As the world watched every moment of NASA’s Artemis II mission and its historic return to Earth, visitors to Alabama can take their own first step toward space exploration at the U.S. Space & Rocket Centre in Huntsville, home to the world-famous Space Camp.
NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) also based in Huntsville, played a key role in Artemis II by designing, building and testing essential hardware. Huntsville’s contributions ensured the powerful rocket and Orion spacecraft operate correctly for the first crewed lunar mission, making it central to returning humans to the Moon.
The U.S. Space & Rocket Centre is widely regarded as one of the most immersive STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) experiences in the world, the U.S. Space & Rocket Centre is a Smithsonian-affiliated museum and the official visitor centre for NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Centre. Visitors can explore one of the largest collections of rockets and space artefacts globally, including full-scale launch vehicles, interactive exhibits and spaceflight simulators.
At the heart of the experience is Space Camp a globally recognised programme designed around real NASA astronaut training techniques. It offers a unique opportunity for children, families and adults to step into the role of a space explorer.
Activities include training on astronaut simulators such as the Multi-Axis Trainer and 1/6th Gravity Chair, building and launching model rockets as well as taking part in realistic mission simulations to the International Space Station and beyond. Trainees experience teamwork exercises, engineering challenges and even underwater or microgravity-style training designed to replicate real spaceflight conditions.
Programmes are tailored to different age groups and levels of ambition. A six-day Space Camp programme for ages 9–11 starts from approximately $1,799 (£1,300), while more advanced academies for teenagers begin at around $1,999 (£1,480). Family Space Camp options start from around $799 (£600) per person, making it accessible for parents and children to train together. Shorter introductory experiences, such as the Pathfinder programme, are available from $699 (£520).
Beyond the camp itself, visitors can enjoy full access to the U.S. Space & Rocket Centre’s attractions, with general admission priced at around $30 (£23) for adults and $20 (£15) for children. Entry includes access to major exhibits such as Saturn V Hall, Rocket Park, Space Shuttle displays, and hands-on science labs. Optional add-ons include flight simulators, VR experiences, planetarium shows and astronaut-style training sessions such as SCUBA-based underwater missions. For further information and to book the Space Camp visit: www.rocketcenter.com/SpaceCamp.
Travelbag offers a 12 night Rock n Roll, Rockets & Elvis self-drive road trip which includes six nights in Alabama from £1,529pp. Start your adventure in Atlanta, where you can explore the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr. and indulge in Southern cuisine. As you venture through Alabama, soak in the charm of its small towns and experience the soulful melodies that have influenced generations. With visits to Memphis and Nashville the journey concludes with a stop in Huntsville enroute to Atlanta. Price includes indirect return flights from London Heathrow with Delta Airlines, accommodation, car hire and day passes to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. Price based on selected departures in July 2026 based on two adults and two children under 12 sharing. Book by 31st May 2026. To book, call Travelbag on 0203 393 9620 or visit www.travelbag.co.uk. All packages subject to availability.
Click here for Travelbag’s full itinerary
Images supplied
