10 Things to Do in Cape Canaveral Before Your Cruise Sets Sail

If a Caribbean cruise is in your future, it’s likely you’ve already started counting down the days until you set sail. But why wait until you leave shore to start your vacation? Rather than feeling rushed and stressing over the details of your ship’s departure, get to your cruise port a day early and take that extra time to enjoy some of the many great things to do in Cape Canaveral, Florida.

Explore astronautical attractions at Kennedy Space Center

Kennedy Space Center is home to space shuttle Atlantis, which carried astronauts to space on 33 missions.

In an area of Florida known as the Space Coast for its history as the home of America’s space program, it’s not surprising that some of the most popular things to do in Cape Canaveral involve exploring outer space. The Kennedy Space Center has exhibits and interactive experiences that showcase the history and future of human space travel.

Watch a rocket launch at Exploration Tower

If you’re lucky enough to be in town at the right time, the observation decks at Exploration Tower provide the perfect vantage point to witness a rocket launch. It’s one of the coolest and most unique things to do in Port Canaveral, but even if a launch isn’t happening while you’re there, Exploration Tower still makes for a fun visit. The unique landmark offers seven floors of interactive displays and exhibits, multiple observation decks with views of the coast, an auditorium and a cafe.

Stroll miles of shoreline along Canaveral National Seashore

Not far from the thunderous site of rocket launches is virtually untouched Canaveral National Seashore.

If you’re wondering what to do in Cape Canaveral, you’ll find no shortage of spots to lounge, swim or surf along the Space Coast’s 72 miles of shoreline. For tranquility and seclusion, spend your day enjoying the seemingly endless stretch of unspoiled beach at Canaveral National Seashore.

Play at the Cocoa Beach pier

Walk out over the Atlantic on Cocoa Beach Pier for fishing, food or fun on the beach.

Another great option for beach bums, nearby Cocoa Beach is less than a 20-minute drive from Port Canaveral. The historic Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier is the place to go for everything from gift shops and beach rentals to dining and live entertainment.

Kayak through the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Snapping turtles, alligators, manatees, bald eagles and hundreds of other species of animals and plants live in the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is among the best things to do in Cape Canaveral. Visitors can explore the refuge’s hiking and driving trails, but the best way to observe the wildlife is by taking advantage of the guided kayak tours offered by several local companies.

Go wild at the Brevard Zoo in Melbourne

Searching for things to do in Melbourne, Florida? The Brevard Zoo is the place to go if you’re looking to get up close and personal with animals from farther, more exotic parts of the world. Check out the Expedition Africa exhibit to learn about and interact with the zoo’s giraffes—you can even feed them right out of your hand!

Reach new heights at Treetop Trek Aerial Adventures Park

Looking for more adventurous things to do near Cape Canaveral? Adrenaline junkies will enjoy challenging their physical abilities climbing, traversing and zip lining through the courses at the zoo’s Treetop Trek Aerial Adventures park.

Shop for souvenirs at the Cove Marketplace

Pick out souvenirs for your loved ones back home at the open-air Cove Marketplace at Port Canaveral’s waterfront area. Enjoy live music while you shop for locally made crafts from a carefully chosen selection of Florida’s most unique and talented vendors.

Watch ships as you sip at Fishlips Waterfront Bar

Relax with a drink and watch the other cruisers head into or out of Port Canaveral

Dine alfresco at Fishlips Waterfront Bar and Grill, located near Port Canaveral, where you can enjoy classic beach fare with a waterfront view. The patio and sun deck at Fishlips give you a front-row seat to watch cruise ships enter and leave port.

Cap off your night with a flight at Florida Beer Company

After dinner, head down the road to Florida Beer Company to end your night with one of the brewery’s more than 20 different beers and ciders. The brewery offers tours as well as games like Jenga, darts, foosball and shuffleboard.