Cape Canaveral, Florida is a popular tourist destination that’s best known as the home of NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, which includes the famous rockets, exhibits, and interactive displays. The area offers an abundance of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and waterfront dining, making it an ideal vacation spot for travelers of all ages. Here are 10 places to visit and 5 places to avoid when in Cape Canaveral, Florida.
Places to Visit:
1. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is an absolute must-visit for anyone visiting Cape Canaveral. It’s the only place in the world where you can tour launch areas, meet an astronaut, see a real spaceship, and even experience a simulated blastoff.
2. Jetty Park
Jetty Park is a lovely waterfront park that’s perfect for picnics, fishing, and camping. The park stretches across 35 acres and offers an extensive pier, a beach, playgrounds, a concession stand, and much more.
3. Ron Jon Surf Shop
Ron Jon Surf Shop is a fun and exciting surf shop that features surfboards, bathing suits, and other beach essentials. It’s a fantastic place to pick up souvenirs and beach gear.
4. Exploration Tower
The Exploration Tower is a five-story observation tower that offers a truly amazing view of the surroundings from Cape Canaveral to Cocoa Beach. With interactive exhibits about space exploration, this is a perfect place to visit for kids and the ideally situated for nature lovers.
5. Space Coast River Tours
Space Coast River Tours provides visitors with guided boat tours of the Indian River Lagoon where they will encounter dolphins, alligators, and other wildlife. Visitors can also take a scenic tour of the local area by boat.
6. Victory Casino Cruises
Victory Casino Cruises is a massive floating casino that offers gambling, entertainment, and dining in a fun-filled atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy Las Vegas-style casino action, fine dining, and luxury cabins.
7. Lori Wilson Park
Lori Wilson Park is one of the most popular beach spots on Cape Canaveral famous for its white sandy beaches, shady trails, and boardwalks. It’s an ideal location to relax and take in some of the natural surroundings.
8. Cocoa Beach Pier
Cocoa Beach Pier is an iconic local landmark with unique shops, restaurants including a world-famous ice cream parlor, and plenty of outdoor activities. It’s an ideal location for an afternoon stroll or a fun-filled day for the entire family.
9. International Palms Resort
The International Palms Resort offers luxury accommodations and proximity to the top local attractions. With a private beach access, onsite entertainment, and fine dining, this resort is ideal for those who want to splurge on their vacation.
10. Florida Beer Company
The Florida Beer Company offers comprehensive brewery tours, sampling sessions, and retail sales, it is a perfect place for beer lovers. Visitors can explore the production, take part in tasting, and purchase their favorite brews.
Places to Avoid:
1. The Beachline Raceway
The Beachline Raceway, despite being a local attraction, is a small and outdated facility with overpriced admission.
2. Brevard Zoo
Brevard Zoo isn’t a zoo that is a great way to spend your time or your money. You can get much better value and entertainment from other attractions around the area.
3. The Scorpion Rollercoaster at Luna Park
The Scorpion Rollercoaster at Luna Park is a small and not-so-thrilling rollercoaster with high ticket prices.
4. The Astronaut Memorial Planetarium & Observatory
The Astronaut Memorial Planetarium & Observatory has limited exhibits that are very outdated.
5. Manatee Sanctuary Park
Manatee Sanctuary Park is only famous for its sculptures and doesn’t provide any fun activities or experiences.
Language | English |
Currency | US Dollar (USD) |
Average Temperature by Season | Winter (December to February): 60°F to 75°F, Spring (March to May): 70°F to 85°F, Summer (June to August): 80°F to 92°F, Fall (September to November): 70°F to 85°F |
Best Time to Visit | The best time to visit is from March to May, which is springtime when the weather is mild, and the crowds are fewer. During this season, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the area without worrying about the heat. | City Official (URL href) | https://www.cityofcapecanaveral.org/ |
Trip Advisor (URL href) | https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g34117-Cape_Canaveral_Brevard_County_Florida-Vacations.html |