Most New Hampshirites don't know it, but the Granite State has made some major contributions to space exploration – and there's a fantastic science museum here in New Hampshire that honors that history while inspiring visitors from around the country every single day. This is a fantastic place to bring kids – but people all of all ages will walk away enlightened from a visit to this fascinating center.

The McAuliffe Shepard Discovery Center in Concord is named after two major figures in American space exploration history who hailed from New Hampshire. Alan Shepard was the first American in space and later piloted the Apollo 14 mission, and Christa McAuliffe was a New Hampshire teacher selected to go to space who tragically died in the Space Shuttle Challenger explosion. The center seeks to ensure their memories will live on in the next generation of Granite State space explorers.

Step inside, and you'll immediately be up close and personal with a Navy fighter jet.

The museum is chock full of amazing permanent and special exhibitions that are both entertaining and educational.

You're sure to be fascinated by the exhibit on life in space, which even features a space toilet!

Visitors can step right up to a control panel and imagine themselves steering a space shuttle.

You can take a close look at a rocket module and learn all about the physics behind a rocket launch. There's also a fantastic planetarium with shows that you won't want to miss.

Can't get enough of the place? You can even rent the facility out for private events – how cool would that be for a special celebration? They have amazing packages for kids birthday parties, too, including overnights.

Don't forget to stop by the gift shop on your way out – they have all sorts of cool stuff! Astronaut ice cream, anyone?

You can visit the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center at 2 Institute Drive Concord, NH 03301. For hours and more information, visit their website or Facebook page.

Does all of that space talk have you inspired to go sky-high yourself? Visit this indoor skydiving center!