Space Shuttle Atlantis at the Kennedy Space Center is absolutely astounding. So cool to witness all the marvels of space travel in the past, see all that's being done in the present and into the future. If you have any questions about space travel or ever had any doubts about the legitimacy of NASA or any space related, this marvel of a spectacle is definitely worth a visit if you are planning to come to Orlando! 5 solid stars and two galactic thumbs up! read more

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The last building that we toured was the impressive Space Shuttle Atlantis. Kennedy is the permanent home of Space Shuttle Atlantis. Atlantis is raised 30 feet off the ground, and is turned 43.21 degrees as if it were in space. There's a full scale external tank and two rocket boosters that are the grand gateway. The huge orange external tank is suspended 23 feet above the ground, and reaches 184 feet in the air. The inside tour tells the entire story of the Space Shuttle Program. There is over 60 exhibits and simulators to experience in the space shuttle center. Two other sights to see is full sized replica of the Hubble Space Telescope, that hangs opposite the open payload bay doors of Space Shuttle Atlantis, with Atlantis' Canada Arm extended(the robotic arm made by Canada). The permanent memorial honors the lives lost during the space shuttle missions, Challenger and Columbia are in the complex with patches along the walls, Challenger on the left and Columbia on the right. We didn't do the space shuttle experience(another trip in the works later this year) on this visit, but some of my younger family members did take the slide down to the next level. Space Shuttle Atlantis also has a souvenir shop located on the way out. I REALLY enjoyed my second time visiting Kennedy Space Center, it was worth the 33 yrs. wait return visit. read more

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When my friend and I came to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, this exhibit was a must see. It started with a short video about the development of the space shuttle before we went inside to see just about everything about the Space Shuttle Atlantis. The shuttle launch experience was somewhat disappointing as it was rather underwhelming. A couple kids did not make the height requirement. read more

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Great experience at the Kennedy Space Center. Incredibly engaging and interactive exhibit. Caters to all audiences as well, from space fanatics to younger children to average visitors. I wouldn't consider myself particularly interested in the space program nor a space fanatic. However, I very much enjoyed this unique opportunity to learn more in a very engaging way. read more

Space Shuttle Atlantis - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Merritt Island, Florida

Outstanding experience visiting this exhibit. See the actual original shuttle and learn about the program which made it happen. This was very inspiring and a proud moment in our Country's history. read more

Space Shuttle Atlantis - Space shuttle Atlantis - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Merritt Island, Florida

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Growing up, I was that kid that wanted to be an astronaut. I've always had a fondness for the space shuttle program. I remember I would watch as many launches as I could on television. Even though I was really young, the Challenger disaster is one of my earliest memories and one of the first national tragedies that I can recall where I was when it occurred. Going to Kennedy Space Center to see an actual space shuttle in person has always been on my bucket list. With my most recent trip to Florida, I finally fulfilled that childhood dream. The Atlantis Exhibit opened in 2013 (just two years after its final mission). They did such an amazing job designing and constructing this exhibit. There are so many resources to read and artifacts to see. The Atlantis orbiter vehicle itself is displayed at an angle with its payload bay doors open so you can get a sense of what it looked like when it was in orbit around the earth. I was blown away by the size of the shuttle and how close they allow you to get to it. The Atlantis is one of four space shuttles that are on display in the U.S. (two were sadly lost). It had its first flight in 1985 and embarked on 33 missions before it was retired in 2011. Before you see the Atlantis, they show you a short documentary on the history of the space shuttle program before they open up the doors to the main area. Other areas of the Atlantis Exhibit include a cool shuttle launch experience ride that allows you to feel what it is like to ride on a space shuttle. They also have various training simulators so you can learn how to pilot a space shuttle. On display in the lower section is the original Astrovan that would transport the astronauts to the launch area. The Forever Remembered memorial is very touching and honors the astronauts who lost their lives during the Challenger and Columbia missions. I was really moved by it and thought they did a nice job with it. Overall, this was a wonderful experience. The Atlantis Exhibit is a must see if you are in Florida! I could spend hours in here learning about the space shuttle program's long history. It doesn't cost any extra to see it and is included in your admission price to Kennedy Space Center. read more

