Coast Vacation: Things to Do Near Kennedy Space Center

Space travel has captivated people around the world for years, and many of them flock to Cape Canaveral, Florida, to experience the history up close. For decades, NASA's rockets and space shuttles have launched into the heavens from Florida's Space Coast, delighting locals and visitors alike. Even better, once you've had your fill of space exploration, there are plenty of other things to do near Kennedy Space Center to make your visit even more memorable.

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is only a few minutes south of Kennedy Space Center by car. Naturally, you can find all the staples you'd expect to see in a beach town such as water sports, fishing, sunbathing, swimming, surfing and scuba diving, but there’s even more to do.

After a day playing in the sun, explore the historic Cocoa Beach Pier, where you can relax, shop and dine all in one place. It’s also the best spot to watch breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Stop by the world-famous Ron Jon Surf Shop for a souvenir or indulge in a sweet treat at Fat Donkey Ice Cream and Fine Desserts on Minutemen Causeway. You won't be disappointed.
 

Port Canaveral Cruises

If the glittering blue sea is calling your name, several cruise lines dock at nearby Port Canaveral, just minutes from Kennedy Space Center. Ships set sail from this bustling port to several ports in the Atlantic and Caribbean, offering the ultimate ocean adventure. For something closer to shore, take a nighttime dinner cruise, or check out Exploration Tower, featuring seven floors of space-oriented exhibits and fun activities. It offers a bird's eye view of the coast from the tower's numerous indoor and outdoor observation decks.

U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame

Take a 10-minute drive to Titusville to visit the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, and learn about the heroes and legends that propelled NASA to the stars. Meet an actual astronaut, tour the Rock Garden and see historical artifacts from NASA's most famous space missions. You can even get real-life astronaut training experience.

You might also want to check out two other museums in Titusville. The Valiant Air Command Warbird Aviation Museum features aircraft dating back to the early days of flight, and there’s the American Police Hall of Fame and Museum, dedicated to officers killed in the line of duty.

Daytona Beach

Bikers and beach bums alike flock to Daytona Beach, a cool and casual coastal town. Located an hour north of Cape Canaveral, Daytona Beach is home to the 500-acre Daytona International Speedway, which hosts NASCAR's heart-pumping car races. Satisfy your own need for speed at the Richard Petty Driving Experience onsite at the speedway.

Love motorcycles? Join 500,000 other revelers during Daytona Bike Week, held each March. There's also the charmingly historic Daytona Beach Pier, a nearby roller coaster and the Daytona Lagoon water park within minutes of each other, offering fun for the whole family.
 

Shop for Antiques

This part of Florida is dotted with several small towns that each have a distinctive brand of Southern hospitality and charm. Step into the past with some leisurely antique shopping. It's a fun way to find unique gifts and see places off the beaten path. Check out Titusville's Wildwood Antique Mall, Lyon's Antiques in Chuluota, The Vintage Thistle in Cocoa and Vintage Venue in Rockledge.

Have you explored the Kennedy Space Center and its surrounding attractions in Florida? Share your own ‘space coast’ experiences with us on our Facebook page.