Ready to Blast off on an epic space adventure? Kennedy Space Center is an exciting destination for space and science enthusiasts of all ages. Here you can see exhibits on the history of space travel, ride epic simulators, see rockets and space shuttles from various NASA missions, and have the chance to meet real astronauts in person. From the history of space exploration to the cutting-edge technology used in today’s space missions, it’s a great way to inspire kids to pursue an interest in science and space exploration. Here are our tips and what not to miss at Kennedy Space Center with Kids!
Behind the Rockets: History of Kennedy Space Center
The origins of the Kennedy Space Center can be traced back to 1963 when James Webb, a NASA administrator, initiated the first self-guided tours of the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. These tours were the first glimpse the public had of exploring the exciting world of space technologies. The tour’s popularity grew, and in 1965, the site constructed a full-scale visitor center, called Spaceport USA, which quickly became one of Florida’s most popular tourist attractions.
Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, the site was officially named “The Kennedy Space Center” in honor of the President’s advocacy for space exploration. Today Kennedy Space Center is the premier spaceport with more than 90 private-sector partners and nearly 250 partnership agreements. Kennedy Space Center is larger than ever before, and it is still NASA’s primary launch center for human spaceflight.
Walk Among Giants – The Rocket Garden
Look to the sky! The Rocket Garden is one of Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s most photographed attractions, and it’s easy to see why. This unique garden holds a collection of authentic rockets and space vehicles that have been used in NASA missions over the years. Standing next to these rockets is a special experience -these are the rockets that pioneered America’s space exploration! Until you are standing next to them it’s hard to fully understand just how gigantic these rockets are. Some of the rockets are open – allowing you to climb inside.
Gateway: The Deep Space Launch
What does the future hold for space travel? Recently opened in 2022, Gateway is a new multi-level attraction that allows guests to discover visionary designs paving the way for human deep space travel. Several cutting-edge innovations of space exploration from NASA and their commercial partners, including spacecraft from SpaceX, Boeing Starliner, Lockheed, and more.
Spaceport: Journey through the Solar System
On the 2nd level of the Gateway complex, you’ll find the Spaceport Departures. Here visitors can choose from one of four different space journeys: Red Planet, Daring Explorers, Cosmic Wonders, and Uncharted Worlds. Each is a 4D simulator attraction, most similar to Disney’s Soarin’, where your seats are suspended in air and move along with the domed screen. Buckle in and enjoy the journey – each is filled with breathtaking imagery from space. Good to know: Each ride is about 4 1/2 minutes long. Lines form quickly for these and Little Explorers must be 39 inches tall to ride.
Launch into Fun – Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour / Apollo Center
The Kennedy Space Center bus tour is a great way to see the various launch pads, hangars, and other important facilities on the sprawling complex. The tour takes about two hours and includes stops at the Apollo/Saturn V Center. Here you can see the actual Saturn V Rocket and the Launch Control Center where NASA personnel monitored the early space missions. Don’t miss the opportunity to touch an actual moon rock! If you walk outside in the back of the building you can see the active launchpads for NASA and SpaceX. Good to Know: The bus tour is the only way to reach the Apollo/Saturn V Center.
Space Shuttle Atlantis
A shuttle like no other – Space Shuttle Atlantis transported astronauts to space and back for thirty years. A short film introduces the story, before guests enter the museum. Inside, Atlantis is displayed as only astronauts have ever seen her, suspended in the air as if in flight and rotated with the doors entirely open. Plan on taking some time to explore the complex. There are more than 60 interactive exhibits to discover, including training simulators, slides, and more, as well as exhibits showing the shuttle’s history and technology that made it all possible.
Shuttle Launch Experience
Ever wonder what it feels like to blast off into space? Strap in for a simulation of the space shuttle’s eight-and-a-half-minute ascent into orbit! This simulation ride allows visitors to get a taste of the real experience. First, attend a pre-launch briefing by veteran space shuttle commander Charles Bolden. Once on board, you buckle in to experience what veteran NASA astronauts call the next best thing to flying aboard the space shuttle. (Must be 44”.)
Galactic Movie Experience – IMAX Theater
Kennedy Space Center has an IMAX theater that shows space-themed movies on a giant screen. Grab some popcorn! Kids will love the immersive experience of watching space-themed films including Journey to Space and the new 3D movie ASTEROID HUNTERS featuring eye-popping images of space.
An Out of this world Playground – Planet Play
The ultimate fun way to end the day at Kennedy Space Center with kids! Planet Play is a fully-immersive indoor playground created for young space explorers aged 2 to 12. This indoor interactive play space lets children play and learn “on the planets” with numerous interactive gaming and technology components. Map a constellation, walk on Saturn’s rings, slide through an asteroid field, and so much more. Bonus: parents can relax in the adjacent lounge area with a coffee, wine, or beer while watching their little explorers discover the wonders of space. The playground is epic – you will want to spend time here.
Astronaut Encounters
Have a question about space travel? Who better to ask than a real astronaut! At Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, visitors get the rare opportunity to meet veteran NASA astronauts. During Astronaut Encounter, commanders, pilots, mission and payload specialists who have lived and worked in space share their experiences during a live presentation and question & answer session. You may also visit the Astronaut of the Day at The Space Shop or Shuttle Express for his or her autograph.
Kennedy Space Center with Kids – Tips for your visit:
- Check the Calendar: Be sure to check the launch calendar! If you’re lucky enough to be at Kennedy Space Center during a rocket launch, be sure to take advantage of the opportunity. The Visitor Complex has designated viewing areas where you can see the rocket launch up close.
- Ride the Bus Early: The Bus Tour stops by mid-afternoon, and lines can get long before the final trip. Be sure to plan this experience in the earlier part of your visit. Tip for the bus ride itself: Try to sit on the right side of the bus. You’ll have an epic view of the Space Center complex during the drive.
- Watch for an Astronaut friend: A costumed astronaut character is always in orbit around Kennedy Space center for photos! Check with the information desk for the astronaut’s meet and greet schedule.
- Order Ahead: As with any restaurant, lunch can be a busy time. Kennedy Space Center allows you to order food ahead on their app – allowing for more fun in the park and less time in line!
- Try Space-themed food: There’s a variety of space-themed food options, such as “space ice cream” and Space Dots ice cream, which is a fun (and out of this world) treat!
- Look for the STEAM Carts: S.T.E.A.M Team has interactive pop-up experiences throughout the main visitor complex, which allow guests the chance to learn more about science and mathematics through fun experiments.
Kennedy Space Center
Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, Fl 32953
Website and ticketing HERE: kennedyspacecenter.com
Looking for more Florida fun? Check out our posts on Universal Studios, Walt Disney World, and What to see in Miami!
Thanks to Kennedy Space Center for sponsoring our visit. As always, all opinions and reviews are our own.
