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Watch the Roman Space Telescope launch
Catch the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope launch on August 30 at 7:20am ET from the Atlantis North Lawn, included with standard admission.
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Kennedy Space Center was just voted the #1 attraction in the US and #3 in the world in Tripadvisor’s 2025 Travelers’ Choice Awards. Whether you're a space geek, a curious traveler, or visiting with kids, this is one spot you don't want to miss. From towering rockets to behind-the-scenes tours, it's an unforgettable experience for all ages.
Your guide to navigating this page
- Things to know before booking your Kennedy Space Center tickets
- Which ticket option is best for you
- Compare your Kennedy Space Center tickets
- Attractions you don’t want to miss
- Mission Zones at the Kennedy Space Center
- Plan your visit
- Kennedy Space Center map
- Rocket launches at the Kennedy Space Center
- A quick look at some Kennedy Space Center reviews
Things to know before booking your Kennedy Space Center tickets
- Public transport is not available to get to the Kennedy Space Center. You can either drive down, take a taxi, or book a round-trip transportation. Many of our tickets include round-trip transportation including Kennedy Space Center Tickets with Round-Trip Transportation and Kennedy Space Center Small Group VIP Experience. If you decide to drive, paid parking is available at the Visitor Complex.
- Pick-up points are available for tickets with round-trip transportation from Orlando, Kissimmee, and the Disney & Lake Buena Vista Areas.
- You can explore the premises yourself, dive deep, and learn more about the facility and NASA's space exploration efforts. Book the Kennedy Space Center Explore Tour and learn about the facility with an expert guide. Please note that the round-trip transportation include a guide-driver who will give you basic information about the facility; however, for a more in-depth experience, choose the Explore Tour.
- If you’re a space buff, the Chat with an Astronaut ticket with general admission is perfect for you. You don’t only get to meet a real astronaut, you even get personally signed lithograph and a snapshot moment with the space hero.
- The Kennedy Space Center Small Group VIP Experience with an exclusive, guided tour is perfect for families or small groups looking for a personalized visit. Enjoy behind-the-scenes access, priority entry, and a dedicated expert guide to make the best of your day at KSC.
- The Kennedy Space Center Annual Pass offers unlimited admission for a full year, which is perfect for space enthusiasts looking to explore at their own pace. Pair your ticket with round-trip transportation for a hassle-free visit.
- To view a rocket launch, check the schedule of availability and Add-On Admission if available.
- Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope launch: The telescope is scheduled to launch on August 30, 2026, at 7:20am ET. Guests with regular admission can watch the launch from the Atlantis North Lawn viewing area, which is included with standard admission to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. August 30 is not a blackout date, so regular admission tickets remain valid.
The Gantry at LC-39
The Gantry at LC-39 is Kennedy Space Center’s brand-new attraction featuring 360° launch views, a simulated rocket engine test, interactive exhibits, and NASA’s Earth Information Center. Included with general admission via the Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour.
Which Kennedy Space Center ticket is best for you
If you're budget-conscious
Go for: Admission tickets, Combo tickets
Duration: 5-10 hours
Visitor Complex access: Yes
Behind the Gates access: No
Transportation included: No
Guide: No
- Enjoy access to over 40 attractions inside the Visitor Complex including the Apollo/Saturn V Center and Space Shuttle Atlantis.
- Combine your visit to Kennedy Space Center with ICON Park or an Airboat Safari ride with a combo ticket.
Recommended tours:
- Admission Tickets to Kennedy Space Center
- Combo: Kennedy Space Center + Wheel at ICON Park Tickets
- Combo: Kennedy Space Center + Airboat Safari + Round-Trip Transportation
If you're a space geek
Go for: Explore Tour, Chat with an Astronaut tickets
Duration: 10 hours
Visitor Complex access: Yes
Behind the Gates access: Yes (Explore Tour only)
Transportation included: Yes (Explore Tour only)
Guide: Yes (Explore Tour only)
- Explore all the exciting attractions inside the Visitor Complex and then head behind the scenes for an exclusive look at operational facilities including launch pads.
- Meet and talk to a real astronaut to find out more about their space exploration journey firsthand.
Recommended tours:
- Tickets to Kennedy Space Center with Explore Tour
- Tickets to Kennedy Space Center & Chat with an Astronaut
If you're looking for hassle-free transportation
Go for: Admission tickets with round-trip transportation, Round-trip transportation only
Duration: 10 hours
Visitor Complex access: Yes
Behind the Gates access: No
Transportation included: Yes
Guide: No
- Save yourself the hassle of figuring out how to get to the Kennedy Space Center and get tickets with round-trip transportation from Orlando, Kissimmee, Disney, or Lake Buena Vista areas.