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Excellent way to spend a spring break day. Hubby who flew in from Seattle and met Sam for the first time and spoiled him to death also has a good time. Then we went to jetty park and beach afterwards. Nice long day. Will use our military/Boeing privileges next time. read more

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Great time awesome place for everyone old and young! Get a bus ticket as soon as you get there so they don't sell out ( it's free with admission if you get on) read more

Space Shuttle Atlantis - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Merritt Island, Florida

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Stunning!!! The moment when you get to the movie and the lift up the curtain to see the shuttle, gave me goosebumps! It really put things into perspective for me! I highly suggest spending at least an hour inside. The size of the shuttle left me stunned in amazement. I did not do the shuttle lunch experience. But, I was able to watch my family from a private room which was nice. I loved that, that experience was available. There was a slide you could go down, we enjoyed that. All the hands on interactive stuff was so cool! The kids sat there for 25 min doing that alone. I really recommend seeing all this! read more

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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. read more

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An amazing experience and a great way to kill an entire day. Of all the things at the space center seeing the shuttle was the most amazing part of the experience to me. I remember so many aspects of the space program growing up. Being a kid I loved watching any coverage. Walking around the shuttle brings back memories of watching landings and launches on television, always amazing. This interactive exhibit has slides for kids (and adults) and some great play space for kids to chill out and play. read more

We had such a great time at the Atlantis Exhibit. Make sure you get there early (as soon as the park opens if possible) as it really gets crowded after lunchtime. Be sure to set aside enough time to visit an IMAX film (it's included in your price of admission), and also take the ride on the Shuttle Launch Experience. Both are really fun, but not nearly as fun as just walking around the shuttle itself. The way they designed the entrance, how you see the shuttle for the first time is just brilliant - It's really moving. There is a memorial to the astronauts lost in the two accidents involving shuttles, that is extremely interesting and also a little sobering. Be sure to spend some time there and make sure your children understand the significance of what they're seeing in that exhibit. The only negative is the gift shop. The prices are ridiculous, it's very tight quarters, and you can't really exit the building without going through it. Make sure you have a plan with your kids ahead of time if that is an issue for your family with young kids ("Mom, can I get this cheap plastic space shuttle for $50?" "Whhhhhhyyyyyyyy? ) One other thing to make sure you check out are the shuttle simulators. You can fly the shuttle, use the arm, and play with some other simulations - it was fun for all ages. The bottom line is this place is really great, don't short yourself by leaving it to the end of the day at KSC tour. read more

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Every trip to the NASA Kennedy Space Center (KSC) Visitor Complex absolutely must include a visit to the Space Shuttle Atlantis Exhibit. This place is AWESOME! The NASA administrator made a wise choice when he decided to place Atlantis at NASA KSC because the folks who organized and setup the exhibit here did an amazing job of presenting this national asset to the American public. Atlantis, along with the other three remaining Space Shuttle orbiters, were retired and strategically placed across the country at well-respected exhibit organizations. Here's a quick recap of where our Space Shuttle orbiters have been placed around the country: * Shuttle Enterprise:  In the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York. * Shuttle Discovery:  In the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Virginia. * Shuttle Endeavour:  In the California Science Center in Los Angeles. * Shuttle Atlantis:  In the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Upon approaching the Atlantis exhibit building, all guests walk underneath a full scale model of the Space Shuttle external tank and solid rocket boosters. This is great because it fills guests with awe at the true size of this majestic beast. The entryway inside the Atlantis exhibit building can comfortably accommodate hundreds of visitors, but the wait for entry has been short during all my visits. A few dozen guests at a time then enter into a large spacious room for a video that introduces the Space Shuttle, from the initial concept developed by Max Faget to the significant level of testing that was required to verify a safe, human-rated space flight capability. The video is wonderful, and gives you the background information to truly appreciate the hard work and monumental achievements that went into the Space Shuttle Program. After this video, the screen lifts to reveal Atlantis, in all her glory. I've visited Atlantis many times at this exhibit and each time I am filled with child-like wonder at America's accomplishment. Atlantis is obviously the masterpiece of this exhibit, but there are also many other significant pieces of hardware and artifacts related to the Space Shuttle Program, all of which are inspirational and educational for your entire family. For those interested in more details on what you can see in this building, you can also find my separate reviews and pictures for the "Forever Remembered" memorial and the "Shuttle Launch Experience." Both of these are also located within the Space Shuttle Atlantis Exhibit building. In summary, the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit is definitely worth a visit every time you're in the vicinity. Enjoy your visit! read more

