Space Expo Noordwijk
Discover ESA's space missions and marvel at rockets, satellites, and the ISS replica in this interactive museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Space Expo Noordwijk
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ESA's space missions and marvel at rockets, satellites, and the ISS replica in this interactive museum.
"An extraordinary museum of space exploration stuffs in Noorwijk, Netherlands."
🚀 Book the ESA Tour!
Highly recommended by visitors for a deeper dive into space exploration. :ticket:
🍦 Try the Space Ice Cream
A unique treat that's a hit with families and adds a fun twist to your visit. :icecream:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
International Space Station Replica
Main Exhibition Hall
Step inside a monumental replica of the ISS, complete with the iconic cupola for breathtaking views.
Space Train Tour
Guided Tour
Embark on the 'Space Train' for a guided tour, often highlighted as more insightful than the museum alone.
Interactive Probe Building
Clean Room Exhibit
Design your own space probe on interactive computer panels, with Gaia being a popular choice.
Rocket Engine Display
Main Exhibition Hall
Witness the impressive combustion engine of a rocket, with launch simulations happening hourly.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your ESA Tour in Advance
Plan for a Few Hours, Not a Full Day
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
What do you like the most of Space Expo? Favorite Science Museums?
🚀 Book the ESA Tour!
Highly recommended by visitors for a deeper dive into space exploration. :ticket:
🍦 Try the Space Ice Cream
A unique treat that's a hit with families and adds a fun twist to your visit. :icecream:
Noordwijk, south Netherlands
Space Expo in Noordwijk
♿ Wheelchair Accessible
The entire museum is accessible, with wheelchairs available for loan. :wheelchair:
👨👩👧👦 Great for Families
Interactive exhibits and an outdoor playground make it engaging for all ages. :familymanwomangirlboy:
Best Space Museums/Attractions in Europe?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚀 Book the ESA Tour!
Highly recommended by visitors for a deeper dive into space exploration. :ticket:
🍦 Try the Space Ice Cream
A unique treat that's a hit with families and adds a fun twist to your visit. :icecream:
♿ Wheelchair Accessible
The entire museum is accessible, with wheelchairs available for loan. :wheelchair:
👨👩👧👦 Great for Families
Interactive exhibits and an outdoor playground make it engaging for all ages. :familymanwomangirlboy:
⏰ Not an All-Day Affair
Plan for a focused 1-2 hour visit to enjoy the key exhibits and gift shop. :clock1:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Space Expo Noordwijk is praised for its engaging, interactive exhibits that make space exploration accessible and fun for all ages. Visitors particularly enjoy the ISS replica, the ESA tour, and the hands-on activities. While some exhibits could be modernized, the overall experience is considered a worthwhile and educational visit, especially for families.
"An extraordinary museum of space exploration stuffs in Noorwijk, Netherlands. Plenty of parking areas with wheelchair accessible parking too. There are cafeteria and merchandise corner on the entrance lobby. After pay for 17€ each visitor can get through the large expo hall where we find some videos of space sciences. Next door, there are some panels of mission simulation with some space probes floating all above. If you want to follow the sequence, before overexcited with the big rockets, you must go to 'the clean room'. There we can build our own probes interactively on the computer panels, I chose Gaia. After finishing the space probe mission, you can take a picture in front of rocket miniatures, whilst the biggest combustion engine will launch every one hour! Just check the count down above it. However for me the most interesting site is the replica of International Space Station, with the cupola spot, the monumental spot for every astronaut 🧑🚀 How amazing!
If you're attracted by weather and satellite things, go to the next section. Then, the last part is the moon landing stage, complete with re-entry capsule simulator and moon jumper camera. Unfortunately we'll must go by ourselves without guidance to do what first. If you wanna be an astronaut like me, this is a recommended place for you 🚀"
Khazanah Fadhilah N
"Excellent space expo, super fun with lots to see. Not an all day activity but great hour or so when you factor in the different rooms and gift shop. Food and drink was a reasonable price and the toilets were clean. Staff were very friendly and spoke English and Dutch."
My Lyfe
"Today me and the family visited the space expo and we were amazed. You could touch enter and feel almost everything in the museum which is perfect for us a family of four. The day there started, at their outside playground after which we entered the museum only to run because we heard that there was a presentation about space gabage in the auditorium. I never thought our kids could sit still but they were memorized. Afterwards we took it slower also because I'm with leg problems, but that wasn't a problem because I could borrow a wheelchair there. Everything is by the way wheelchair accessible, but if you are gonna use their wheelchair bring someone to push because their wheelchairs are the Dutch ones that you can't turn the wheel yourself. Bonus: try the space ice cream it's like nothing else"
Jacob Hansen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Space Expo Noordwijk is easily accessible by car, with plenty of parking available, including wheelchair-accessible spots. Public transport options involve bus routes from nearby towns. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information on reaching the museum.
