If you are visiting Florida and planning to watch a rocket launch, your number one question will be “Where is the best place to watch the rocket launch?” Our Rocket Launch Viewing Guide will show you the best place to watch the rocket launch.

Getting to watch a rocket launch in Florida is one of those bucket-list moments you’ll remember forever. The countdown begins as the rocket’s engines ignite. Then the rocket soars as rumbles and cheers erupt from the watching crowd. Jaws drop in awe as the rocket is sent soaring into Earth’s orbit and beyond. And if you’re close enough, you can feel it too. A wall of sound blasts your way and the ground trembles beneath your feet.

Our helpful guide will show you all the best viewing spots both within the Kennedy Space Center and other incredible viewing locations along Space Coast.

Prepare for blast off in three…two…one!

Best Place to Watch The Rocket Launch in Florida

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BEST PLACE TO WATCH THE ROCKET LAUNCH
IN KENNEDY SPACE CENTER

The Kennedy Space Center complex offers the best place to watch the rocket launch. There are three rocket launch viewing locations. Keep in mind, the location of the rocket launch will play a part in viewing areas. There are numerous launch pads at Cape Canaveral and certain locations will be too close for safe viewing.

Rocket launch timing also plays a part. If the rocket launch is scheduled significantly outside visitor complex operation hours, rocket viewing options may not be available.

Main Visitor Complex (Free)

If you’re looking for the best bang for your buck, the Main Visitor Complex is the best place to watch the rocket launch. The “cost” is included with your daily admission to the Kennedy Space Center, so essentially it costs you nothing extra to access the viewing area.

This rocket launch viewing area is located right next to Space Shuttle Atlantis, on North Atlantis Lawn. You are able to see the rocket at around 7 miles away once it’s over the treeline. 7 miles away might sound like quite a distance, but believe me, it’s so close you’ll feel like you can almost reach out and touch the rocket!

Seating options include bleachers and lawn area. Bring sun protection because there is no shade. There is also an included live launch commentary, indoor/outdoor restrooms, wheelchair access, ATM’s, and several restaurants nearby while you’re waiting.

Launch Pad Distances fro Main Visitor Complex:

  • Atlas V SLC-41 – 7.1 miles
  • Falcon 9 SLC-40 – 6.7 miles
  • Delta IV SLC-37 – 7 miles
  • SpaceX LC-39A – 7.5 miles

Apollo/Saturn Center ($)

This is a premium Kennedy Space Center launch viewing spot and is also dedicated to celebrating the Apollo space program. It’s the final stop on the Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour. The center includes theatres, dining, shopping, and a close up look at the world’s largest rocket, Saturn V.

The viewing area at Banana Creek offers outdoor bleacher seats and an open lawn area just 5-8 miles away from the launch pads.

You’ll love the Moon Rock Cafe, and The Right Stuff retail shop. Plus there are ATM’s, indoor/outdoor restrooms, wheelchair access and live launch commentary.

Distance to Launch Pads from Apollo/Saturn Center:

  • Atlas V SLC-41 – 5.4 miles
  • Falcon 9 SLC-40 – 6.2 miles
  • Delta IV SLC-37 – 8 miles
  • SpaceX LC-39A – 3.9 miles

LC-39 Observation Gantry ($)

If anyone in your family is a history buff or wants to be as close as possible to all the action, they’ll love this spot. This Kennedy Space Center launch viewing location is pretty much as close as you’ll ever get. Depending on where the launch pad is, you could be as close as just over 2 miles.

Located at Launch Complex 39, this is the exact location where Apollo astronauts launched to the moon!

The observation gantry offers limited seating (first come, first serve) as well as outdoor bleachers and an open lawn area. There are also restrooms, included snacks/refreshments, wheelchair access, live launch commentary, and a retail shop.

Launch Pad Distances from LC-39 Observation Gantry:

  • Atlas V SLC-41 – 5.4 miles
  • Falcon 9 SLC-40 – 6.2 miles
  • Delta IV SLC-37 – 8 miles
  • TSpaceX LC-39A – 3.9 miles

Nasa Causeway

This is only offered on very rare occasions and is a premium ($$) viewing option. Located across the Indian River, the NASA Causeway offers expansive views of the launch pads just 3-5 miles away. It connects the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.

