20 Attractions to Explore Near Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

On Merritt Island, Florida, the United States Astronaut Hall of Fame is located inside the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Heroes & Legends building. Displays the world's largest collection of astronauts' personal memorabilia

Space Shuttle Atlantis, is a major attraction that showcases the impressive achievements of the United States space programs. This unique museum and visitor center reveals the fascinating history of space exploration and everything that went into making the NASA Space Shuttle program possible. With over 60 interactive exhibits, fun educational programs, films, and simulators to explore all aspects of space exploration, visitors will experience a captivating journey through space and time.

Located along the Indian River, there are 2 miles of boardwalk paths and trails that meander through lush seagrass beds and past kayaking access points. Visitors can take in spectacular sunset views from the beachside pavilions and fishing piers, or spend time bird watching from the several observation decks scattered throughout the park. When you’re done exploring you can stop by the concession stand for a cold beverage or snack before heading back home.

Gerald Arenberg founded the museum in Florida in 1960. In 1955, a drunk driver injured him in the line of duty. He always dreamed of building a memorial commemorating all law enforcement officers who were killed in the line of duty, those who sacrificed their lives to protect, serve, and keep the peace.

The Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum maintains and restores all types of aircraft indigenous to the world's armed forces from pre-WWII to today. The VAC has vintage aircraft and a 30,000-square-foot (2,800 m2) hangar with a restoration area.

Space Launch Delta 45 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (CCSFS) is an installation of the United States Space Force. CCSFS was the launch site for a number of American space exploration pioneers, including the first American earth satellite in 1958.

Port Canaveral is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. With its deep-water port and proximity to both land and sea resources, visitors can enjoy a host of activities while here. It boasts 12 world-class terminals where visitors can board their vessels and embark on any number of voyages across the globe. But the fun doesn't end at boarding a cruise ship; there are plenty of beaches, fishing spots, shopping centers and other to explore for those who would rather spend some time on land.

As part of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex's "Cape Canaveral Early Space Tour," the museum is open to the public four days a week. The Air Force 45th Space Wing Community Relations office also offered free tours until June 2013.

The park was established by an act of Congress on January 3, 1975, on a barrier island. More than 1,000 plant species and 310 bird species can be found in the Canaveral National Seashore.

Cape Canaveral Light is a historic lighthouse located on Florida's east coast. First constructed and lit in 1868, the current 151-foot (46 m) lighthouse tower was relocated inland between 1893-1894.

There are 140,000 acres (57,000 ha) of Merritt Island. A National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) on Florida's largest barrier island. The NWR contains saltwater estuaries, freshwater impoundments, marshes, dunes, hardwood hammocks, and scrub habitats.

Jetty Park is a great spot to enjoy beautiful sunsets and views of the Atlantic Ocean. It features over 500 feet of fishing jetty, picnic areas with shelters, a beachfront pavilion with restrooms and showers, plenty of parking, a campground for RV's, and several nature trails perfect for joggers or birders. One of the highlights of the park is its rich history - visitors can learn about its original construction as well as the repair projects conducted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Many locals consider Playalinda to be a popular spot for locals. In Brevard County, public nudity is prohibited by ordinance. As Playalinda Beach is within Brevard County, the nudity ordinance is enforced by county and state law enforcement officers as well as federal park rangers.

Titusville, Florida, is home to the American Space Museum. The US Space Walk of Fame, an outdoor plaza on the Indian River, honors both the astronauts and the NASA and contractor personnel who made the American manned space program possible.

At the museum are the remains of the Windover Woman, the oldest human remains found on the North American continent. Visitors can see how Native Americans lived and how Florida pioneers survived.

Black Point Wildlife Drive is one of the most beautiful and unique nature spots in the area. This six-mile loop located in the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge features breathtaking views of a variety of landscapes and animals. Visitors can spot numerous species including alligators, herons, ospreys, bald eagles and many more. The boardwalk also provides opportunities to explore local marshes up close without disturbing the fragile environment.

The Wizard of Oz Museum is every fan's dream come true. Located in the heart of Central Florida, it houses an incredible assortment of memorabilia from the classic 1939 movie that continues to captivate multiple generations. Within its three stories, visitors can explore full-size sets and period costumes, see a treasure trove of rare artwork and vintage props, discover Judy Garland's original silver slippers, and even satiate their taste buds at Auntie Em's cafe.

Brevard Veterans Memorial Center honors the sacrifices of servicemen and women of Brevard County, Florida. The centerpiece of the Memorial Center is a Field of Honor with individual memorials representing each war veterans have served in. It also houses a library, exhibit hall and museum with artifacts and photographic displays covering veterans service from World War I to the present day. Additionally, located at Liberty Bell Park, the center holds annual ceremonies.

Cocoa Village, is a charming and eclectic cluster of stores and restaurants located by the Indian River. This hip haven offers plenty of activities for everyone in the family; the kids will love shopping at one of the unique little shops or riding the vintage carousel while parents enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the many cozy cafes. Just around the corner lies nearby Cocoa Beach which offers miles of pristine coastline, excellent surfing opportunities and loads of sun-drenched fun.

Chain of Lakes Park is a must see nature park offering numerous recreational opportunities not only for nature lovers, but also for those who enjoy physical activity. Visitors can bike, hike, run and canoe on the trails located throughout the park. Bird watching enthusiasts and photographers will be impressed with the variety of birds that call this park home. There are also observation decks overlooking pristine lake views for more leisurely activities such as meditation and picnicking.