Out of this World

Kennedy Space Center

      For many people this is a bucket list destination, because it has historical and scientific significance.   It is also the location to see real live scheduled space launches.  The Kennedy Space Center is located in Cape Canaveral, Florida.  We had a chance to visit in December.  Going in the winter meant that we did not have to experience the hot Florida temperatures, but a trip close to Christmas time still meant large crowds.  

     There are exhibits inside and outside, as well as the tour of the launch pad sites.  You will have to be bussed to the launch pad area.  Many of these sites are restricted areas, but the tour guides will explain what you are able to access and when you can see a sheduled launch.  There are several exihibits that are an extra charge to experience.  We did not tour these, as our time was limited.

    You will see rockets that have launched into space and have been retired.  This is the Rocket Garden.  There is a space capsule that you can go inside to get a feel for what it was like for the astronauts.  Pictures cannot give you the personal feeling that you get when you are standing up close to these massive rockets.  You can also visit an exhibit about astronauts.  

      There is an IMAX movie included with general admission.  Our movie was about the future plan and work to land on Mars.

     You will also be able to visit the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit.  You can see the space shuttle, and walk around it an under it.  You can learn more about what the living quarters are like on the ship, and what the astronauts experienced on board.  

   To visit the launch sites you will need to take a bus ride.  Your tour guide will explain about the buildings and equipment you will pass.  It is very interesting to hear what it takes to get a space shuttle from the area it was created, and/or worked on, to the area where it will launch.  These buildings are absolutely massive.  It was said that the American Flag on the side of the building was the size of a whole basketball court.

     We purchased our tickets ahead of time online.  I highly suggest doing this.  We did not have to wait in a line at all.  I also suggest going as early as possible.  The parking lot is very large.  You may want to be early to get a close parking spot.  We also experienced Florida's afternoon storm, even in December.  I suggest bringing a poncho or an umbrella to your visit.  There is a restaurant on site if you would like refreshments.  There was also access and services for those with disabilities.

 

  If you would like to learn more about the Kennedy Space Center and their current ticket prices, visit  https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/.

*We are not affiliated nor sponsored by the Kennedy Space Center.