Booking Premium Viewing Rocket launches from Kennedy Space Center

Not all Kennedy Space Center Launch Viewing areas are available at each launch. Dates, times and viewing opportunities are all subject to change.

If you purchase a premium viewing ticket to any of the premium locations, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex provides transportation. After you park in the visitor complex, you enter the complex and will be transported by bus to your viewing area.

Bus boarding begins 3 hours before the scheduled launch times. The closer it gets to launch time the more traffic there is. Make sure you allow time to park your car, enter the complex, complete required security searches and board the bus.
There are no refunds for late arrivals!

How to Book Rocket launches from Kennedy Space Center

If you are looking to grab the best place to watch the rocket launch, you’ll need to book well in advance. Purchase tickets online as soon as they are released. This is the best way to guarantee you’ll get the exact Kennedy Space Center launch viewing spot you want.

You can purchase tickets at the visitor complex once you arrive. BUT premium options will be sold out.

There are a variety of ticket options and packages available for the Kennedy Space Center. You can also add-on special enhancements such as special interest tours. These also often sell out so it’s smart to purchase these in advance along with your tickets. Check the Launch Calendar for upcoming launches.

Call +1-855-433-4210 or Book Online

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Rocket Launch Cancellations – What You Need to Know:

This is something you need to be VERY aware of.

Rocket launches from Kennedy Space Center tickets and packages are NON REFUNDABLE under any circumstance. Many rocket launches in Florida take off without a hitch, but others can be delayed and rescheduled for another day. Some launches can be cancelled minutes before Lift Off. This is called a Launch Scrub.

Kennedy Space Center provides rocket viewing locations and facilities. BUT, they have zero control over NASA in respect of launch schedules or the success/failure of a launch.

Kennedy Space Center Cancellation Launch Scrub Policy

Kennedy Space Center Rocket Launch Scrub Policy:

  • Launch Delay: If your scheduled rocket launch is delayed before you board the bus to your selected viewing location, your ticket remains valid until Lift Off of that specific mission.
  • Launch Scrub: Once you have boarded the bus to the viewing location, your ticket is classed as used in full. If the mission is scrubbed and rescheduled to another day, you would be required to purchase another ticket.

Here’s the cancellation policy on rocket launches from Kennedy Space Center:

  • LAUNCH TICKET PACKAGES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE. The tickets you have purchased to see the launch are mission specific (example: SpaceX Falcon Heavy STP-2). This launch can be scheduled for any date/time. Launch tickets are valid for admission once the launch is scheduled (and one additional launch attempt for that mission if a delay occurs prior to visitor complex scheduled opening time). Your launch admission ticket may also be used one additional day within a 90-day period after the launch date to explore the rest of the visitor complex shows, exhibits and take the Kennedy Space Center bus tour.
  • PACKAGE INCLUSIONS –
    a. In the event of a delay/scrub prior to visitor complex opening on scheduled
    launch day: All package inclusions will be available on next launch attempt.
    b. In the event of a delay/scrub after visitor complex opening on scheduled launch day: All inclusions will be considered used. Food, beverage and retail will be available for purchase at the viewing location. Park admission, viewing location and vehicle placard will be valid for a total of two launch attempts.

What Causes a Rocket Launch Scrub?

There are a multitude of reasons that can delay or cancel rocket launches from Kennedy Space Center. Weather is the biggest cause. Clouds, wind, rain, temperature and lightning all play a huge part in decisions to cancel a rocket launch.

Launch Commit Criteria is a guideline used to define if a launch is a go or not. There are no less than 14 weather related “Do Not Launch” rules that must be met before a launch can proceed. See the full list here: Launch Commit Criteria 

There are many other things that can cause delays. Technical concerns, people (boats and aircraft too close) and even Mother Nature herself. A rocket launch was once cancelled because a woodpecker had pecked multiple holes in a full tank!

The weather advisory that determines rocket launches from Kennedy Space Center is The Weather Squadron of the 45th Space Wing at Patrick Air Force Base in Florida.