- Your bus driver will make your journey worthwhile by telling you interesting facts and other information about the center.
Recommended tours:
- Tickets to Kennedy Space Center with Round-Trip Transportation
- Round-Trip Transportation to Kennedy Space Center
If you're looking for a personalized experience
Go for: VIP experience
Duration: 10 hours
Visitor Complex access: Yes
Behind the Gates access: Yes
Transportation included: Yes
Guide: Yes
- Tour the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and its operational facilities along with a space expert for a more in-depth & personalized experience.
- This experience includes breakfast, snacks, and vouchers that you can redeem at any of the gift shops.
Recommended tours:
- Small Group VIP Experience of Kennedy Space Center
Get closer to Artemis II
With the Artemis II rocket now on the launch pad, this is one of the best times to visit Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Upgrade your experience for a closer look at this historic mission in progress.
Your viewing options:
- Bus Tour (Included with admission): Spot the rocket at the launch area from a distance | Book here
- KSC Explore Tour: Enjoy a closer look from a dedicated stop at Camera Stop A/B | Book here
- Small Group VIP Experience: Access exclusive viewing areas with a more personalized, in-depth experience | Book here
Please note: Viewing opportunities are not guaranteed and depend on launch operations.
Attractions you don’t want to miss
The Gantry at LC-39
The Gantry at LC-39 is Kennedy Space Center’s newest attraction, offering 360° launch views, a thrilling rocket engine simulation, and hands-on exhibits.
Mission Zones at the Kennedy Space Center
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Heroes & Legends
Discover original rockets, stories of legendary astronauts, and more at this Mission Zone. This zone features the following attractions:
- US Astronaut Hall of Fame®
- Chat With an Astronaut
- It’s a Matter of Fact Show
- Rocket Garden
- Astronaut Encounter
- Historic Countdown Clock
- NASA Insignia
Behind the Gates
Take a Kennedy Space Center Explore bus tour and peek into historic launch locations and iconic operational facilities. Here's what you can do at the Behind the Gates Mission Zone:
- Kennedy Space Center Explore Tour
- Vehicle Assembly Building
- Launch Complex 39a
- Launch Complex 39b
- NASA Causeway
- SPACE X
Race to the Moon
Relive historic moments from the Apollo and Saturn V Moon landings at this exciting zone. Here's what's inside:
- Saturn V Rocket
- Apollo 8 and the Firing Room
- Path to the Moon
- Moonscape
- Exploring the Moon
- Ad Astra Per Aspera
- Lunar Theater
- Apollo Treasures Gallery
- The People’s Moon
Shuttle: A Ship Like No Other
Explore over 60 interactive displays at the Space Shuttle Atlantis, a space flight used for many historic missions. Experiences inside the zone include:
- Space Shuttle Atlantis®
- Hubble Space Telescope Theater
- Astronaut Training Simulators
- Launch Director Tour of Space Shuttle Atlantis®
- Shuttle Launch Experience®
- Constellation Sphere
- Join Us On Orbit
- Fiery Ride Home
- People Made the Difference
NASA Now + Next
Learn about NASA's current and future missions as you walk through several informative exhibits. Experiences you can explore include:
- Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex
- Spaceport KSC
- Journey to Mars | By United Launch Alliance
- Mars Rover Vehicle Navigator
- IMAX Theater
- Mission Status Briefing
Plan your visit
The Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex is open Monday through Sunday from 9am to 6pm.
The last bus tour runs 2.5 hours before the complex closes.
*Last entry: 1 hour before closing time.
Address: Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953, USA | Find on Maps
Currently, no public transportation services are available that take you to the Visitor Complex. Opt for Kennedy Space Center tickets with transfers.
Getting to KSC by car: Kennedy Space Center is approximately 45 minutes (44.3 miles) away from the Orlando International Airport.
Parking: Paid parking is available for motorcycles, automobiles, and oversized vehicles (RVs).
Parking: On-site parking opens 30 minutes before the visitor complex. Fees are $5 for motorcycles, $15 for cars, and $20 for oversized vehicles/RVs. Accessible parking is available with a valid disability permit, rideshare drop-offs and pick-ups are permitted in Lot 4, and annual passholders receive complimentary parking.
