Model rockets have never strayed far from toy shelves everywhere because they are just too darn cool. They take off into the unknown and give kids everywhere the chance to think about something bigger than themselves. Model rockets also have the power to inspire a love of space…it is the final frontier, after all!
The top 1o best model rockets for kids is a wonderful assortment of crazy-fun options, some of which quite literally reach for the clouds! These kits provide hours of creative, constructive fun for little ones, whether putting the rockets together and decorating them or launching them into space. Adult supervision is wholeheartedly recommended when launching any of the rockets on our list to avoid potential damage and injuries. Regardless, your little scientist will be happy to play with a new model rocket and see just how far up it goes.
Enjoy picking from the top 10 best model rockets for kids….and perhaps getting in on the science-tastic action! Have fun!
About this page: This fantastic compilation of the 10 best model rockets for kids was created by real moms and educators. Numerous types of rockets are included in the list to keep your youngin’ stimulated.
Recommended shopping: Purchasing any of these high-quality toys is easy–just visit Amazon! Please note that we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links. Also note that our recommendations are 100% made because we love the companies and products and are never influenced in any way by any commission we may receive.
Top 10 Best Model Rockets For Kids
1. Estes Tandem-X Flying Model Rocket Launch Set
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Ages 14 and up
First up is the Estes Tandem-X Flying Model Rocket Launch Set. Quick and easy to assemble, this huge rocket–named Amazon–is 30 inches tall and reaches heights of over 650 feet! The pre-assembled parachute makes it easy to recover the rocket. The second rocket, or “Crossfire” soars to an astounding 1,200 feet, making it a true “cloud buster.” Tools, construction, and finishing supplies are sold separately. However, the set does include a launch controller and launch pad.
Constructing the rockets makes for perfect days of fun ideal for any child who loves science…or stuff that flies! Build it together and watch the fruits of your labor take off…the Estes Rocket brand is one of the very best, and their kits are just as fantastic as ever. You will absolutely love this kit, and so will your kiddo!
2. Estes 2452 Athena Flying Model Rocket Kit
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Ages 10 and up
Our second pick is the Estes 2452 Athena Flying Model Rocket Kit, a high-performance blue and white rocket that is 16 inches tall and comes ready to fly. It reaches heights of 1,100 feet and flies on Estes standard engines. If you need a rocket fast but want to skip the building part, this option is ideal.
Celebrated for going higher than kites, this is a great introductory option that could easily inspire your kids to request rocket building kits for their birthdays or Christmas. The rocket works extraordinarily well and makes a wonderful addition to any rocket collection.
3. Estes Super Shot Flying Rocket Starter Kit
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Ages 12 and up
Third up is the Estes Super Shot Flying Rocket Starter Kit. This Estes winner is one of the vintage rockets of yore and comes with engines and supplies for launch #1 and launch #2. A rare collectible, this model rocket uses Kodak 110 film to capture aerial shots.
Keep in mind the packaging may be a little cracked or yellow due to age; however, the investment is well worth it. This is a great kit for the seasoned rocket launcher who wants to branch out and learn more about this exciting niche of the science world. It also looks great as a display piece!
4. Estes 1406 Alpha III Flying Model Rocket Starter Kit
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Ages 10 and up
Number four on our list is the Estes 1406 Alpha III Flying Model Rocket Starter Set. Easy to assemble and darn-near ready to fly, this is another timeless Estes option that soars over 1,100 feet. It includes a super-nifty launch system featuring two engines, a launch pad, two-piece launch rod, two igniters, safety cap, and an electric launch controller among other essential pieces. It is black and orange and comes with self-stick decals to create one awesome-looking rocket soaring through the air. Whether your little one is new to model rockets or a longtime fan, this option is sure to please. It is fun to build, and really fun to launch.
5. Mighty Mites Outlaw Flying Model Rocket Starter Kit
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Ages 12 and up
The Mighty Mites Outlaw Flying Model Rocket Starter Kit takes up the fifth spot on our list of the best model rockets. It comes with a complete launch system that includes two engines and supplies for two spectacular flights….this rocket is capable of launching over 600 feet in the air.
A smaller rocket, it is still a great introductory item because it will not seem as large and intimidating to your youngling. Enjoy assembling this rocket before moving on to bigger and bagger options.
6. Apprentice Rocket Starter Kit
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Ages 14 and up
Our sixth pick is the Apprentice Rocket Starter Kit. Fantastically easy to construct and launch, this 16-inch rocket includes a 10-inch plastic parachute and three A6-4 rocket engines and igniters. An ideal first rocket, it comes with everything your kiddo needs, including an instructional DVD. Additionally, the bright rocket colors make it easy to find once it comes back down to Earth.
If you are a rocket newbie just like your little one, this kit is absolutely perfect. Have a wonderful time learning how to assemble and launch a bona-fide rocket…and watching it soar through the air. So awesome.
7. Qiyun Estes Flying Model Rocket Starter Kit Tandem x 1469
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Ages 12 and up
Number seven is the Qiyun Estes Flying Model Rocket Starter Kit Tandem x 1469. Another excellent two-rocket set, the larger black-and-yellow option reaches heights of 600 feet, while the smaller white, red, and black option soars 1,150 feet in the air. The large rocket is 30 inches tall and takes little time to assemble, while the smaller option takes about a day to build. Both are well worth the effort…because who doesn’t like watching two ah-mazing rockets do what they do best? Enjoy!
8. Speed Freak Tracking Flying Model Rocket Starter Set
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Ages 12 and up
Our eighth pick is the Speed Freak Tracking Flying Model Rocket Starter Set. This snazzy set lets your kiddo track the rocket’s speed via the Advanced Velocity Tracking Technology capsule! Your young one will have an absolute ball seeing how one engine compares to another. The maximum speed becomes available once each rocket lands. This kit comes with enough equipment for two launches and requires a wee bit of assembly. Nothing too crazy, though!
You will need two AA alkaline batteries to send these rockets soaring. Easy to assemble, easy to launch, and so very much fun to use, this kit is a great option for the “speed freak” in your family!
9. Estes Stars & Stripes Model Rocket Starter Set
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Ages 18 and up
Next up is the Estes Stars & Stripes Model Rocket Starter Set. Decked out in–you guessed it–stars and stripes, it comes with everything you need for light, as well as two “patriotic design” choices. Recommended for 18-year-old kids and up, this is the perfect option for the rocket fan in your family who wants to graduate to more complex systems. It makes a great surprise!
10. Quest Aerospace Deluxe Single Water Rocket Set
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Ages 14 and up
Our final pick is the Quest Aerospace Deluxe Single Water Rocket Set. It uses both air and water for fuel (!), flies over 200 feet, and comes with a lifetime warranty. Because it uses two of the elements for fuel, it flies over and over…and over again! This model rocket is perfect for smaller flying sites, such as your backyard (assuming your neighbors’ houses aren’t, you know, right there). It comes with complete instructions as well.
There’s no fire hazard with this option…and no paying HazMat fees for shipping! Another great beginner option that introduces your child to the world of rockets, keep in mind you will need a standard bicycle pump for this rocket to work, as well as a soda bottle–a 24-ounce, 1-liter, or 2-liter option will do. There’s great fun ahead with this rocket!