If you are an outer space enthusiast, we have some great ideas for your next visit to Pismo Beach! Check out these local space explorations that are great for all ages and offer unique experiences on the central California coast…
Watch a rocket launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base - On most clear days you can easily see rocket launches taking off from the famous Vandenberg Space Force Base, from right here in Pismo Beach. Vandenberg SFB provides ongoing support for NASA missions, SpaceX launches and educational opportunities for community youth. Space Launch Delta 30, Vandenberg's host unit, supports west coast launch activities for the Air Force, Department of War, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, national programs and various private industry contractors. SLD 30 supports the processing and launch of a variety of expendable vehicles including Atlas V, Delta IV, Pegasus, Minotaur, and Falcon 9. The Delta also supports Force Development and Evaluation of all intercontinental ballistic missiles, as well as Missile Defense Agency (MDA) test and operations. Check the rocket launch calendar here to catch a future launch in person: https://rocketlaunch.org/launch-schedule/vandenberg-sfb.
Private Tour of the Vandenberg Space and Missile Technology Center - Located at the historic Marshallia Ranch Clubhouse in Lompoc, the Vandenberg Space and Missile Technology Center highlights Vandenberg Space Force Base’s vital role in U.S. space and missile development. Guests explore exhibits showcasing the innovators, missions, and milestones that helped shape the U.S. Air Force and Space Force. This experience is open to civilians by appointment only, with plans to expand visiting hours in the near future. Schedule your private museum visit by contacting Space Launch Delta 30 Public Affairs at sld30.pa.workflow@us.af.mil.
Kids love the Exploration Discovery Center in Grover Beach - The Exploration Discovery Center is a place where youth can come to have fun while they explore and participate in a variety of art, culture, history, and exhibits that are only limited by the imagination. Created from an old fire station in Grover Beach which is the town located next to Pismo Beach, the facilities are filled with fun interactive STEAM activities for children ages 2-12 introducing science experiments, interactive exhibits and arts and crafts. Visit the Ramona Gardens Park playground next door with impressive interactive play equipment for all kids, ages 2-12, with swings, ziplines, slides and educational exhibits.
Visit the Santa Maria Museum of Flight – While these aircrafts have not been in outer space, an impressive collection of historic planes can be found at the Santa Maria Museum of Flight. Celebrating the history of aviation on the central California coast, the Santa Maria Museum of Flight emphasizes the region’s contribution to flight. Visitors can wander through two different hangars and are treated to aircraft displays, memorabilia, models, and photos that cover everything from the Wright Brothers to World War II to present day technology. The museum conducts various seminars and other programs to encourage and educates young minds to follow the brave path of aviation. Visitors and aviation fanatics from all over the world visit this museum in the light to gain inspiration from these seminars and programs. The Rocketeer Café serves food and beverages, and tour guides are available to accompany guests around the museum to provide a wealth of information on the historic aircraft and pilots.
Plan a night at the Sensorio Field of Lights, Paso Robles – Experience Sensorio through a self-guided walking trail set across 35 acres of rolling Paso Robles hills. You’ll explore multiple light-based installations at your own pace, with pathways that offer different viewpoints throughout the evening. Exhibits begin glowing at dusk and continue all night, so your visit will feel different depending on when you arrive. Walk through Sensorio’s radiant wonderland of sensory colors and lights with installations by internationally acclaimed artist Bruce Munro and HYBYCOZO, the collaborative studio of artists Serge Beaulieu and Yelena Filipchuk. Choose from multiple experiences, “Total Glow” gives guests access to all seven immerse exhibits, and the “Terrace Experience” adds on a reserved seating on the terrace with sunset views, access to the VIP access Airstream bar and a complimentary drink, fireside tables and heaters. Sensorio also features live music from local artists on most open evenings, and delicious food and beverage options are available for purchase at their full-service Mercado restaurant and bar. At various locations around the venue, Airstream Bars offer local beer, wine, distilled spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages.
We hope these fun activities will bring joy to the space enthusiast you know next time you are in Pismo Beach!