Some towns stare up at the sky like it owes them something. Not out of longing, but memory. In places like Tullahoma, Socorro, and Van Horn, space isn’t distant—it’s embedded. You feel it in the rusted silhouettes of test stands, in a diner’s old framed photo of engineers who once wrote trajectories in chalk. These are towns where the sound barrier cracked just outside the schoolyard and a neighbor’s uncle once welded parts for a launch abort system.
America’s space history didn’t unfold solely at Cape Canaveral or Houston. It bloomed along two-lane roads, desert ridges, and forested ridgelines—a map of ingenuity stitched into towns so unassuming they make the cosmos seem less abstract. In White Sands, the sand crunches underfoot like moon dust. In Green Bank, West Virginia, radio silence is law, and the telescope stares back harder than you do.
Each of these 18 places contains a moment when the ordinary tipped into the extraordinary. Not a museum version, sanitized and hushed, but something messier, more alive: drafty control rooms, static-filled comms, rocket fuel lacing the air like cologne.
They’re not relics. They’re points on a continuum. And if you know how to read them—these modest storefronts, airfields, outposts, and domes—they’ll show you what it really took to leave Earth behind.
18. Van Horn, Texas: Launchpad for Blue Origin
Van Horn is a quiet West Texas town that’s become a significant spot on the space exploration map thanks to Blue Origin. Founded by Jeff Bezos, Blue Origin conducts its New Shepard rocket launches nearby, sending tourists to the edge of space.
Visitors to Van Horn can delve into the excitement of commercial spaceflight while enjoying the town’s rustic charm. The local museum sheds light on regional history, and the nearby Guadalupe Mountains offer stunning hikes and views.
Dining at local eateries provides a taste of Texas hospitality, rounding out a truly unique visit. For those interested in settling down, 3- to 4-bedroom homes in Van Horn typically range from $130,000 to $360,000, offering an affordable opportunity to live in a town with a front-row seat to the future of space travel.
Where is Van Horn, Texas?
Van Horn is nestled in West Texas, approximately 120 miles east of El Paso along Interstate 10. Its remote location in the Chihuahuan Desert provides clear skies and open spaces ideal for rocket launches.
The town’s proximity to the Sierra Blanca and Guadalupe Mountains makes it a gateway for outdoor adventures. Travelers can reach Van Horn by car via I-10 or by flying into El Paso International Airport and driving east.
This seclusion not only makes it perfect for space endeavors but also offers visitors a serene escape from urban life.
17. White Sands, NM: Rockets and Shimmering Sands
White Sands is famed for its otherworldly landscape of gleaming white gypsum dunes stretching as far as the eye can see. Beyond its natural beauty, it’s a cornerstone of American rocket history, being the site where the United States tested early rockets post-World War II.
Visitors can explore White Sands National Park, where hiking and sledding on the dunes are popular activities. The area’s rich military and space testing history is chronicled at the White Sands Missile Range Museum, offering insights into the dawn of the space age.
Those looking to make White Sands their home will find that 3- to 4-bedroom homes typically range from $147,000 to $350,000, making it an affordable place to live amid stunning desert scenery.
Where is White Sands, New Mexico?
Located in southern New Mexico, White Sands sits between the cities of Las Cruces and Alamogordo along U.S. Route 70. The region’s clear skies and vast open spaces made it an ideal location for missile and rocket testing.
The shimmering dunes create a unique geography that feels almost lunar, enhancing its connection to space exploration. Visitors can drive to White Sands via U.S. highways or fly into El Paso International Airport, about 85 miles to the south, and then enjoy a scenic drive through the Tularosa Basin.
16. Tullahoma, Tennessee: Aerospace Testing Excellence
Tullahoma may seem like a typical small town, but it’s home to the Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC), one of the most advanced flight simulation test centers in the world.
The town’s aerospace roots run deep, contributing significantly to aviation and space technology developments. Visitors can learn about aeronautical advancements at the Beechcraft Heritage Museum, which showcases a remarkable collection of aircraft.
The nearby Short Springs Natural Area offers picturesque trails and waterfalls, blending technology and nature in one visit.
