The Kennedy Space Center in Port Canaveral is an awesome place to learn and experience NASA’s history and future in space travel. There is so much to do, and it can be challenging to see everything in a day. So, it’s helpful to research and plan to get the most out of your visit here. I went years ago and later realized that I can’t really remember much about what I did or learned. Then, I went again in 2022 and researched ahead of time and discovered these top Kennedy Space Center attractions. My experience was much more memorable and educational. So, read on to learn about how to make the most out of a day here.
15 Top Kennedy Space Center Attractions
View a Rocket Launch
The ultimate experience at the center is to view a Rocket Launch! However, the stars need to align for you to catch the right time. Check out the calendar ahead of time to schedule experiencing this live, stratospheric event.
Apollo/Saturn V Center Bus Tour
No visit here would be complete without seeing the largest rocket ever flown, the Saturn V. However, this requires a bus tour (included in admission fee) to visit the Apollo/Saturn V Space Center. The line gets long, so it’s best to arrive early and do this first. The 20-minute bus ride goes behind NASA’s gates to the Apollo/Saturn V Space Center. Here you get to closely observe the full length of this spectacular rocket and learn about the Apollo era. The Moon Rock Café is in the center with quick lunch and snack options.
Space Shuttle Atlantis
There is no missing this attraction, as outside is a gigantic space shuttle stack with rocket boosters and orange tank. Inside, visitors see up close the Atlantis, one of the space flown shuttles. Overall, it exhibits the shuttle and describes NASA’s 30-year Space Shuttle Program. Most importantly, you see the real Atlantis orbiter that flew to space 33 times.
Constellation Plaza
When you arrive at Constellation Plaza don’t miss the black revolving globe showcasing the constellations. Near the Atlantis shuttle, this is a great area to have lunch with tables. Also, here there are scheduled times to get a photo op with an Astronaut.
Journey to Mars
Here you immerse in the future of space travel to Mars. There are numerous interactive exhibits and shows to learn about this. So, tune into the red planet voyage and imagine the future.
Gateway – The Deep Space Launch Complex – NEW!
This offers many exhibits and hands on simulations to discover more about the future of deep space travel. During an immersive ride, you can launch upon 4 spectacular journeys: Uncharted Worlds, Daring Explorers, Red Planet and Cosmic Wonders.
Universe Theatre
The Eyes on the Universe: NASA’s Space Telescopes 3D is a vibrant show of the galaxies and constellations. Additionally, there is Astronaut Encounters here to meet an Astronaut and hear space stories.
Planet Play
At Planet Play children have wonderful opportunities for play experiences that teaches them about space travel and exploration. This colorful playground is for ages 2 – 12. Although as an adult, I peeked in there and wanted to join them.
Rocket Garden
It’s fun to wander among these real rockets of the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo space programs. This is one of the most photographed areas at the Kennedy Space Center for a good reason.
Chat with an Astronaut
To chat with an astronaut, you pay an additional fee from the admission cost at the Guest Services. This is a great opportunity to interact in a small group setting and ask an astronaut questions.
IMAX Theater
Here you have the ultimate immersive space-themed films on the large screen. They are scheduled throughout the day.
Heroes and Legends
Here, you immerse yourself in the Astronaut Hall of Fame with the pioneers of space travel. There are exhibits and photos to honor and learn about these legends.
Eat Space Food – Kennedy Space Center Attractions
There are many places to pick up astronaut food at the complex. Most of it is dehydrated or freeze dried because this reduces weight. At IMAX Theatre I bought and enjoyed my freeze-dried Ice Cream Sandwich.
Astronaut Training Stages
Available at an additional cost in the Astronaut Training Center is the Astronaut Training Stages. You must be 10 years and older. Here, you can experience navigating Mars, docking skills and a spacewalk.
Eat & Shop Cosmically
There are many food choices when you are at the Kennedy Space Center. The Space Bowl Bistro provides healthy options with choose your own bowls. Both the Milky Way and Space Dots offer refreshing ice cream flavors. The Orbit Café offer burgers, pizza and salads. And don’t miss The Space Shop with the world’s largest selection of NASA merchandise! Also, The Right Stuff in the Apollo/Saturn Center provides “stuff” celebrating the Apollo missions.
Read Next!
Top Ten Things to Do in Historic Key West, Florida
Historic Boston Freedom Trail Walking Tour
