Kennedy Space Center is a captivating hub for space enthusiasts curious about what goes on in the outer world.

The space center offers a vivid experience for its visitors via its educational exhibits and astronaut training simulation.

It is a bumpy and exciting ride for visitors, starting by viewing rocket launches and continuing to learn about the history of space exploration.

But near the space center, there are many amazing attractions and things to explore to enhance your entire trip.

To help you choose, we have curated a list of the best things to do near Kennedy Space Center.

What to do and see near Kennedy Space Center

Lighthouse (Cape Canaveral Lighthouse)

Beach (Cocoa Beach)

Tower (Exploration Tower)

Museum (The U.S. Air Force Space & Missiles Museum)

Park (Jetty Park)

1. Jetty Park

Opening Hours: 7 am to 9 pm
Address: Jetty Park Rd, Port Canaveral, FL 32920, USA
Distance: 20.9 miles (33 km) (30 minutes)
☀️ Best Time to visit: 9 am to 11 am
Time needed: 2 hours
  Must do: Swimming, kayaking, boating, hiking and picnics

Jetty is a beautiful 35-acre park with a fishing pier, a beach and an RV campground.

Visitors can indulge in surfing, kayaking, walking the beach, riding bikes, and watching cruise ships.

You will also find vendors for rentals and food stalls serving delicious food.

Moreover, parents can relax while leaving the kids in the playground to take a break by still keeping an eye on them from a distance.

Jetty Park is among the best things to do near Kennedy Space Center.

2. Cape Canaveral Lighthouse

Opening Hours: 10 am to 5 pm
Address: 670 Dave Nisbet Drive, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
Distance: 19.8 miles (31 km) (26 minutes)
☀️ Best Time to visit: Weekday morning
Time needed: Three and half hours
 Must see: Keeper’s quarters, sunset and gift shop 

Cape Canaveral’s Lighthouse has stood on the cape for over 150 years.

Situated in the middle of America’s gateway to space, the lighthouse is used by the United States Coast Guard as an active aid for navigation.

It is a great place to learn about Florida’s maritime history and get great ocean views.

However, visits to the lighthouse are only possible through pre-scheduled tours.

The Cape Canaveral Lighthouse should top your list if you want exciting things to do near Kennedy Space Center!

3. Exploration Tower

Opening Hours: 10 am to 7 pm
Address: 670 Dave Nisbet Dr, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920-4514
Distance: 19.7 miles (31 km) (26 minutes)
☀️ Best Time to visit: 11 am to 12 pm
Time needed: Two to three hours
  Must see: Observation deck, exhibits, kid’s play area, gift shop and launch viewing

The Exploration Tower is just a short drive from the Kennedy Space Center in Port Canaveral.

Featuring both natural and cultural history, the tower provides a memorable experience.

It has seven floors, each featuring interactive exhibits and stunning views of the area.

Visitors can also enjoy a rooftop observation deck, a gift shop and a cafe.

The Exploration Tower is best for people looking for educational things to do near the Kennedy Space Center.

4. The U.S. Air Force Space & Missile Museum

Opening Hours: 9 am to 2 pm
Address:191 Museum Cir, Cape Canaveral, FL 32925, United States
Distance: 12.4 miles (19 km) (54 minutes)
☀️ Best Time to visit: 9 am to 11 am
Time needed: Two hours
  Must do: Space gallery, missile gallery, restored Atlas ICBM and the Space Shuttle Atlantis Gallery.

If you wish to go for exciting things near Kennedy Space Center, the U.S. Air Force Space & Missile Museum is a must on your list.

It is worth a visit for people interested in rocket and space flight history.

The exhibits there date back to the early days of space exploration, like rockets, satellites, missiles and historic displays.

It also features a rocky garden, which allows visitors to walk around retired rockets, launch pads and control towers.

The museum was constructed in the 1960s and has an exciting indoor and outdoor venue.

Bring a camera to capture all the exhibits and the rocket garden!

5. Cocoa Beach

Address: Florida 32931, USA
Distance: 25.8 miles (41 km) (37 minutes)
☀️ Best Time to visit: Morning
Time needed: Two hours
  Must do: Cocoa Beach Pier, surfing, Space Shuttle Memorial, Kayaking, Paddleboarding.
Cocoa Beach entry ticket: $49

Cocoa Beach is the best place for you if you are looking for adventure.

The aerial adventures at the beach are for all ages and come with 49 unique obstacles across seven trails and three levels of difficulty. 

The beach is among 100-year-old oak trees and showcases stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Banana River.

Enjoy the beautiful Florida weather by relaxing at the seashore.

Cocoa Beach is among the top fun things to do near Kennedy Space Center.

If you are staying in Cocoa Beach and want to visit Kennedy Space Center, know the driving route here.

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