For those considering a move, 3- to 4-bedroom homes in Tullahoma generally range from $250,000 to $450,000, making it a great place to live for those drawn to both aerospace innovation and Tennessee’s scenic beauty.
Where is Tullahoma, Tennessee?
Tullahoma is situated in southern Middle Tennessee, approximately 70 miles southeast of Nashville. Nestled on the edge of the Highland Rim, the town enjoys a lush landscape that’s a stark contrast to typical high-tech hubs.
Its central location makes it accessible via U.S. Highway 41A and nearby Interstate 24. The area’s rolling hills and natural beauty provide an idyllic backdrop to its high-tech contributions, making it a unique destination for those interested in both aerospace and the great outdoors.
15. Alamogordo, NM: Cradle of Space History
Alamogordo is a desert town steeped in space and military history, home to the New Mexico Museum of Space History. Here, visitors can explore exhibits on rocketry, space exploration, and the astronauts who ventured beyond Earth’s atmosphere.
The museum also includes the International Space Hall of Fame, honoring those who’ve contributed to humanity’s journey into space. Nearby, the Alameda Park Zoo offers family-friendly fun, while the scenic beauty of the Sacramento Mountains invites outdoor enthusiasts to explore.
Those looking to buy a 3- to 4-bedroom home in Alamogordo will find prices ranging from $100,000 to $300,000, making it one of the more affordable places to live in the Southwest.
Where is Alamogordo, New Mexico?
Located in southern New Mexico, Alamogordo sits at the crossroads of U.S. Highways 54 and 70. It’s nestled in the Tularosa Basin, bordered by the San Andres Mountains to the west and the Sacramento Mountains to the east.
The town’s proximity to the White Sands National Park and the Holloman Air Force Base highlights its strategic and historical significance. Visitors can reach Alamogordo by driving from El Paso, Texas, approximately a 90-mile journey, making it accessible yet distinctly set apart.
14. Holbrook, Arizona: Close Encounter with Meteor Crater
Holbrook offers a glimpse into cosmic events of the past with its proximity to Meteor Crater, one of the best-preserved meteorite impact sites on Earth. This small town embraces its Route 66 heritage, providing a nostalgic experience for travelers.
Visitors can explore the mysterious Petrified Forest National Park nearby, where ancient trees have turned to stone over millennia. Local shops and diners reflect the town’s rich history and offer charming stops along your journey through America’s heartland.
For those drawn to this historic town, 3- to 4-bedroom homes generally fall within the $130,000 to $250,000 price range, making it an attractive option for those seeking an affordable home in Arizona.
Where is Holbrook, Arizona?
Holbrook is located in northeastern Arizona along Interstate 40, serving as a gateway to the state’s natural wonders. The town lies approximately 90 miles east of Flagstaff, surrounded by the expansive high desert of the Colorado Plateau.
Its strategic position on historic Route 66 adds to its allure for road trippers and history buffs alike. Accessible by car, Holbrook offers a convenient and intriguing stop for those exploring the Southwest’s unique landscapes and cosmic curiosities.
13. Boca Chica, Texas: Beachfront Spaceport
Boca Chica has transformed from a quiet beachside community into a focal point of modern space exploration. SpaceX selected this stretch of the Texas Gulf Coast as the testing ground for its Starship spacecraft, aiming to take humans to Mars.
Visitors might catch a glimpse of spacecraft assemblies or even a rocket launch from the nearby viewing areas. Aside from space activities, the pristine beaches offer relaxation, and the abundance of wildlife makes it ideal for birdwatching and nature walks.
Those considering a home in Boca Chica will find that 3- to 4-bedroom houses typically range from $160,000 to $450,000, providing an intriguing mix of coastal living and cutting-edge space technology.
Where is Boca Chica, Texas?
Boca Chica is situated at the southernmost tip of Texas, near the city of Brownsville and the Mexican border. The town lies along State Highway 4, ending at the Gulf of Mexico’s shores.
Its remote and coastal location provides an ideal environment for rocket launches, with an open ocean to the east and a minimal population nearby. Travelers can reach Boca Chica by flying into Brownsville-South Padre Island International Airport and then taking a short drive east to the coastline.
