“NASA, we have a problem.”
That is probably one of the most recognizable phrases in the English language. I know it is the first thing I think of when I hear about the John F. Kennedy Space Center. I love Orlando and everything it has to offer. But, sometimes I get tired of hearing about Disney, Universal Studios, or Seaworld. It’s why I created this series – completely dedicated to exploring and highlighting other areas of Central Florida.
This is where the Kennedy Space Center came in! I know I can’t be the only one fascinated by all things astronauts and space. Right? Even now, I still cannot get over the sheer magnitude of the spaceships. There was so much to see and do at the complex that I know I didn’t get to see it all.
Located on the Space Coast, just north of Cape Canaveral, the visitor complex originally opened in the 1960s and since then, has had millions of guests pass their doors. Although it was created as part of a Cold War challenge, it now is the center for all of NASA’s space activities, including launches and all types of space-related events.
A few of the highlights from my day trip include seeing the Rocket Garden, the Space Shuttle Atlantis, taking the Bus Tour, and experiencing the Apollo/Saturn V Center. I even got to see what it was like in a Mission Control room! There were so many interesting exhibits and the Kennedy Space Center Office Guide free app made it easier to navigate and plan my day (make sure to download it before going!).
I will be honest, ticket prices are not cheap; beginning at $75 per adult. However, everything I wanted to see was included in the price of admission (except for any food or drinks of course). Do you want to chat with an astronaut? Or train for a weightlessness experience? You can also add these types of enhancements to make your visit extra special.
Another experience visitors have the opportunity to witness are rocket launches. All of the viewing locations for launches are located within a few miles of the launch pads. This guarantees you have the best experience watching and feeling these spaceships as they leave Earth. The visitor complex offers the best and closest viewing area, complete with live launch commentary. Interested in seeing one? You can purchase tickets, in addition to the daily admission ticket at the visitor complex. The official website is also your go to place for a calendar of upcoming launches.
Bonus tip: Kennedy Space Center is a great excursion if you are taking a cruise out of Cape Canaveral!
All in all, a trip to the Space Coast was definitely worth it to satisfy my inner child and space enthusiast. It’s easy to understand why the Kennedy Space Center is one of Florida’s most popular tourist attractions! I cannot wait to go back and see all of the exhibits I didn’t get a chance to visit and share the experience with others!
Directions to Kennedy Space Center
Visiting from Orlando? Begin your drive by traveling east on State Road 50 for approximately 50 miles. After passing I-95, turn right/east at the next intersection onto SR 405 and follow signs for approximately 10 miles. Make a righthand turn onto Space Commerce Way and go approximately 1.2 miles. The Visitor Complex is located on the left. Additionally, there are three alternative ways to get here if you don’t have a car. Gray Line Orlando, City Sightseeing Orlando and Real Florida Adventures also offer transportation to the visitor complex.