- 0 min walk (on-site)
- See real rockets, astronaut encounters, and immersive space exhibits
- Cost: From $82
Top things to do near Kennedy Space Center
Rocket Garden
Apollo/Saturn V Center
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Canaveral National Seashore
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The Kennedy Space Center sits on Merritt Island, just east of Orlando, Florida. Its location near Cape Canaveral puts you within a 20-minute drive of beaches, wildlife refuges, and top Orlando attractions. Around the Kennedy Space Center, you’ll find everything from rocket launch viewing spots to theme parks and nature reserves. It’s the perfect base for exploring Florida’s Space Coast and beyond, making trip planning simple and rewarding.
Unlock the Go City Orlando Pass for discounted entry to Kennedy Space Center, top Orlando theme parks, and museums. Perfect for families and explorers, save up to 40% and skip buying individual tickets.
The heart of Florida’s space program, this complex features rocket exhibits, astronaut encounters, and immersive simulators.
Celebrate the achievements of American astronauts through memorabilia, interactive displays, and inspiring stories.
Stroll among towering rockets that launched America’s space dreams, with detailed plaques and photo ops.
Get up close to the real Atlantis orbiter, suspended as if in flight, and try the Shuttle Launch Experience.
Stand beneath the world’s largest rocket and relive the Apollo moon landings with interactive exhibits.
Watch rocket launches from a dedicated platform with panoramic views of the launch pads.
Explore the stories of pioneering astronauts and see rare artifacts from the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo eras.
Explore current and future missions, including Artemis and Mars exploration, with interactive displays and real spacecraft.
Hands-on science exhibits, planetarium shows, and live demonstrations for all ages in downtown Orlando.
See over 300 artifacts from the Titanic, full-scale room recreations, and guided tours in Orlando.
Pose with lifelike wax figures of celebrities, sports stars, and astronauts in this interactive museum.
Hop-on Hop-off tours connect Kennedy Space Center with Orlando’s top attractions, including Universal Studios, ICON Park, and more. Enjoy unlimited rides and flexible sightseeing all day.
An indoor amusement park with 100+ hands-on science exhibits, laser tag, and a ropes course.
Orlando’s entertainment hub with The Wheel, SEA LIFE Aquarium, and Madame Tussauds all in one spot.
See thousands of alligators and crocodiles, live shows, and ziplining over the gator breeding marsh.
Step into blockbuster movies, thrilling rides, and immersive lands like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
The world’s most famous theme park complex, with four parks including Magic Kingdom and EPCOT.
A colorful theme park with LEGO rides, shows, and a water park, perfect for families with young kids.
A riverfront park with NASA monuments and launch viewing platforms, ideal for families and photographers.
Stroll through local shops, murals, and cafes in this walkable district with a space history vibe.
Relax on quiet beaches, swim, or picnic along the Atlantic coast.
Catch a live rocket launch from public viewing areas along the Indian River or Playalinda Beach.
Kayak, paddleboard, or fish in one of North America’s most biodiverse estuaries.
Casual dining with burgers, salads, and kid-friendly meals, located inside the Visitor Complex.
Enjoy sandwiches, pizza, and snacks with views of the Saturn V rocket.
Pier 220 Seafood and Grill offers fresh seafood, waterfront views, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for casual lunches or dinners.
PSJ Cellar offers a cozy dining experience with artisanal dishes, handcrafted cocktails, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Pair Kennedy Space Center with Gatorland or Madame Tussauds Orlando on a combo ticket. Save money and time, and enjoy guided insights at each stop.
Enjoy fresh seafood, live music, and family fun at this annual waterfront festival.
A juried art show with local artists, food trucks, and live entertainment in downtown Titusville.
A festive holiday event where hundreds of surfers dressed as Santa hit the waves.
Holiday lights, parades, and themed events at Orlando’s top attractions.
A riverside park with launch viewing areas, NASA monuments, and shaded picnic spots.
Family-friendly park with playgrounds, walking trails, and river views, ideal for a picnic or sunset stroll.
A vast natural area with scenic drives, hiking trails, and birdwatching platforms.
Miles of protected beaches, dunes, and coastal hammocks, perfect for nature walks and picnics.