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This is one of the "must see" attractions at the KSC. You get to see the shuttle hanging from the ceiling!! You can feel like a kid again as you climb through a mock international space station and slide down a huge slide. Wanna know what it's like for astronauts to blast off into space? There's a simulator ride for that!! There is so much to do inside here and a wealth of information to learn. Definitely don't pass this exhibit up! read more

If you are lucky enough to be at the Kennedy Space Center than you must go to the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit. The place is really cool and a absolute must see. The movie tells the history of the space shuttle missions and are very interesting. There is also a museum to walk around and see all kinds of memorabilia and pictures of missions. Unfortunately I ran out of time and was not able to do any of the simulators or the ride which I herd was totally amazing. I had a great time and learned a lot and would definitely go back when I have more time. Kennedy Space Center and the Space Shuttle Atlantis Exhibit are must sees if you are in the area. read more

Space Shuttle Atlantis - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Merritt Island, Florida

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This is a must-see/must-experience exhibit at the Kennedy Space Center. Make sure to allot time early on in the day to check this out. Inside, my favorite things were the space shuttle simulator experience and Forever Remembered. If you are interested in the shuttle simulator, go here first because lines may be long. Also, you'll be on your feet for a good while making your way to the simulator. I did the shuttle simulator and it was my absolute favorite thing that I did during my visit. In case you are nervous, they give you several opportunities and tell you what to expect. Oh, this is important, you must put all of your loose stuff (phone, keys, sunglasses, etc) in lockers before walking up the ramps to get in line for the simulator. MAKE SURE TO EMPTY YOUR POCKETS! Don't be that guy who still has their phone on them and creates a situation while we're all waiting to get on board (just saying). The Forever Remembered was interesting and the exhibit was designed well. You get a better understanding of the Apollo and Challenger disasters, as well as learn about the astronauts who were on board (there are personal items from each person on display that paint portraits of each individual, so you can get a feel of who they were). read more

World class exhibit. Educational, fascinating, and detailed and accessible. enough for kids and grown ups alike. The shuttle Atlantis and its history are amazing to see, and to be able to see the shuttle this close is incredible. It's almost close enough to touch! Tip; start here early and it's usually quiet and easier for great photos. Don't forget to try the "launch simulator" as well! read more

Space Shuttle Atlantis - Outside. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Merritt Island, Florida

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This is the real Shuttle Atlantis not a replica. It's housed in a big building. It's a must see while your here. The history on it is fascinating and it's so huge. It's bigger then you think it really is. Lots of stuff to do in the building besides see Atlantis, so check it out. The Shuttle Experience ride is in the building so you need to ride it while your here. read more

