Summer Blast Off: Top Science, Space, and Learning Centers to Visit in the U.S.

From space centers to museums, here are the must-visit spots before the back-to-school madness!

For young minds, dreaming of what they want to become in life is precious. So, it is always a great idea for families to help their children make their dreams come true. There’s always a fun and unforgettable way to do this, and we picked the top spots you can visit before the school starts:

• View mind-boggling exhibits and learn more about pop culture at Ripley’s Believe It or Not.
• Step into space and see where and how astronauts do their jobs.
• Unlock new skills and potential in arts and sciences at the DISCOVERY Children’s Museum in Las Vegas.
• Explore the historic world of dinosaurs, fossils, and more at the American Museum of Natural History.
• Have a super stretchy and colorful day with tons of slime at Sloomoo Institute.

These are the perfect destinations for young ones and young at heart to have fun, unwind, and discover the world. Visiting these interesting attractions also lets you prepare for the back-to-school fever. Ready to dive into new wonders this summer? Read on.

5 Places to Visit for the Best Science and Space Fun

1. Ripley's Believe It or Not

   There are discoveries that can’t be seen by the naked eye. So, for the ultimate science and pop culture treat, Ripley’s dares you to believe it or not! Word play aside, Ripley’s Believe it or Not is the go-to place for solo travelers and families who seek mind-boggling and fun-filled experiences. For this list, the spotlight shines on Ripley's Believe It or Not Hollywood and Ripley's Believe It or Not San Antonio.

   Take a deep dive into the glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s most famous muse, Marilyn Monroe. From her highly coveted wardrobe and personal mementos, experience her legacy at Ripley’s Believe It or Not Hollywood. Movie fans can also rejoice at the backstage zone dedicated to display top film props, artifacts, and more. For more immersive and family-friendly adventures, Ripley’s Believe It or Not San Antonio offers unique adventures. From the Vortex Tunne to tickle your senses to intriguing installations and ancient science exhibits, you’ll definitely have a blast!

2. Kennedy Space Center

   

   Is it even possible to move on from your childhood without dreaming of reaching space? Maybe yes, but the curiosity will always live on. And if you want to satisfy that intense curiosity about exploring the galaxy, this attraction is for you. Kennedy Space Center is one of the 10 NASA Field Centers. Located in Florida, it’s the dream destination for aspiring astronauts and space enthusiasts.

   Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex® provides a detailed, state-of-the-art view of space travel’s promising future. Featuring different journeys that will launch you to various locations across the universe, it’s the ultimate treat! You can also spot some prized artifacts like the CARGO DRAGON COTS 2. It is the first commercial spacecraft to deliver and return cargo from the International Space Station, achieving this milestone in 2012. Pretty amazing, right? For an unbeatable space adventure, Space Shuttle Atlantis gives a fun and action-packed twist inside of NASA’s most iconic spacecraft.

3. Discovery Children’s Museum

   

   Fascinated with new discoveries and always eager to learn new things, this museum is perfect for kids. See them wide-eyed as they wander around different zones and exhibits that will pique their interests. Packed with kid-friendly technologies and learning areas, every child can enjoy an immersive experience. Kids of all ages can showcase their creativity and satisfy their curiosity. All while having fun and enhancing their skills in problem solving and critical thinking.

   The best thing about DISCOVERY Children’s Museum in Las Vegas is that it highlights every aspect of child learning. Whether it’s about art, performance, and science, every kid can have the opportunity of discovery mixed with fun. The museum also offers meaningful experiences that educate youngsters about environmental and energy conservation. If you are looking for a remarkable summer adventure with holistic learning designed for your kids, this museum is an unskippable place.

4. American Museum of Natural History

   

   Obviously, the US takes museums and history very seriously. And if you and your little ones love to dig into the past to appreciate the present, visit the American Museum of Natural History. Massive, popular, and highly treasured, this museum is one of the most famous and largest science museums worldwide. It houses more than 32 million specimens, which notably include the 50-foot-tall Barosaurus in a defensive stance. For kids and kids at heart with unfulfilled Jurassic dreams, you’ll have a field day too. Get up close and personal with the legendary Tyrannosaurus Rex or “T.rex”.

   The museum also features more child-friendly exhibits like the Davis Family Butterfly Vivarium. For science-loving kids, it’s a great way to connect with nature’s most majestic winged creatures. Space enthusiasts, on the other hand, will absolutely enjoy the Encounters in the Milky Way experience. There are plenty of interesting displays inside the museum that showcase valuable artifacts and fossils. Future gemologists can also enjoy exhibits at the Mignone Halls of Gems and Minerals.

   IMPORTANT NOTE: Davis Family Butterfly Vivarium, Encounters in the Milky Way, Impact: The End of the Age of Dinosaurs, Goal Zone, and Invisible World are ticketed exhibits / experiences. These are not included in your discounted passes from FunEx.

5. Sloomoo Institute

   

   After a whole day of learning, discovering, and exploring, it’s time to get loose! By this, I don’t mean stretching your bones or flexing your muscles for some intense workout. If you are looking for a ridiculously fun and stimulating way to prepare your kids for the back-to-school madness, visit Sloomoo Institute. Take SLIME TIMEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE to the next level with Sloomoo’s oh-so-fun and interactive activities. It’s the perfect family-friendly getaway and the best way to tickle your senses.

   Discover slime in different colors and textures, and enjoy the adorable games such as the Slingshot Slime. You can also have a blast at massive slime zones, including the Lake Sloomoo made of 300 gallons of slime! Of course, you should not miss the chance to create your own slime at the DIY Bar. It’s the ultimate slimy treat you’ll never want to skip!

Treat Yourself to Affordable Adventures Before the Back to School Craze!

Before the school bells ring again, treat your little ones to unforgettable adventures this summer. Get them ready with refreshed minds, eager hearts, and optimistic spirits. As you dive into your summer bucketlists, make sure to get your discount tickets in advance! Take advantage of hot summer deals and huge discounts on the top attractions for you and your loved ones. Make the most of theme parks, museums, water parks, and learning and amusement centers this season.

The magic of summer is best shared with the people who make your hearts warm as the summer sun. Discover the best with your young explorers and say hello again to the inner child in you. Your affordable and unforgettable adventure starts here. Have a fun and productive summer, FunExplorers!