Atlantis is displayed as only astronauts have seen her in space, rotated 43.21 degrees with payload doors open and Canadarm extended, as if just undocked from the International Space Station (ISS). One of three space-flown shuttles displayed in the United States, Space Shuttle Atlantis® showcases the orbiter spacecraft and tells the story of NASA’s 30-year Space Shuttle Program.
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Space Shuttle Atlantis

4.9
·5k reviews·Merritt Island, United States

Witness the actual Space Shuttle Atlantis, a marvel of engineering and a symbol of human ambition in space exploration.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more immersive

CrowdLow
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Atlantis is displayed as only astronauts have seen her in space, rotated 43.21 degrees with payload doors open and Canadarm extended, as if just undocked from the International Space Station (ISS). One of three space-flown shuttles displayed in the United States, Space Shuttle Atlantis® showcases the orbiter spacecraft and tells the story of NASA’s 30-year Space Shuttle Program.

Space Shuttle Atlantis

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more immersive

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness the actual Space Shuttle Atlantis, a marvel of engineering and a symbol of human ambition in space exploration.

4.9
(5k reviews)

"Getting to see the real Atlantis that I grew up watching was incredible."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚀 Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your Kennedy Space Center tickets in advance online.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking! Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the vast complex.

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Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.9 · 5,497 reviews

Type

Museum

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Space Shuttle Atlantis

Space Shuttle Atlantis

Space Shuttle Atlantis Exhibit

Witness the actual Space Shuttle Atlantis, suspended as if in orbit, a truly awe-inspiring piece of history.

External Tank and Boosters

External Tank and Boosters

Gateway to Atlantis Exhibit

Stand beneath the massive external tank and rocket boosters, the grand entrance to the Atlantis experience.

Hubble Space Telescope Replica

Hubble Space Telescope Replica

Space Shuttle Atlantis Exhibit

See a full-scale replica of the Hubble Space Telescope, a testament to human ingenuity in space exploration.

Challenger and Columbia Memorials

Challenger and Columbia Memorials

Space Shuttle Atlantis Exhibit

Pay respects at the moving memorials honoring the brave astronauts lost in the Challenger and Columbia missions.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Secure your admission to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, especially the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, ahead of time. This avoids long queues and ensures you don't miss out on popular attractions. Consider package deals for added value.

Allocate Ample Time

The Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit is a highlight, but the entire Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers a full day of exploration. Plan for at least 7 hours to fully experience the exhibits, simulators, and historical displays.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Space Shuttle Atlantis Launch In 4K IMAX STS-125 was the final space shuttle mission to the Hubble Space Telescope. Atlantis’ crew repaired and upgraded the Hubble, conducting five spacewalks during their mission to extend the life of the orbiting observatory. Follow @astro.launch for more content ______________ #reels #space #spaceshuttleatlantis #spaceshuttle #launch #rocket #booster #4k #ep...
astro.launch
59.1K likes • 1.3M views

🚀 Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your Kennedy Space Center tickets in advance online. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking! Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the vast complex. Reddit

STS-125 Space Shuttle Atlantis Launch, 2009 STS-125, or HST-SM4 (Hubble Space Telescope Servicing Mission 4), was the fifth and final Space Shuttle mission to the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). The launch of the Space Shuttle Atlantis occurred on May 11, 2009, at 2:01 pm EDT. Landing occurred on May 24 at 11:39 am EDT, with the mission lasting a total of just under 13 days. Follow @astro.launch f...
astro.launch
16.8K likes • 533K views
Space Shuttle Landing With HUD And Crew Audio The crew of Atlantis had six possible landing opportunities on Saturday. Managers evaluated the best three opportunities of the day to try to bring the orbiter home. Saturday’s first landing opportunity at Kennedy Space Center was waived due to poor weather forecasts, and observed weather violations for the landing criteria. After further evaluating w...
astro.launch
84.3K likes • 3.5M views

📸 Capture the Moment

Bring your camera or phone to photograph the incredible exhibits, especially the Space Shuttle Atlantis. Instagram

⏳ Allow Plenty of Time

Dedicate at least 7 hours to fully experience the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit and other attractions. Reddit

Space Shuttle Atlantis Launch In 4K IMAX STS-125 was the final space shuttle mission to the Hubble Space Telescope. Atlantis’ crew repaired and upgraded the Hubble, conducting five spacewalks during their mission to extend the life of the orbiting observatory. Reposted from: @astro.launch #reels #space #spaceshuttleatlantis #spaceshuttle #launch #rocket #booster #4k #epic #incrediblesound
spacecuriositydotcom
429 likes • 8.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚀 Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your Kennedy Space Center tickets in advance online. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking! Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the vast complex. Reddit

📸 Capture the Moment

Bring your camera or phone to photograph the incredible exhibits, especially the Space Shuttle Atlantis. Instagram

⏳ Allow Plenty of Time

Dedicate at least 7 hours to fully experience the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit and other attractions. Reddit

💡 Consider a Guided Tour

For a deeper understanding, explore guided tour options to learn more about the Space Shuttle Program. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit as a highlight of the Kennedy Space Center, calling it a moving and compelling experience. The chance to see the actual shuttle up close is described as incredible and awe-inspiring. While the exhibit is a major draw, some visitors note that the entire Visitor Complex offers a wealth of attractions, making a full day necessary.

