Is Kennedy Space Center Good for Kids? Our Honest Review After Two Family Visits (2025)

If you’re wondering “Is Kennedy Space Center good for kids?” — the short answer is yes. Absolutely yes.

We’ve visited twice now with our three kids — once when they were 2, 4, and 6, and again years later when they were 9, 11, and 13 — and both times were completely worth it. It’s the kind of place that grows with your family. You can tailor your visit for any age, from toddlers in strollers to teens who want a thrill.

Here’s our honest, practical review from a parent’s perspective — with tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Getting There: The Fun Starts Early

Even the drive in feels like an adventure. As you get closer to the Visitor Complex, keep an eye out for alligators in the roadside waterways and bald eagles flying overhead. There’s even a giant eagle’s nest on site — as big as a king-size mattress!

Parking

Parking is easy, ample, and affordable — around $15. You won’t be stuck in a massive lot like at some theme parks, and it’s just a short walk to the entrance.

Tickets

We saved money by using ID.me to get discounted tickets — no military or teacher credentials needed. We just signed up, booked through their link, printed out our passes, and scanned them at the gate. Simple and smooth.

Best First Stop: The Bus Tour to the Apollo/Saturn V Center

No matter what age your kids are, start with the bus tour. It’s one of the highlights of the whole experience, and it runs continuously throughout the day.

Along the way, you’ll drive past:

• The Vehicle Assembly Building, one of the largest buildings in the world (the blue part of the flag is the size of an NBA basketball court, and you could fit three Empire State Buildings inside).
• Launch pads, NASA infrastructure, and even a secure NASA area where you need a badge to enter — our kids thought that was pretty cool.
• Wildlife and protected natural areas

You’ll be dropped off at the Apollo/Saturn V Center, which is a total hit with kids and adults alike. Here’s why:

• Re-live the Apollo 8 launch in the actual control room where it happened
• Stand underneath the massive Saturn V moon rocket
• Touch real moon rocks
• See original space suits, flight plans, and artifacts
• Catch the Lunar Theater show — a holographic, immersive storytelling experience about the Apollo 11 moon landing

🎒 Tip: Bring or rent a stroller for little ones — there’s a lot of walking, and this part of the park is separate from the main complex.

🎒 Tip: Bring your own water bottles. We forgot ours and ended up buying them in the gift shop, which was… pricey. There are water fountains and refill stations available.

Where to Eat: Moon Rock Café

Right inside the Apollo building is the Moon Rock Café, an indoor cafeteria with kid-friendly food, plenty of seating, and an outdoor patio overlooking the water and launch pads. It’s a great mid-day break spot.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Yes. Whether your kids are toddlers or teenagers, the Kennedy Space Center is worth the trip. It’s engaging, educational, and just plain cool.

Here’s what we love about it:

• You can build your day around your kids’ ages and energy levels
• Everything is spaced out but manageable with a stroller or breaks
• There’s a nice mix of hands-on exhibits and open play
• The NASA history is real, inspiring, and woven into every experience

If your family has even a hint of curiosity about space, this place will blow their minds — and probably yours, too.

Know Before You Go

• Tickets: Look for discounts through ID.me
• Parking: ~$15
• Stroller-friendly: Yes
• Outside food: Not allowed, but food options are easy and kid-friendly
• Best age: Any! Just plan accordingly
• Must-dos: Bus tour + Shuttle Atlantis + Apollo Center + Rocket Garden

Have questions about planning your visit? Send us an email at hello@mkewithkids.com.

If your family loves space, check out these mind-blowing facts about Mars for kids, interesting comet facts for kids, and amazing facts about Neptune for kids that will surprise them!