Spotlight: Houston - The Johnson Space Center & Space Center Houston (NASA)

Spotlight: Fifty years ago (July 20, 1969) was one of those landmark dates in history - the day man walked on the moon. Neil Armstrong, the first human being to step on a extraterrestrial landmass, stated, "That's one small step for [a] man, one giant leap for mankind."

Apollo 11 crew

     The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) was founded in 1958 as an independent organization of the U.S. Federal Government. The new agency was given the directive to pursue peaceful applications in space science; including the Apollo Moon Landing missions, the Skylab space station, the Space Shuttle, supporting the International Space Station, overseeing the development of the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle, the Space Launch System and Commercial Crew vehicles.
     The Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas is the central hub of NASA operations, but is just one of several facilities run by the organization throughout the nation.

Location: The Johnson Space Center is located at 2101 E. NASA Parkway in Houston, TX - about a 30-minute drive from downtown Houston.

Cost: Space Center Houston ticket prices: adults - $29.95, children (4-11) - $24.95, seniors (65+) - $27.95. An audio tour option is available for an additional $6/ticket.

Time: The Space Center is open from 10am - 5pm on weekdays and 9am - 6pm on weekends. During the summer, it stays open an extra hour on weekdays. Plan on spending at least a half-day there. Space geeks could spend a full day there and still want more.

Description: The Johnson Space Center has a variety of fun activities. When we went in 2014, they had a Mars exhibit with different activities that simulated the Martian environment. We did the Mars Walk, a Freefall, a glider ride simulation, etc.

Mars Walk

Glider simulation

Freefall

     There were lots of hands on displays that allowed you to perform several tasks that astronauts had to perform remotely or in the confines of their space suits. The girls also got to experience a blastoff simulation.

Blastoff

     Naturally, we went on a tour of the space station, which included the Astronaut Gallery, the Mission Control Center, and several buildings that housed outdated space equipment at Rocket Park. By inspecting them up close, you get a good idea of how massive some of these vehicles are.

Saturn Rocket

Mission Control Center

cockpit of Space Shuttle Independence

Rating: 5 stars (out of 5)

Things You Should Know: - In order to visit the Johnson Space Center, you must book a tour through Space Center Houston.
- The Zero-G Diner is available if you are there through lunch time.
- The grounds are huge, and you probably won't have time to do everything. The top attractions at Space Center Houston include: 1) The Orion Simulator and Starship Gallery; 2) The Moon Rock Gallery; 3) Independence Plaza; 4) The Neutral Buoyancy Lab; 5) Mission Control; 6) Space Vehicle Mockup Facility; and 7) Rocket Park.
- Keep tabs on the time so that you don't miss out on your timed Independence Plaza tour of the space shuttle as well as your tour of the Johnson Space Center.
- The Johnson Space Center is still actively used to prepare astronauts for space exploration. The Orion program is currently preparing to send humans to the Moon, Mars and beyond.
- For a detailed itinerary of how to spend your day, click here.

Nearby: Downtown Aquarium, Dolphin Excursion, Minute Maid Park, Nolan Ryan Museum

Spotlight: San Antonio - Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

Spotlight: Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is dedicated to taking care of animals from all over the world. The Ranch covers over 450 acres of land where over 500 animals from 40 exotic, native and endangered species peacefully graze and interact with visitors as they drive through. All species at the Ranch are herbivores including: white rhinos, ostriches, zebras, bison, longhorns, wildebeests, donkeys, impalas, bongos, lemurs, camels, and much, much more.

Location: The Wildlife Ranch is located at 26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd., San Antonio. Although it has a San Antonio address, it is several miles north-east of the city, in between I-35 and HWY 281.

Cost: $22/adult (12+); $20/senior (65+); $13.50/child (3-11); annual passes are $80/adult

Time: The ranch is open from 9 am - 4 pm daily with extended hours (9-5 or 9-6) from March - October. Plan on spending 2-5 hours at the ranch.

Description: The Safari Trek takes visitors through a loop covering miles of Texas hill country. Cars go one way and the loop takes about an hour-and-a-half to complete. Imagine staring at a longhorn eyeball to eyeball from less than a foot away. Or getting a dentist's view of a zebra as he dares you to feed him hand to mouth. Or having an ostrich peck at your windowsill, begging you to place some food pellets within reach. We experienced each one of those scenarios while snapping photos and filming our daughters' reactions as they squealed with joy mixed with trepidation. We had so much fun the first time through, we drove it again; and we were glad we did because different animals approached on each drive through.

