The NASA Kennedy Space Center, located east of Orlando and just north of Cape Canaveral on Florida's coastline, is the site of NASA's launch headquarters. The center features a visitor complex offering guests a chance to explore and experience a variety of space-related attractions. The Kennedy Space Center (KSC) offers a number of special programs and activities suitable for kids.
Camp Kennedy Space Center is a week-long summer day camp that is held annually in June and July. Children ages 8 to 14 who are in 2nd to 9th grade can "experience, imagine and interact through space shuttle mission simulations, tours of Kennedy Space Center and the chance to witness first hand the everyday challenges faced by astronauts," according to KSC website. The camps run Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Those interested can get more information by calling 866-737-5235.
The Astronaut Training Experience provides participants with "realistic astronaut training" including lectures from an experienced NASA astronaut, interactive space exploration activities and a simulator training session of a space shuttle mission. Kids ages 14 and older can take part in the ATX-Half-Day Program without an accompanying adult. Children 7 and older can work together with their other family members in the ATX Family-Half-Day Program. These programs have limited availability and advance reservations are required. Those interested can get more details by calling 321-449-4830.
KSC Guided Tours included with the cost of admission to the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex provide a behind-the-scenes look into the workings of the center, but to get a deeper glimpse into operations you can take your kids on a special interest tour. Families can choose from two tours conducted daily at KSC that are led by a qualified space specialist. The tours include Discover KSC: Today and Tomorrow Tour, and the Cape Canaveral: Then and Now Tour. These tours typically sell out daily and reservations are strongly recommended. You can make reservations online or by calling 866-737-5235.
