to the most famous alleged UFO crash in history, Roswell has put all its alien knowledge and experiences in one place: the International UFO Museum and Research Center. Offering guests a wildly comprehensive look at extraterrestrial phenomena across the centuries and decades—and a few hilarious photo opportunities—it’s hard to leave here not wondering about the existence of life on other planets.
Insider tip: New Mexico isn’t just famous for alien encounters—it’s also got its fair share of ghosts.
3. Kennedy Space Center, Florida
Skyrockets in flight, this one’s got afternoon—and all-day–delight.
Orlando’s Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is as close as most of us will ever get to being an astronaut. One of the best “museums” in the country, it gives visitors access to two IMAX theaters, Launch Complex 39 (a rocket-launch site), the Shuttle Launch Experience (a ride simulator), astronaut training experiences, presentations from NASA astronauts, tons of fascinating exhibits, views of actual space shuttles, and more. Don’t rush this one—a solid half-day is needed to soak in all the excellent attractions here.
Insider tip: This one’s an obvious must-do if you’re in the Orlando area. It’s incredibly popular (we’re talking millions of visitors), so nab your tickets early.
4. Extraterrestrial Highway, Nevada
This road trip is perfect for those who crave cosmic travel experiences.
While you can’t (legally) get inside Area 51, Nevada does offer its alien-questing visitors a consolation prize: the Extraterrestrial Highway. Blast out of Las Vegas heading north on Highway 93, and you’re on the road. Look for the Little A’Le’Inn, E.T. Fresh Jerky, the famous “Black Mailbox,” the Alien Research Center, and even the Nevada National Security Site, which includes the Nevada Test and Training Range and, yes, the outskirts of Area 51.
Insider tip: If you want to sit back and watch for aliens, hit the road on an extraterrestrial tour.
5. Griffith Observatory, California
In the US, space-themed attractions sometimes come with earthly views, too.
High on the slopes of Mount Hollywood, just looking at Griffith Observatory is a delight. But there’s no reason not to go inside: Admission to this world-class celestial attraction is entirely free (and has been since its inception in 1935). Visitors get access to the historic observatory’s excellent exhibits—which include the chance to gaze through the Zeiss refractor telescope—live Tesla Coil demonstrations, astronomer talks, and more. Definitely come in the evening to catch the Hollywood views, a public star party, or both.
Insider tip: Admission is free, but you might want to tack on a planetarium visit and guided tour.
6. Adler Planetarium, Illinois
US celestial attractions like Adler will connect you to the stars, even in the big city.
Chicago’s Adler Planetarium, right on the shores of Lake Michigan, is America's first planetarium—and it’s arguably the country’s best. Visitors can explore the cosmos across three domed theaters, exhibits on space science, and collections that include the Gemini 12 space capsule, antique scientific instruments, and more. The onsite Doane Observatory offers a large telescope for public viewing, too. If you can, attend one of the Adler After Dark events, and live out your Night at The Museum dreams.
Insider tip: The Adler is part of Chicago's Museum Campus, alongside the John G. Shedd Aquarium and The Field Museum. Grab the Chicago CityPass, and make a day of it.
7. Yerkes Observatory, Wisconsin
One of the first space exploration sites in the US still has its eyes on the skies.
One of America’s oldest observatories, Yerkes Observatory dates back to 1895—though decidedly in Wisconsin, it was originally part of the University of Chicago. Today, visitors can only access the observatory via guided tour, which means all guests get a behind-the-scenes look at the Great Refractor, the world’s largest refracting telescope, and more (like the sleeping quarters of Hubble and Sagan). Keep an eye on their calendar—a few times a year, the observatory lets visitors gaze at the cosmos through the Great Refractor.
Insider tip: Yerkes is about an hour from Milwaukee—and all the cheesy, beer-y goodness Brew City offers.
8. Space Center Houston, Texas
“Houston, we have a problem.”
The history (and future) of human spaceflight is on display at Space Center Houston, aka the Official Visitor Center of the NASA Johnson Space Center. Home to more than 400 space artifacts, including the world’s largest public display of moon rocks and a rare sample of the Bennu asteroid, the site showcases actual rockets, a fabulous Mission Mars exhibit, and even Historic Mission Control, from which NASA led the Gemini and Apollo missions. If your schedule allows, don’t miss the tram tour—it offers a sneak peek at the NASA Johnson Space Center.
Insider tip: To visit this popular spot, get your tickets well in advance, and plan to spend at least a half-day here.
9. National Air and Space Museum, Washington DC
A catalog of every space moment ever, right in front of your eyes.
One of the most-visited museums in the entire country, Washington DC’sNational Air and Space Museum is, essentially, America’s repository of all things spaceflight. Everything you see here is legit—not a reproduction—from Apollo 11 to Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis to the Wright Brothers’ flyer. There’s even the starship Enterprise, from Star Trek. In other words, if you can’t find something that fascinates you here, that’s a skill issue. To make sure you don’t miss a thing, go on a guided tour.
Insider tip: Some DC tours include reserved entry into a museum of your choice, including the National Air and Space Museum.
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