Launch Viewing Locations
At Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, hear, see and feel the liftoff of spacecraft leaving Earth under the full power of mighty rocket engines.
Depending on the mission, the following areas may be open for viewing a rocket launch:
Main Visitor Complex
This viewing area with live launch commentary is located next to Space Shuttle Atlantis® in the North Atlantis Lawn. Visitors view the rocket once it clears the tree line.
DISTANCES TO LAUNCH PADS:
To Atlas V SLC-41: approximately 7.1 miles/11.4 kilometers
To Falcon 9 SLC-40: approximately 6.7 miles/10.8 kilometers
To Falcon 9 LC-39A: approximately 7.5 miles/ 12 kilometers
AMENITIES & INCLUSIONS:
- Launch commentary with bleacher and lawn seating with minimal viewing obstructions.
- Access to main visitor complex attractions, shows, dining and retail if during operational hours.
Banana Creek Launch Viewing Area at the Apollo/Saturn V Center
This prime viewing location, adjacent to the Apollo/Saturn V Center, offers outdoor bleacher seating with views of launch pads across Banana Creek. If open during the launch window, the Apollo/Saturn V Center includes Apollo Program exhibits and offers a close-up look at the world’s largest rocket, the Saturn V.
DISTANCES TO LAUNCH PADS:
To Atlas V SLC-41: approximately 5.4 miles/8.7 kilometers
To Falcon 9 SLC-40: approximately 6.2 miles/10 kilometers
To Falcon 9 LC-39A: approximately 3.9 miles/6.27 kilometers
AMENITIES & INCLUSIONS:
- Bleacher seating and open lawn area (available first come, first serve)
- Access to the Apollo/Saturn V Center (including dining and shopping) when open. The Apollo/Saturn V Center may be closed for private events or due to other operational requirements
Launch Viewing Locations FAQs
Are all of these locations available for every launch?
Are all of these locations available for every launch?
The availability of these locations is different for every launch. Viewing opportunities and locations depend on the launch window, launch pad, visitor complex operations, Space Force Range Safety and NASA approval, and anticipated public interest. Certain locations may be too close to the launch pad for safe viewing. For instance, The Gantry at LC-39 does not remain open for launches from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39 as the gantry is too close to those pads.
How do you access launch viewing areas? Can I drive there myself?
How do you access launch viewing areas? Can I drive there myself?
After arriving and parking at the visitor complex, guests wishing to view the rocket launch should proceed to our front entrance and go through security screening. Those viewing the launch from the main visitor complex will be directed to the day’s viewing locations. Those with LTTs or certain launch viewing packages are transported by bus from inside the main visitor complex to special viewing areas through NASA’s gates. Security protocol requires that all ticket holders are transported only by visitor complex buses to these secure facilities, so you may not drive yourself.