Kennedy Space Center is a sprawling expanse of wonder and history that stretches as far as the imagination can reach. With so much to see and experience, it's easy to wonder where to begin. That's where we step in, your celestial tour guides through this extraordinary space museum. In this guide, we'll unveil meticulously crafted itineraries designed to ensure that every moment of your 1-day or 2-day visit to the Kennedy Space Center is nothing short of stellar. Whether you're an aspiring astronaut, a history enthusiast, a family with curious youngsters, or simply an adventurer seeking the thrill of discovery, our itineraries will be your compass, guiding you through the cosmos of attractions and adventures that await.
Planning your itinerary
Before you set foot into the captivating realm of the Kennedy Space Center, it's crucial to understand that a well-thought-out plan can make all the difference in making sure you maximize your experience. Whether you choose a 1-day or 2-day pass, a bit of pre-planning can help you navigate the cosmos of attractions seamlessly.
1-day vs. 2-day passes
A 1-day pass gives you a taste of the cosmos as you explore all the attractions inside the Visitor Complex. You can also go on the Explore Tour to see the operational facilities behind the gates of the main complex. You’ll have the opportunity to look at all the main attractions and learn about space exploration. This pass is perfect for a quick but immersive overview of the center's highlights.
The 2-day pass, on the other hand, lets you dive deep into the field of space exploration and really make the most of your visit. If you’re looking for a more in-depth experience, this is the perfect experience for you. Immersive yourself in the history, science, and awe-inspiring wonders of space exploration and make the most of all the experiences available like the bus tour, Chat with an Astronaut, & more!
Recommended Kennedy Space Center Tickets
1-day itinerary
Morning (10 AM - 12 PM):
Start your journey at the Heroes & Legends mission zone, where you must visit the US Astronaut Hall of Fame. After this, head over to the Rocket Garden, where you get to marvel at life-size rockets, both originals and replicas.
From here, make your way to the Raco to the Moon zone, where you can visit Apollo 8 & the Firing Room and the Saturn V rocket . Next, gear up for the Astronaut Encounter or the Chat with an Astronaut experience (tickets to be booked in advance). Keep in mind that you will have to check the timings of the Chat with an Astronaut in advance and plan your visit accordingly.
Afternoon (12 PM - 3 PM):
You can either choose to go on the Explore Tour (or Bus Tour) next or make a pit stop for lunch. On the Explore Tour, you get to visit all the operational facilities and launch pads of the center. The Moon Rock Cafe at the Apollo/Saturn V Center is a great option for lunch, with kid-friendly options as well.
Evening (3 PM - 5 PM):
Your next stop should be Space Shuttle Atlantis. Spend at least an hour looking at all the attractions and exhibits inside including the Astronaut Training Simulators. During the last hour of your visit, you can either head to the IMAX Theater for a 30-minute show, check out other attractions that you may have missed, visit the gift shop, or simply walk around the Visitor Complex taking pictures and soaking in everything you’ve seen and heard.
2-day itinerary
Day 1
Morning (10 AM - 12 PM):
Start your morning at the Heroes & Legends zone as you discover all pioneers and major contributors to space exploration. Continue onto the Rocket Garden and marvel at the giants that assisted in man's journey into outer space. Next up is Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex, where you get to learn about NASA’s current and future missions. Don’t miss out on Spaceport KSC and the Mission Status Briefing experience.
Afternoon (12 PM - 3 PM):
After your visit to Gateway, head over to Red Rock Grill next to Journey to Mars for a delicious lunch. Top it off with some ice cream or dessert at Space Dots or Milky Way. Once you’re done with lunch and dessert, make your way to the Apollo/Saturn V Center to learn about some of the most historic American missions.
Evening (3 PM - 5 PM):
Finish off your evening at the IMAX Theater where you get to watch an entertaining and educational space film. Spend the rest of your time walking around the complex, taking pictures, and unwinding before you call it a day.
Day 2
Morning (10 AM - 12 PM):
Begin day 2 at the Kennedy Space Center by going on a bus tour of the launch pads and other operational facilities beyond the Visitor Complex. Next, go over to the Space Shuttle Atlantis area, where you will find a range of exhibits and attractions including the original Atlantis spacecraft.
Afternoon (12 PM - 3 PM):
Enjoy a delicious meal at any of the Kennedy Space Center restaurants. Orbit Cafe and Red Rock Grill are both great options, followed by dessert at Space Dots.
Evening (3 PM - 5 PM):
Grab the chance to meet a real astronaut and learn about space exploration firsthand at the Chat with an Astronaut experience. The experience also includes snacks and a photo-signing session. Next, head over to Planet Play Lounge, where you can unwind for the day, and grab a drink or coffee. If you have kids, there’s a charming play area, which you can see from the lounge. Complete your evening by shopping for merchandise to commemorate your visit.
Special highlights for different age groups
- For families with kids: Astronaut Encounter/Chat with an Astronaut, Planet Play, Fisher Space Pen, LEGO® Build to Launch.
- For space enthusiasts: Space Shuttle Atlantis, Apollo/Saturn V Center, KSC Bus Tour, Spaceport KSC.
- For history buffs: US Astronaut Hall of Fame, Rocket Garden, Apollo/Saturn V Center, Space Shuttle Atlantis,KSC Bus Tour .
- For thrill-seekers: Astronaut Training Simulator, Space Shuttle Launch Experience, IMAX Theater, Mars Rover Vehicle Navigator.
To visually plan your itinerary, take a look at this Kennedy Space Center map.