Go on a Kennedy Space Center Guided Tour to learn all about the journey of space exploration from an expert tour guide! Find out interesting facts and more as you tour the facilities.
Here's how you can divide your time at the Kennedy Space Center Mission Zones on your visit:
- Heroes & Legends: 45 minutes (must-visit: US Astronaut Hall of Fame, Rocket Garden, Space Memorial Mirror)
- Behind the Gates: 1 - 3 hours (must-visit: KSC Bus Tour, Fly With an Astronaut)
- Race to the Moon: 2 hours (must-visit: Saturn V Rocket, Apollo 8 & the Firing Room, Lunar Theater)
- Shuttle: A Ship Like No Other: 2.5 hours (must-visit: Space Shuttle Atlantis, Astronaut Training Simulators, & Shuttle Launch Experience)
- NASA Now + Next: 2.5 hours (must-visit: Gateway; The Deep Space Launch Complex, Journey to Mars, & LEGO® Built to Launch)
The Kennedy Space Center has a range of restaurants and food stalls spread across the Visitor Complex.
- Orbit Café (9:30 AM to 4 PM)
- Moon Rock Café (11 AM to 5 PM)
- IMAX® Snax (9 AM to 5 PM)
- Planet Play Lounge (9 AM to 5 PM)
- Milky Way (9 AM to 5 PM)
- Space Dots (9 AM to 5 PM)
- Space Bowl Bistro (11 AM to 4 PM)
- Red Rock Grill (12 PM to 5 PM)
The Kennedy Space Center has a few on-site stores where you can purchase souvenirs and merchandise to commemorate your visit. You can also visit their online store at any time to purchase a range of items from souvenirs to clothing and themed items to space memorabilia.
- The Space Shop (located at the Race to the Moon Mission Zone)
- The Right Stuff (located at the Apollo/Saturn V Center)
- Shuttle Express (located at the Shuttle: A Ship Like No Other Mission Zone)
The Kennedy Space Center is a family-friendly attraction. Here are some rules to keep in mind before your visit.
- Dress Code: Clothes with obscene and objectionable material are not allowed.
- Food & Drinks: Food and drinks can be carried only in soft-sided containers.
- Pets & Guide Dogs: All service animals are allowed inside. Pets can be left at the on-site kennel.
- Smoking: Smoking is only permitted at designated smoking areas around the complex.
- Photography: Only handheld cameras are allowed inside the premises.
Find your way around Kennedy Space Center
Before your visit to the Kennedy Space Center, take a look at the Visitor Complex map to know where all the different attractions are. The complex is massive and it's easy to lose your way. You can also keep a copy of the map on your cellphone for easy access.
Rocket launches at the Kennedy Space Center
KSC launches & events
The Kennedy Space Center has regular events for visitors to attend. These events take place at the Visitor Complex on various days. You can also attend a launch viewing at the complex.
Take a look at the Kennedy Space Center launch schedule and events calendar for the year.
SpaceX launches
Kennedy Space Center is the primary launch site of many SpaceX missions like the Crew-6 Mission, the Crew Dragon Mission, and the Falcon Satellite Launches. When these launches take place during the day, you can get access to the launch viewing area at the Kennedy Space Center. Keep an eye out for upcoming launches so you can book your tickets accordingly!
Cape Canaveral launches
Cape Canaveral has served as the primary launch site for space exploration and military missions since 1949. Since then, many successful launches have taken place from this site including the Apollo missions and NASA's Project Mercury and Gemini launches. Its proximity to the ocean and the equator makes it an ideal launch location.
Beyond Kennedy Space Center
Madame Tussauds
Enter an immersive journey through the world of celebrity wax figures at Madame Tussauds Orlando. Rub shoulders with lifelike replicas of famous stars, historical figures, and pop culture icons.
ICON Park
With a giant observation wheel as its centerpiece, ICON Park offers a vibrant atmosphere with restaurants, shops, & attractions. Enjoy spectacular views, dine at eateries, or soak in the lively ambiance.
Gatorland
Gatorland in Orlando is a thrilling wildlife adventure featuring thousands of alligators and crocodiles. Witness jaw-dropping shows, feed these powerful reptiles, and even zipline over their habitats.
Frequently asked questions about Kennedy Space Center tickets & tours
The standard admission ticket includes access to: Gateway™: The Deep Space Launch Complex, Space Shuttle Atlantis®, Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour, Apollo/Saturn V Center, Heroes and Legends, Planet Play, Rocket Garden, Journey to Mars, Astronaut Encounter, character appearances, other scheduled presentations/films/simulators and Space films inside IMAX® theater.
