Exploration Tower at Port Canaveral in Cape Canaveral, FL

670 Dave Nisbet Dr.Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
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Overview

Situated in scenic Port Canaveral, the iconic Exploration Tower is a breathtaking landmark that’s both entertaining and educational to experience. Featuring seven floors of interactive activities, the tower offers indoor and outdoor observation decks, 5,550 square feet of exhibit space, an auditorium, a gift store and more, guests can create unforgettable memories at this special attraction.

Good To Know

  • Marvel at birds-eye-views of Port Canaveral.
  • Discover all 7 floors of interactive exhibits.
  • Experience the Port Canaveral pilot experience.
  • Located only 45 minutes east of Orlando.
  • Delicious café available on-site.

Description

Get a spectacular bird's eye view of Port Canaveral and the surrounding area from our tower observation decks at the Exploration Tower. Discover more about this unique part of Florida from seven stories of exhibits and interactive play.

The new Exploration Tower at Port Canaveral officially opened November 4, 2013 as part of the Canaveral Port Authority's celebration of the 60th Anniversary.

Experience what it's like to be a Port Canaveral Pilot and navigate your boat using a simulator through Canaveral Harbor to greet cruise ships.

Explore Central Florida's past and present with the touch of a finger using our large-scale interactive map.

Learn about the Port's vibrant history and the key events that helped transform it into the flourishing harbor we know today in our state-of-the-art theater.

Features include:
  • Indoor & Outdoor observation decks
  • Event Space
  • Auditorium
  • Café
  • Exhibit Space
  • Gift Shop

Exploration Tower at Port Canaveral Reviews

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lekker12345678
Herentals, Antwerp Province
"Back open ???"
TripAdvisor user rating 4 out of 5
Reviewed March 07, 2024
When will you open again to the general public? I will be in Orlando in November 2025 and would like to return to you to enjoy the view of the harbor and the exhibitions inside. P.S Is there a place to drink in the tower?
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francod549
Palm Bay, Brevard County, Florida
"Call before you go"
TripAdvisor user rating 1 out of 5
Reviewed July 03, 2022
Was closed even though website said it was open. Grounds are nice and watched larger fish chase baitfish in the adjacent water.
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jimwhitman9
Everett, Washington
"Great perspective, but seems to be too far away"
TripAdvisor user rating 4 out of 5
Reviewed May 26, 2022
The facility was very nice and the staff friendly. We were able to go to the top and stand at the rail to watch a launch, but a little disappointed to be more than a mile away. I KNOW - it's for safety reasons, I get it. But you kind of lose the effect when the rocket seems so small on the horizon - and the boom of liftoff doesn't reach you for a few seconds after it happens. It was cool - glad we did it, but not really a Big Wow. Manage your expectations accordingly and you'll love it.
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SO9953barbaras
"Winter Trip 2022"
TripAdvisor user rating 5 out of 5
Reviewed March 07, 2022
Went here the day before a tour that was to meet here to see how long the drive was from our lodging. Only the gift shop and the observation area on the seventh level were open. Went to the observation area. The views were outstanding. A fun place to go.
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Travelicious195
United States
"Beautiful views & gift shop!"
TripAdvisor user rating 5 out of 5
Reviewed October 17, 2021
The exploration tower was a wonderful stop! Only 2 floors were open when we visited (first floor gift shop & 7th floor observation area). Entry was free…Friendly staff & reasonable prices in the gift shop. Beautiful views on the 7th floor. The 2 ladies at the gift shop desk were helpful in telling us things to do & best places to go. Even gained some knowledge from them about the lighthouse nearby. They also went above & beyond when I was looking for a particular size in a shirt that they didn’t have out on the rack. Tip - they have free brochures with coupons for local restaurants & activities. Near the register, there are some business card type coupons for the restaurants at the port. My daughter picked up one for “Rusty’s” that had a coupon for a free fountain drink & beer/wine for adults for up to 6 people. We had lunch there & used the coupon & all our beverages were free including a beer for my husband & glass of wine for me! Would definitely recommend stopping here if you are in town.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Exploration Tower at Port Canaveral

Where is Exploration Tower located?
We are located in Port Canaveral, just 45 minutes east of Orlando.

Where can we park?
Free parking can be found in the adjacent lot to the Exploration Tower building.
Is the facility wheelchair accessible?
Yes, we are committed to making our facility and programs handicap accessible to all visitors with disabilities.


What is Exploration Tower?
This is an exciting experience with 7 stories of fun and adventure with interactive exhibits and activities everyone can enjoy.


What is located on each floor?
1st floor – Guest information, Café and Shop
2nd floor – Port Origins and Fragile Environment
3rd floor – Leisure and Recreation Theater
4th floor – Meeting and Events
5th floor – Navigating Port Canaveral
6th floor – Air and Space Port
7th floor – Outdoor Observation Deck


Can we watch a Kennedy Space Center rocket launch from the 7th floor?
Yes, as long as the launch is during our open operating hours.