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I cry every time. No spoilers from me, but visiting Space Shuttle Atlantis really is an EXPERIENCE. The short film at the beginning of the exhibit is incredibly informative & educational, as well as emotional. Once inside, I love that guests can spend an unlimited amount of time adoring and photographing Atlantis. Plus KSCVC staff are always happy to take photos for you, if you want more than just selfies (and you know I want both). Additionally, docents are often available to answer questions and share their personal knowledge & experience. My other favorite things in the building are the slide on the middle level (it's not just for kids!), and the Launch Experience on lowest floor. Sometimes you can catch special events, like upcoming-launch-specific presentations or Astronaut Hall of Fame inductions. Other "don't miss" exhibits within the Atlantis building include the Hubble mock-up & film on the top level, and the respectful memorial to the Challenger & Columbia astronauts on the the lowest level. I could spend many hours in just this building (& actually have), but I have to remind myself that there is even more to see, do & learn at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Center. read more

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This was so great. So many exhibits and fun things to learn and do. My kid ran herself exhausted and we still had more to see. It's a great time. read more

We spent most of the day here. It was very informative. Never knew that Math played a huge part of Space Travel. We didn't take the tour train and wished that we had. You can only see about half of the available sites without the train tour. All in all we had a great visit. Also, I would suggest you buy your tickets in advance. The lines were Terri me without the advance purchase. read more

It is a very educational place for young and old. In the year we went we learned a lot. We will miss a lot. This great experience

I had to explain this to my kids a few times that this is the REAL ATLANTIS shuttle that flew into space and back. They thought it was a big mock up. That said it is amazing to see and be able to touch the real space craft with all that history behind it. The simulators that let you try to act like astronauts and do what they have to do can blow a lot of time but is very fun to play on. The two story slide is for all so give it a try to get to the lower level FAST. read more

A must see attraction at the KSCVC. It really makes you appreciate the mission that NASA has to benefit the human race. It's unique and awe inspiring. A great place to take your children and sow the seeds of science and engineering as well as have a great time as a family. read more

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We did this first one we arrived at the Kennedy space Center and it was truly amazing and awe inspiring. The movies, the exhibits And the simulator Are not to be missed. Get there first thing as it can get crowded. Our daughter actually got teary. read more

Space Shuttle Atlantis - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Merritt Island, Florida

It was soo Amazing coming here for my birthday yesterday it was a dream come true when I was in 2nd grade back in like 2012 the Atlantis Space shuttle passed by my School and I that is when I really started to get into space stuff and it has been 7 years later and now I get to see it in person read more

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What? Someone didn't rate Space Shuttle Atlantis 5 stars? Are you kidding?! I had a friend fly two of his missions to space on this, and it's just amazing to be nose to nose with a spacecraft that flew 33 missions to space. The "reveal" where Atlantis is shown to you NEVER NEVER gets old. It's the best display of any of the space shuttle orbiters! read more

Educational and functional. World class exhibits here. Tons of info here to learn. The space shuttle is jaw dropping when you see it. Very highly recommended read more

The KSC is a great time, but plan to walk a bit and spend the whole day here. Admission is $50 for adults and $40 for kids. Other than the price, it's a good time. read more

The Atlantis Exhibit at the Kennedy Space Center is nothing short of Amazing! We were a family and grandparents, 7 all together and this exhibit was magic for all of us. It begins with a movie and presentation that brought all 7 of us to tears. The Atlantis herself was majestic and her presentation was perfect. All the other exhibits had something for everyone. The kids loved the cockpit mockup and there was even a slide! The adults loved the displays, pictures and exhibits. From the Manned Maneuvering Unit to the life-size model of the Hubble Space Telescope, all was breath-taking! Don't miss this exhibit! read more

Very inspiring exhibit and awesome to be able to see one of the most complex machines humans ever built.

The Atlantis exhibit is amazing, gives me chills every time I see it as I used to work on the shuttle program. They have really honored the last of the shuttle fleet to fly and land by this beautiful exhibit. Lots of interactive educational displays for kids and adults alike. Do not miss it if you are in the space coast area! read more

Not much to see or do. Better than Air and Space in DC. Not as good as museums such as the Academy of Sciences in SF. Overpriced.