Besides the ride itself, the pavillion has a number of interactive areas where you can play and explore.
First of all, even if you don't plan to ride, go through the queue area just to check out the cool displays from our space history.
Next, go to the Advanced Training Lab to enjoy the activities there.
For little ones, there is the Space Base play area featuring climbing tubes with all sorts of fun stuff to do. This is a great area for the kids to play in when doing a parent swap.
For older kids and adults, you have a few choices. First, and my favorite, is the Mission Space Race game. This is a team game where working together can achieve great results. There are 2 different roles - be sure to try each one.
If you don't do well in team environments, there is a Mars Rescue game to play. This is an individual video game where you rescue astronauts working on the surface of Mars. This game has several levels of difficulty to try to beat.
Finally, you can send an internet video postcard from Mars. Send a family picture or individual shots. Its all good.
IMO, M:S is a great pavillion, even if you can't ride the main attraction.
