Mission Zones at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
EXPLORE ATTRACTIONS & BE INSPIRED
With so much to explore, where do you begin?
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is thoughtfully organized into Mission Zones, with attractions and tours grouped by historical era, allowing you to journey through the evolution of space exploration. From the pioneering days of early rocketry to today’s cutting-edge missions, each zone offers an immersive, hands-on experience that brings the story of humans in space to life. Whether you’re reliving the Apollo era, exploring the legacy of the Space Shuttle, or discovering the innovations shaping the future of space travel, each area fuels your curiosity and inspires a sense of adventure. Your visit will take you through the major milestones in space exploration, sparking awe and wonder at the incredible achievements of mankind.
Heroes & Legends
Honor the pioneers of NASA’s early space programs and the brave visionaries who inspired a nation to reach for the stars. At Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, you’ll discover the groundbreaking missions that paved the way for space exploration, from the Mercury and Gemini programs to the Apollo moon landings. Step back in time and immerse yourself in the challenges, triumphs, and determination that shaped humanity’s journey beyond Earth. Through interactive exhibits and historic artifacts, you’ll witness how these early missions laid the foundation for the remarkable achievements in space exploration that followed, sparking a sense of awe and admiration for the courage and ingenuity that continues to drive us forward into the cosmos.
Behind the Gates
The Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour offers exclusive access to some of the most historic and significant locations within the Kennedy Space Center, included with daily admission. You’ll visit iconic launch pads like Launch Complex 39A and 39B, where legendary missions, including the Apollo Moon landings and Space Shuttle launches, took place. The tour also includes a stop at the Apollo/Saturn V Center, where you can see the massive Saturn V rocket up close, and the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB), where spacecraft are assembled for launch. Additionally, you’ll explore modern NASA facilities and private space company sites like SpaceX Falcon 9 launch areas, showcasing the cutting-edge technology and collaboration driving the future of space exploration. Throughout the tour, knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history and future of spaceflight, offering a rare, immersive look at America’s space program and the journey that continues to shape the exploration of new frontiers. This behind-the-scenes experience is a must for any space enthusiast, providing a deep connection to the past, present, and future of space exploration.
Race To The Moon
What began as a fierce space race between two global superpowers evolved into a testament to human perseverance, ingenuity, and destiny. At Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, you can step into history and witness the awe-inspiring size and scale of the Saturn V rocket, the powerful machine that carried astronauts to the lunar surface. Through immersive exhibits, interactive displays, and captivating experiences, you’ll relive the triumphs and challenges of the Apollo era. From the emotional moments of liftoff to the excitement of landing on the Moon, these experiences bring the spirit of exploration to life. Feel the emotion, excitement, and determination that defined one of humanity’s greatest achievements, inspiring generations to continue reaching for the stars.
A Ship Like No Other
The Space Shuttle Atlantis® exhibit at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers a breathtaking and immersive experience, bringing the 30-year legacy of NASA’s Space Shuttle Program to life. The actual Atlantis orbiter, which flew 33 missions into space, is displayed suspended in midair with its payload bay doors open, showcasing the intricate design and engineering that made spaceflight routine. Visitors can explore interactive displays that explain the technical innovations behind the shuttle, as well as hands-on simulators that give a feel for what it was like to live and work in space. The exhibit also features emotional storytelling, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of the shuttle program and celebrating the extraordinary accomplishments of astronauts who pushed the boundaries of space exploration. From learning about the shuttle’s historic missions to gaining insight into the technological breakthroughs that made it possible, this exhibit offers an unforgettable journey through one of the most transformative periods in human spaceflight history.
NASA Now + Next
Discover the future of space exploration and explore NASA’s latest missions, where we are today and where we’re headed next! At Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, you’ll dive into the cutting-edge research happening on the International Space Station (ISS), a hub of scientific discovery in low Earth orbit. Learn about the ambitious plans for Mars exploration, including NASA’s Artemis program, which is paving the way for the return of astronauts to the lunar surface and laying the groundwork for future missions to the Red Planet. Engage with interactive exhibits that bring to life the technology, tools, and innovations pushing the boundaries of space exploration, from robotics and artificial intelligence to new propulsion systems and life support technologies. You’ll also gain insights from experts on how NASA is collaborating with private companies to build the next generation of spacecraft and launch systems, such as the Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion crew vehicle. Get a firsthand look at the future of space travel, including plans for deep-space exploration, sustainable lunar bases, and space tourism. Through captivating displays and hands-on experiences, you’ll be inspired by humanity’s next giant leaps in space, learning about the bold challenges and the incredible possibilities ahead. Whether it’s preparing for human missions to Mars, exploring asteroids, or establishing a permanent human presence on the Moon, this is your chance to witness the frontiers of space travel and see how NASA and its partners are defining the next era of exploration.
PLAN YOUR MISSION
Just like every successful launch begins with a pre-launch checklist, your visit to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex deserves careful planning to ensure an unforgettable experience. Make the most of your adventure by exploring essential visitor information, including attraction highlights, tour schedules, dining options, and must-see exhibits. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to embark on a journey through space history, witness cutting-edge technology, and experience the excitement of human space exploration up close!
All exhibits are subject to change and tours may be altered or closed due to operational requirements or launch preparations.