Space Shuttle Atlantis, Merritt Island

Pretty impressive exhibit. Really enjoyed the video about history of shuttle design and creation. Atlantis is the centerpiece of the exhibit along with displays of the elements of the shuttle such as cockpit, engine and even toilet. Exhibit has a touching tribute to the crews of 2 perished shuttles. Really enlightening experience.

Great experience at the Kennedy Space Center! This is located at the northeast corner of the Kennedy Space Visitor complex. It is just north of the bus drop-off and east of the outdoor memorial. It is hard to miss since it has the Space shuttle External tank and solid rocket boosters standing outside the front of it. This building has many exciting features for visitors to see. It has an introductory movie experience, a real space shuttle, interactive experiences, a slide for kids, a shuttle simulator, a memorial, and a gift shop. The visuals throughout the building are very well done. The introductory preshow that explains how the shuttle idea started is very well done and explains the challenges that the idea went through to become a reality. It leads to a novel viewing experience that leads out into the large bay where the real shuttle is displayed with bay doors open and robotic arm outstretched. We took the guided tour that was available and Bart did a wonderful job of explaining details about the shuttle program and the shuttle. We chose to pay our respects in the memorial to the Columbia and Challenger Shuttle astronauts that are located on the bottom floor next to the exit. Overall, this is a must-see at the Space Center complex.

Great! My favorite exhibit. I’m 44, but I rode all the rides, crawled on all the interactive exhibits, and pushed all the buttons. I thought it was much better than universal studios and a lot less expensive. They had a great guided walking tour going and lots of things to play with. My kids would have loved it.

The exhibit for Space Shuttle Atlantis is really well done. Amazing to see the bay doors open and look inside. The preview video is reallygreat, and the launch simulator is a one if a kind experience. Lots of shuttle themed activities inside and detailed info for the curious types. Displays are well done. Will definitely be returning.

This is also an amazing newer addition to Kennedy Space Center. The opening video and entrance to see Atlantis is uplifting. Make sure to go to the launch simulation. It was our favorite ride at the space center and was worth the long wait. They have videos of astronauts talking about their experiences with space launches while you wait in line which makes the wait go by faster.