Best Places To Watch A Launch On The Space Coast
Updated: January 7, 2022
Watching a rocket launch on the Space Coast never gets old. Finding the best place to view one of the Space Coast’s spectacular launches isn’t difficult, you can see a launch from anywhere on the Space Coast. NASA, SpaceX, and United Launch Alliance are sending up more rockets from the Space Coast than any other spaceport in the world. Check out our list of best places to watch a launch on the Space Coast below! Be sure to keep up with the latest launch schedule HERE.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
First and foremost, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex! Of course, this is top of the list because they offer the closest viewing spots and live commentary from space experts. If you buy tickets for the Space Center, you can watch a launch from “Space Shuttle Atlantis” at the main visitor complex. Watching from the LC-39 Observation Gantry is currently available and the Banana Creek Launch viewing area is available depending on the launch time. Launch viewing packages are an unforgettable experience because you can’t get any closer – you’re mere miles from the launch pads! These packages are available in addition to daily admission and limited in quantity. Make sure you check their website for ticket availability and more information if you’d like to plan your launch experience at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
Titusville
Titusville has tons of viewing spots to watch launches. You can see rocket launches just over the Indian River. If you want a lively atmosphere and food while watching a launch check out Shiloh Steak & Seafood’s Mangrove Deck where you’ll have awesome views of the launch.
Max Brewer Bridge (Parrish Park)
The Courtyard by Marriott Titusville – Kennedy Space Center has a great rooftop deck with a restaurant & bar called The Space Bar. It’s a premier attraction to watch launches. A separate elevator was installed designed to head directly to the bar and bypass guest rooms for those wanting to just go for the experience.
At just 7.1 miles from the entry to KSC, the hotel is the closest place one can stay compared to Launch Complex 39A and Launch Complex 39B. The former is where SpaceX holds its crewed launches as well as others and the latter is where NASA will launch its Space Launch System (SLS) rockets for the Artemis program to the Moon.
Port Canaveral
Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach has its fair share of spots to watch rocket launches. There are some great spots to watch a rocket launch and catch some waves. You can watch with the whole family at the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier or one of the local parks.
Wherever you choose to watch a launch, you’re sure to have an amazing view on the Space Coast. We hope this roundup of the best launch viewing spots will give you new ones to try each time. Our friends at NASA have also put together a great map with the best viewing spots.