Kennedy Space Center Rocket Launch Tips & Tricks

  • Plan on getting to Kennedy Space Center EARLY! Especially for a morning launch. Gates open at 9:00 AM. Expect long lines for parking and buy your tickets online to avoid wait times.
  • Don’t waste time waiting your turn for a selfie at the NASA globe outside the entrance, if you stop by later the crowds will be long gone. Perfect photo op!
  • Head over to the rocket launch viewing area 45-60 minutes before the scheduled launch window. Leave more time if you purchased special viewing location tickets.
  • If you want a shady spot, plan on getting there even earlier to stake your claim. Shade is scarce!
  • Be prepared for sunny outdoor viewing areas. The Florida sun gets HOT! Bring sunglasses, umbrellas, sunscreen, and bug spray.
  • Monitor the Daily Schedule on the Kennedy Space Center website or social media pages for the latest information leading up to the launch.

OUR TOP ROCKET LAUNCH TIP:

Put your phone down and savor the moment! Unless you are an avid photographer or have a really amazing zoom on your camera, you aren’t going to get a great shot. By all means, grab a few keepsake shots, but in general, just take the moment in, watch, and enjoy! The memories you experience will last a lifetime, way more than a mediocre picture ever will. You will be able to watch the launch on YouTube shot by numerous media outlets with vantage viewing points and high quality equipment.

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BEST PLACE TO WATCH THE ROCKET LAUNCH
OUTSIDE KENNEDY SPACE CENTER


If you don’t want to visit Kennedy Space Center, there are other incredible viewing locations.

Firstly, there are lots of places to watch a Florida rocket launch and most will give you a great view. However, there are multiple launch pads, so it really depends which location the launch you are planning to watch will be from. The time of day will also be a factor to consider. Daytime launches might have completely different ‘best’ viewing area to launches taking place during dark hours.

Playalinda Beach is often cited as one of the best viewing locations outside of Kennedy Space Center, but it often closes for being too close to certain launch pads.

There are plenty of public Cape Canaveral launch viewing spots. Plus lots of locations all along Space Coast that offer spectacular views of rocket launches. Do be aware that parking can be difficult and there may be a fee in a lot of places that don’t normally charge to park.

For in-depth explanations of viewing locations from specific launch pads, check out Launch Photography by Ben Cooper. He drills down deep on specific pads and provides great insight into viewing upcoming launches.

Best Place to Watch The Rocket Launch in Titusville

Where to Watch a Rocket Launch in Florida: Titusville

Titusville is one of the best places to watch the rocket launch. It’s directly opposite Kennedy Space Center and offers lots of viewing space. There are several parks and spots all along the waterfront. Plus, you’ll find plenty of eateries and dining options within walking distance of many of the Titusville rocket viewing locations.

Playalinda Beach, Canaveral National Seashore

This location is excellent for most rocket launches, especially those from Launch Complex 41 and 40. It gives you a clear, unobstructed view.
Note: This location is closed for launches from Complex 39A, it’s seriously that close!

Playalinda Beach is located on the 24 miles stretch of Cape Canaveral National Seashore, which is a US National Park. It offers natural undeveloped beauty, the sandy beach is pristine and the waves are ideal for surfing.

The beach is 4 miles long and offers 13 separate parking areas with restrooms, but no showers. You may see an array of natural wildlife and birds.

Be aware: A remote stretch of Playalinda Beach is nudist. The nudist area starts at beach parking 11/12 but the main nudist area is 13.
Where: 1000 Playalinda Beach Rd., Canaveral National Seashore.
Phone: 1-321-267-1110
Web: Playalinda Beach
Entrance to National Seashore is $20 which gives you access for 7 days.

Sand Point Park

Cape Canaveral launch viewing at Sand Point Park is excellent for most launches. Sand Point Park is located on the shoreline and parking is free. There are several pavilions along with picnic tables, BBQ grills, a playground and a splash pad to keep cool. There are restrooms.
Where: 10 E Max Brewer Causeway, Titusville.