"The last building that we toured was the impressive Space Shuttle Atlantis. Kennedy is the permanent home of Space Shuttle Atlantis. Atlantis is raised 30 feet off the ground, and is turned 43.21 degrees as if it were in space. There’s a full scale external tank and two rocket boosters that are the grand gateway. The huge orange external tank is suspended 23 feet above the ground, and reaches 184 feet in the air. The inside tour tells the entire story of the Space Shuttle Program.
There is over 60 exhibits and simulators to experience in the space shuttle center. Two other sights to see is full sized replica of the Hubble Space Telescope, that hangs opposite the open payload bay doors of Space Shuttle Atlantis, with Atlantis’ Canada Arm extended(the robotic arm made by Canada). The permanent memorial honors the lives lost during the space shuttle missions, Challenger and Columbia are in the complex with patches along the walls, Challenger on the left and Columbia on the right. We didn’t do the space shuttle experience(another trip in the works later this year) on this visit, but some of my younger family members did take the slide down to the next level. Space Shuttle Atlantis also has a souvenir shop located on the way out. I REALLY enjoyed my second time visiting Kennedy Space Center, it was worth the 33 yrs. wait return visit."

Michelle Morgan

"My favourite exhibition of all. A moving and compelling exhibit surrounded by stories and artifacts as well as a pre-show which is extraordinary! Getting to see the real Atlantis that I grew up watching was incredible.

As well as this, there is a fun slide for children and adults alike to slide down, a shuttle simulator as well as interactive games (positioning the shuttle in the VAB for example)

If this was the only thing to see here it would still be worth it."

Nic Banister

"Great exhibit at the Kennedy Space Center! A piece of history that is amazing. The entire shuttle just as it landed for last time. This is a great interactive pavilion. Don't miss the simulated shuttle launch."

Connie Curran

What People Like

Seeing the actual Space Shuttle Atlantis
Interactive exhibits and simulators
Moving memorials

What People Dislike

Parking fees
Crowds during peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Space Shuttle Atlantis is located within the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. You can drive to the Visitor Complex, which has ample parking. Public transportation options are limited, so driving or ride-sharing services are recommended. Instagram

From Orlando, take FL-528 East (Beachline Expressway) towards Cape Canaveral. Continue on FL-528 E until it ends at State Road 3. Turn right onto SR 3 North and follow signs for the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Instagram

Yes, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers ample parking for visitors. There is a fee for parking, which is typically paid upon arrival. Instagram

Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available and can drop you off at the Visitor Complex. This can be a convenient option if you prefer not to drive. Reddit

Many visitors opt to drive, as it offers the most flexibility. Alternatively, consider organized bus tours from Orlando, which often include admission tickets and transportation. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit is included with your general admission ticket to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Ticket prices vary, so check the official KSC website for current rates. Reddit

It is highly recommended to purchase your Kennedy Space Center tickets online in advance, especially during peak seasons, to avoid long lines and ensure entry. Reddit

The Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit follows the operating hours of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check the official KSC website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Yes, the Kennedy Space Center offers various tours, some of which may provide a more in-depth experience related to the Space Shuttle Program and Atlantis. Check their website for details on tours like the KSC Bus Tour. Reddit

Refund policies vary depending on the ticket type and purchase method. It's advisable to review the terms and conditions at the time of purchase or contact KSC directly for specific inquiries. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The exhibit showcases the actual Space Shuttle Atlantis, suspended at a 43.21-degree angle as if in orbit. It features over 60 interactive exhibits, simulators, and displays detailing the shuttle's missions and the Space Shuttle Program. TikTok

Yes, there's a fun slide for both children and adults to descend to the next level, as well as interactive games and simulators that kids often enjoy. Reddit

While the exhibit itself can be explored in about 1-2 hours, many visitors spend longer to engage with all the interactive elements and simulators. The entire Visitor Complex warrants a full day. Reddit

Absolutely! The exhibit includes simulators and interactive games, such as positioning the shuttle in the VAB (Vehicle Assembly Building), allowing visitors to feel like they are part of the mission. Reddit

Space Shuttle Atlantis flew 33 missions, deployed satellites, and helped construct the International Space Station. Its final mission was STS-135 in 2011, marking the end of the Space Shuttle Program. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex has several dining options, including cafes and restaurants, located throughout the complex, some of which are near the Atlantis exhibit. Reddit

Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the Visitor Complex, with the exception of baby food and formula, and medically necessary items. Reddit

You can find a variety of options, from quick snacks and sandwiches to more substantial meals at the various eateries within the Visitor Complex. Reddit

While there isn't a full-service restaurant directly inside the Atlantis exhibit, there are dining facilities within the broader Visitor Complex that are easily accessible. Reddit

Dining facilities typically offer a range of options, and it's advisable to check menus upon arrival or inquire with staff about vegetarian or vegan choices. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit for personal use. However, flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to protect artifacts. Instagram

The main viewing area where Atlantis is suspended offers the most iconic shots. Also, consider the exterior views of the exhibit building and the gateway with the external tank. Instagram

While personal photography is usually permitted, professional photography or videography may require special permits. Always check for posted signs or ask staff if unsure. Instagram

Video recording for personal use is typically allowed. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways. Instagram

A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial due to the exhibit's lighting. A wide-angle lens can help capture the full scale of the shuttle and its surroundings. Instagram

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