We paid when we got there. It's a wonderful experience and the boys just loved it! We also did the extra tour on the bus and had a meal. The meal was outragousely expensive! It was 2 burger plates, a pizza, chicken fingers, 2 cookies 2 soft drinks and 2 souvenier space ship cups....$60+! We were a bit taken aback by that. If you have the ability, pack a picnic lunch and eat at the car. Other then that, it was a great day! Enjoy!