What Attractions to see at Kennedy Space Center

Attractions at Kennedy Space Center

In this post, I’m sharing a bit about the attractions at Kennedy Space Center and what we were able to do as a family. Plan to spend an entire day there, if you’re really a Space buff you can make this a multi-trip, it’s up to you how much time you spend there but there are lots to see and do.

Back story: At the age of 7 I got my first microscope, and my first telescope at the age of 11. Science had always been a big part of my life! Growing up I wanted to be an astronomer and working at NASA was one of the dreams I regret not realizing.

I’ve lived in Florida pretty much all of my life and for some odd reason my schedule never lined up with going to Kennedy Space Center until now.

It was a dream to pay a visit and to be able to share my excitement with my son! Below I’ll share some details and photos of our trip to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and how great of a time we had.

We will be back again for sure when my son is a little older so he can take it all in properly but I definitely took it all in and it was an experience I will never forget.

If you find yourself in the Orlando/Space Coast area, be sure to pay a visit to the Kennedy Space Center. Seeing the Atlantis Space Shuttle in person was such an amazing experience!

What Can you do at Kennedy Space Center, visiting Kennedy Space Center with kids

When you first head into the Kennedy Space Center grounds

When you first walk in you’ll be greeted by beautiful grounds, to your right you’ll find the Heroes and Legends building, inside you’ll see the United States Astronaut Hall of Fame. There’s a short video upon entering the building talking about space travel.

Further inside the building you’ll enter the astronaut Hall of Fame and the see the amazing display of etched glass with each astronaut that was part of the space program and which mission(s) they took part in.

You can’t help but feel pride for these courageous people.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Attractions

The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex features lots of exhibits and has two IMAX 3D theaters – we were able to catch the two shows – check the Kennedy Space Center website for showings. Traditional theater snacks and drinks are also available for purchase.

Space Shuttle Atlantis Complex

Visiting Kennedy Space Center - 10 things you must do at Kennedy Space Center

There’s also a lot to see inside and do the Atlantis Building, including a Children’s Play Dome. We ended up not getting pictures, but there’s a huge slide inside, I can’t tell you how many times we went on it.

There are also lots of interactive activities for children and adults alike.

Other attractions at Kennedy Space Center & launches

Official Space Launches

Ever wanted to watch a space launch up close? You can! See the launch schedule and plan your visit on the same day. Additionally, launches are not 100% reliant since safety is a concern if something isn’t a right the launch will be cancelled. See schedule

Astronaut Encounter

Meet a NASA veteran – Personally shake hands and take a photo with one of the few who have traveled to space. You may also visit the Astronaut of the Day in Space Shuttle Atlantis at the Shuttle Express for his or her autograph.

See details

40 Minute Bus Tour

Did you know there’s a 40 minute bus tour included with your daily admission?

The bus tour usually includes the Vehicle Assembly Building, Launch Complex 39 and all of the facilities in between. One thing to keep in mind is because Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station are both working launch facilities, the tour routes may be altered at any time with or without any notice.

Check the Daily Schedule once on site for any changes. Read all about it here.

Bus tours are typically altered most frequently on launch days.

Add-ons + Enhancements + Food

Outside of the daily admission, The Explore Tour & Cape Canaveral Early Space Tour are great additions, Dine with an astronaut (see the menu) and other activities you can do for a additional charge.

Check here for current Kennedy Space Center ticket prices and add-ons available.

Food & Beverage Options at Kennedy Space Center

Can you bring your own food and drinks to Kennedy Space Center?

Yes, you may bring food and beverages packed in a small, soft-sided cooler. Glass bottles or containers are not allowed. Beer is for sale at certain locations inside the complex but outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted.

There are 4 restaurants and 3 snack bars inside the visitor Complex, we ate at the Orbit Cafe which serves sandwiches, burgers, pizza, and more.