For those who have dreamt of soaring among the stars, Orlando is the place to be for an unforgettable vacation.
Space buffs can find an oasis of education and excitement around every corner of The City Beautiful. From exhibits to simulators, the wonders of outer space pay a visit to our pale blue dot.
Embark on a tour of the rockets that have taken us beyond Earth to see what is waiting for us out there. Enjoy a dose of theme park exhilaration along space-inspired attractions for all ages.
It’s one small step for man, one giant leap for thrill seekers as you explore the top five Orlando area attractions for space enthusiasts.
Key Takeaways
- WonderWorks Orlando's Space Discovery Zone
- Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
- UCF's Ribinson Observatory
- Orlando Science Center
- Theme Park Rides for Space Buffs
- Take Your Vacation to Infinity and Beyond
WonderWorks Orlando's Space Discovery Zone
Making Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando your leisurely base camp treats you to a stargazer’s escape down the street at WonderWorks Orlando.
In Space Discovery Zone, you can see space exploration from astronauts’ perspective by checking out the real-life replica of their EVA suit. Learn how these suits function to keep space explorers safe and efficient while carrying out their missions.
Bring a friend or family member aboard the Astronaut Training Challenge to see if you can handle a simulation of being in space. This 2-person gyroscope takes you along spins, rolls, and the feeling of weightlessness to prepare would-be astronauts for what awaits them if they decide to step onto a shuttle in the future.
Wondering what it was like to be part of Project Mercury, the United States’ first human spaceflight program led by the National Aeronautics Space Administration (NASA)? The zone’s replica of one of the Mercury capsules may only fit one crew member, but once inside, you’ll be stepping into the shoes of explorers who were a massive part of history.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
What would a space enthusiast’s dream getaway in Orlando be without a day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex?
NASA’s main launch center may be an hour’s drive away, but the awe-inspiring experiences are worth the trip. Older, adult enthusiasts can feel the rush of taking off into space aboard the Shuttle Launch Experience®, while younger explorers can learn about the phenomena of our solar system at Planet Play.
Take a walk through the Rocket Garden for views of the spacecraft from NASA’s Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs that brought us to the stars. A tour through Heroes and Legends showcases the pioneers who have earned their place in the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame®.
Don’t miss out on the chance to speak to a veteran NASA astronaut to learn what it’s like to be off-planet and what it takes to join the legends of space exploration. We recommend keeping an eye out for the space center’s next rocket launch for the perfect time to drop by.
UCF's Robinson Observatory
Checking in on Earth’s neighbors in the cosmos has never been easier than at the University of Central Florida’s (UCF) Robinson Observatory.
A 35-minute drive from Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando, this research facility is home to the “Knights Under the Stars” events that are free and open to all ages. Tour the observatory’s dome for a demonstration of the 20-inch research telescope’s capabilities.
If you want a peek at outer space, take a look through any of the portable telescopes on the lawn. Take in spectacular views of the planets and stars beyond our blue and green globe of a home.
UCF’s staff is on standby for any questions about how the telescopes work as well as knowledge of space exploration. Take note in case you feel the itch to contribute to the field yourself.
Orlando Science Center
Vacation itineraries with time saved for Downtown Orlando can make room for an afternoon at the “Our Planet, Our Solar System” exhibit at the Orlando Science Center.
Science on a Sphere offers a display of real-time weather patterns and ocean currents on a suspended giant globe, as if you were watching our planet from space. Stop by Stellar Playground for a view of real-time stellar evolution and the chance to create your own stars.
Aspiring astronauts can get in some practice landing a spacecraft on the moon with Lunar Lander. Bring your dream space rocket to life with the design options of Rocket Builder.
Explore Mars takes you aboard an Ingenuity-style helicopter for a simulated journey through the skies of the Red Planet as you gather geological data. Save time for a tour of artifacts and equipment from space missions in the 1950s, ‘60s, and ‘70s at Blast From the Past.
Theme Park Rides for Space Buffs
The thrills of space exploration and Orlando’s attractions come together at the city’s iconic theme parks.
Universal Epic Universe
Universal Orlando Resort’s Epic Universe treats space buffs of all ages to exciting experiences at Celestial Park. Younger park-goers can gaze at celestial lions, dragons, peacocks, and other fascinating creatures aboard Constellation Carousel, while grown-up thrill-seekers can hop on Stardust Racers for a heart-racing journey across the cosmos.
Stick around after the sun goes down for Celestial Goodnight, a stunning display of colorful fireworks and fountain shows. Breathtaking music fills the air as the night sky shines bright, bringing you closer to the stars.
Magic Kingdom Park
Disney magic sprinkles across your space explorations at Walt Disney World® Resort’s Magic Kingdom Park. When you’re done taking selfies with your favorite Disney characters, hop in line for the invigoration of Space Mountain.
This indoor roller coaster shoots you into the darkness of space, soaring and roaring past satellites and shooting stars. Zooming past comets and meteors will entice would-be astronauts for another round of deep space exhilaration.
EPCOT
Mission: SPACE at EPCOT offers two space-launch simulators that replicate the feeling of traveling through space and landing on Mars. One simulator offers a gentler experience for kids and those seeking lighter fun, while the more intense option is on standby for those ready to handle the feeling of G-Force that awaits our astronauts.
If you’re as much of a superhero buff as you are for space, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is right around the corner. Fly through the galaxy with Star-Lord and his friends while saving the universe along a marvelous adventure.
Take Your Vacation to Infinity and Beyond
Ready for liftoff? Orlando always is.
The miracles of space are calling with educational experiences and heart-racing adventures. Each space attraction offers amazing moments and inspiration to join NASA’s legends and make history along the stars.
To balance out the excitement of your space explorations, unwind with the comfortable accommodations of Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando. The hotel’s relaxing hotel rooms and savory dining options give you the recharge you need for your next mission.
Book your next space-themed vacation at Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando today and suit up for a voyage of cosmic wonder.