Kennedy Space Center in Florida might not be a theme park, but the bustling space port is a fun and kid-friendly destination that's also educational. With a little planning, you and your family will not only enjoy your time at the center, but you'll also be smarter for the experience.
Kennedy is on Florida's Atlantic coast, about 45 miles east of Orlando, which makes visiting the center an ideal day trip if you seek a break from the more standard family entertainment venues in this part of the state. Much of the working center is off-limits to visitors, but there is still a lot for you and your family to see and do.
The simplest way to see Kennedy is to take the basic tour. It's included with general admission. On this tour you will visit three sites by bus: the International Space Station Center, the LC 39 Observation Gantry and the Apollo/Saturn V Center. Each destination offers hands-on activities for your kids and the tour includes a stop at the massive building that houses a Saturn V rocket, the only type of rocket that has flown to the moon.
With general admission you also can see the Rocket Garden outside the visitors center. Rockets that seem to reach into the sky are on display and, according to Kennedy's website, you can "climb aboard Mercury, Gemini and Apollo capsules--and get an idea of the cramped quarters America's astronaut pioneers endured."
Your younger family members can burn off energy at the Children's Play Dome, which features a moon rock wall and rocket tunnels. The whole family can get lunch at the Orbit Cafe. Ice cream and other snacks are available in other parts of the complex.
For your older kids, especially those curious about space exploration, there are specialized tours and other experiences.
"NASA Up Close" takes you on a more detailed tour of some Kennedy facilities including the world's largest launch pad. "Cape Canaveral: Then & Now" features many of the historic sites of the U.S. space program. According to Kennedy, both tours sell out daily, so reservations are a must.
The Astronaut Hall of Fame nearby includes exhibits about the daring men and women who have ventured into space. Flight simulators and other interactive activities entertain and educate you and your kids. The hall is included in general admission.
Also included in general admission is the popular IMAX theater, which features shows about space flight on its five-story screen. The theater also features state-of-the-art sound.
Kennedy holds special events from time to time, and attending one can be a thrill for you and your kids. Check to see what's going on before you arrive so you can time your visit accordingly.
"Lunch With an Astronaut" offers lunch, of course, and the chance to meet a NASA astronaut. At this popular program your kids will hear what space is like from someone who has been there.
Check out a launch to see a shuttle mission take off, or watch a rocket take its payload into orbit. Plan ahead and reserve a viewing spot because spots sell out quickly.
