Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Cape Canaveral, Florida

Cape Canaveral is globally recognized for its longstanding association with space exploration and the aerospace industry. The city is conveniently located just south of the namesake space force station and the Kennedy Space Center.

Accessing both sites is straightforward; however, it is important to note that there are restrictions on who may enter the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

Both facilities remain operational, and while visiting, you may have the opportunity to witness launches by NASA or SpaceX—a breathtaking spectacle accompanied by vast plumes of smoke ascending into the sky.

Cape Canaveral also features family-friendly attractions, a variety of beach parks, and, to the west, the stunning natural resources of the Banana River lagoon. While at waterfront parks, you may observe dolphins frolicking or manatees grazing in the seagrass.

1. Kennedy Space Center

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The impressive visitor complex at Kennedy Space Center is the most frequented attraction on the Space Coast, making it a necessary destination for individuals interested in science, technology, and space exploration.

Most tours of the Kennedy Space Center include transportation and an experienced guide. Depending on the selected package, you can gain access to many behind-the-scenes areas along with an array of fascinating interactive exhibits.

Exhibits feature moon rocks, astronaut suits, equipment, photographs, and personal accounts from those involved in the program throughout the years.

A highlight of any visit should be the extraordinary Space Shuttle Atlantis. This iconic orbiter completed its final flight in 2011 and is displayed at an angle that makes it appear as though it is floating in space.

2. Cape Canaveral Space Force Museum

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Significant milestones in space exploration have occurred at the renowned Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (CCSFS), established in 1949, which is situated just north of the city.

This site was the launching point for the first American astronaut, the initial US astronaut to orbit Earth, and the very first US satellite.

As a currently active launch site that presents a stunning spectacle from time to time, public access is somewhat limited. Visits can be arranged through the Cape Canaveral Early Space Tour via Kennedy Space Center or Canaveral Tours, which were the only means for the public to access the museum as of my last review.

Conversely, you can freely visit the Sands Space History Center, located just outside the base, which is essential for anyone interested in the early years of space exploration.

The museum houses artifacts dating back to the 1950s, along with comprehensive histories for each of the base’s launchpads.

3. Cape Canaveral Rocket Launches

The history and ongoing activities pertaining to space exploration are integral to Cape Canaveral. This is especially evident during a rocket launch.

Positioned perfectly for viewing these launches, Cape Canaveral serves as a launch pad for various missions from both the Space Force Station and the Kennedy Space Center, predominantly featuring SpaceX, along with occasional NASA launches.

Witnessing a launch from Cape Canaveral’s beach was an almost surreal experience for me. For the best view, the designated viewpoint along the Banana River outside the Space Force Station is ideal.

4. Banana River Aquatic Preserve

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The Banana River, lying between the cape and Merritt Island, forms an ecologically rich part of the Indian River Lagoon.

Cape Canaveral is among several municipalities adjacent to an Aquatic Preserve that spans nearly 30,000 acres, predominantly comprising water and man-made spoil islands reclaimed by nature.

This preserve supports diverse wildlife, including manatees, alligators, and sea turtles. It is also home to one of the largest pelican rookeries along Florida’s Atlantic coast.

To fully experience this ecological haven, I recommend kayaking. Numerous outfitters and tour companies are available to facilitate this activity.

Some options in and around Cape Canaveral include A1A Beach Rentals, BradyYaks Kayak Tours and Rentals, Cocoa Kayaking, and Fin Expeditions.

5. Jetty Park Beach & Pier

In addition to being an excellent viewing location for rocket launches from the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, this beachfront park is conveniently situated near Port Canaveral.

At the long pier in Jetty Park, I observed several enormous cruise ships pass closely by. The area is rich in wildlife, providing chances to spot dolphins and sea turtles from the pier.

Jetty Park also features a campground equipped with numerous RV sites, cabins, and tent areas, alongside amenities such as a well-maintained play area, boat ramps, and pavilions. The beach offers several acres of soft sand, with umbrellas and chairs available for rent.

6. Wizard of Oz Museum

Opened during the pandemic, this museum serves as a captivating tribute to ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ acknowledging both L. Frank Baum’s literary works and the renowned 1939 film.

Considering it is a privately operated museum established by a single individual, I was amazed by the Wizard of Oz Museum. It showcases a remarkable collection of approximately 2,000 items related to the stories and their culture.

One of the most captivating experiences is the Immersive Experience, which uses projectors to recreate scenes from the Oz narrative, such as the Party in Emerald City, the Tornado, and the Witch’s Castle.

7. Cherie Down Park

This beautiful public beach access is located in a serene, predominantly residential area. With ample parking and various amenities, including showers and picnic shelters, Cherie Down Park is an excellent location for a day at the Atlantic beach.

There are three access points through the dunes, and upon reaching the beach, you will be greeted by expansive stretches of soft sand, extending several hundred feet at low tide.

