More to See at Kennedy Space Center

When it comes to the essential sights and sounds of Florida, it’s easy to overlook the Kennedy Space Center. It isn’t a theme park, it isn’t close to International Drive and it isn’t somewhere that you can see in an hour or two. It also requires a bit of a drive from Orlando, unlike all the city’s other attractions.

But, if you’re missing out on the home of One Small Step For Man, you’re missing one of the most happening and compelling experiences that the Sunshine State has to offer.

Yes, we think it’s that good! The Kennedy Space Center has been steadily adding to its catalogue of historic exhibits in recent years, and now it has just unveiled an all-new experience that adds to the story of space exploration and everything that goes with it.

The Gantry at LC-39 is a modern icon within a legendary part of the Space Center, and it is now open to visitors for the first time, putting them at the very heart of the KSC’s main mission – rocket launches.

A 21st Century Marvel

While the KSC is officially 63 years old, much of its development as a visitor centre has taken place in the last 25 or so years and been pioneered by hospitality company Delaware North, who have been the driving force behind the modern look of the Center (as well as the dazzling Space 220 restaurant at Walt Disney World’s EPCOT park).

Since taking over management in 1995, Delaware North has been instrumental in creating the Apollo/Saturn V Center on the narrated bus tour (1996), the Shuttle Launch Experience (2007), Journey to Mars (2010), Space Shuttle Atlantis (2013), Heroes & Legends (including the US Astronaut Hall of Fame; 2016), Planet Play (2021) and Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex (2022).

Now comes another major stop on the bus tour, with The Gantry at LC-39 providing the most close-up view of the working heart of the KSC ever granted to visitors, an immersive, interactive experience that reimagines the historic Launch Complex 39 gantry and is now open as part of general admission.

Located amidst the most iconic launch pads in space exploration, the attraction showcases LC-39’s surprising situation within a national wildlife refuge, highlighting the ultimate blend of humankind’s significant achievements and the beauty of planet Earth. Accessible via the daily Bus Tours, The Gantry at LC-39, features an unprecedented 360-degree view of Kennedy Space Center and its active launch pads, as well as a range of immersive exhibits and experiences.

What To See at The Gantry at LC-39

Therrin Protze, chief operating officer at the Visitor Complex, explained: “The Gantry at LC-39 marks a bold step forward in our mission to spark curiosity and foster learning among the next generation of explorers. Located at the historic launch complex where Apollo and Shuttle missions once lifted off, this new attraction blends powerful story-telling, interactive technology and NASA’s ongoing Earth science research to create a memorable connection to the past, present and future of space exploration.”

Here’s what you can expect to see at the brand new exhibit:

• Earth Information Center (EIC): A dynamic data hub featuring an immersive theatre show, captivating hyper-wall display and an interactive exhibit gallery, providing a holistic view of how the planet is changing in ways that affect all life on Earth.

• Rocket Build Interactive: Guests can design and virtually launch rockets, experiencing the thrill of space flight from a launch site within view of Kennedy Space Center’s working space ports.

• Launch Viewing Area: A prime location to view real rocket launches, complete with a large LED screen that loops media content to enhance the experience.

• Interactive Exhibits: Educational activities, including gamified experiences where visitors can explore Launch Complexes 39A, 39B, 41, 40 and 37, using binoculars and informational graphics.

• Test Fire Simulation: A thrilling experience where guests of all ages can stand under an impressive, full-scale rocket engine as it simulates a static fire test, feeling the power and excitement of a rocket’s ignition. A roar of sound, light and cooling mist create a visceral thrill.

• Shaded Courtyard with Animal Play Sculptures: Climbable sculptures of sea turtles, alligators and an eagle’s nest, as well as interpretive graphics, tell the story of Kennedy Space Center’s home within the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. In the centre, an artifact from a retired Mobile Launch Platform connects guests to the historic launch pads nearby.

• Outdoor Dining Area: A comfortable, shaded space for guests to relax and enjoy self-service snacks and drinks adjacent to the Crawlerway as well as a Crawler-Transporter tread artifact.

The Deets

You’ll need to allow a full three hours for the bus tour with the addition of The Gantry at LC-39. It also calls at the Apollo/Saturn V Center, which pays homage to the people and machines that made the Apollo missions and the Moon landings possible. Relive the wonder and excitement of the Neil Armstrong era as you stand under the gigantic Saturn V, the largest rocket ever flown, and explore a variety of interactive experiences, including a recreation of the historic 1969 lunar landing. This one-of-a-kind attraction celebrates the unprecedented achievement of putting humans on the Moon and the awe felt in that moment by all humankind.

If you have been before, we recommend starting with the new bus tour as soon as you arrive. If this is your first visit, start with the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, including the Space Shuttle Experience, then take the bus tour.

The Kennedy Space Center is open from 9am to 5 or 6pm daily, with the bus tours running continually from 9am (last tour leaves the Center two and a half hours before closing).

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