Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Explore space like a family
At a Glance
Best Ages
All ages
Cost
Varies
Time Needed
4 - 6 hours
Indoor/Outdoor
Both
Weather Fit
All weather
Stroller Access
Yes
Washrooms
Plentiful
Food
Onsite dining
Parking
Free parking
Booking
Recommended
Parent Effort
Moderate
Bring your kids to touch history, launch dreams, and see real rockets - this is where the future of space begins.
About This Place
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on Merritt Island, Florida is NASA's flagship public attraction and the only place in the world where you can tour a working launch facility and come face-to-face with actual spacecraft. Highlights include the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit — where the orbiter hangs dramatically overhead — the Shuttle Launch Experience simulator, the Apollo/Saturn V Center with its awe-inspiring moon rocket, and the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame. Visitors can meet real astronauts, watch live rocket launches from the grounds, take a Behind the Gates bus tour, and explore Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex. Open daily 09:00–17:00.
Official Website open_in_new- Monday – Sunday
- 09:00 – 17:00
Hours were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times.
Check the official website for current admission prices.
Thrills & Chills
Feel the thrill of liftoff in a simulator
Real Heroes
Meet astronauts who've been to space
Behind the Scenes
Walk where rockets launch every few weeks
Good to Know Before You Go
- Shuttle Launch Experience
- A simulator ride that replicates the thrill of a space shuttle launch, featuring motion and vibration effects.
- Behind the Gates Bus Tour
- Guided tour of restricted areas including the historic launch pad gantry at LC-39 and other NASA facilities.
- Launch Viewing
- Onsite viewing areas allow visitors to watch live rocket launches, weather permitting.
- Language Support
- Exhibits and tours available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, and Chinese.
- Space Shuttle Atlantis Exhibit
- Features the actual Space Shuttle Atlantis displayed overhead in a dedicated exhibit.
- Apollo/Saturn V Center
- Home to a full-scale Saturn V rocket, the largest rocket ever built by NASA.
- U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame
- Honors astronauts who have made significant contributions to human spaceflight.
- Meet Real Astronauts
- Scheduled appearances by real astronauts during visits, usually as part of special programming.
Kid Fit by Age
Strollers can navigate most areas; quiet spaces available for infants during bus tours or long exhibits.
Engaging sights and sounds from rockets and simulators suit young children; frequent break areas and stroller access.
Interactive elements, colorful displays, and the Shuttle Launch Experience simulator captivate young minds; short attention spans accommodated with frequent stops.
Hands-on exhibits, simulators, live launches, and educational programs appeal strongly to school-aged children.
Space missions, real astronaut stories, and immersive experiences like the Launch Experience are highly engaging for pre-teens.
Deep space content, advanced tech displays, and interactive exhibits stimulate interest in STEM fields and future space careers.
Insider Tips
Arrive early to secure a good spot for launch viewing
Check the daily schedule for astronaut meet-and-greets
Take the Behind the Gates tour for exclusive access
Use the shuttle simulator during off-peak hours
- •Stay behind posted barriers at all times
- •Follow staff instructions during launch viewing
- •Keep distance from active rocket engines
- •Step-free access throughout main exhibits
- •Sensory bags available for visitors with sensory sensitivities
- •Baby change facilities in every restroom
schedule Best Time to Visit
Visit on a weekday morning before 10:00 AM to avoid crowds and long lines.
shopping_bag What to Bring
- check_boxWater and snacks
- check_boxSun protection
- check_boxComfortable walking shoes
- check_boxCamera for photos
- check_boxRain jacket or umbrella
Location
Address
Space Commerce Wy, Merritt Island, FL 32953, USA
Phone
+18554334210
Last checked: 2026