Yes, there is ample parking available at Space Expo Noordwijk, including designated spaces for visitors with disabilities.
While driving is convenient, public transport is an option. Buses connect Noordwijk to surrounding areas, making it possible to reach the Space Expo without a personal vehicle.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Space Expo Noordwijk website for the most current information before your visit.
Yes, Space Expo Noordwijk makes for a feasible day trip from Amsterdam, especially if you have a car. The drive is relatively short, allowing you to experience this unique space museum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are around €17 per visitor, but it's always advisable to check the official Space Expo Noordwijk website for the latest pricing and any potential discounts.
Tickets are generally available for purchase at the entrance, but booking in advance, especially for the ESA tour, is recommended to secure your spot.
Information on family or child discounts is best confirmed on the official Space Expo Noordwijk website. They often have specific offers for younger visitors.
Yes, the ESA tour is often a separate booking and highly recommended for a more in-depth experience. It's wise to book this in advance.
Admission typically includes access to the main exhibition halls, interactive displays, and the rocket engine simulation. The ESA tour may be an additional cost or require separate booking.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the impressive replica of the International Space Station, the interactive probe building in the 'clean room,' and the hourly rocket engine launch simulations.
Absolutely! Many exhibits are designed to be touched and experienced, making it highly engaging for all ages, especially families.
The Space Train tour is a guided experience that many visitors find more informative and engaging than the museum exhibits alone.
Yes, there's an outdoor playground that's a great hit with younger visitors, providing a fun break before or after exploring the museum.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or during special presentations.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafeteria on-site offering food and drinks at reasonable prices.
The cafe offers a selection of snacks, light meals, and beverages. Visitors have noted the food and drink prices are reasonable.
Specific dietary options are not detailed, but cafes typically offer a range of choices. It's best to inquire directly upon arrival.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally common for museums to prefer visitors use their on-site dining facilities. Check their policy if you plan to picnic.
Space ice cream is freeze-dried ice cream that doesn't melt and has a unique, crunchy texture. It's a fun novelty item available at the gift shop.
📸 📸 Photography
The replica of the International Space Station, especially the cupola, offers iconic photo opportunities. The rocket miniatures and interactive displays also make for great shots.
For personal use, photography is usually permitted. However, professional shoots or commercial filming may require prior permission from the museum.
While generally allowed, some specific exhibits might have 'no photography' signs. Always be mindful of these and respect the museum's guidelines.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for indoor shots. A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the highlights.
The interactive probe building station and the moon landing simulator offer unique, hands-on opportunities for memorable photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider trying the unique space ice cream from the gift shop – it's a novelty treat that kids love. The museum's accessibility, including wheelchair availability, ensures a comfortable experience for families with varying needs. The presentation on space garbage was also noted as particularly captivating for children.
🚀 Space Enthusiasts & Tech Geeks
Explore the replica of the International Space Station and marvel at the engineering behind it. The interactive probe building allows you to engage with the design process, and the rocket engine display showcases the raw power of space launch vehicles. It's a place to appreciate the scientific and technological achievements of ESA.
♿ Visitors with Mobility Challenges
While the wheelchairs are available, it's worth noting that some visitors have mentioned they are the 'Dutch' type, which might require assistance for turning. However, the overall accessibility ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the ESA's Role
Many visitors recommend the ESA tour, often taken via the 'Space Train,' as it provides a more in-depth look at ESA's operations and research facilities. This guided experience offers insights that go beyond the static displays, giving a real sense of the cutting-edge work happening at ESTEC. It's a fantastic opportunity to learn about the people and technology behind Europe's space endeavors.
While some reviews mention that certain exhibits might feel a bit dated, the core mission of Space Expo is to educate and inspire. The focus remains on showcasing ESA's contributions to science, technology, and our understanding of the universe. It’s a place where you can truly appreciate the scale and ambition of European space exploration.
Interactive Learning for All Ages
The museum is designed to cater to a wide range of ages and interests. Whether you're fascinated by the mechanics of rockets, the intricacies of satellite technology, or the history of lunar exploration, there's something to spark your curiosity. The replica of the International Space Station, complete with its famous cupola, provides a tangible sense of what life is like for astronauts in orbit.
Visitors consistently praise the museum's accessibility, noting that it is wheelchair accessible throughout. Wheelchairs are also available for loan, making it easier for those with mobility challenges to explore every corner. This inclusive design ensures that everyone can enjoy the wonders of space exploration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit