Cape Canaveral: 15 Things You Can’t Miss

Cape Canaveral is an excellent vacation destination, and when you look at your cell phone’s GPS to find breakfast near me, we’ve got you covered. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. And, there are a few reasons why you have to make sure to get a hearty breakfast, especially when doing a lot of touring. So, before we tell you a little about 15 things you can’t miss in the area, let’s give you some of the facts about breakfast. By the way, a tasty breakfast will get your kids up in the morning when they’d rather be sleeping.

Kids in particular need fuel. Everyone needs the energy that comes from eating breakfast in the morning. But, kids need it more because of their growing bodies.
Breakfast resets your body’s rhythm. Overnight, your body’s blood sugar diminishes. But, sugar is necessary for your brain, muscles, and your body’s metabolism.
Breakfast helps you get that sugar back in your system.
Breakfast and your weight. Studies have shown that people having a healthy breakfast each morning are thinner than those who don’t eat breakfast.
Heart disease decreases. Research has shown that people who do not eat breakfast have a higher likelihood of heart disease and cardiovascular problems.

Now that you know why having breakfast is important let’s take a look at 15 things you and your family don’t want to miss in Cape Canaveral! Feel free to scroll through all our 15 fabulous ideas. Or, you can also skip to sections that are of the most interest.

Food and Beer Near Me in Cape Canaveral
Cape Canaveral Launch Schedule…And More!
Cape Canaveral Tours Off the Beaten Path
Enjoy the Outdoors in Cape Canaveral

Food and Beer Near Me in Cape Canaveral

Southern Charm Cafe

Above you learned that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Well, the Southern Charm Cafe gives you one of the most delicious breakfasts in Cape Canaveral. But, we also make a fantastic lunch for all our patrons. Before or after you’re touring and experiencing a few of our country’s best tourist sites, you can have some great American food. And, we serve it in a homestyle setting with lots of friendly southern charm. Our patrons love the Country Breakfast, omelets, scramblers, and more during breakfast time.

For lunch in Cape Canaveral, there’s no better place to eat juicy and delicious all-American burgers. You can also enjoy hot sandwiches, meatloaf, and of course, excellent Southern Fried Chicken and sides. Southerners equate food with love. So, if you love what they cook, they’re sure to love you back.

And like you, we care about our men and women who serve our communities in law enforcement, are active military or veterans. So, because of it, we provide them with a 10% discount. If you’re on vacation or one of our locals, you’ll always find a friendly place for everyone wanting a good atmosphere and excellent breakfast or lunch foods.

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Florida Beer Co.

After a whole day of touring, one of the things you’ll want to do is have a cold beer while the kids play in the pool. Or, maybe you’ll want to search for the Cape Canaveral launch schedule and then view a rocket launch. No matter what, there’s no better place that’s better than the Florida Beer Co. for a delicious beer. The beer company was established in 1997. And, in 2013, the company began operating out of the old Chrysler Space Operations plant. Yes, you can tour the brewery, if that’s something that would be of interest to you.

At Florida Beer Co., you have the chance also to visit the tap room. Not only will you taste some of their terrific beers, but you’ll also have the opportunity to hear live music. What could be better than some time with adult friends and family listening to great music while enjoying ales, lagers, and ciders? As one of the most fun places in town, when you’re in the area, don’t miss one of their many events.

Cape Canaveral Launch Schedule…And More!

Kennedy Space Center

Did you know that it’s easy to find the Cape Canaveral launch schedule? All you have to do is head over to the Kennedy Space Center website when you’re planning your vacation. And, even if there are no launches scheduled when you’re visiting, there’s so much to do! Your entire family is going to love exploring our nation’s space center, which is your gateway to space. When you visit the Kennedy Space Center, you’ll experience different Mission Zones. Those zones are in chronological order and grouped. As a result, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the pioneers of space travel to what’s discovering what’s happening now.

