Space Foundation Headquarters and Discovery Center

The Space Foundation Discovery Center offers an out-of-this-world experience for young astronauts-in-training with hands-on exhibits that make space science accessible and exciting. Kids can pilot a Mars rover simulator, watch Earth's weather patterns on the impressive Science On a Sphere, and engage with interactive displays that bring space exploration to life in ways that spark curiosity and imagination.

• ✓Mars rover driving simulator where kids pilot a virtual rover across the Martian surface
• ✓Science On a Sphere,a room-sized animated globe displaying real-time planetary and space data
• ✓Hands-on rocket building and launch activities
• ✓Interactive exhibits about satellites, spacewalks, and space station life
• ✓Rotating special exhibits featuring current space missions and discoveries

1. 1.Arrive right when they open at 10 AM on weekdays to have the Mars rover simulator and popular exhibits to yourself before school groups arrive
2. 2.Don't miss the Science On a Sphere presentations,check the schedule when you arrive and plan your visit around these 15-minute shows
3. 3.The gift shop has excellent NASA-themed souvenirs and STEM toys that are more educational than typical tourist trinkets
4. 4.Ask staff about any special demonstrations or astronaut talks that might be scheduled during your visit,they often have guest speakers
5. 5.Plan for extra time if you have space-obsessed kids; they'll want to linger at every station

Tuesday through Thursday mornings offer the quietest experience, as weekends can get busy with local families. Visiting during the school year on weekday mornings (avoiding holiday breaks) helps you dodge large school field trip groups that typically arrive mid-morning to early afternoon.

Admission fees apply (check their website for current pricing and family packages). Free parking is available on-site. There's no café inside, so plan to eat before or after your visit, though you can bring water bottles.

Open year-round Tuesday through Saturday. Closed Sundays and Mondays. Summer can be busier with visiting tourists and camp groups. Consider visiting during Colorado's mild spring or fall for comfortable weather and smaller crowds. The indoor venue makes it perfect for winter activities when outdoor attractions aren't ideal.

Chick-fil-A and Panera Bread are both about 5 minutes away at the Powers Boulevard shopping area, offering quick, kid-friendly meals. For a sit-down option, try Mountain View Restaurant & Lounge (10 minutes away) which has a children's menu and casual atmosphere perfect for post-museum hungry kids.