NASA

On one of the most beautiful days we decided to head down to NASA, (The Kennedy Space Center), a few hours south of St Augustine. We had been watching the launch schedules in hopes to see a launch of a SpaceX rocket, but unfortunately it was rescheduled for later in the week. In any event, we still enjoyed this quick visit. To really experience the Space Center you should probably plan on 4 hours or more. We knew we were limited so we tried to hit the highlights. We began by viewing the grounds outside where rockets from each era are displayed. These huge rockets were very impressive and we were able to share how the space program progressed over time. Then we moved indoors to view two movies - one about the unsung heroes of the Apollo program and one about the current space program and where it is headed now. One of the biggest exhibits was the Space Shuttle building, which housed the actual Atlantis Shuttle, plus many pictures and exhibits surrounding the long running Shuttle program. One special highlight was a simulator that gave you the feeling of an actual launch. Well worth doing! Overall the setting is breathtaking and there is something for every age group to enjoy and learn. Although the tickets are a little pricey, most everything is covered and well worth the cost.

MONTGOMERY ALABAMA

On our way home from our extended trip we decided to take a short side trip to Montgomery, Alabama. We have seen a documentary about the Memorial for Justice and Peace and this was a great chance to see it in person. This National memorial opened in 2018 and is dedicated to Black people during and after slavery, and the many lynchings and racial segregation over time. Eight Hundred 6 foot tall monuments are a symbol of oppression, each representing an American county and are inscribed with the names of people lynched there. Most of these monuments hang from the ceiling to give the perception of an actual lynching. Walking through the six-acre site is mesmerizing and humbling. There is also a glass case filled with dirt from the various lynching sites, as well as statutes dedicated to the Montgomery Bus Boycott, memorials displaying works from Toni Morrison, Elizabeth Alexander, Dr. Martin Luther King and Ida B. Wells as well as other displays. The site is very well done, thought provoking and worth a visit to see and learn.

Nearby is the Legacy Museum which continues the conversation and brings to life many of the issues and events throughout Black history in the US. From live videos, voice reenactments, pictures and historical timelines, this collection is a very informative display of the terrible events. No pictures are allowed inside so one can focus on the message rather than make it an attraction. This museum along with the memorial make a memorable ½ day trip if you can fit it in your travel plans.