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A Complete Guide to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Kennedy Space CenterVisitor Complex

What is the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex?

The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is the visitor center at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Filled with delightful exhibits, attractions, and activities, the Visitor Complex offers tourists a glimpse into the world of space and technology.

The Visitor Complex is divided into five Mission Zones. Within these zones, attractions and tours are grouped by chronological era. From the inception of space exploration to current and ongoing missions, visitors get an up-close experience of the stories of humans in space. The Visitor Complex also contains historic spacecraft and memorabilia, two IMAX theaters, and a range of bus tours of the spaceport, among many other exhibits.

Plan your visit

kennedy space center visitor complex location
kennedy space center visitor complex timings

Why you should visit?

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Must-see attractions at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

kennedy space center visitor complex | rocket garden
kennedy space center visitor complex | US astronaut hall of fame
kennedy space center visitor complex | apollo/saturn v center
kennedy space center visitor complex | shuttle launch experience

Why was the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex established?

Kennedy space center visitor complex

History of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in a nutshell

  • In 1963, after NASA’s Mercury program grew in popularity and caught the attention of the public, NASA Administrator James Webb was given the responsibility to set up self-guided tours that the public could drive along a predetermined route.
  • In the first year, nearly 10,000 visitors flocked to the Kennedy Space Center to marvel at the development of the USA’s space program.
  • By 1964, more than 250,000 self-guided car tours were permitted between 1 and 4 pm. on Sundays at Kennedy Space Center.
  • In 1965, Kurt H. Debus, the director of the Kennedy Space Center was given $2 million for a full-scale visitor center, covering 42 acres.
  • In 1969, as NASA neared the moon, the popularity of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex only increased. In the same year, it became the second most visited Florida attraction.
  • Between 1995 and 2007, the Kennedy Space Center visitor center went through many changes. Restaurants, retail shops, buses, and new exhibits were all renovated.
  • During this time, the visitor complex got its current name, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
  • Ever since, the facility has been entirely self-supporting and receives no taxpayer or government funding.

Things to do at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

kennedy space center visitor complex attractions
kennedy space center visitor complex shopping
kennedy space center visitor complex restaurants



Book Kennedy Space Center Tickets & Tours

Kennedy Space Center Admission Tickets
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Flexible Duration
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Kennedy Space Center Tickets with Explore Tour
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Flexible Duration
Guided Tour
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Kennedy Space Center Tickets & Chat with an Astronaut
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Flexible Duration
Meals Included
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Kennedy Space Center Tickets with Round-Trip Transfers
Free Cancellation
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
10 hr.
Transfers Included
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Kennedy Space Center Small Group VIP Experience
Free Cancellation
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
11 hr.
Guided Tour
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Kennedy Space Center Round-Trip Transfers
Free Cancellation
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Flexible Duration
Transfers Included
More details

Frequently asked questions about the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Is it free to enter the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex?

No, you need to purchase a ticket to visit the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Book your tickets here.

How much does it cost to enter the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex?

Kennedy Space Center tickets start from $80.25.

Where can I book tickets to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex?

You can book tickets to enter the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex online. Click here to book now.

Where is the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex located?

The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is located on Merritt Island, Florida.

What can I see at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex?

All the attractions at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex are divided into 5 Mission Zones - Heroes & Legends, Race to the Moon, Behind the Gates, Shuttle: A Ship Like No Other, and NASA Now + Next. Each zone houses an exciting range of attractions and exhibits displaying the journey of space exploration.

Are there any restaurants at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex?

Yes, there are two main restaurants at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex - the Orbit Café and the Moon Rock Café.

What are some must-see attractions at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex?

Don’t miss highlight attractions like the US Astronaut Hall of Fame, the Rocket Garden, and the Space Shuttle Atlantis, and the Shuttle Launch Experience at the Visitor Complex.

Why should I visit the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex?

The Visitor Complex at the Kennedy Space Center is a must-visit for those who love space exploration. It houses actual rockets, shuttles, memorabilia, fun exhibits, and so much more! t

How long should I spend at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex?

It should take you a whole day to comfortably visit the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and see all its attractions.

Can I bring a backpack into the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex?

Small backpacks are allowed inside the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

What should I wear to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex?

You will most likely be spending the whole day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, so we suggest wearing comfortable clothes and shoes. Keep in mind that clothing with objectionable material, including obscene language or graphics is prohibited.

Is going the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex worth it?

Yes, the Visitor Complex at the Kennedy Space Center is an iconic destination that is a must-visit for everyone.

What are the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex opening hours?

The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is open from from 9 AM to 5 PM daily.

Are there any guided tours of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex?

Yes, you can book a guided tour of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex for a more meaningful experience.