Get ready to take flight at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture this year. "Apollo: When We Went to the Moon" is open for exploration, and I (Senior City Editor Robin, here) traversed all four galleries filled with Space Race and contemporary artifacts.

Take in the view from the rover by climbing on. | Photo by RICtoday

What we tried:

Everything. I examined model rockets, swiped through interactive timelines, read a letter from Jackie Kennedy, saw space suits, touched a piece of the moon, and watched broadcast footage outside a period-accurate television storefront. It was a journey witnessing how space travel went from pen-and-paper equations by human calculators to the technology of today.

Whether you're prone to take small steps or giant leaps through an exhibit, "Apollo: When We Went to the Moon" will let you experience technology and exploration through the eyes of the engineers and in the boots of the astronauts who took us to the moon.

Meet astronauts who call Virginia home. | Photo by RICtoday

What not to miss:

Walking through the exhibition is like taking steps through the history of space exploration. In the "From Virginia to the Moon" section, check out the contributions of our Commonwealth — including some recognizable Richmonders — in sending the first humans to the moon and beyond.

Immerse yourself in the Apollo 11 launch experience. | Gif by RICtoday

What we’re still talking about:

If you take hands-on history to heart, this exhibition will not disappoint. From experiencing the Apollo 11 launch in a surround-projection atmosphere to climbing aboard a lunar rover to virtually kicking rocks on the moon, this exhibit is one you can really reach out and touch.

Learn how the Space Race connected with other historic events. | Photo by RICtoday

How you can experience this:

"Apollo: When We Went to the Moon" will remain at the VMHC until Sunday, Dec. 31. Soar through any time — the museum is open daily from 10 a.m.- 5p.m., with a few exceptions. Purchase regular admission at the front desk or on the website.

Before NASA, there was NACA — the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics. | Photo by RICtoday

Things to know if you go:

Experience: "Apollo: When We Went to the Moon" at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture
Price: Included with VMHC admission — adult tickets are $10, older adults (65+) $8, youth (6-17) $5, members free, EBT/SNAP cardholders free. Group rates and discounts for active military and veterans are available.
Website: VirginiaHistory.org/Apollo
Address: 428 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd., Richmond, VA
Hours: Open daily, 10:00 am-5:00 pm (Closed New Year's Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day).
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