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Destination
Houston
Houston is one of the world’s most important aerospace hubs, hosting a unique concentration of civil, commercial, academic, and industrial space capabilities.
This city is home to: NASA’s Johnson Space Center and Mission Control; Space Center Houston; Exploration Park; Houston Spaceport; and the Texas A&M Institute.
Together these institutions support the next generation of human spaceflight, lunar exploration, and commercial space development.
Venue
The George R. Brown Convention Center will serve as the host venue for IAC 2029.
Located in downtown Houston, the facility offers 1.8 million-square-feet of convention space and will be complemented by the new 65K+ square meters GRB Houston South expansion, opening in 2028.
The expansion incorporates low-carbon materials, high efficiency building systems with rainwater collection, and water-reduction strategies and native landscaping in a new expansive living roof, reflecting Houston’s commitment to sustainable event infrastructure.
Things to See and Do in Houston
Space
Houston remains the operational heart of American human spaceflight. Visitors can explore: NASA Johnson Space Center; Space Center Houston; and George Observatory. These institutions provide a direct window into the technologies and missions sharing the future of space exploration, including the Artemis program and future missions to Mars.
Space-Enabled
Houston’s ecosystem also extends into space-enabled industries.
Anchored by NASA Johnson Space Center, Baylor College of Medicine, and the Texas Medical Center – the largest medical complex in the world – Houston is advancing research at the intersection of space exploration and human health.
Things to See and Do in the United States
Space
The United States hosts over 7,000 space-focused companies, representing the largest concentration of space industry activity in the world.
Today, the country accounts for approximately one-third of the global space economy, with major activities spanning launch, lunar exploration, orbital infrastructure, and satellite technologies.
Space-Enabled
Visitors can experience the industries powered by space technologies across the United States – from satellite communications and navigation to agriculture, climate monitoring, and transportation.
Space infrastructure increasingly supports everyday services across the global economy.
Tourism
Visitors can explore Gulf Coast culture and NASA heritage alongside Washington, D.C.’s iconic monuments, museums, and national institutions. The “Big Apple” – New York City – is always open and provides an unforgettable experience.
The United States offers experiences that combine science, history, and innovation.
Entry into the United States
Houston is home to 87 active consulates, reflecting its strong international connectivity.
Citizens of 155 countries can access the U.S. through visa-free travel, ESTA, or B-1 visas.
AIAA is exploring options to help facilitate visa access for international participants.
Getting Here
Houston is a major international gateway, reachable by one stop or less from most global destinations. The city is served by: George Bush Intercontinental Airport, a major international hub, and William P. Hobby Airport for domestic connections.
Within Houston, visitors can travel via METRORail, METRO buses, rideshare services, taxis, and rental cars.
Accommodations
Downtown Houston offers extensive accommodation within walking distance of the George R. Brown Convention Center.
Major convention hotels including the Hilton Americas‑Houston and Marriott Marquis Houston connect directly to the venue via sky bridges. More than 300 additional hotels are located within one mile, offering a wide range of price points and amenities for international delegates.
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