Merritt Island

Merritt Island’s most popular attraction by far, the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor’s Center welcomes upward of 1.5 million visitors each year. Visitors need to set aside much of a day to fully do justice to all the fascinating exhibits and displays. There is something to excite visitors of all ages including the retired Atlantis orbiter, which is housed in an enormous 10-story purpose-built building. Activities are just about endless, including the exciting Shuttle Launch Experience simulator, various guided bus tours of the larger space center and 2 IMAX theatres. You can even attend a lecture/presentation from a real astronaut and visit the separate Apollo/Saturn V Center.

NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953, Phone: 855-433-4210

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is located on 140,000 acres of Atlantic coastline on Merritt Island. Subject to periodic restrictions due to NASA activities, visitors are welcome to visit the refuge to enjoy scenic drives, hiking and wildlife observation. The refuge is home to diverse habitats which provide sanctuary to a great many plant, animal and bird species, including some which are under threat of extinction. There is an observation deck where avid photographers will usually encounter a variety of birds to snap and everyone can enjoy the 7-mile Black Point Wildlife Drive. This peaceful refuge also provides a gateway to the Great Florida Birding Trail.

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, 1987 Scrub Jay Way, Titusville, FL 32782

Attractions for Couples

The Brevard County Veterans Memorial and Military Museum was set up to honor Brevard County Veterans and to collect and showcase all manner of military artifacts relating to Brevard County, in particular. The collection is made up of donated artifacts, equipment, uniforms and mementos (the museum is always happy to receive any historic military articles you may like to donate), the majority of which have some link to Brevard County. The collection spans many decades from the Revolutionary War right up to the continuing War on Terror. In addition there are many objects showcasing military life during peace time. The museum is suitable for all visitors including children.

Brevard Veterans Memorial and Military Museum, 400 S. Sykes Creek Pkwy, Merritt Island, FL 32952, Phone: 321-453-1776

Forming part of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, the Black Point Wildlife Drive offers visitors a safe and enjoyable way to observe a wide range of wildlife. The drive is one-way only (no need to worry about on-coming traffic) and has been built on an existing system of dykes which were originally built to control mosquitoes on the extensive wetlands. There are several observation stops along the length of the 7-mile scenic drive, allowing visitors to stop off and do some photography. If you would like concentrate on the wildlife you can leave the driving to someone else and join the guided and narrated shuttle bus tour.

The Black Point Wildlife Drive, Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, 1987 Scrub Jay Way, Titusville, FL 32782

My Island Pancake House is your go-to breakfast and lunch diner on Merritt Island. The pancake house started off serving on weekends only (as a hobby) but such was the demand that the diner now operates daily. Besides a delectable range of pancakes, French toast and waffles, you can also order proper bacon, eggs and sausage, corn beef hash and other breakfast favorites. If you prefer to start your day with something a little healthier, you will also find fresh fruit plates or yoghurt and muesli on the menu. The lunch menu lists a selection of burgers, sandwiches, sliders and salads. Seniors get a free coffee, tea or soda with their entrée.

Merritt Island Pancake House, 950 N. Courtenay Parkway, Merritt Island, FL 32953, Phone: 321-501-5996