12. McGregor, Texas: Where Rockets Roar
McGregor is a small Texas town that plays a big role in the world of rocketry. It’s home to one of SpaceX’s rocket development and testing facilities, where engines for Falcon rockets are put through their paces.
While the testing area isn’t open to the public, the town occasionally reverberates with the thunder of rocket engines, a testament to its contribution to space exploration.
Visitors can enjoy the local parks, visit antique shops, and experience authentic small-town Texas hospitality.
Those looking to buy a 3- to 4-bedroom home in McGregor will find prices ranging from $300,000 to $500,000, making it a desirable place to live for those who appreciate both technological innovation and Texas charm.
Where is McGregor, Texas?
Located in Central Texas, McGregor is about 20 miles southwest of Waco along U.S. Highway 84. The town sits amidst rolling prairies and farmland, embodying the rural charm of the region.
Its central location makes it easily accessible from major cities like Dallas and Austin, each about a two-hour drive away. For those interested in both space technology and Texan culture, McGregor offers a unique and accessible destination.
11. Green Bank, WV: The Quiet Zone of the Cosmos
Green Bank is renowned for housing the world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope at the Green Bank Observatory. This massive instrument listens to the whispers of the universe, searching for signals from distant galaxies and phenomena.
The entire area is part of the National Radio Quiet Zone, where radio transmissions are heavily restricted to prevent interference. Visitors can tour the observatory, participate in educational programs, and marvel at the engineering feat amidst the backdrop of the Allegheny Mountains.
For those looking to settle in this serene and scientifically significant location, 3- to 4-bedroom homes generally range from $140,000 to $275,000, offering an affordable retreat in the mountains.
Where is Green Bank, West Virginia?
Green Bank is tucked away in Pocahontas County, West Virginia, along State Route 28. Surrounded by the Monongahela National Forest, the town’s remote location is crucial for the observatory’s sensitive equipment.
The lush, mountainous terrain not only provides a natural barrier against radio interference but also offers hiking, camping, and skiing opportunities nearby. Travelers can reach Green Bank by car, enjoying scenic drives through the Appalachian countryside.
10. Socorro, NM: Gateway to the Very Large Array
Socorro serves as the gateway to the Very Large Array (VLA), one of the world’s premier astronomical radio observatories. The VLA’s iconic dish antennas, spread across the Plains of San Agustin, have been featured in films like “Contact.”
Visitors can take self-guided tours of the facility, learning about groundbreaking research into black holes, quasars, and cosmic phenomena. In town, the New Mexico Tech Mineral Museum showcases impressive mineral collections and offers another facet of scientific exploration.
Homebuyers in Socorro will find that 3- to 4-bedroom houses generally range from $190,000 to $470,000, providing an affordable opportunity to live in a town where science and discovery take center stage.
Where is Socorro, New Mexico?
Situated along Interstate 25, Socorro is approximately 75 miles south of Albuquerque. The town lies in the Rio Grande Valley, surrounded by desert landscapes and rugged mountains.
Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring central New Mexico’s attractions, including the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. Accessible by car, Socorro combines scientific intrigue with natural beauty, offering a diverse experience for visitors.
9. Fort Sumner, NM: High-Altitude Adventures
Fort Sumner is a small town with a big connection to space science, hosting NASA’s Scientific Balloon Flight Facility. Here, high-altitude balloons carrying scientific instruments are launched to the edges of Earth’s atmosphere.
Visitors interested in space and atmospheric studies find this location fascinating. The town is also rich in Western history, being the final resting place of the infamous outlaw Billy the Kid, with a dedicated museum preserving his story.
Those considering a home in Fort Sumner will find that 3- to 4-bedroom houses typically range from $120,000 to $400,000, making it an affordable place to live in a town steeped in both space and frontier history.
Where is Fort Sumner, New Mexico?
Located in eastern New Mexico along U.S. Route 60, Fort Sumner is about 160 miles east of Albuquerque. The town sits on the plains, offering expansive skies ideal for balloon launches and stargazing.
Its remote setting contributes to the operational needs of high-altitude balloon flights. Travelers can reach Fort Sumner by car, enjoying the wide-open landscapes that characterize this part of the state.