There’s more to the Kennedy Space Center than meets the eye. If you have kids or a budding astronaut, the Kennedy Space Center also hosts camps, field trips and educational programs that focus on STEM. And because space travel is always about the future, don’t forget to explore the missions to the International Space Station (ISS). In that area of the Kennedy Space Center, you’ll have the chance to see 3D IMAX films about space, and you’ll see what rockets today’s astronauts are using to get into orbit and space. And, don’t forget that you can spend the entire day at a place like the Kennedy Space Center. So, make it a point to ensure that you and your family have a hearty breakfast, perhaps at the Southern Charm Cafe, to start the day!

Air Force Space and Missile Museum

In any visit to Cape Canaveral should include the Air Force Space and Missle Museum. It was founded in 1966, and within its walls, you’ll have the chance to explore rocketry history and space flight. This museum is unique in that it has two adjoining launch complexes. The first one is Launch Complex 26, which is the site of the launch of Explorer I, a U.S. satellite. In all, this area is where 36 launches happened before its deactivation in 1963. Those missions included sending three primates sent to space before human-crewed flights.

The second launch site is Launch Complex 5/6. If you’re interested in history and the role of the U.S. in leading humans to explore places beyond Earth, then this is another place to check out in your visit. Launch Complex 5/6 was the site of the early Project Mercury missions. Alan Shepard and Gus Grissom were the first two American astronauts we sent to space in 1961 from Launch Pad 5. We owe these men and other explorers so much credit for being the first to go where no one had gone before them. When you’re visiting the Cape Canaveral area, don’t miss this excellent opportunity to understand early space flight.

Sands Space History Center

On one of your vacation days, when you’re in Cape Canaveral and are enjoying a delicious meal with the family, consider a trip to Sands Space History Center. This site was once known as The Air Force Space and Missile History Center, located near the southern gate of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. What’s one great benefit of visiting Sands Space History Center? Well, for starters, the admission is free. That’s right. You don’t have to pay anything to visit, and that makes it attractive for family budgets.

The ideal way to visit the Sands Space History Center is to take a designated bus from the Kennedy Space Center on the Cape Canaveral Early Space Tour. The visit to the Sands Space History Center will take you two and a half hours, and you’ll have the chance to visit some of the historical sites at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. But, when you visit the Sands Space History Center, you also have the opportunity to see so much more. You’ll learn about many kinds of hardware, including missiles, rockets, and payload vehicles.

Exploration Tower

Want to see an incredible architectural landmark in Cape Canaveral? After having a filling and delicious breakfast at the Southern Charm Cafe, why not head over to Exploration Tower? When you head over to Exploration Tower, you’ll experience seven floors of fun and, well, exploration! For instance, you’ll have the chance to visit observation decks, indoors and outdoors, for space launches.

The second floor consists of a 2,750 square-foot interactive exhibit space. It’s there that you’ll discover the history of the early explorers and settlers in the area and the Cape Canaveral port. More floors offer you a chance to learn about the Cape Canaveral Port and harbor that exist today, including in a state-of-the-art theater. And, don’t miss all the boats that create a vibrant port. You’ll have the chance to see everything from fishing boats to mega ship and everything in-between.

SpaceX Landing Zone 1 & 2

If you’re looking to experience the future of space travel, then SpaceX Landing Zone 1 & 2 is for you and your family. The shift has happened in space exploration with private companies now working alongside the NASA astronauts and space explorers. The billionaire, Elon Musk, owns SpaceX, which is a private company. It’s most significant milestone so far is that it is the only company that returned a spacecraft to Earth. As a result, the future of business and society is inching closer to a reality where people and not just astronauts will travel to space and return.

Understanding that the Cape Canaveral launch schedule now also includes private companies launching rockets and payloads to space is vital to understanding space exploration. If you’re interested in checking out launches, SpaceX launches from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Kennedy Space Center. And, the company also does launches from Boca Chica in Texas and Vandenberg Air Force Base (VAFB), located in California. So, make it a point to check out the private and government Cape Canaveral launch schedule, which you can find at the Kennedy Space Center.

