Florida is a great vacation destination because there are literally tons of unique events, places, and activities that can fit any vacation itinerary. Want to plan a kid-friendly trip? Check out Epcot, Sea World, or Disney. Looking for a sporty, action-packed adventure? Hike the Everglades, get a jet ski rental, or schedule a day at the Richard Petty Driving Experience in Orlando. Planning a bachelorette weekend getaway? Book a spa day, then hit up the Miami nightlife, and spend the next day recovering on the beach.
Another great thing about Florida is that you can visit again and again, and there is always something new to see. So many of Florida’s destinations are one-of-a-kind, and most of them can entertain kids and adults alike. One such destination is the Kennedy Space Center near Orlando, Florida.
The space center is actually located on an island wildlife refuge within easy driving distance of Miami, Daytona Beach, and Orlando. Visitors should plan to spend an entire day there, as there are tons of exhibits and activities, including a tour of the center, interactive space flight simulators, and IMAX movies.
Visitors can also have lunch with an astronaut and tour the Rocket Garden, where retired rockets are artistically arranged and lit up in patriotic lighting. If you’re traveling with young children and they start getting antsy, the Children’s Play Dome is a great spot for them to blow off some steam in a fun, space-themed play area.
In addition to the regularly available attractions, the Kennedy Space Center also features several temporary or special events and programs, including showing Star Trek and other movies on the IMAX screens, allowing visitors to interact with real-life astronauts, and live concerts in the Rocket Garden.
If you’re really lucky (or plan your trip well), you might even get to see an actual shuttle or rocket launch! Truly one of the most amazing, awe-inspiring sights imaginable, these launches are guaranteed to make your visit memorable. Surprisingly, the space center usually features a couple of launches a month. The next shuttle launch is scheduled for Friday, August 28th, and there are a couple of shuttle launches scheduled in September as well. Tickets are limited, but reasonably-priced at $38 for adults and $28 for children.
When planning a trip to the Kennedy Space Center, visitors should keep in mind that, although the center is usually open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. every day, they do close on Christmas and for certain launches, so it would be a good idea to check ahead and make sure they’re open the day you plan to visit. Even if you aren’t able to schedule your visit to coincide with a launch, though, this is one vacation destination that is bound to fascinate every member of your party! Mix a visit in to the Space center either before or after a day at the beach with some fun and sun and maybe a few jet skis for an exciting time.