8. Wapakoneta, Ohio: Neil Armstrong’s Hometown Legacy
Wapakoneta proudly celebrates its most famous son, Neil Armstrong, who was the first person to walk on the moon. The Armstrong Air & Space Museum in town offers interactive exhibits, including artifacts from Armstrong’s life and space missions.
Visitors can see a moon rock, space suits, and even the Gemini 8 spacecraft. The town itself exudes Midwestern charm, with local shops, eateries, and annual festivals that make it a delightful place to explore.
For those considering making Wapakoneta home, 3- to 4-bedroom houses generally fall within the $185,000 to $267,000 range, making it an accessible option for families who appreciate small-town charm with a historic connection to space.
Where is Wapakoneta, Ohio?
Wapakoneta is located in northwest Ohio, conveniently situated along Interstate 75. It’s about 90 miles north of Columbus and 60 miles south of Toledo.
The town’s easy accessibility makes it a perfect day trip or stopover for travelers exploring the region. Surrounded by fertile farmland and close to the Auglaize River, Wapakoneta offers a serene backdrop to its rich space heritage.
7. Mars, Pennsylvania: Small Town with a Cosmic Name
Mars is a quaint town that embraces its unique name with enthusiasm. Visitors are greeted by a flying saucer sculpture downtown, and the town hosts an annual Martian New Year celebration complete with themed festivities.
Local shops offer Martian memorabilia, and the small-town atmosphere makes for a fun and family-friendly visit. Exploring Mars allows you to enjoy playful cosmic connections without leaving Earth.
Homebuyers in Mars will find that 3- to 4-bedroom houses generally range from $400,000 to $700,000, reflecting its desirable location near Pittsburgh while maintaining its otherworldly small-town charm.
Where is Mars, Pennsylvania?
Located about 25 miles north of Pittsburgh, Mars is accessible via State Route 228 and nearby Interstate 79. Nestled in Butler County, the town is surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque landscapes typical of western Pennsylvania.
Its proximity to Pittsburgh makes it an easy excursion for those in the city seeking a quirky and charming destination. Visitors can reach Mars by car or via regional public transportation options.
6. Truth or Consequences, NM: Hot Springs and Space Dreams
Truth or Consequences, often called T or C by locals, is a small town known for its natural hot springs and quirky history. It’s also the nearest town to Spaceport America, the world’s first purpose-built commercial spaceport.
Visitors can soak in mineral-rich baths, explore art galleries, and learn about the budding commercial space industry. The Spaceport offers tours where you can see launch facilities and get a glimpse of future space travel endeavors.
Those interested in making T or C their home will find that 3- to 4-bedroom houses typically range from $145,000 to $350,000, offering an affordable entry point to a town where relaxation and space innovation coexist.
Where is Truth or Consequences, New Mexico?
The town is located off Interstate 25 in southern New Mexico, about 150 miles south of Albuquerque. Situated along the Rio Grande, T or C is surrounded by desert landscapes and rugged mountains.
Its location makes it a prime spot for geothermal activity, hence the abundance of hot springs. Travelers can access the town by car or fly into the nearby city of Las Cruces and drive north, enjoying scenic vistas along the way.
5. Kodiak, Alaska: Remote Launches into the Northern Skies
Kodiak Island is more than rugged coastlines and abundant wildlife; it’s also home to the Pacific Spaceport Complex. This facility conducts satellite launches into polar orbits, taking advantage of its high-latitude location.
Visitors to Kodiak can enjoy whale watching, bear viewing, and exploring the island’s rich indigenous culture. The blend of pristine nature and space technology makes it a truly unique destination for adventurous travelers.
For those looking to live in this scenic yet remote island town, 3- to 4-bedroom homes typically range from $355,000 to $650,000, reflecting both its stunning natural surroundings and limited housing market.
Where is Kodiak, Alaska?
Kodiak Island lies off the southern coast of Alaska and is accessible by air or ferry from Anchorage. The town of Kodiak serves as the main hub, with a small airport accommodating flights.