Cape Canaveral Tours Off the Beaten Path

The Dinosaur Store and Museum

Whether you have kids or not, The Dinosaur Store and Museum is lots of fun for people of all ages. After you have a delicious breakfast or lunch, and have all the energy to you need, think about doing something different. When you got to The Dinosaur Store and Museum in Cape Canaveral, you’ll have the chance to see fossils that are museum quality, including dinosaur eggs, teeth, and claws. And, one of the other significant things of this particular place is that it’s only two blocks from the ocean. It’s always great to be in nature and see the water.

And, while you’re at The Dinosaur Store and Museum, take a look at the interactive Adventure Zone, which is on the property. There, you’ll have the opportunity to have everything from a family reunion in Cape Canaveral to a birthday party. And, while you’re at it, you’ll see live alligators and reptiles. We’re sure your kids are going to love the animals and having that kind of experience. Of course, there’s always shopping that you can do and you can enjoy the museum, which has the Hall of Dinosaurs and Ancient Cultures Mezzanine.

Parker Brothers Concepts

If you’re seeking something unique for your family, Parker Brothers Concepts has to be on your list to visit. Brothers Marc and Shanon Parker founded the company. They wanted to develop custom bikes and go-carts in ways that were out of the box and never before done. Just visiting them will give you the chance to see some of the coolest vehicles that people can ride and experience on land.

When you visit the Visitor Complex, which is a few blocks from the Cocoa Beach Pier, you’ll also have the chance to see incredible cars and concepts you’ll see nowhere else. You won’t believe your eyes when you see the vehicles in their state-of-the-art visitor showroom. But there’s more! You’ll also want to see their futuristic NEUTRON electric motorcycle, which is one of the sleekest and futuristic bikes you’ll see. Finally, don’t forget to pick up a souvenir from their shop.

Victory Casino Cruises

For something a little different, how about 40,000 square feet and 4 decks of gaming and entertainment? When you go to Cape Canaveral and visit Victory Casino Cruises, you’ll experience the largest casino cruise ship in the U.S. There’s no need to go to Las Vegas for an excellent casino experience. By taking a Victory Casino cruise, you’ll enjoy more than 600 slot machines and more than two dozen casino games. And, another great activity is that it boasts Florida’s only live roulette and craps tables. You can also place bets on sports such as football, basketball, hockey and more.

If gaming isn’t you’re thing, or you need a break from it, food and drinks are available on all levels. It includes 5 bars and 2 dining rooms, as well as a sports lounge. Also, you can enjoy yourself by going to Big Norm’s Club V, which provides patrons free shows. And, if you’re someone who loves to get your dancing shoes on, you can do it on their dance floor. Enjoy this excellent adult experience for gaming and entertainment on a 5 or 6-hour cruise.

Space Coast Segway Tours

If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly and fun way to see the sites of Cape Canaveral, then consider Space Coast Segway Tours. When you patronize them, you’ll train on riding a Segway, which is fun and easy, once you get the hang of it. A standard tour to see the sites consists of people who are over the age of 14 and weigh at least 100 pounds. So, sorry to the little ones for not being able to take a Segway tour.

A tour group consists of 6 riders at the most. And, you’ll have the chance to do it in the day or toward evening time. Yes, the Segways light up, which is cool. When you make your reservation, make sure to look at their training video. Also, remember on the day of your tour that you’ll have to wear proper clothing. Meaning, they do not allow dresses or skirts, and neither sandals or flip-flops. Instead, they recommend that you wear tennis shoes, so make it a point to pack them when you’re planning your trip. Or, you can buy them after having a great breakfast at the Southern Charm Cafe when you visit one of our running or sports retail stores in the area.