Conditions permitting, the waves here are often suitable for surfing, making it one of many ideal locations for observing launches to the north.

8. Manatee Sanctuary Park

Source: City of Cape Canaveral- Government / Facebook

Overlooking the Banana River, this picturesque park is my preferred place to appreciate sunset views. Although named the Manatee Sanctuary, sightings are not guaranteed.

While manatees occasionally appear to graze on the seagrass, they visit infrequently. Nevertheless, visitors can observe the lagoon from a covered boardwalk, featuring several observation points along the route.

While manatees may pass by occasionally, there is a better chance of spotting dolphins and turtles in the vicinity.

The park’s amenities include a half-mile fitness trail, exercise stations, a covered pavilion, and a playground with sun shades.

9. Brevard Zoo

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What I appreciate about this zoo on the mainland is the naturalistic environment provided for its animal inhabitants. Rather than fences, Brevard Zoo utilizes natural barriers and water to enclose its 900+ animals.

This design allows for extraordinary viewing of exotic species. In addition to typical zoo activities, visitors can kayak alongside African wildlife.

Alternatively, you could explore a high ropes course in the rainforest, gaining an aerial perspective on jaguars and monkeys.

Feeding opportunities offer a closer experience with the animals. For instance, you can hand-feed the giraffes or enter a free-flight aviary where lorikeets and cockatiels may perch on your finger.

10. Exploration Tower

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The Exploration Tower, an architectural landmark for Port Canaveral, opened in 2013 in celebration of the port’s 60th anniversary.

Offering spectacular panoramic views, the tower consists of seven floors filled with exhibits and interactive displays that delve into the region’s culture, wildlife, ecology, and its captivating space exploration legacy.

The facility also features a café and gift shops. On clear days, the seventh-floor observation deck is an exceptional vantage point for observing rocket launches.

During my last visit, Exploration Tower was temporarily closed to the public for maintenance.

11. Cape Canaveral Lighthouse

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Rising to a height of 151 feet and dating back to the mid-19th century, the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse is located within the confines of the Space Force Station.

The current structure was illuminated in 1868 and subsequently relocated in the 1890s to its present location.

Access to the lighthouse is somewhat restricted due to its location on the space force station. Visits are permitted only through Canaveral Tours, located in Port Canaveral. Additionally, non-US visitors were unable to access the station at the time of my writing.

For those fortunate enough to gain access, a knowledgeable docent will provide enlightening insights and anecdotes about the cape, the lighthouse, and its caretakers.

12. Golf N Gator

More than a typical miniature golf facility, this venue along A1A offers a comprehensive outdoor entertainment experience. Nestled among water features and tropical plants, Golf N Gator features two 18-hole courses in Gator Mountain and Swamp Cave.

The fun is further enhanced by challenge wheels that present players with unique tasks. As implied by its name, Golf N Gator features live alligators of various ages and sizes.

Children have the opportunity to hold a baby alligator and feed the larger ones. Additionally, there is a mining area where kids can search for gemstones.

This same property also hosts Beachside Grand Prix, a separate amusement offering a zany Mario Kart-style track with multiple levels and electric karts.

13. Center Street Park

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Following Center Street until it reaches the Banana River leads to this small but exquisitely situated park. Although Center Street Park is compact, its charm lies in its western orientation.

Under expansive palm trees or within the shade of a gazebo, you can feast your eyes on the lagoon in its full glory. This is yet another location in Cape Canaveral where sunsets are simply breathtaking.

If you linger long enough, you might even be fortunate enough to witness some of the lagoon’s inhabitants. I was lucky enough to see dolphins breaching, while manatees are routinely spotted throughout the year.

14. Tropic Ice Cream

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A must-visit stop along A1A, this traditional ice cream establishment presents an extensive selection of flavors. I was impressed by the generous portion sizes offered at Tropic Ice Cream, alongside their surprisingly reasonable prices.

The menu features 35 hand-dipped Hershey’s ice cream flavors and an additional 25 gluten-free options. If I had to suggest a single flavor, it would likely be the brown butter bourbon truffle.

In addition to ice cream, Tropic Ice Cream provides shakes with a seemingly infinite combination of flavors. Soft serve, sundaes, and shaved ice are also available for those seeking a refreshing treat on a warm day.

15. Victory Casino Cruises

Launching from Port Canaveral, a casino ship offers an authentic Las Vegas-style gaming experience on board. Victory Casino Cruises features over 600 slot machines and a wide array of card and table games, including baccarat, roulette, blackjack, Mississippi stud, and Texas hold ’em.

Moreover, the ship incorporates bingo and a sportsbook, creating a gaming paradise. In addition to the excitement of the high seas, Victory Casino Cruises provides high-quality live entertainment.

This entertainment escalates on weekends, building a festive atmosphere enhanced by DJs and renowned performers. The Atlantic Café offers à la carte dining, and complimentary drinks are available while you play.