NASA Day — a morning trip.
- Leave villa ~8am. Drive east ~1 hour to KSC
- Arrive for opening (~9am)
At KSC
- Rocket Garden — walk among real rockets. Great for photos, the sheer scale impresses kids
- Bus tour to Apollo/Saturn V Center — see the Vehicle Assembly Building and launch pads from the bus. ~20 min ride each way. Bring snacks and a small toy for the bus ride (especially for Miles). At the Saturn V Center: walk under a real Saturn V rocket (massive — the kids will be amazed). Spend as long as you like, catch any return bus
- Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit — walk under the real shuttle. The kids' playground area on the upper level is themed around space station living and is excellent
- Planet Play — indoor play area specifically designed for young kids. Air-conditioned — perfect heat escape
- If Oisin is 44"+: Shuttle Launch Experience (simulated shuttle launch)
Head back by 1-2pm. Pool afternoon at the villa. Easy evening.
Tip: KSC parking is $15/car. Book tickets online in advance for a small discount.
Rocket Launch
Check nextspaceflight.com 2-4 weeks before the trip. SpaceX launches from Cape Canaveral multiple times per week — there will almost certainly be a launch during your trip. KSC offers viewing packages (~$20-75), or watch free from Space View Park in Titusville.
Other families: KSC is great for all ages. Ray and Ann would enjoy it — plenty of air-conditioned exhibits, benches, and the bus tour means minimal walking. Ella (nearly 13) will engage more with the content than the younger kids.