Max Brewer Bridge

From Sand Point Park, you can also stroll up to Max Brewer Bridge for an elevated view point. This causeway spans Indian River and stands at 65 foot tall. The causeway is closed to traffic during rocket launches, making it an awesome viewing spot.
Where: 101 N Washington Ave, Titusville, FL 32796

Parrish Park

Located east of the Max Brewer Bridge, you’ll have a great view for launch viewing. There are restrooms, picnic shelters and a fishing pier. There is a car parking area, paved and unpaved, that can accommodate almost 150 vehicles.
Where: 1 A. Max Brewer Memorial Pkwy, Titusville, FL 32796

Space View Park

Space View Park is an ideal location for most launches, especially those from Launch Complex 39A. It’s always open and free to park. It gives great panoramic views across the water.

Not only is Space View Park a great launch viewing spot, it’s also a really cool place to visit. It features the U.S. Space Walk of Fame that takes you around the history of space exploration. 4 Space Program Monuments are dedicated to the men, women and astronauts that helped the US lead the world in space. Each monument – Mercury, Gemini, Apollo and Space Shuttle, feature plaques of the names of the workers and astronauts of each program. There’s also a bronze handprint cast of six of the original seven astronauts.
An additional “In The Line of Duty” monument is dedicated to all those who lost their lives during the space program.
Where: 17 Orange St, Titusville, FL 32796

Rotary Riverfront Park

A very good spot for most launches right on the waterfront. The park has pavilions, a playground and restrooms. There is a MacDonalds right next door, perfect for a snack and cool down plus it has an indoor play area for the kids.
Where: 4141 S. Washington Ave., Titusville, FL 32780.

Marina Park

This 20 acre community park offers good views plus there are restrooms, picnic pavilions, a kids playground and a skate park. There’s a dog park too.
1510 Marina Rd, Titusville, FL 32796

William J Manzo Memorial Park

Located on the Indian River Lagoon, this park offers plenty of tree shade with picnic facilities, restrooms and a kids playground
Where: 3335 S. Washington Avenue Titusville, FL 32780

Best Place to Watch the Rocket Launch from Port Canaveral

Best Place to Watch The Rocket Launch in Florida: Port Canaveral

Port Canaveral is located just south of Kennedy Space Center and offers great spots for Cape Canaveral launch viewing. Port Canaveral is a busy cruise port too. If a rocket launch coincides with a cruise day, make sure you get there early to get a parking spot. Then sit back and watch these giant ships arrive and depart.

If it’s a big launch, Port Canaveral will limit parking locations and will implement traffic directions to other locations, where bus transportation will be available.

The Cove is Port Canaveral’s dining and entertainment district which offers several restaurants, and a Wyland art gallery.

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Best Place to Watch The Rocket Launch in Florida:

Jetty Park

This location offers a great view for most launches, especially those from Launch Complex 46. Make a day of it, soak up some sun and enjoy the waves. Jetty Park covers 30 acres and has 4.5 acres of  beautiful soft sandy beach and crystal clear waters.

There are outdoor showers, restrooms, covered pavilions and picnic tables too. You can rent chairs and umbrellas, along with sporting equipment like kayaks and paddle boards. The pavilions are usually available to rent.
Call or check the website for the latest info. (Details below).

Any fishing fans? There’s a 1200 foot pier extending into the ocean with cleaning stations. There’s a bait shop at the concession pavilion too. You don’t need a fishing license to fish off the pier, only from the shoreline. (See info here).

Jetty Park has a two story pavilion too with food, beverages, supplies and facilities. You’ll find Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill at the pavilion with indoor and outdoor seating. Fishlips menu offers seafood, steak, chicken, pasta, salads and more. You can watch the launch from here too, but you’ll need to get there early to grab a spot.

The Beach Pavilion Store offers refreshments and there’s also a Bait Shop.

Once parking is full, access is closed, do get there early. The parking lot only has access for 1000 cars.

