The Apollo 11 moon landing on July 20, 1969 was a historic event that captivated the world and marked a monumental achievement in human space exploration. For those interested in reliving the excitement and learning more about this iconic mission, there are numerous destinations across the United States where you can immerse yourself in the history and legacy of Apollo 11 and NASA’s subsequent moon missions. From museums housing actual spacecraft to observatories and interactive exhibits, these attractions offer a unique glimpse into the achievements of NASA and the brave astronauts who made history.

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, Washington, D.C.

This renowned museum on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. houses the Apollo 11 command module, Columbia, which carried astronauts Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins to the moon and back. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the mission, view the actual command module and learn about the history and future of space exploration. The museum offers an immersive experience with numerous artefacts from the Apollo program.

Kennedy Space Center, Florida

The Kennedy Space Center in Florida was the launch site of the Apollo 11 mission. The visitor complex here includes exhibits on the Apollo program, a replica of the Saturn V rocket and the Apollo/Saturn V Center where you can experience the excitement of the Apollo era. Visitors can also take guided tours to see historic launch pads and other facilities.

Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas

Home to Mission Control during the Apollo missions, the Johnson Space Center near Houston offers tram tours that include the Apollo Mission Control Center. Visitors can see the restored control room as it appeared during the moon landing, learn about astronaut training and explore a variety of space artefacts and exhibits dedicated to human spaceflight.

U.S. Space & Rocket Center, Huntsville, Alabama

This museum displays a variety of rockets and space artefacts, including an actual Saturn V rocket similar to the one that launched Apollo 11. The U.S. Space & Rocket Center provides an in-depth look at the history of the Apollo program and the technological advancements that made the moon landing possible. Interactive exhibits and simulators enhance the visitor experience.

Neil Armstrong Air and Space Museum, Wapakoneta, Ohio

Located in Neil Armstrong’s hometown, this museum features artefacts from the life and career of the first person to step foot on the moon, including personal items, spacecraft and memorabilia. The Neil Armstrong Air and Space Museum offers a personal glimpse into not only his life, but also the broader context of the Apollo missions.

Cradle of Aviation Museum, Garden City, New York

This museum has an exhibit dedicated to the Lunar Module, which was built in the Grumman factory in nearby Bethpage, New York. The Cradle of Aviation Museum showcases the contributions of the region to the Apollo program and features a detailed replica of the Lunar Module, the spacecraft that actually landed on the moon’s surface, along with other artefacts and exhibits that tell the story of space exploration.

Museum of Flight, Seattle, Washington

The Museum of Flight in Seattle, Washington features an impressive Apollo Exhibit which showcases the NASA space program that put men on the moon in the 1960s and 70s. It features rare artefacts, such as a never-used Lunar Module engine along with pieces of rocket boosters that were recovered from 14,000 feet under the sea off of the coast of Florida. Other highlights include the Apollo 17 Lunar Module Ascent Stage Mock-up and a moon rock brought back during Apollo 15.

The Lunar Sample Laboratory Facility, Houston, Texas

Located at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Texas, the Lunar Sample Laboratory Facility is where lunar samples from the Apollo missions are stored and studied. Although it is not typically open to the public, special tours and events occasionally offer visitors the unique opportunity to see these priceless moon rocks up close. The facility plays a crucial role in ongoing scientific research, helping scientists unlock the secrets of the Moon and our solar system. Visitors can learn about the meticulous processes involved in handling and studying lunar samples and the fascinating discoveries made over the decades.

Cosmosphere, Hutchinson, Kansas

This Kansas museum has a comprehensive exhibit on the Space Race, including a moon rock from Apollo 11. The Cosmosphere features a collection of spacecraft, artefacts and exhibits that detail the history of space exploration, from the early days of rocketry to the Apollo missions and beyond. Interactive displays and educational programs make it a great destination for space enthusiasts of all ages.

Museum of the Moon

Can’t make it to any of the places above? Maybe this touring exhibit, featuring several moons on display, will be more accessible. Currently on display at the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa, Ontario and the Mahaffey Theatre, Florida, the exhibit will next travel to Korea, Germany and the UK.  The Museum of the Moon allows visitors to experience a detailed replica of the Moon’s surface, with each centimetre representing 5 kilometres of the Moon’s surface. The exhibit includes lighting and sound compositions that create an immersive lunar experience.