About Space Coast - Kennedy Space Center, Florida

Not only does this the area offer a fascinating education in space exploration, but it is also a revered area for natural preservation and wildlife. You can view a shuttle launch or take a tour to view sea turtles laying eggs. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Center is a major attraction, offering a full size model of a space shuttle to walk through, A Gallery of Spaceflight with a full size model of the Lunar Rover, and The IMAX theatre which shows films about living in space, and space missions. Organized tours of the Space Center are available from the visitor's center to launch pad with stops at area highlights. The Visitor Center (407 452-2121) has information on the Kennedy Space Center facility and for shuttle launch information contact 407 867-4636 or www.jsc.nasa.gov or www.kennedyspacecenter.com. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (407 861-0667) has more endangered and threatened species than any other refuge in the continental US and is one the best birdwatching areas due to migratory patterns. Other animals you may see here are manatees, alligators, leatherback and loggerhead turtles, wild pigs or bobcats. The best time to visit is October to May and the animal activity is highest between October and March. Canaveral National Seashore is a surfer's paradise with twenty-five miles of pristine beach. Vacationing families and campers also enjoy the natural world here. From June to July, turtles are laying eggs in the sand and tours are available for viewing. However, reservations must be made well in advance by calling the North District Visitor's Center at 904 428 3384.

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