Space Coast Viewing Guide
Where to Watch Artemis III Launch from Florida's Space Coast
Artemis III is currently targeted for June 29, 2027, launching from Launch Complex 39B at Kennedy Space Center. Artemis dates move often — check the live schedule before you travel.
An SLS launch is far brighter and louder than a typical Falcon 9, and the crowds are much larger. Arrive early, expect road closures around the causeways, and pick a spot with a clear line of sight north toward pad 39B.
16 public viewing spots
Apollo/Saturn V Center
Park
***CONFIRM WITH KSC FOR ANY LAUNCH*** For high profile launches, tickets may be available. Otherwise, there is a bus tour here included within standard KSC ticket.
KSC LC 39 Observation Gantry
Park
This will not be open for all launches (especially those from pad 39A. It seems that this is sometimes included within KSC admission ticket and sometimes a paid add-on. Check with KSC Visitor Center before locking in plans. https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/explore-attractions/behind-the-gates/the-
Playalinda Beach - Elevated Boardwalk
Beach
In each of the parking complexes, you will have to take an elevated boardwalk to get to the beach. Many people choose to use this boardwalk platform as a way to see the entire rocket on the launchpad prior to launch! If that is a priority, this may be your spot!
Cherie Down Park
Beach
This spot has generally decent parking and can be a decent alternative to Jetty Park. In reality, this marker represents the fact that any spot up and down this stretch of beach is a great view, especially for booster landings.
Rotary Riverfront Park
Park
Great small park with palm trees, views of pretty much all pads, and some parking spots. It also has a nice pier that runs out into the water. I've only shot here for one launch and it was off of pad 41. For that pad, only the top portion of the rocket was visible prior to launch. 39-B appeared
Jetty Park Beach
Beach
One of the closest locations south of the launch pads. This is a great spot when optimizing for booster landings. Admissions can be tricky, so make sure to check latest ticketing information from their official website.
SR-50 Boat Ramp
Beach
A nice view if you are coming form Orlando and don't feel like driving all the way to the coast and getting stuck in launch traffic. Needs to be a clear day.
Playalinda Beach
Beach
This marker represents the approximate location of how far you can go on Playalinda Beach for launch viewing. Some tips: - Beach opening hours do not adjust for a launch. If a launch gets postponed to be after park closing hours, you will be forced to leave. - Playalinda has closed for launches in
Max Brewer Bridge
Roadside
A nice elevated view to be able to see most of the launch pads. During major launches, the entire bridge can be shut down to allow pedestrian traffic.
Space View Park
Park
Nice public park on the water with good views!
The Space Bar
Restaurant
Have a drink with a launch on the side.
Exploration Tower
Viewing area
Previously offered elevated launch viewing from a seven-story observation deck. It closed for a waterproofing and maintenance project in 2022 and has not reopened. Kept on the map as a landmark so you do not plan a launch around it.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Park
KSC Visitor Center has a set of bleachers. These should have audio coverage of countdown. NOTE: for any launch, check with KSC to confirm if these will be available (and if there will be a cost for them). Very unlikely to be open outside of normal hours. Almost certainly an obstructed view prior t
Cape Canaveral Lighthouse
Viewing area
Not available to the public, but added to the map as a reference point
Vehicle Assembly Building
Viewing area
Seth's Sweet Spot
Roadside
This spot is not for the faint of heart, as it is tough getting back onto the highway. But Seth (editor of Space Explored) is a big fan! Photo credit: © Seth Kurkowski
See these spots on the map
Interactive map with launch pads, live countdown, and launch-time weather for every upcoming Space Coast launch.
Open the launch map