A walkable district with murals, local shops, and a strong space history vibe.
A public square and park dedicated to NASA’s achievements, with monuments and launch viewing areas.
Historic riverside streets with boutiques, galleries, and outdoor cafes, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
Charming downtown avenue with unique shops, local eateries, and historic architecture, ideal for a leisurely stroll.
Official NASA gear, space-themed toys, and unique souvenirs, located inside the Visitor Complex.
Browse local boutiques, art galleries, and gift stores with a space history twist.
Charming riverside streets with specialty shops, antiques, and outdoor markets.
Waterfront shops selling beachwear, souvenirs, and local seafood products.
Path: Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex → Rocket Garden → Space Shuttle Atlantis
Steps & Timing:
Alternative: If short on time, focus on Atlantis and the Shuttle Launch Experience.
Path: Kennedy Space Center → Apollo/Saturn V Center → Heroes & Legends → Lunch
Steps & Timing:
Alternative: If the Saturn V Center is busy, swap with Space Shuttle Atlantis.
Path: Kennedy Space Center → Bus Tour → Apollo/Saturn V Center → Space Shuttle Atlantis → Rocket Launch Viewing
Steps & Timing:
Alternative: If no launch is scheduled, visit Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge in the afternoon.
Path: Kennedy Under the Stars → Port Canaveral Waterfront Dining → Space View Park
Steps & Timing:
Alternative: If Kennedy Under the Stars is not available, try Cocoa Village for live music.
Path: Camp KSC → Shuttle Launch Experience → Rocket Garden → Space Dots Ice Cream
Steps & Timing:
Alternative: If Camp KSC is full, visit WonderWorks Orlando for interactive fun.
Path: Canaveral National Seashore → Sunset at Port Canaveral → Stargazing at Kennedy Space Center
Steps & Timing:
Alternative: Swap stargazing for a moonlit walk at Cocoa Beach.
Kennedy Space Center is easiest to reach by car, taxi, or pre-booked bus transfers. Inside, attractions are accessible on foot or via shuttles.
Yes, the Kennedy Space Center and surrounding areas are generally safe at night, especially during events. Stick to well-lit areas and main roads when leaving after dark.
The Visitor Complex is walkable, with paved paths between exhibits. For attractions outside the center, a car is recommended due to distances between sites.
Local favorites include Port Canaveral seafood restaurants, Space View Park for rocket launches, and Titusville’s historic downtown for shopping and murals.
Canaveral National Seashore and Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge both offer scenic picnic areas with views of the water and wildlife.
The Rocket Garden, Saturn V Center, and launch viewing gantries provide iconic backdrops for photos. For rocket launches, Playalinda Beach and Space View Park are top choices.
Free options include hiking at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, strolling Titusville’s historic downtown, and watching launches from public parks
Orbit Cafe, Moon Rock Cafe, and Rocket Fuel Food Truck are all within the Visitor Complex and offer a range of meals and snacks.
Kids love the Shuttle Launch Experience, Camp KSC, and interactive exhibits at Heroes & Legends. Gatorland and WonderWorks in Orlando are also family favorites.
Indoor attractions like Space Shuttle Atlantis, IMAX theaters, and WonderWorks Orlando are perfect for rainy days.
Day-use lockers are available at the main entrance for storing bags and small items during your visit.
There is no direct metro service. The center is best reached by car or shuttle from Orlando
Service animals are allowed at the Visitor Complex. Leashed pets are welcome at Canaveral National Seashore and some parks, but not inside main attractions.
The Go City Orlando Pass includes discounted entry to Kennedy Space Center and other top Orlando attractions.
Titusville’s historic downtown and Cocoa Village offer local boutiques, gift shops, and weekend markets.
Kennedy Under the Stars events and Port Canaveral waterfront provide great night views, especially during launches or special programs.
The Black Point Wildlife Drive at Merritt Island and the astronaut mural in Titusville are local gems worth seeking out.
Weekdays outside of school holidays and arriving before 10am offer the quietest experience.
Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival, Cocoa Beach Surfing Santas, and Port Canaveral Seafood Festival are popular annual events.