General admission (available as 1 or 2-day tickets) gives you full access to major attractions like Space Shuttle Atlantis, the Apollo/Saturn V Center, Rocket Garden tours, IMAX films, Planet Play, and the shuttle bus tour. Guided or VIP tours go beyond this: offering expert narration, transportation from Orlando/Kissimmee/Disney areas, and in-depth visits to restricted areas like launch pads and the Vehicle Assembly Building.
Yes, you can usually upgrade your ticket on-site, subject to availability. However, we recommend you book add-ons in advance online to secure your spot for popular experiences.
Discounts are available for children on most tickets including the KSC Admission Tickets, KSC Tickets with Guided Explore Tour and KSC Tickets & Chat with an Astronaut.
Yes! The KSC Explore Tour takes you beyond the main visitor complex to view actual launch pads and spaceflight icons like the Vehicle Assembly Building and NASA Press Site. Some tickets (like basic admission) include the standard shuttle tour, but specialty tickets offer extended access.
Yes, you can watch Artemis II launch from Kennedy Space Center with a special launch viewing package that lets you watch Artemis II take-off from inside the Visitor Complex itself. Standard admission (including annual passes) won’t be valid for launch viewing.
Yes. To view the Artemis II launch from inside Kennedy Space Center, you'll need a separate launch viewing ticket or package, which is sold in addition to regular Kennedy Space Center admission.
No. On major launch days like Artemis II, standard admission tickets and annual passes are not valid unless bundled with an official launch viewing package.
No, parking is not included in your admission ticket. Parking fees are separate and can be paid at the venue.
Transportation to and from the Kennedy Space Center is not included in the general admission ticket. However, there are tickets like the Kennedy Space Center Tickets with Round-Trip Transportation and Kennedy Space Center Small Group VIP Experience that include transportation. You can even book your round-trip transportation separately.
Most included experiences (e.g., IMAX films, Rocket Garden tour, Journey to Mars) do not need advance booking. However, Chat With an Astronaut, Under the Stars, and KSC Explore Tour must be selected at the time of purchase if they are part of your chosen ticket option.
Tickets booked online are non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled.
It’s possible, your 1-day itinerary usually includes: Space Shuttle Atlantis + Shuttle Launch Experience, Apollo and the Saturn V Centers, and the Rocket Garden tour. Families with kids or visitors interested in photography/astronomy often prefer the 2-day pass.
Choose a ticket with round-trip transportation from Orlando, Kissimmee, or Disney. These include a professional driver/guide during the bus journey and reduce the hassle of parking and navigating toll roads.
Yes. Transportation tours include a professional guide/driver who shares space facts, history, and tips on how to plan your day at KSC. It’s great for first-time visitors.
No. Some options provide round-trip transportation only — entry tickets must be purchased separately. This is useful if you already have KSC admission but just need a ride.
Yes, small snacks and personal water bottles are allowed during transportation. The VIP Small Group Experience even includes continental breakfast and snacks on your return journey.
The VIP tour has no more than 12 people, hotel pickup, a professional guide, breakfast, a lunch voucher, and snacks for the return journey. It also includes the KSC Explore Tour and access to major attractions. It is the most premium and time-efficient way to explore KSC.
Yes, it’s one of the most exclusive experiences. You can ask questions, hear personal spaceflight stories, and enjoy refreshments. It’s ideal for enthusiasts, students, and families with curious kids.
Absolutely. Planet Play, IMAX films, Rocket Garden, and the Shuttle Launch Experience are family favorites. If you want a slower-paced day or have young kids, consider 2-day admission 1647 so you don’t rush.
Aim to arrive early, at around**** 9am, especially if you have a 1-day ticket . Many major exhibits close by late afternoon, and shuttle tours may fill up.
Yes, seasonal events include Holidays in Space (included with many tickets) and Kennedy Under the Stars. These events involve themed shows, atmospheric lighting, and unique photo opportunities.
There is a fair amount of walking between exhibits, though shuttle buses connect distant areas. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for large areas like the Apollo/Saturn V Center.
Yes, same-day re-entry is allowed with a stamped hand or valid ticket. If you have a 2-day pass, keep your ticket safe for the next day’s entry.
*Have more questions about the Kennedy Space Center? Visit our FAQs page for a complete list of questions and answers covering a wide range of topics.
