Located roughly an hour from Orlando, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers guests a thrilling getaway to the greatest space adventure on earth! Loaded with attractions and tours, plan on spending an entire day at the space coast complex to see it all. We recently took the grandparents along for a fun day at KSC and had the best time. Here’s our Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Guide!
I partnered with KSC as media for this coverage. All opinions are my own.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Guide
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is home to many historic and current space exploration vehicles including space shuttle Atlantis, a Saturn V moon rocket, the Mercury Sigma 7 capsule, and many more. Kennedy Space Center opens at 9 am each day, however, closing time depends on the season. Because the visitor complex is 42 acres in size, it is highly recommended to arrive close to opening time to have a full day to see all of the amazing attractions.
Begin your day at KSC Visitor Complex by going on the Bus Tour
Yes, we realize you just took a drive to the space coast and probably want to stretch your legs. So make a pitstop at the restrooms, and while you’re waiting in line for the Bus Tour you can even get a snack or beverage at the Starbucks near the line. This is an incredible behind the scenes opportunity so it’s not to be missed!
What is the KSC Bus Tour?
This all-new bus tour provides visitors access to restricted areas of KSC, like launch complex 39B and the Vehicle Assembly Building during an air-conditioned motorcoach ride. The tour concludes at the Apollo/Saturn V Center where you have the opportunity to explore the Moon Tree Garden and the massive NASA building that houses many exhibits including the Apollo Treasure Gallery, Lunar Theater, Firing Room Theater, Moonscape and more!
The buses run roughly every 20 minutes and it is recommended to allow at least two hours for the KSC Bus Tour. It’s also important to note that the last tour departs from the visitor complex 2.5 hours before closing time. I can’t stress this enough – you do not want to miss this fascinating tour that’s included with admission!
Pick the return motorcoach outside of the gift shop and take a short 20-minute ride back to the KSC Visitor Complex to explore.
Space Shuttle Atlantis
The bus tour returns you to the entrance of Space Shuttle Atlantis which is where you should head to next.
This multi-level building houses Space Shuttle Atlantis rotated 43.21 degrees with payload doors open. After watching a short video, the shuttle is unveiled in all her glory. After exploring, head downstairs via stairs, elevator, or large slide to more exhibits including the Shuttle Launch Experience where guests can strap in for an exciting simulated space shuttle launch. Kids will enjoy the many interactive experiences too. Plan on 45 minutes to 1 hour to explore Space Shuttle Atlantis.
NASA Central
Next, head to NASA Now + Next to view Earth like an astronaut in 3D films at the IMAX® Theater and travel to the Red Planet in Journey to Mars: Explorers Wanted. Get up close to life-sized Mars rover replicas and the newest concept vehicle, Mars Rover Vehicle Navigator®.
Next, head to The Space Shop to meet a real-life astronaut, get their autograph and take a picture with them! On the day of our visit, Astronaut Steve Smith was onsite. This veteran astronaut has completed four space flights covering 16 million miles! He’s also taken seven space walks – his space walk time placed him second on the all-time American and third on the all-time historic lists. He was super friendly and generous with his time. To get an autograph you need so show a receipt of something bought at the space shop, or you can pay just $10 for a picture he will autograph at the table.
The Rocket Garden
Catch the sunset in the giant Rocket Garden including the Mercury-Redstone 3 rocket, Saturn 1B, Delta rocket and more.
Heroes & Legends
Finally, head to the Heroes and Legends Astronaut Hall of Fame building. This new attraction allows guests to see where American astronauts are remembered and honored. It will take you roughly 30 minutes to explore.
All of the above is included with admission. There are additional ways you can enhance your visit for an additional cost. Those special programs include: Dine with an Astronaut, Astronaut Training Experience and Cosmic Quest. Find out more here.
Can I bring my pet to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex? Service animals are welcome at the visitor complex. For guests with pets, the visitor complex offers a free on-site, air-conditioned pet kennel.
This is one place in Central Florida that you do not want to miss! For directions and ticket information visit kennedyspacecenter.com or call 855.433.4210 to speak with a representative. We hope you enjoyed this Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Guide. Be sure to pin an image for safekeeping!
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Antoinette M says
What an exciting place to visit! My whole family would love it!
monique s says
This looks so neat. What an experience of a lifetime to learn about space.
Dana Rodriguez says
My dad took me there when I was a kid. It is a great place for families to visit!