Where: 400 Jetty Park Rd., Cape Canaveral, FL 32920.
Hours: 7am – 8pm – do check for updates
Parking: $15

Phone: 321-783-7111
Web: Jetty Park Beach & Pier

Exploration Tower

If you’re looking for panoramic Cape Canaveral launch viewing, this is the place for you. The 7th floor observation tower offers rocket launch viewing with a view! You also get a great view of Port Canvaral cruise ships and there are telescopes to explore close up.
Note: Tripods are not allowed in Exlporation Tower
Tickets are best booked in advance. Cost varies.
Tickets are mission specific and non refundable but covered for reschedules, subject to availability. Exploration Tower also hosts events and may not be available for all rocket launches.
Where: 670 Dave Nisbet Drive, Port Canaveral, Florida 32920
PhoneL (321) 394-3408
Web: Exploration TowerOrlando Vacation Homes Pin

Cherie Down Park

This location offers great beach viewing and has BBQ grills, picnic areas, a pavilion and restrooms with showers.
There’s a small parking area that will fill up quickly on launch days so do get there early. Parking is free.
Where: 8330 Ridgewood Avenue Cape Canaveral, FL 32920

Rocket Launch Viewing from Cocoa Beach

Best Place to Watch The Rocket Launch in Florida: Cocoa Beach Rocket Launch Viewing Locations

The Cocoa Beach area is further south from Kennedy Space Center. It’s a great atmosphere anywhere along the beach. You can watch from the Cocoa Beach Pier or several parks along the Cocoa Beach coastline. Enjoy a great rocket launch location while enjoying the beautiful beach too!

Parking around Cocoa Beach: There are over 1600 parking bays with parking meters around Cocoa Beach and the state parks that line the coastline. Parking is $2.50 an hour to $10-$15 for the day. Payment can be made in coins, by credit/debit card, or you can purchase a Parking Pass online.

Cocoa Beach Pier

Historic Cocoa Beach Pier stretches 800 feet into the ocean giving great views for a rocket  launch. The pier has five restaurants where you can sit back, relax and just take in the atmosphere. Plus, there’s live music, entertainment and a gift shop. Fishing off the pier is hugely popular. It costs $7 if you take your own equipment or $20 with fishing rod rental for 4 hours. Spectators are $2, or free with a receipt from any establishment on the pier.

You can also watch the launch from Cocoa Beach, there’s lots of space. You can rent beach chairs, umbrellas, boogie board and more from the beach and also at the Ron Jon Surf Shop.

Cocoa Pier gets packed for rocket launches, so you’ll need to get there well in advance to secure a spot.
Where: 401 Meade Ave, Cocoa Beach

Alan Shepard Park

This beautiful 5-acre oceanfront park is perfect for launch viewings. There are picnic areas and pavilions, a kids playground, restrooms, showers and beach rentals.
Parking is plentiful with over 300 spots and costs $15 a day or $2.50 an hour.
Where: 299 East Cocoa Beach Causeway, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931.

Sidney Fischer Park

This 10 acre park is popular with families and a great spot for most launches. There are restrooms and showers, a playground, volleyball, pavilions, shaded picnic areas and picnic tables.
There are 200 parking spaces at $15 a day or $2.50 an hour.
Where: 2200 North Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931.

Lori Wilson Park

A 20 acre park offering lots of space, a boardwalk nature trail, restrooms, showers, a kids playground, picnic tables, BBQ grills and pavilions. There is also a 32,000 square foot fenced off Leash Dog Park.
There are 274 parking spaces which are free for everyone.
Where: 1400 North Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931 

Indialantic Boardwalk and Park

This is about as far south as our Rocket Launch Viewing Guide takes you, literally right at the end of the US-192 Highway.
Where: 201 N Miramar Ave, Indialantic, FL 32903

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What to Take to Watch A Rocket Launch in Florida:

  • Sun Protection (Hats, sunscreen, umbrellas, sunglasses)
  • Insect repellant
  • Soft-sided coolers or lunch boxes
  • Cameras, tripods, binoculars
  • Water – Don’t forget to stay hydrated in the heat!
  • Blankets or folding “camp style” chairs

RESTAURANTS WITH ROCKET LAUNCH VIEWS


Best Restaurants with Rocket Launch View

Best Place to Watch The Rocket Launch in Florida with Dining

Don’t want to hunker down at the beaches or parks? There are several restaurants along the Space Coast waterfront that offer great views. And if the rocket launch is scrubbed, at least you’ll experience some great local food.

