Atlantis Spacecraft at NASA Kennedy Space Centre Orlando

Without doubt the highlight of my recent trip to Kennedy Space Centre was the Atlantis space craft.

Initially they introduce a short video in a small auditorium before unveiling the incredible Atlantis craft itself.

Outside this exhibit is a replica of the geru color rocket and its boosters.

And inside is a scale model of a space suit that was used by the astronauts.

The original control panels of Atlantis can be experienced first-hand.

Also on display is the original van that dropped the astronauts to the spacecraft.

This exhibit also houses the takeoff simulator which is actually quite impressively done.

One of the top attractions for both adults and children is a 26 feet steep slide that comes with a lot of warnings and precautions pasted before the descent,

The gift shops got a lot of cool NASA stuff for kids and adults.

For sale are little models of the Atlantis and a medallion collection.

Plus, the regular stuff like T-shirts, mugs, bottles, caps and sweatshirts.

Even though entering the Kennedy Space Center is expensive, you don’t have to pay extra for the Atlantis.

For the close-up views of the real things, the Atlantis was by far my favorite of the day.

Top Tips and Alerts

  1. Parking cost are a steep $10-15 depending on the vehicle.
  2. You can bring your own food and drinks in the park.
  3. Don’t miss the free bus tour that takes you to where they actually build the rockets.
  4. Do the simulation rides first in the morning since they get super crowded after 12 noon when most people come back from the free tour buses.
  5. Also, some of the cafes close early, which can limit your dining options if you prefer to have a late lunch or snack.
  6. Visited here on a weekend since most people would head to other major attractions like Disney world and Universal Studio on a weekend.

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Accessibility Features

:wheelchair: Most places starting from the parking to the ticketing counters are accessible.
:wheelchair: Various Galleries and the internal tour bus are accessible via folding ramps.
:wheelchair: Strollers are available for rent.
:wheelchair: Mobility scooters are also available for those with difficulty walking.

Where to Stay

I stayed at the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham that was just across the street opposite the ICON Park.

Orlando Tourist Places

Ripley’s Believe or Not

The Escape Game Orlando

Madame Tussauds Orlando

Museum of Illusions Orlando

Universal Studios Florida

Walt Disney World

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Wow, wonderful post @TusharSuradkar

Many information I can know from your post. Thanks for sharing with us.

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Simply outstanding. The Atlantis spacecraft at NASA Kennedy Space Centre in Orlando sounds absolutely incredible! From the scale model of the rocket to the original control panels and the astronaut spacesuit, it seems like a truly immersive experience. The takeoff simulator and the 26 feet slide sound like thrilling additions as well. I appreciate the top tips and alerts, especially the reminder to do the simulation rides in the morning to avoid crowds. And the accessibility features are great to know, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the experience. Overall, it sounds like a must-visit attraction for both adults and children. I missed the key chain of space shuttle. If I had known, I would have asked you to be bring it for me… :wink: Thank you so much @TusharSuradkar for this amazing post. It’s my dream to visit NASA.

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Thank you @Tandrima2 - as a local guide I strive to share experiences that will help others when visiting there.

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Thanks again for the insightful and detailed comment dear @Rohan10 .

This encourages me to write more… :blush:

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