Plan Your Visit
OPEN: 9 AM to 5 PM
Before You Get Here
Just as every successful launch depends on a pre-launch checklist, planning your visit to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex ensures you make the most of your experience.
With so much to explore—from historic spaceflight artifacts to immersive astronaut training programs—careful preparation helps you maximize your time.
Start by choosing the right ticket option for your visit, whether it’s general admission to explore iconic attractions like Space Shuttle Atlantis® and the Apollo/Saturn V Center or an enhanced experience such as lunch with an astronaut or a behind-the-scenes tour of NASA’s multi-user spaceport.
For those seeking more interaction, consider adding an ATX® Training Stage for a taste of real astronaut training, or take on an interactive Mars Base 1 mission, where you’ll face hands-on problem-solving challenges.
With a range of experiences available, you can tailor your visit to match your interests, whether you want to witness the legacy of the Apollo missions, engage in cutting-edge space simulations, or experience the wonders of space in new and exciting ways.
Planning your visit ensures that you can enjoy every moment of this unforgettable journey through space history, technology, and exploration.
While you’re here
To make the most of your time at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, be sure to plan ahead for a variety of activities that cater to all interests. Begin your adventure by immersing yourself in the history of space exploration at the Apollo/Saturn V Center.
Here, you’ll see the massive Saturn V rocket—an awe-inspiring symbol of human achievement—and gain a deeper understanding of the Apollo missions.
Experience the thrill of space travel with the Shuttle Launch Experience®, where you’ll feel the simulated power of a space shuttle launch as you prepare for liftoff, just like the astronauts did. The experience includes realistic motion, sounds, and visuals, putting you in the cockpit during one of the most exciting moments in space exploration.
As you explore the complex, don’t miss the opportunity to check out the cutting-edge exhibits, like the Space Shuttle Atlantis®, where the actual shuttle is displayed in flight, giving you a sense of its size and the groundbreaking work that took place aboard it.
The Kennedy Space Center also offers a glimpse into the future of space exploration with exhibits dedicated to NASA’s Mars missions and other upcoming projects. These hands-on, interactive exhibits give you the chance to engage with technology and gain insight into what the next era of space travel will look like.
For those seeking a more personalized experience, consider adding exclusive options to your visit. Lunch with an astronaut allows you to interact with real astronauts, ask questions, and hear about their experiences in space.
Behind-the-scenes tours provide access to restricted areas and working spaceflight facilities, offering a rare view of NASA’s operations. You can also participate in astronaut training programs such as the ATX® Training Stage, where you’ll get to practice real astronaut tasks, like spacewalks and mission simulations.
Check the daily schedule for live presentations and special exhibits that offer opportunities to deepen your knowledge and understanding of space exploration.
Whether you’re visiting for a day or a longer stay, the Kennedy Space Center offers a wealth of experiences that are sure to inspire curiosity, wonder, and excitement for visitors of all ages.
MISSION ZONES
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex℠ is thoughtfully organized into Mission Zones, offering a journey through the U.S. Space Program in chronological order. This layout allows visitors to immerse themselves in the full scope of space exploration, from the early days of rocketry to the cutting-edge innovations driving future missions. Begin your experience in the Mercury and Gemini zones, where you can learn about the first steps taken by astronauts in the race for space. Explore the groundbreaking missions that laid the foundation for human spaceflight and witness the technological advancements that set the stage for the Apollo missions.
In the Apollo zone, step back in time to relive the historic Moon landings. Stand in awe of the Saturn V rocket and experience interactive exhibits that transport you to the era of the Apollo program. You’ll have the opportunity to engage with artifacts and stories that highlight the triumphs and challenges faced by astronauts on their journey to the Moon.
Next, travel into the Space Shuttle era, where you can see the Space Shuttle Atlantis® up close, suspended in midair as it would have been in orbit. This exhibit offers a deep dive into the 30-year legacy of the Space Shuttle program and its groundbreaking achievements, including the construction of the International Space Station and countless scientific advancements.
Finally, the complex offers a glimpse into the future of space exploration. Discover NASA’s ongoing efforts to explore Mars and beyond with immersive exhibits, live presentations, and interactive displays that highlight the latest in space technology and upcoming missions. From past triumphs to future possibilities, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex provides an awe-inspiring journey through the history and future of space exploration.
Additional resources
If you need additional assistance, please refer to the links below for more information and resources to help plan your visit. Whether you’re looking for ticket details, schedules, attraction guides, or visitor services, these references will ensure you have everything you need for an unforgettable experience at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex℠. The website provides up-to-date information about the complex, including operating hours, seasonal events, and detailed descriptions of the various exhibits and attractions. You can find specific details on how to purchase tickets, as well as information on available packages and add-ons to customize your visit. If you have questions about amenities such as dining options, accessibility services, or gift shops, the resources provided will guide you to the best options. You can also find important information on parking, transportation, and accommodations nearby to make your visit even more seamless. Whether it’s preparing for your astronaut experience, booking a behind-the-scenes tour, or checking out the latest space missions, these links will be your go-to resource for planning a memorable trip to one of the most inspiring destinations in space exploration.