Here’s our a few picks on where to eat with rocket launch views:

The Space Bar

The Space Bar is the newest rocket launch viewing hot spot in Titusville. The rooftop bar offers exceptional sweeping views, space themed cocktails and out of this world dining. Located at the space themed Courtyard by Marriott Titusville, parking is free and the bar area is open to everyone. A $10 entry fee is charged on rocket launches. Hotel guests with a room key are not charged.
Space Bar Menu
Where: 6245 Riverfront Center Blvd, Titusville, FL, 32780

Shiloh’s Steak & Seafood

The outdoor deck and bar give a prime view right across to Kennedy Space Center. Inside, the full wall of windows facing the water give even more views.
Lots of seafood dishes, hand cut steaks, burgers and pasta.
Shiloh’s Menu
Where: 4200 S. Washington Ave, Titusville

El Leoncito Mexican and Cuban

There’s an outdoor deck, but if you don’t manage to score a seat there, you can always head out to the parking lot for the launch.
Food here is Mexican and Cuban with a happy hour late afternoons. The Sanchez family have been serving Titusville locals since 1995.
El Leoncito Menu 
Where: 4280 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL 32780

Orleans Bistro & Bar

The local favorite offers Cajun inspired food plus steaks, seafood, pasta burgers and wings. The outdoor patio space gives some viewing over Indian River and rocket viewing.
Orleans Bistro Menu
Where: 2204 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL 32780

New York New York

The exterior may underwhelm you, but the view from the back will wow you. As the name suggests, American cuisine features here along with a wide range of seafood.
New York New York Menu
Where: 5401 Riveredge Dr. Titusville

Rusty’s Seafood & Oyster Bar

Rusty’s is located at The Cove in Port Canaveral and has been serving up fresh seafood since 1993. There’s indoor and outdoor dining with a large deck overlooking the water. There’s also an oyster bar for live shucking.
Rusty’s Menu
Where: 628 Glen Cheek Dr, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920

Old Florida Grill & Oyster House

This place offers a funky vibe with indoor and outdoor seating on a raised deck with a 50 foot long tiki bar right on the riverfront.
Food is local seafood with an oyster bar, sandwiches, burgers and a wide range of entrees.
Menu
Where: 5370 US-1, Cocoa, FL 32927

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UNIQUE ROCKET LAUNCH EXPERIENCES



Watch a Rocket Launch by Boat

Best Place to Watch The Rocket Launch in Florida With Unique Views

As if a rocket launch wasn’t unique enough, you can create the ultimate experience with a totally different viewpoint than from on land.

Florida Rocket Launch by Helicopter

No crowds to deal with 2000 feet in the air! Your exclusive aerial viewing location will be between 2000 and 4000 feet up and just south of the restricted airspace. You’ll have a birdseye view of the rocket launch, as well as extensive views of Cape Canaveral and Space Coast.

Your rocket launch chariot will be a Robinson R44 Clipper II (amphibious) helicopter with air conditioning. Beachside Helicopters are the only Space Coast business with permission to fly helicopter tours over water and have a 100% safety record. They also have a 100% 5 star review record.

You’ll need to book way in advance though, these one-of-a-kind experiences are very sought after.

Rocket Launch Tours cost $700 for 1 hour for up to 3 people, including all fees and taxes. You can also book a 30 minute tour for $400.

Beachside Helicopters also offer other options, including the NASA Tour. You’ll fly over the NASA space complex, with views of all launch pads and the enormous Vehicle Assembly Building, which covers a staggering 8 acres. Plus, you’ll see the shuttle landing strip, which is is one of the longest runways in the world.

Enjoy aerial views over Banana River, the Thousand Islands, Cocoa Beach and Port Canaveral too.
This tour costs $189 per person for 2 passengers, or $169 per person for 3 passengers.  This tour may not be available on the day of a rocket launch, depending on the time of the actual launch.

Check out the Beachside Helicopters website for details of all their tours.

Where: 475 Manor Dr, Merritt Island, FL 32952 
Call +1 321-406-0406
Web: Beachside Helicopters

Cape Canaveral Rocket Launch By Boat

Watch a rocket launch in Florida from the water and it’s pretty much as close as you’re going to get. You’ll feel and hear the roar at lift off.

Star Fleet Tours

Star Fleet offer two different locations, depending on the launch location.

