SpaceX Space Launch Facility.
Wreckage of Starship SN8 at the Launch Site.

SpaceX Space Launch Site

Brownsville, Texas

This is where SpaceX builds and launches its big Mars "Starship" rockets. Although it occupies an out-of-the-way spit of land, it's far more easily viewed by the casual roadside public than any tour-only NASA facility. The launch (and later wreckage) of Starship prototype SN8 in December 2020 was a highlight, but the retro-style stainless steel rockets are being built upright and outdoors -- at least for now -- so there's usually something to see. There are no tour busses and no pre-visit reservations; you just park your car by the roadside and gawk.

Starship prototype SN9.

Get here quick before Elon Musk buys all the nearby land and blocks the view.

SpaceX Space Launch Site

Address:: 54298 Boca Chica Blvd, Brownsville, TX
Directions:: I-69E exit in Brownsville onto TX-4/International Blvd. Turn left. Drive 1.5 miles. Turn right at the stoplight (Walgreens) to stay on TX-4/Boca Chica Blvd. Drive 21.5 miles. You'll see the rocket and launch facility on the right. No parking; just pull off the road and look over the fence.
RA Rates:: Major Fun

Nearby Offbeat Places

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Walk into Mouth of Giant Shark, South Padre Island, TX - 6 mi.

Bobz World, Los Fresnos, TX - 18 mi.

In the region:

Freddy Fender Water Tower, San Benito, TX - 30 mi.

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