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Take a Walk Behind the Gates of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Kennedy Space CenterBehind the Gates

Step behind the gates of the Kennedy Space Center to look at launch sites and operational facilities. This section also houses the iconic Apollo/Saturn V Center. Keep reading to see a list of all the attractions here.

Quick Tips: 

Duration of Visit: 1-3 hours

Location: Bus Tour Entrance next to the Constellation Plaza

Wheelchair Accessibility: Yes

Restaurants: The Right Stuff Gift Shop (only snacks)

Behind the Gates | Attractions

Kennedy Space Center behind the gates.
Kennedy Space Center behind the gates.

Kennedy Space Center Explore Tour

Tour the Visitor Complex and more with an expert tour guide and learn more about the facilities at the Kennedy Space Center.

Kennedy Space Center behind the gates.

Fly With an Astronaut

On this guided tour, you get to step aboard the Shuttle Launch Experience® along with an astronaut. Lunch is included in this tour.

Kennedy Space Center behind the gates.

Vehicle Assembly Building

The VAB has housed the Saturn V Moon rockets since the 1960s as well as the space shuttle launch configuration. Currently, it is being used for the Space Launch System.

Kennedy Space Center behind the gates.

Launch Complex 39a

Used as the site of many space shuttle launches including the Apollo missions, this site is now used by SpaceX to launch the Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets.

Kennedy Space Center behind the gates.

Launch Complex 39b

Previously used for the Apollo missions, this space is now being used by NASA for future Space Launch Systems.




Book Your Kennedy Space Center Tickets & Tours

Kennedy Space Center Admission Tickets
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Kennedy Space Center Tickets with Explore Tour
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Guided Tour
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Kennedy Space Center Tickets & Chat with an Astronaut
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Flexible Duration
Meals Included
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Kennedy Space Center Tickets with Round-Trip Transfers
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10 hr.
Transfers Included
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Kennedy Space Center Small Group VIP Experience
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11 hr.
Guided Tour
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Behind the Gates Mission Zone

Q. Where is the Behind the Gates Mission Zone?

A. The entrance to Behind the Gates is next to the Constellation Plaza inside the Visitor Complex.

Q. What are some must-see attractions at Behind the Gates?

A. At Behind the Gates, you get to Fly With an Astronaut, go on a KSC Bus Tour, visit operational facilities, the Vehicle Assembly Building, and Launch Complex 39a and 39b.

Q. Is Behind the Gates accessible with my Kennedy Space Center admission ticket?

A. Yes, your Kennedy Space Center admission ticket gives you access to Behind the Gates.

Q. How long should I spend at Behind the Gates?

A. You will need at least 1-3 hours to complete the bus tour and visit other facilities in this Mission Zone.

Q. Is there food available at Behind the Gates?

A. Yes, snacks are available at The Right Stuff gift shop.

Q. Is there a restroom at the Behind the Gates Mission Zone?

A. Yes, restroom facilities are available at this Mission Zone.

Q. Is Behind the Gates wheelchair accessible?

A. Yes, Behind the Gates is completely wheelchair accessible.