 

     You have the option to take the Tower Ranch Drive out to see the giraffes. Giraffe preservation is one of the Ranch's main goals and it is worth the extra time to see these magnificent creatures as well as the beautiful scenic views of the surrounding area.

     In addition to the vehicle safari, visitors can take a Walk-a-bout and see other animals in a separate section of the Ranch, including Lemur Island, a Koi Fish Pond and the Petting Barnyard.

     The Safari Camp Grill and Safari Sweet Spot sell burgers, fries, nachos chicken strips, vegetable salads, ice cream and other tasty treats.

Rating: 5 stars (out of 5)

Things You Should Know: - For the safety of the animals, pets and service animals are prohibited.
- You drive through the ranch from the comfort of your own car. There are no trams or rental vehicles. For safety reasons, motorcycles and jeeps without doors or tops are prohibited.
- Feeding the animals is not only allowed, it is encouraged - as long as it is the food they provide you upon entry. I recommend that you purchase and additional bag of food. You'll be glad you did.

- The animals are not vicious, but they are wild and may act unpredictably. Some are aggressive since they know each car receives a free container of food, and aren't shy about approaching when hungry. We had an ostrich pecking the window frame of our car "asking" for food.

- On the other hand, there are no refunds if the animals don't interact with you.
- Military personnel and First Responders get $4 off general admission price with current ID.
- The Ranch is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
- Coupons are available at visitsanantonio.com but are not valid during Spring Break or weekends.
- The best time to visit is during the morning hours. During peak visiting periods, the closer to 9 am you arrive, the better to beat crowds. Also, light rainy days are a great day to visit.
- Tickets expire once you leave the main gates.
- Animals cross the road constantly. Please adhere to the 5 mph speed limit for your safety and theirs.

Nearby: Natural Bridge Caverns, Canyon Lake, Guadalupe River State Park, Schlitterbahn Waterpark

Spotlight: San Antonio - Tower of the Americas

Spotlight: The Tower of the Americas is the second tallest observation tower in the United States, and was the tallest from 1968-1996 (when the Stratosphere in Las Vegas was built). The tower was designed by architect O'Neil Ford as the theme structure for the 1968 World's Fair, HemisFair '68, and remains the tallest building in San Antonio. The top of the tower has a rotating restaurant, a lounge and an observation deck. The restaurant is currently leased by Landry's Restaurants, which manages the property.

Location: The Tower of the Americas is located at 739 E Cesar E. Chavez Blvd., San Antonio, TX, in what is known as the Hemisfair Park.

Cost: Adults - $12, Seniors and Military - $10, Children (4-12) - $9; Parking is $8 (Mon. - Fri.), $11 (Sat & Sun)

Time: The tower is open from 10 am - 10 pm (Sun - Thurs.) and 10 am - 11 pm on weekends. Plan on spending 2-3 hours.

Description: As the tallest structure in San Antonio, the Tower of the Americas offers beautiful 360 degree views of the city. Photographic displays inside the observation deck help visitors identify key landmarks around the city, as well as allow visitors to compare images from the past with the present. The exhibit includes historical overviews of Texas including the history of its six flags, the Battle of the Alamo, and its Spanish roots.

     At the base of the tower, visitors can experience the 4D Theater ride "Skies Over Texas." The ride allows visitors to "fly" over Texas and explore its vast environmental and cultural diversity through the lenses of 3D glasses while experiencing the events through its 4D technology. Visitors get to experience what it feels like to: be a rodeo clown being chased by a bull, look a rattlesnake in the eyes or watch astronauts prepare for launch at NASA. It was very well done!
     The tower is located within the ground of the Hemisfair Park, where the World Fair was held in 1968. While most of the buildings no longer exist, the park has been beautified with a variety of statues, fountains and trees that make it one of the most popular city parks in the state.

Rating: 4 1/2 stars (out of 5)

Things You Should Know: - Ticket prices include unlimited access to the observation deck, Flags over Texas and the 4D Theater Ride.
- The observation deck is enclosed, but there is an open air walkway around the observation deck that is "enclosed" with metal wires. It is safe, but be prepared for high winds.

- From June through October, the city sponsors Free concert Friedays from 7 pm - 11 pm. The concert offers great family entertainment with food, drink, a bounce house and more.

