Visiting The Kennedy Space Center

• Consult the map before you go. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is the centerpiece of the sprawling Kennedy Space Center. The center also includes the shuttle runway, the assembly building, and launch pads.
   
• Dress comfortably for Florida weather. Much of what you'll see is in air-conditioned facilities, but you will spend some time outdoors viewing exhibits. In summer, dress in light clothes with layers. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing plenty of walking.
   
• Check the launch schedule. There are frequent launches of unmanned rockets from the Space Center. By checking the launch schedule ahead of time you can anticipate the size of the crowds you may face during a launch and get tickets ahead of time.
   
• Do a little homework. As you're visiting an area where significant events in world history and space exploration took place, reading up before your visit can enhance your experience.
   
• Allow enough time for your visit. There is a lot to see and do, so don't try to rush your visit into a couple of hours. Most visitors report spending upwards of four hours here.
   
• Plan on grabbing something to eat during your visit. The Kennedy Space Center is pretty isolated on Merritt Island, so you'll likely want to plan on eating at the Visitor Complex.

Exciting launch days at the Visitor Complex provide some exceptional views but also bigger crowds. The Space Center will adjust its hours by a small margin on launch days to accommodate the larger crowds.

Off-season in this part of Florida is generally January & February and September through late November. Crowds are thinner, the humidity is down, and the weather is generally cooler in the off-season. Plus, hotel rates are lower and restaurants are also quieter. Summers, on the other hand, can be quite humid and hot, and even more crowded due to visiting families.

Florida is known for its brief showers during summer afternoons. But don't let this discourage you from visiting the Kennedy Space Center. There are plenty of indoor exhibits to explore while the weather passes. Because the peak visitor period is during the middle of the day, arriving early is a good idea, especially in high season.

We're sure you and your family will have a great visit. Here are a few of our favorite things to do!

Rocket Garden

One of the most notable exhibits is the Rocket Garden. You'll get to walk up to and around the bases of actual rockets that were used throughout the space program. Rockets are mounted upright except the largest, a Saturn IB, which is mounted sideways.

Space Shuttle Atlantis SM Exhibit

The not-to-be-missed Space Shuttle Atlantis Display brings you up close and personal with an actual space orbiter, left in the condition it was in following its last flight. Housed inside an impressive 10-story, 64,000-square-foot facility, this is one of the latest Kennedy Space Center exhibits and has attracted massive crowds.

Shuttle Launch Experience®

The Shuttle Launch Experience is a unique attraction designed with the help of astronauts, NASA experts, and attraction-industry leaders. It's intended to simulate what it feels like to be a part of a space shuttle launch and is definitely a must-see.

The attraction has four simulators, each accommodating 44 passengers.

NASA Now + Next

This exciting segment of your experience offers a peek into what the future holds for NASA and its ambitious goals. You'll learn about current missions to the International Space Station and upcoming ventures into deep space.

You'll also find plenty of interactive exhibits, simulators, and games that help you imagine what it would be like for a manned craft to visit Mars.

Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour

General admission to Kennedy Space Center includes a bus tour that departs every 15 minutes. These air-conditioned coaches will take you from the Visitor Complex past some of the most iconic sights of the Space Center, including the famous countdown clock that ushered in so many historic flights.

Astronaut Encounter

Be sure to catch an Astronaut Encounter, hosted by a real-life astronaut multiple times daily. Over 30 of the 500 men and women who have been in space make presentations throughout the year. You'll get to hear their perspective on the space program, and learn about what it was really like to be a part of the NASA family – now and in the past!

IMAX® Theater

Immerse yourself in the NASA experience with a visit to the IMAX Theater. As of winter 2018, their two current shows are "Journey to Space" (narrated by Sir Patrick Stewart) and "A Beautiful Planet" (featuring footage of Earth from the ISS).

Astronaut Memorial

Take time to reflect at the moving Astronaut Memorial, a tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in space exploration. Known as the Space Mirror Memorial, it is located just behind the IMAX Theater.

Children's Play Dome

If the kids still have energy to burn, then a visit to the Children's Play Dome is in order. It's a unique space-themed playground designed for young explorers. 

• Ron Jon's Surf Shop – This is the largest surf shop in the world and the flagship store of the famous Ron Jon shops. This impressive 52,000-square-foot store is open 24 hours a day along the shores of Cocoa Beach, south of the KSC. Even if you've never thought about surfing, this remarkable store is worth a visit when in the area.
   
• The Cocoa Beach Pier – The historic Cocoa Beach Pier has been updated and upgraded with shops, dining and drinking options, and even a game room. Walk out and grab a fishing rod or just sit and enjoy a cold beverage. You just may catch a cruise ship or two coming in or out of Port Canaveral.
   
• The American Police Hall of Fame and Museum – Located in nearby Titusville, this attraction features classic police cars and motorcycles, hundreds of police badges from around the world, and even the costume from the film Robocop. Police officers are admitted free with ID.