<div id="c3be0912bb716eee4ca644c1dfc4ecde4"></div>It is such an exciting time in Central Florida! The Space Coast is booming with multiple rocket launches every month. And now a history-making event is taking place with the Artemis program. We’re returning to the moon! The Artemis missions are three separate missions, each one bringing us closer to the moon.
You can visit Kennedy Space Center’s site for an updated schedule of 2024 rocket launches and information as they’re still being confirmed. So far, you can expect:
Romantic Stuff to do in Tampa Bay:
>> 100 Date Ideas in Tampa Bay
>> Amazing Brunch Spots
>> Tampa Bay’s Rooftop Bars
- SpaceX Falcon 9 Axiom Mission 3 – January 9, 2024
- ULA Atlas V Boeing Starliner Crew Flight Test – TBD
Artemis missions:
After rolling the SLS and Orion back to the Vehicle Assembly Building due to Hurricane Ian, November 16 marked the successful launch of the Artemis I mission. Now we await the Artemis 2 launch in May 2024.
If you’re not sure what the big deal is with the Artemis missions, check out Six Reasons to Be Excited About the Artemis Program, from our pals at TampaBayParenting.com.
Keep an eye out for viewing packages from Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex for viewing packages for rocket launches.
SpaceX Launches
A great way to check out a launch is with SpaceX launches. SpaceX is a satellite communications and spacecraft manufacturing company that conducts a variety of launches from the Kennedy Space Center, including crewed missions, cargo resupply missions to the International Space Station (ISS), and satellite launches.
SpaceX launches take place frequently at the Kennedy Space Center from Launch Complex 39A, one of its four main launch sites. This historic launch complex was used for Apollo missions and many space shuttle launches. Tickets start at $80.25 and can be purchased here.
Other Rocket Launch Viewing Locations
If the massive Artemis 1 crowds and tremendous traffic don’t appeal to you, then consider heading to the Space Coast for a regular rocket launch. There are usually multiple rocket launches every month.
For the next rocket launch, impress your date by heading to one of these top viewing spots.
- Jetty Park Campground and Jetty Park
- Playalinda Beach
- Kennedy Space Center
- Cocoa Beach Pier + Restaurants
- Exploration Tower
- Space View Park: 8 Broad Street, Titusville (parking nearby)
- Kennedy Point Park: 4915 S. Washington Ave (US 1), Titusville (restrooms, parking)
- Alan Shepard Park: East end of SR 520, Cocoa Beach (restrooms, parking)
- Indian River Lagoon / Mosquito Lagoon
Our sister site, OrlandoDateNightGuide.com has all the details for each of these rocket launch view locations.
Discover a super cool rooftop bar that is space-themed with great cocktails and food, and a dedicated rocket launch viewing location.
READ: Where to Watch a Rocket Launch Like a Space Coast Local
Kennedy Space Center Rocket Launch Viewing
There’s nothing quite like being at the Kennedy Space Center on launch day. Our parent publication, TampaBayParenting.com walks you through what it is like to watch a rocket launch from Kennedy Space Center itself.
Depending on the launch, you can upgrade your visit to get even closer to the launch pad with a reserved spot at the Apollo/Saturn V Center, but this prime viewing experience requires a lot of pre-planning since reserved bleacher seating often sells out.
You can also try to book free bus transport to view from the Apollo/Saturn V Center lawn. You’ll not only need to arrive early, but be quick to book your timed bus reservation. You can only book the bus on the day of launch and only when on property, so make sure to have the location services enabled on your phone so the Kennedy Space Center app or website knows you’re there.
READ: See a Rocket Launch from Kennedy Space Center