Nearby: Institute of Texan Cultures, the River Walk, San Antonio Museum of Art, the Alamo

Spotlight: San Antonio - River Walk

Spotlight: The San Antonio River flows through the heart of San Antonio, providing the life blood for the seventh most populous city in the United States. The most popular section of the San Antonio River is the famous River Walk - a city park located one story below the level of the streets of downtown San Antonio. The park consists of a series of cypress-lined walkways and stone bridges that border and cross the river. The walkways are lined by restaurants, tourist shops and public artwork. If you go beyond the crowded River Bend Section, the River Walk connects five historic missions that were constructed during San Antonio's colonial period as part of the Spanish Empire.

     The River Walk was the brain child of architect Robert Hugman. Following the disastrous flood of 1921, there was a movement to build a dam upstream and pave over the River Bend that flowed through downtown San Antonio in order to put in a storm drain. Although the Olmos Dam was built, and a bypass channel constructed, the River Bend was saved due to the efforts of the San Antonio Conservation Society. In 1929, Hugman provided a solution to the River Bend dilemma when he submitted his plans for a downtown park that would bring in tourists and capitalize on the city's Spanish heritage. The River Walk provides the perfect backdrop to many of San Antonio's most popular restaurants, which allow guests to dine on southwest cuisine while enjoying views of people strolling up and down the river in boats, bicycle or on foot.

Location: The River Walk is a section of the San Antonio River in downtown San Antonio. It generally refers to the Section known as the River Bend.

Cost: Anyone can stroll along the River Walk for free. Narrated tours aboard one of the famous river boats run about $12/adult with discounts for seniors, military, children and local residents. Or you can hop on a Rio Taxi for as little as $5 for a one-way trip or $10 for a 24-hour pass.

Time: The River Walk doesn't close, but Rio Taxi service runs from 9 am - 9 pm. Narrated tours run about 35 minutes.

Description: Ever since I first saw views of the River Walk while watching Spurs games on TV, I wanted to cruise the river on one of the Rio Taxis. When I finally got to experience the River Walk for myself, I was impressed by the simple, natural beauty of the area that encouraged you to slow down and just enjoy the ambiance. Since we went in June, the Rio Taxi was a bit crowded and hot, but it was fun to get the inside scoop on some of the historic buildings along the river.

     Afterwards, we strolled along the River Walk on foot. This was actually more enjoyable, because we were shaded by the cypress trees that lined the route. We ate dinner at the Lone Star Cafe which was delicious. My daughter claimed that her hamburger was the greatest one she'd ever tasted.

Rating: 4 stars (out of 5)

Things You Should Know: - The best time to go is from September to May when the temperatures are much nicer and the crowds a bit more manageable.
- River Taxis can be accessed at several different locations along the River Walk.

Nearby: Briscoe Western Art Museum, La Villita Historic Arts Village, The Alamo, Tower of the Americas

Spotlight: San Antonio - The Alamo

Spotlight: The Battle of the Alamo (February 23 – March 6, 1836) remains the most famous event in the Texas Revolution. For centuries, Texas had been part of Spain's empire in the Americas. Shortly after Mexico gained their independence from Spain, they tried to increase the population of the area by inviting American colonists to settle in the area. Unfortunately for them, the new colonists retained allegiance to the United States rather than their new government. After years of internal strife, the Texan settlers revolted in 1835, creating an army under the command of Sam Houston. In early 1836, the Mexican troops laid siege to the Alamo Mission near San Antonio de Béxar. On March 6, the Mexican troops attacked, killing all of the Texan defenders, including the famous frontiersmen James Bowie and Davy Crockett. The battle became a rallying cry for the Texan Rebels, who were buoyed by reinforcements and a desire for revenge. On April 21, 1836, the Texan Army won a decisive victory at the Battle of San Jacinto, ending the revolution. Although Texas immediately applied for statehood, it would be another nine years before it was admitted into the Union.

Location: The Alamo is located at 300 Alamo Plaza in downtown San Antonio.

Cost: Entrance into the Alamo is free. However, guided tours run about $12-$15 per person.

Time: The Alamo is open from 9:00 am - 5:30 pm daily with extended hours (9-7pm) during the summer. Plan on spending about 1-3 hours.

Description: The Alamo is one of the most famous landmarks in the nation. The mission was the site of one of the most famous battles in the history of the United States. Today visitors can tour the grounds including the Alamo Church with memorials to those who died and the Long Barrack Museum, which houses authentic artifacts that remain from the battle as well as many interpretive displays describing the fort, the living conditions of its residents, the battle and other related material. The grounds also have additional displays and occasionally host various family-friendly activities.

