Is your student attending an Ultimate Field Trip (UFT) at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center? Read on to find out everything you need to know about their visit!
Arrival & Check In:
The U.S. Space & Rocket Center’s hours are 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM seven days a week. You can find our campus map to help you locate parking and entry here.
• Groups and chaperones are asked to check-in at the Davidson Center for Space Exploration (see map for reference).
o Adults that have paid through their school will receive a wristband from their head chaperone or group leader.
o Adults that have NOT paid through the school will pay for a group rate ticket at check-in.
Lunch:
• Some groups may opt to pre-order lunches through the school or bring their own. (Please note: this must be coordinated through your student’s group leader/teacher.)
Galaxy Grill:
• We have an on-campus grill that serves cheeseburgers, chicken tenders, pizza, and more! You can view their Hot Menu and Deli Menu at the links provided.
• Galaxy Grill also offers convenient $12 burger box lunches for pre-order for students, parents, staff, and any visiting scheduled daily group. The minimum group total to qualify is 50 people. Each box includes a freshly prepared burger meal (cheeseburger, Oreo, canned soda, and plain chips), and we’re happy to work with you on dietary needs or restrictions so everyone can enjoy their lunch.
BYO Lunch:
• If your student is part of a group that is bringing their own lunch, the best practice is to have each lunch labeled with their name and group (or school) name.
• However, we do not allow food from outside vendors or restaurants. Peanuts and other nut products are not permitted to ensure the safety of our guests with allergies.
Your Itinerary:
• Only the designated group leader will be given your personalized schedules and maps for the day.
• If your group separates during the day, please be sure all chaperones/adults are aware of the times for any customized activities and meal locations and times (if applicable).
Planetarium:
• Some groups opt to include a planetarium show in our Intuitive Planetarium. These shows are live and interactive and cover a variety of Space-related topics!
• As there are a limited number of seats available for each Planetarium show, we recommend purchasing your tickets (e.g. through your group/group leader) prior to your visit, as tickets may not be available for purchase on-site.
• Planetarium shows start at exactly their listed time. We highly recommend arriving at the Planetarium at least 10 minutes before the show’s start time.
o Guests that are late to the show will not be admitted and will not be refunded.
• Please be advised: Our planetarium shows may contain flashing, repetitive lights which may affect those who have a history of seizures or other photo-sensitivities. If applicable, please consult with a medical professional prior to attending.
Simulators:
• G-Force and Moon Shot are outdoor simulators included in all admission levels.
o Safety is of the utmost importance at both of these, so please help us in our endeavors to prohibit unsafe activities at these simulators, such as running, climbing, and excessive noise-levels.
o Please be aware that, because G-Force and Moon Shot are both outdoors, their operation is contingent upon favorable weather conditions and temperatures.
FAQs:
• My student is attending an Ultimate Field Trip (UFT). What should they bring with them?
o Your student will be both inside and outside, and there is a good deal of walking, so make sure they are wearing comfortable walking shoes and have a jacket. Sometimes the Planetarium is chilly!
o If time allows, your group might visit the gift shop or make vending machine stops, so your student may want to have funds on hand.
• My student is attending an Ultimate Field Trip (UFT). Can I do all of the activities with them?
o Adults are welcome to purchase general admission and any remaining planetarium tickets (first come, first served), but will not be allowed admittance into the UFT STEM lab due to classroom size.
o The UFT STEM lab is specifically for the students. Parents, siblings, and children under the age of 4 will not be able to participate in the UFT lab activity.
• My student would like to ride the simulators located indoors (Hypership, Virtual Reality, MaxFlight). Is that possible?
o If your group is an Ultimate Field Trip (UFT) and is following a schedule, you will not have time to pay for extra simulators. However, if you do not have a guide, check with your student’s teacher before purchasing a simulator.
• I am chaperoning my student’s Ultimate Field Trip (UFT). How can I get more information about their schedule?
o Your group leader (usually your student’s teacher) will have all the information regarding your group’s specific trip.
o Your schedule is designed to give your student the most out of what we have to offer at the Space and Rocket Center. You can help your group adhere to this schedule by ensuring your student stays with the group.
o The UFT STEM lab is specifically for the students. Parents, siblings, and children under the age of 4 are will not be able to participate in the UFT lab activity. However, up to 10 adults may be allowed in the classroom to observe and assist.
For further information, please contact your group leader. We look forward to seeing you!