There are some options for special tours that should be given serious consideration. We opted to purchase the FLY WITH AN ASTRONAUT and couldn't have been more pleased with the decision. It appeared to be a full tour so I would order early, we got ours a couple of months early. The fact that you are toured around with an actual astronaut is just incredible. We had Julie Payette, a Space Shuttle veteran who was part of the construction of the International Space Station. If you have kids that you would like to inspire to work hard in their studies this is a very hands free way to do it. I don't know if all of the other astronauts are as charismatic as Julie was but I was blown away by her openness, knowledge, and her infectious enthusiasm for what has been done, continues to be and what will be done in the future. You could feel her genuine excitement through the entire tour and see it all the way to the gleam in her eyes. Mark helped her with the tour by interjecting interesting facts and anecdotes so the back and forth between them kept people engaged in their dialogues. Julie was mic'd up and we were given wireless receivers and headphones so we were free to look at things she was talking about and not struggle to hear around other sounds and people. This was a game changer since on other similar tours only the closest to the guide would get all the information. I think that a 2 day pass to see everything is necessary for those that want to see as much as possible. The special tour took you to back doors to prevent waiting in line. We had scheduled times to hit so the waiting was hidden by narration and stories by the guides which is infinitely better than standing in a zig zag queue. Lunch was included which was buffet style, hot and tasty with desserts and drinks. Julie, again showing her character of serving, ate quickly and made the rounds to the tables with a notebook to show pictures to enhance her explanations to questions around the table. Prior to departing she took questions from anyone in the room. We did start a little late because a few that were in our group got held up outside on the highway due to Blue Origin moving a rocket so the road was blocked. It was good that they were able to make it and I didn't see any frustration for the wait.

Parking was $15 and the gate for parking opened about 30 minutes before opening of the center. They handled the electronic scanning of tickets flawlessly. You will be required to pass through metal detectors and bags will be searched. They had handheld scanners for those that cannot walk through the detectors. There are plenty of places to get snacks and food as well as gifts. Expect typical tourist trap pricing for all purchases including the $4 bottled water.