  • Ocean-side – Your view from here will be just south of the exclusion zone and will give you a spectacular view pretty much right under the trajectory of the rocket launch. At just under 5 miles away, this is legally the closest you can get. You will have a clear line of sight towards the launch and landing pads.
  • River-Side – Your view from here will be along Banana River. Although it’s not as close or clear as the ocean view, it still offers a unique and scenic viewing location and is much closer than any land locations.

You MUST book well in advance to secure a spot.
Tickets are $75 per person. You can also add a Guided Pre-Launch Pad Tour for an additional $65. This trip takes you an ocean side view of the rocket on the launch pad. You’ll also see historic launch sites and many other historic and interesting points along Cape Canaveral.
Web: Star Fleet Tours 

Watch A Florida Rocket Launch by Kayak

Schedule a kayak tour around the launch time with Adventures in Florida and not only do you get an up close and clear launch view, you also get to explore the waterways and wildlife. And if the launch is scrubbed for any reason, at least you’ll have had fun and possibly seen some of Florida’s wildlife. You may see manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and rays, plus a variety of birds. If you visit during bioluminescence season (summer) you’ll be dazzled by the shimmering waters! Kayak tours last 2 hours and are perfect for all levels. Tours start from Kelly Park East.
Web: Adventures in Florida

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Best Place to Watch The Rocket Launch in Florida:

TIPS & TRICKS


Get There Early

Those planning to watch a rocket launch in Florida start reserving spots hours and hours in advance of the launch time. Even more so for the big launches. If you want to secure a great spot, make sure you arrive a good few hours before the launch schedule time. You can always park up, take a stroll and explore the surrounding areas. If the spot you have chosen to view from offers parking (like Jetty Park) the parking lot will close once it reaches capacity.

Pack Food and Drink

If you are heading for a spot without amenities, make sure you take plenty of beverages and snacks. Several of the areas mentioned in this rocket launch guide offer picnic locations, covered pavilions and grills. Keep in mind everyone else will probably have the same plan too. If you are staying in one of our vacation homes, you’ll find cooler boxes, ice packs and folding chairs. Help yourself!

Make A Day Of It

Depending on the time of the launch, it would be worth making your trip to the Space Coast a full day trip. Thousands of people flock to watch launches, which means traffic will be heavy for several hours before and after the rocket launch.

Avoid The Traffic

Plan lunch or dinner after the launch to give traffic time to lessen a little. Or head along the coast to explore a little more before heading back. On a busy launch, it can take several hours to get back to the vacation zone in the Orlando/Kissimmee areas. Spend that time enjoying local food instead of sitting in traffic!

Make A Quick Dash

If you want to make a quick dash home after the launch, there are spots a little further away that will give you easy access to beat a lot of the traffic. You will still see a good view of the launch, but keep in mind the roar and rumble and ‘feel’ of the launch will be diminished. That’s honestly quite a big part of the experience. If it’s your first rocket launch, we would advise you to plan for traffic. Those ‘feels’ make a world of difference!

Whichever location you decide to view a rocket launch, you’re in for one spectacular experience!


Best Place to Watch The Rocket Launch in Florida:

RESOURCES


Launch Info

VisitSpaceCoast has a page they update for every single rocket launch, with specific information relating to the current launch.
Visit Space Coast

Download An App

There are several apps that will give you minute-by-minute updates along with live streaming of all scheduled rocket launches and a countdown clock to Lift-Off. Some also contain a handy compass that will help you locate the exact spot on the horizon where the rocket will launch.

Photographers

Are you looking to watch a rocket launch in Florida and need more in-depth research on where to get the perfect shot? Do you need to check out best viewing locations for specific launch pads? Then head over to LaunchPhotography. You’ll find an in-depth analysis of each launch pad and the best viewing locations for each. Plus, reference images from various locations.

Accommodation

If you are visiting Florida to watch a rocket launch, we would love to welcome you to one of our Orlando vacation homes. We’re located just an hour from the Space Coast.

Sleepy Hollow 3 Bedroom Home

Sleepy Hollow

3 Bedroom Resort Home ~ From $210 a night ~ Sleeps 7

Serendipity 5 Bedroom Home

Serendipity

5 Bedroom Pool Home ~ From $300 a night ~ Sleeps 12

Breezy Oak Villas

4 Bedroom Pool Homes
From $225
Sleep 8