The island’s remote location provides dark skies ideal for rocket launches and stargazing. Its challenging weather and terrain underscore the adventurous spirit required to explore this northern frontier.
4. Mojave, California: Desert Hub of Private Spaceflight
Mojave Air and Space Port are at the forefront of private spaceflight innovation, nestled in the stark beauty of the California desert. Companies like Virgin Galactic and Stratolaunch Systems conduct cutting-edge aerospace development here.
Visitors can tour the spaceport, witnessing aerospace history in the making. The surrounding town offers a glimpse into desert life, with local diners and shops reflecting the region’s pioneering spirit.
Those looking to buy a 3- to 4-bedroom home in Mojave will find that prices typically range from $150,000 to $400,000, making it an affordable option for those who appreciate living in a hub of space exploration.
Where is Mojave, California?
Mojave is located at the crossroads of State Highways 14 and 58, about 100 miles north of Los Angeles. The town sits on the western edge of the Mojave Desert, characterized by arid landscapes and clear skies.
Accessibility is convenient via car, and the nearby Tehachapi Mountains provide scenic views and outdoor activities. Mojave’s unique blend of aerospace innovation and desert environment makes it a compelling stop for travelers.
3. Chincoteague, Virginia: Rocket Launches by the Sea
Chincoteague Island is a charming coastal town known for wild ponies, pristine beaches, and as a vantage point for rocket launches from the nearby Wallops Flight Facility. Visitors can enjoy seafood restaurants, boutique shopping, and the natural beauty of the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.
Timing a visit to coincide with a rocket launch adds an exhilarating experience to the tranquil seaside atmosphere. For those looking to live on this scenic island, 3- to 4-bedroom homes typically range from $335,000 to $650,000, offering a blend of coastal living and unique access to spaceflight activity.
Where is Chincoteague, Virginia?
Chincoteague is located on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, accessible via State Route 175. The island is connected to the mainland by a series of bridges, offering picturesque water views along the way.
It’s about a three-hour drive from major cities like Baltimore or Washington, D.C. The island’s remote seaside location enhances its appeal as both a peaceful retreat and a front-row seat to space launches.
2. Cocoa Beach, Florida: Beachside Space Nostalgia
Cocoa Beach has long been intertwined with America’s space endeavors, serving as a home base for astronauts during the Apollo era. The town’s sandy shores and surf culture blend seamlessly with its space heritage.
Visitors can explore the Florida Surf Museum, relax on the famous beach, or visit the nearby Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The town’s vibrant atmosphere and historical ties provide a unique beach vacation enriched with cosmic connections.
For those considering a move, 3- to 4-bedroom homes in Cocoa Beach typically range from $425,000 to $600,000, offering beachfront living with a deep-rooted connection to space exploration.
Where is Cocoa Beach, Florida?
Located on Florida’s Space Coast, Cocoa Beach is just south of Cape Canaveral along State Road A1A. It’s approximately an hour’s drive east of Orlando, making it accessible for those flying into Orlando International Airport.
The town’s coastal position offers stunning Atlantic Ocean views and easy access to space-related attractions. Its proximity to major highways and airports makes Cocoa Beach a convenient and enticing destination.
Cape Canaveral is synonymous with American space exploration, being the launch site for NASA’s most significant missions, including Apollo moon landings and Space Shuttle flights.
Visitors can tour the Kennedy Space Center, witnessing launch pads, rockets, and perhaps even a live launch. The area’s rich history is palpable, with exhibits and experiences that inspire awe and wonder.
Beyond space, the cape offers beautiful beaches, abundant wildlife, and a variety of recreational activities. Those looking to call Cape Canaveral home will find that 3- to 4-bedroom houses generally range from $356,000 to $650,000, providing a variety of options in one of the most historically significant locations in space history.
Cape Canaveral is situated on Florida’s east coast, part of the larger Space Coast region. It’s accessible via State Road A1A and is close to Interstate 95. The cape is about 50 miles east of Orlando, with easy access from Orlando International Airport.
Its coastal geography provides ideal conditions for launches over the Atlantic Ocean, minimizing risk and maximizing safety. The combination of accessibility and historical significance makes it a must-visit for space enthusiasts.
