When planning our trip to the Kissimmee and Orlando area of Florida, we wanted to build an itinerary that focused on learning, theme parks and down time. Being that it was Spring Break for the kids, heading to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida was a must for us, and I am so glad we had the opportunity to visit.
There is a lot to take in for the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, so I have done my best to help guide you through a 1-day visit, and what you should know before you go to the Kennedy Space Center.
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (KSC) is about an hour drive from the Kissimmee/Orlando theme park area. And about 30 minutes from Cocoa Beach. Driving over NASA’s Causeway Bridge was super impressive, and be sure to look for crocodiles in the ditches once off the bridge on the way to the complex. We saw a few!
The complex opens at 9am, and it’s suggested to arrive before then. We paid for parking ($10) and cleared security and were immediately met by Rocket Garden.
The Rocket Garden showcases rockets from various NASA programs such as Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs. It’s very impressive to walk among these giants.
We then headed to Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex®
Gateway focuses on the present and future of collaborative space exploration, allowing guests to experience the interstellar travel of tomorrow while celebrating what is happening right now within the space program. There were several interactive exhibitions, including a VR experience. The kids loved running from one exhibit to the next.
We then journeyed to Spaceport KSC, which is on the second floor of the Deep Space Launch Complex. It’s a ride experience and brings space travel to life and you have that chance to journey lightyears away. This ride/simulator was a ton of fun. We were unsure which journey to take, so we asked the staff who was able to help us. We ended up traveling to Saturn on the Daring Explorers.
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NEXT UP: Space Shuttle Atlantis Shuttle Launch Experience®
Space Shuttle Atlantis was our most favourite part of the visit. You enter the building and watch 2 short films to understand how Atlantis came to life, and the impact and difference Space Shuttle Atlantis made and had on the NASA program. With this ship heading to space 33 times, it was impressive to learn about it in more detail, and then have a chance to see it up close.
I was super proud to see that Canada Arm front and center. I could have stared at the Shuttle Atlantis all day. It was so impressive to see a real space shuttle that had been to space… 33 TIMES!
In addition to the exhibition and seeing shuttle Atlantis, there is also a Shuttle Launch Experience. We didn’t take the journey during this visit, but saw lots of people lining up for it!
Now onto the Apollo/Saturn V Center – A Trip Behind the Gates
The Apollo/Saturn V Center pays homage to the people and machines that made the improbable possible. Within the visitor complex there are coach buses that take you onto NASA’s property (or behind the gates as they say). It was about a 10-15 minute ride, and very comfortable.
Our driver gave us a few facts and detoured around some of the property. There is a film playing which gives you additional info, specifically about NASA’s Vehicle Assembly Building. Which doesn’t seem massive, until you drive past it and start to see the building beside it look like tiny ants. This is not something you get to visit (as it’s an active site) but driving past it was very cool. Keep your eyes peeled and cameras ready on your drive to NASA property and from the property, I managed to see the The crawlers from a far! (you’ll learn about that impressive machine during your ride!)
It was such a blast getting to learn so much about the space program and the rich history of the NASA programs over the years. There were touching sections of the complex that included remembrance of fallen astronauts. It’s an absolute must to pay tribute to these men and women. Space travel comes with inherent risks, and this was made clear throughout the visitors complex.
And There’s More!
We didn’t’ have a chance to discover all that the KSC had to offer, so here are a few attractions I would check out on my next visit.
Planet Play: Planet Play will be your new favourite planet after you explore this fully-immersive multiple-story play experience. Designed for kids 2-12 there are interactive activities and missions for them to partake in, in an indoors setting.
IMAX Movies: It’s the next best thing to being in space, minus the microgravity, and you can eat popcorn! Space movies are available daily in the IMAX Building and are included with admission. See the daily schedule once you arrive for show times. Stock up on traditional theater snacks and drinks in the lobby before the movie begins.
We really loved our day at the KSC and agreed that visiting for 2 days would guarantee that you see it all! There is a lot to take in!
Are you looking to take your family to the Kennedy Space Complex Visitor Centre?
Here is what you’ll need to know before you go:
- Admission varies depending on age and amount of day chosen. We purchased tickets on Undercover Tourist for discount tickets.
- Parking is $10
- You can bring snacks and picnic lunches on site
- Plan to be there early, it gets busy quickly.
- Embark on Spaceport KSC was a very cool experience, and very popular. the lines get long quickly, so try and do this first thing in the morning.
- Don’t miss the bus trip to the Apollo/Saturn V Center.
- There are lots of options for food vendors onsite, and there is even a Starbucks on premise.
- IMAX Movies are included in the price of admission
- Bring a hat, but also some layers as some of the complexes were a bit cooler, but the outside sections well are warm!
Thanks for reading!
Until next time!
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