Exploration Tower
The Best Place to Watch a Rocket Launch
In the town of Cape Canaveral, Florida, there’s a unique structure that stands out among the flat and sandy landscape – the Exploration Tower. This multi-story complex not only serves as a beacon in this coastal town but also encapsulates the region’s rich history and enduring fascination with space exploration. An integral part of the Port Canaveral landscape since 2013, the Exploration Tower is a testament to human ingenuity and our continuous quest to understand the universe.
Design and Architecture
The Exploration Tower is a seven-story building that immediately captures the eye with its modern and nautical design, resembling a ship’s sail unfurling in the wind. The tower is more than just a picturesque landmark; it was built to withstand hurricane-level winds, a testament to Florida’s storm-prone geography. The design and construction have been carefully implemented, resulting in a structure that is as resilient as it is visually striking.
Exhibits and Facilities
Beyond its impressive architecture, the Exploration Tower houses a variety of exhibits and facilities. Each of the building’s floors has a distinct purpose, ranging from interactive displays about the history of Cape Canaveral and space exploration, to event spaces and viewing decks.
The first two levels feature a café, a gift shop, and a large event space suitable for various occasions. The event space showcases panoramic views of the Port, setting a unique backdrop for any event.
The third and fourth floors house a series of interactive exhibits, where visitors can learn about the history of the Port Canaveral area, including the native tribes that first inhabited the region, as well as the European settlers and space pioneers who later made their mark.
The fifth floor is dedicated entirely to the United States’ space program. Visitors can explore a timeline of significant events in space exploration, witness the technology and the spacecraft developed over the decades, and learn about the various missions, including those of NASA and private space companies.
The sixth floor offers a virtual ship navigation simulator, where visitors can experience piloting a boat through the Canaveral Harbor. It’s an engaging, hands-on display that makes navigation come alive for both children and adults.
Watch a Rocket Launch
The 7th-floor outdoor observation deck offers a stunning 360-degree view of Cape Canaveral and is the best place to watch a rocket launch! Seven stories above the ground, on an open promenade, you and your guests can see a launch like no other location in Port Canaveral. Stargazing and astronomy enthusiasts will want to stick around for the best view in town. This is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, especially during rocket launches from the nearby Kennedy Space Center and SpaceX facilities.
The Exploration Tower at Cape Canaveral is more than just an architectural marvel. It is a multi-dimensional celebration of human curiosity and exploration. From its nautical-themed design that pays homage to the region’s maritime history to its comprehensive exhibits focused on space exploration, the tower serves as a fascinating tribute to the region’s past, present, and future.
Visiting the Exploration Tower presents a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the captivating journey of space exploration while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding coastal landscape. It stands as a proud symbol of the region’s role in advancing our knowledge of the cosmos, making it a must-visit location for anyone visiting Florida’s Space Coast.
Reopening Summer 2023
EXPLORATION TOWER
670 Dave Nisbet Drive
Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
(321) 394-3408
Hours
Wednesday – Closed
Thursday – Closed
Friday – 10 AM – 5 PM
Saturday – 10 AM – 5 PM
Sunday – 10:30 AM – 5 PM
Monday – Closed
Tuesday – Closed
