Overview of Kennedy Space Centre

Humans in space have always been a fascinating concept, with NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre playing an important role in bringing such dreams to life. From sending humans to the moon, Kennedy Space Centre allows common people to experience the world of space and technology with its 700 attractions. From meeting NASA astronauts to witnessing the Saturn V of the Apollo mission and the Shuttle Atlantic, the Centre has unique highlights at the Visitor Complex. These range from bus tours, IMAX theatres, memorabilia, displays and exhibits from all the landmark events that have happened at the Kennedy Space Centre.

Things to Do at Kennedy Space Centre

Visit various attractions
Visit various attractions

Kennedy Space Centre has 700 attractions and exhibits for visitors, who can explore the fun yet educational installations during their space centre tour. The major attractions of the Centre include the Rocket Garden that showcases NASA’s Apollo, Gemini and Mercury Programmes; the US Astronaut Hall of Fame which has the largest collection of personal memorabilia of American astronauts. Along with the Space Shuttle Atlantis, which is basically the original iconic shuttle; the Shuttle Launch Experience that simulates a real space launch; and the Apollo/Saturn V Centre where the real Saturn V rocket launcher rests. From meet-and-greet sessions with astronauts to touching a piece of moon rock, Kennedy Space Centre has it all and so much more.

Shopping
Shopping

Shop at the “world’s largest space shop” at Kennedy Space Centre. Plan your visit to include the massive Space Shop of the space centre, which is renowned as the world’s largest store that solely sells NASA gear and space memorabilia. From merchandise designed based on popular NASA programs to exclusive souvenirs commemorating the moon landing, The Space Shop and The Right Stuff of Kennedy Space Centre are the ultimate shopping experiences for the space nerd in you. Experience the thrill of walking across the original Apollo 11 gantry like NASA astronauts, click memorable pictures, and personalise all your purchases at the stores.

Dining
Dining

Dining options at the Kennedy Space Centre offer an otherworldly experience with their delicious vegetarian, healthy and gluten-free options and biodegradable and recyclable cutlery. Choose from six restaurant options serving at the space centre, ranging from the Orbit Café that serves freshly prepared dishes across the Space Shop to the innovative ice cream presentations of the Milky Way and Space Dots. While the Moon Rock Café serves diners among Apollo artefacts, IMAX Snax offers a delightful cinematic experience in the heart of the Kennedy Space Centre, and the Planet Play Lounge provides a much-needed break to both kids and their parents. 

History of Kennedy Space Centre

History of Kennedy Space Centre

It was in September 1961 that NASA purchased land for the Apollo Lunar Landing Program on Merritt Island in Florida. By 1962, the independent NASA field centre of Launch Operations Centre was established, which was renamed the John F Kennedy Space Centre in 1963.


It was on 26th May 1965 that the Kennedy Space Centre Headquarters was formally inaugurated. As the US Space Program achieved greater heights, public interest grew in exploring the Kennedy Space Centre from up close. As a result, NASA administrator James Webb created a visitors’ program in 1964, which flourished into the Kennedy Space Centre Visitor Complex and remains popular to date.

Rules in Kennedy Space Centre

Rules in Kennedy Space Centre
  •  As the Kennedy Space Centre is a family-friendly space, visitors are expected to dress appropriately. Clothes with inappropriate exposure or objectionable content are not allowed.
  • Outside food and beverages are allowed in soft-sided small containers, but glass bottles and containers are prohibited.
  • Service animals are permitted inside the Kennedy Space Centres, but visitors would need to keep their pets at the pet kennel available on-site.
  • Visitors are not permitted to carry any kind of weapons inside the space centre premises.
  • Designated areas have been provided at the centre for smoking purposes. Visitors are not allowed to smoke in public areas.
  • Photography is permitted at Kennedy Space Centre, but professional objects like tripods are prohibited.
  • Use of mobile phones on the space centre premises is allowed, but visitors are requested to avoid having loud conversations and playing loud music to not disturb other guests.

Know Before You go Kennedy Space Centre

Location and How to Reach
Opening Hours
Tips to Visit Kennedy Space Centre
Facilities and Accessibility
Location and How to Reach
  • Kennedy Space Centre is located on the US East Coast, at Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953. A part of Central Florida, it is a 51-minute drive from the Melbourne Airport and is located close to Orlando and Daytona Beach.
  • To reach the Kennedy Space Centre, it is recommended that you drive on your own as direct public transport is not available to the centre. Parking facilities have been provided for a minimal fee at the Visitor Complex for the convenience of visitors.
  • Essential information to know is that if you are on your way from Orlando, Daytona Beach, or Miami, head towards SR 405. If your location is around Cocoa Beach, take SR 3 for a smooth ride.
  • Bus routes 11, 111, 436S, and 51 pass near Kennedy Space Centre, with the nearest bus stations being Cargo Road and Cargo Slip Road, and the Oia Transfer Centre.

FAQ's of Kennedy Space Centre

What is the best way to reach Kennedy Space Centre?

    The best way to reach Kennedy Space Centre is by driving down to Merritt Island, as the centre is not connected by direct public transportation. Essential information to know is that the SR 405 connects the Space Centre in Central Florida to Orlando, Daytona Beach and Miami, while the SR 3 connects Merritt Island to Cocoa Beach.

What is the best time to visit Kennedy Space Centre?

Is there a lot of walking at Kennedy Space Centre?

How long should I plan to spend at Kennedy Space Centre?

What is the Kennedy Space Centre Visitor Complex?