Rating: 3 1/2 stars (out of 5)

Things You Should Know: - San Antonio is very hot during the summer, so make sure you have enough sunscreen and water.
- The Alamo was built as a Spanish mission and as such is considered a religious building.
- Photography is not permitted inside the Alamo Church or Long Barrack Museum.

Nearby: Guinness World Records Museum, Ripley's Believe it or Not Odditorium, the Riverwalk, Tower of the Americas

Spotlight: Fort Worth - The Stockyards

Spotlight: The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District preserves the history of Texas's legendary livestock industry. Between 1866 and 1890, drovers channeled more than 4 million head of cattle through Fort Worth, inspiring the city's nickname of Cowtown. After the railroad arrived in 1876, the city built the Union Stockyards in 1887. When funds ran low, new investors decided to develop Fort Worth's meat-packing industry rather than just ship the stock off to other markets. Construction soon began on new pens, barns, a Livestock Exchange Building, two new meat-packing plants, expanded telegraph and railroad offices, and other support businesses creating an industry often referred to as "The Wall Street of the West." In 1907 the Cowtown Coliseum was built as an indoor show arena. The industry continued to grow until it reached its peak in 1944. Following WWII, the railroad industry began to decline with the rise of the automobile; and the decline of the cattle industry soon followed. By 1971, both major meat-packing plants were forced to close. In 1976, Charlie and Sue McCafferty founded the North Fort Worth Historical Society to preserve Cowtown's livestock heritage. Through the Society's efforts, the Fort Worth National Historic District was founded. It has continued to grow as new businesses have replaced the old ones, with the new focus shifting to tourism and entertainment.

Location: The Stockyards are located at 130 E. Exchange Ave. in Fort Worth, Texas.

Cost: Free to get in, but individual activities cost extra.

Time: Schedules vary from place to place within the Stockyards. Locations start opening around 9 am and close at around 5 pm. Plan on spending about 1-4 hours, depending on what activities you do.

Description: The Stockyards has dozens of different activities you can do, ranging from shopping to dining to riding a mechanical bull. There are dozens of shops that cater mostly to tourists by selling Old West souvenirs and clothing. There was also plenty of room for expansion when we went it 2014.

     Some of the activities available at the Stockyards include: perusing the Visitor Center, finding your way through the Cowtown Cattlepen Maze, taking a tour (walk, bike, Segway), searching for your favorite Old West character's "star" on the Texas Trail of Fame, seeing a rodeo, visiting an Old West saloon, watching the Cattle Drive, getting your picture taken in old western garb, visiting historic buildings such as the Livestock Exchange Building, riding a mechanical bull, sitting on a live longhorn, perusing one of the museums, visiting the Cowboy Hall of Fame or the Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame, trying out your skills at the virtual gun range, petting the animals at the Petting Zoo, admiring the various livestock in the barn, or participating in various special events. For more information on individual activities, visit the Stockyard website.

Cattlepen Maze

     One of the best reasons to visit the Stockyards is the availability of a wide variety of dining options. We ate at Riscky's Bar-B-Q. A large sign warns visitors: "Our Ribs May Be Habit Forming!" Naturally we tried the ribs. The sign wasn't exaggerating. Other restaurants include: Billy Bob's Texas Honky Tonk Kitchen, Cattlemen's Fort Worth Steakhouse, Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Q, Habanero's Grill and Cantina, Horseshoe Hill Cafe, Hunter Brothers H3 Ranch, Lonesome Dove Western Bistro, Love Shack, Trailboss Burgers, and more.

Rating: 4 1/2 stars (out of 5)

Things You Should Know: - If you go to the Website, there are advertisements for the Stockyards Adventure Pass. It is pretty pricey, especially since you can do several of the things listed for free without buying the pass. It appears that the main benefit of the pass is that you get a knowledgeable guide to accompany you as you explore the Stockyards.
- The Cattle Drive is held daily at 11:30 am and 4:00 pm. We stayed to watch it and were a bit disappointed. All they did was walk slowly down the main street and back to their pens. Rather than organize your day around the "drive", just visit the longhorns in their pens.

Cattle Drive

Nearby: Diamond Hill Park, Forth Worth Nature Center & Refuge, Fort Worth Botanical Garden, Fort Worth Water Gardens