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How to Visit Kennedy Space Center from Orlando — The Perfect Day Trip for Space Fans
20 July 2025
If you’re planning a holiday in Orlando and looking to add a unique, educational, and awe-inspiring experience to your itinerary, a visit to Kennedy Space Center is a must.
Just an hour’s drive from Orlando, this iconic NASA launch site is where space history was made — and continues to be. From the Apollo Moon missions to modern-day rocket launches, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers an unforgettable journey through the past, present, and future of space exploration.
Whether you're travelling as a family or simply a space enthusiast ticking off a bucket-list destination, here's how to plan the perfect visit from Orlando.
Where Is the Kennedy Space Center?
The Kennedy Space Center is located on Merritt Island, about 45 miles (72 km) east of Orlando, on Florida’s famous Space Coast.
It’s the very site where Apollo 11 launched on July 16, 1969, sending the first humans to the Moon — and remains a working NASA facility to this day.
Getting to Kennedy Space Center from Orlando
You have two main options for making the journey: use your hire car and drive yourself, or book a guided day tour.
1. Drive Yourself (Most Flexible Option)
Using a hire car is the easiest and most flexible way to visit the Space Center.
Journey time: Approximately 1 to 1 hour 15 minutes (traffic dependent)
- Route: Take FL-528 East (Beachline Expressway) — it’s a direct and clearly signposted drive toward Cape Canaveral
- Parking: Available on-site for a daily fee
Why choose this option?
Driving gives you complete control over your schedule, allowing you to explore the Kennedy Space Center at your own pace — and even make a stop at Cocoa Beach or a local seafood spot on the way back.
2. Join a Guided Tour or Shuttle Transfer (Stress-Free Option)
If you’d rather not drive, several tour companies offer organised day trips from Orlando with hotel pick-up and return transfers included.
- Includes: Round-trip transport + admission ticket
- Pick-up: Most major Orlando hotels or pre-designated meeting points
- Ideal for: Visitors without a hire car or those who prefer hassle-free planning
Top tour providers include:
- Gray Line Orlando
- Florida Dolphin Tours
- Viator Tours
Why choose this option?
No need to navigate or park — just sit back, relax, and enjoy a fully planned day out. These tours are particularly great for first-time visitors or families looking for convenience. The Flights Guru can help organise this option.
What to See at Kennedy Space Center
Once you arrive, prepare for a full day of discovery. Here are the highlights you won’t want to miss:
- Apollo/Saturn V Center – Stand beneath the enormous Saturn V rocket that powered Moon missions
- Space Shuttle Atlantis – See the actual shuttle up close and explore its 33 spaceflights
- Shuttle Launch Experience – Feel the thrill of a simulated space launch
- Heroes & Legends – Learn about NASA’s early pioneers and visit the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame
- Rocket Garden – Walk among real rockets from early NASA missions
- Live Rocket Launches – If your timing is right, you might even see a real launch!
The Ultimate Day Trip from Orlando
Whether you’re celebrating the Moon Landing anniversary or simply curious about space travel, a visit to the Kennedy Space Center adds something truly special to any Orlando holiday.
Combine your theme park thrills with a deep dive into science, technology, and the incredible human stories behind space exploration.
Planning Your Orlando Itinerary?
At The Flights Guru, we help travellers build unforgettable Florida holidays — from flights and hotels to car hire and attraction tickets. If you're adding Kennedy Space Center to your trip, we can help you arrange car rental or organise a tour as part of your package.
Speak to our travel experts today to start planning the perfect mix of fun, discovery, and adventure.
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