Cape Canaveral Nature Sites to Visit

Cape Canaveral Lighthouse

Since 1848, the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse has been a prominent site in the area. Yet, there’s a little history you should know. The first lighthouse was built in the 1800s and was only 65 feet in height. But, mariners at the time said that the small stature of the structure was not enough of a warning to ships in the area as to the shoals. So, a second lighthouse was approved, and it was rebuilt approximately 85 feet from the old tower and further inland. And, this time it was 151 feet tall, which was necessary for mariners.

When you visit the lighthouse in Cape Canaveral, you’ll have the chance to visit a historical landmark. One of the features of the tower was that the first three levels were created to not flood. And, because of it, it meant that the entrance was up a long stairway outside of the structure that led into the opening on the third level. But, don’t worry. That’s no longer the case. You’ll have the chance to enter into the lighthouse from the ground level, developed in the 1930s. You can tour the tower on your own, or you can do it through a tour company in the area.

Orlando Princess & Canaveral Princess Deep Sea Fishing

Are you someone who loves to fish? Well, you don’t have to miss the experience when you visit Cape Canaveral. You can go fishing with your family with Orlando Princess & Canaveral Princess Deep Sea Fishing. The company offers its customers three choices concerning fishing. First, you can take a half-day fishing expedition with everything included on an 85-foot boat. But, if a full day of fishing is more your style, they also offer that opportunity to you on another 85-foot boat with everything included in the price. On either of these fishing tours, you’ll have the chance to catch fish including snapper, flounder, sea bass or mackerel.

But, there are a couple of more options for you if you’re someone who enjoys spending the day on the water fishing. You can also enjoy a night shark fishing expedition, which includes dinner. On that fishing tour, you can catch sharks and the occasional Cobia or Tripple-tail. And, if you would like to only be with your family and friends, you can charter a boat for 6 to 12 people for a half or full day. Isn’t it great to know that you don’t have to miss fishing, even on your vacation to Cape Canaveral?!

Golf N Gator Mini-Golf

Even if you’re not a golfer, you’re going to enjoy spending some time outdoors at Golf N Gator Mini-Golf. Everyone is a kid at heart for a little mini-golf. And, at this mini-golf course, you and the family can play on one of two 18-hole courses. Or, you can decide to play both of them for a little more friendly competition. What’s more, you’ll have the chance also to see alligators, fish, and turtles in two ponds located on the site.

If that’s not enough, when you’re done playing mini-golf, you and your family can enjoy the Mining Company, which is part of the same amusement site. Meaning, you’ll have the chance to mine for fossils, gems, arrowheads, and fossils and take home what you find! Like explorers, you’ll sift through dirt in search of hidden treasures for you and your family. And, if you happen to visit this tourist attraction in the morning, you can work up your appetite for an excellent lunch, including burgers!

Manatee Sanctuary Park

One of Florida’s most beloved animal is a manatee. Have you and your family ever seen one up close? You’ll have the chance to see manatees at the Manatee Sanctuary Park. These gentle creatures are also called sea cows. That is to say, that they eat plants, are large and peaceful and are like the cows that graze on the land. Manatees are a protected species in Florida since 1893 and are also federally protected by the Endangered Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act.

When you visit the Manatee Sanctuary, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy 10 beautiful riverfront acres. The park is on the Banana River. Spend a quiet day with your family enjoying nature. You can enjoy a bike ride in nature or take a run with a partner through this peaceful oasis. After you’ve experienced some of the other sites around Cape Canaveral, taking a lazy day in natural surroundings and observing some of the manatees will be a great way to add variety.

In conclusion, Cape Canaveral is an excellent place to visit for you and your family. When you visit this special place in Florida, don’t forget to take a look at the Cape Canaveral launch schedule before planning your trip. Also, make it a point to drop by the Southern Charm Cafe for breakfast or lunch. And remember, in the south, there are no strangers, just friends we haven’t met yet.