What to Do at Port Canaveral Cruise Stop: A Complete Guide

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

What to Do at Port Canaveral Cruise Stop

Port Canaveral is a popular cruise ship destination, with over 4 million passengers passing through its port each year. Located on Florida’s Space Coast, Port Canaveral is just a short drive from Orlando and the Kennedy Space Center. With its beautiful beaches, world-class theme parks, and exciting attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at Port Canaveral.

In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best things to do at Port Canaveral, including:

  • Visiting the Kennedy Space Center
  • Exploring the beaches of Cocoa Beach
  • Riding roller coasters at Universal Studios Orlando
  • Shopping at the outlets at Orlando International Premium Outlets
  • And much more!

So whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, Port Canaveral has something to offer everyone.

Activity Description Cost
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Explore the Kennedy Space Center, where you can see rockets up close, tour the launch pads, and learn about the history of the space program. $50-$70
Cruise Port Canaveral Enjoy the shops, restaurants, and attractions at the cruise port, or take a walk along the beach. $0-$20
Cocoa Beach Visit Cocoa Beach, a popular surfing destination, or take a boat trip to see the dolphins. $20-$40

Port Canaveral is a popular cruise port located on the east coast of Florida. It is home to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, which is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state. Port Canaveral is also a great place to enjoy the beach, go fishing, or take a boat ride.

This article will provide you with a list of things to do in Port Canaveral, as well as suggestions for where to stay. Whether you are a cruise passenger or a landlubber, you are sure to find something to enjoy in Port Canaveral.

Things to Do in Port Canaveral

  • Visit the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state of Florida. It is home to the Apollo/Saturn V Center, the Space Shuttle Atlantis, and the Launch Pad 39 Observation Gantry. Visitors can learn about the history of the space program, see launch pads and rockets up close, and even take a simulated spacewalk.
  • Take a cruise to the Bahamas. Port Canaveral is a major cruise port, and there are dozens of cruise lines that offer cruises to the Bahamas from Port Canaveral. The Bahamas are a beautiful and diverse destination, with something to offer everyone. You can relax on white-sand beaches, go swimming or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or explore the many islands and cays.
  • Go swimming or sunbathing at Cocoa Beach. Cocoa Beach is a beautiful beach town located just a short drive from Port Canaveral. The beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the sun and sand. There are also plenty of restaurants, shops, and bars in Cocoa Beach, so you can easily find something to do after a day at the beach.
  • Visit the Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science. The Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science is a great place to learn about the history and natural history of the Space Coast. The museum has exhibits on everything from the early days of the space program to the local wildlife.

Where to Stay in Port Canaveral

There are many hotels and resorts to choose from in Port Canaveral. Here are a few of the best options:

  • Port Canaveral Resort & Marina. The Port Canaveral Resort & Marina is a large resort located right on the water. The resort has a variety of amenities, including a pool, a spa, and a marina.
  • Cocoa Beach Pier Hotel & Resort. The Cocoa Beach Pier Hotel & Resort is located right on the beach. The hotel has a pool, a restaurant, and a bar.
  • Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Cocoa Beach. The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Cocoa Beach is a budget-friendly option located just a short walk from the beach. The hotel has a pool, a fitness center, and a free breakfast.
  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Cocoa Beach Oceanfront. The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Cocoa Beach Oceanfront is located right on the beach. The hotel has a pool, a fitness center, and a free breakfast.

Port Canaveral is a great place to visit, whether you are a cruise passenger or a landlubber. There are plenty of things to do and see in Port Canaveral, and there are plenty of great places to stay. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Port Canaveral today!

What to Do at Port Canaveral Cruise Stop?

Port Canaveral is a popular cruise ship port located in Florida. It is home to the Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal, which is the second busiest cruise port in the world. Port Canaveral is a great place to start your cruise vacation, as it offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy.

Here are some of the things you can do at Port Canaveral:

  • Visit the Kennedy Space Center: The Kennedy Space Center is located just a short drive from Port Canaveral. It is home to the launch pads for the space shuttle program and the Saturn V rocket. Visitors can take a tour of the space center, learn about the history of the space program, and see the launch pads up close.
  • Go to the beach: Port Canaveral is located on the Atlantic Ocean, so there are plenty of beaches to choose from. You can relax on the sand, swim in the ocean, or go fishing.
  • Visit the Port Canaveral Museum of History: The Port Canaveral Museum of History is located in the heart of Port Canaveral. It tells the story of the port’s history, from its early days as a fishing village to its current role as a major cruise ship port.
  • Take a boat tour: There are a number of boat tour companies that operate out of Port Canaveral. You can take a tour of the port, the Kennedy Space Center, or the surrounding area.
  • Go shopping: There are a number of shops and boutiques in Port Canaveral. You can find souvenirs, clothes, and other items to take home with you.
  • Have dinner at a waterfront restaurant: There are a number of restaurants in Port Canaveral that offer waterfront dining. You can enjoy a meal with a view of the ocean or the cruise ships.

How to Get to Port Canaveral

There are a number of ways to get to Port Canaveral. Here are the most common methods:

  • By car: Port Canaveral is located about 45 miles from Orlando. The drive takes about an hour and a half. There are a number of toll roads that can be used to get to Port Canaveral.
  • By bus: There are a number of bus companies that operate between Orlando and Port Canaveral. The bus ride takes about two hours.
  • By train: Amtrak operates a train between Orlando and Port Canaveral. The train ride takes about two hours.
  • By plane: There is a small airport in Port Canaveral that offers flights to a limited number of destinations. The airport is located about a mile from the cruise terminal.

Tips for Visiting Port Canaveral

Here are some tips for visiting Port Canaveral:

  • Book your cruise in advance: The most popular cruise lines often sell out months in advance, so it is important to book your cruise as early as possible.
  • Pack light: You will be doing a lot of walking at Port Canaveral, so it is important to pack light. You will only need a few days’ worth of clothes, as you can always do laundry on the ship.
  • Wear comfortable shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking at Port Canaveral, so it is important to wear comfortable shoes.
  • Bring sunscreen and sunglasses: The sun can be very strong at Port Canaveral, so it is important to bring sunscreen and sunglasses.
  • Drink plenty of water: It is important to stay hydrated when you are in the sun, so drink plenty of water.

Port Canaveral is a great place to start your cruise vacation. It offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. With its close proximity to the Kennedy Space Center, beautiful beaches, and plenty of shopping and dining options, Port Canaveral is the perfect place to spend a few days before your cruise.

What are the best things to do at Port Canaveral?

  • Visit the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Learn about the history of the space program and see launch pads and rockets up close.
  • Take a cruise: Port Canaveral is a major cruise port, with departures to destinations all over the world.
  • Go to the beach: There are several beautiful beaches within a short drive of Port Canaveral.
  • Visit the Orlando theme parks: Orlando is just a short drive from Port Canaveral, and it’s home to some of the best theme parks in the world.
  • Go fishing: Port Canaveral is located on the Atlantic Ocean, and there are plenty of opportunities for fishing.
  • Go shopping: There are several shopping malls and outlet stores near Port Canaveral.

What are the best restaurants in Port Canaveral?

  • The Boathouse: This restaurant offers waterfront dining with views of the Kennedy Space Center.
  • Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.: This restaurant is based on the movie “Forrest Gump” and serves seafood dishes.
  • The Margaritaville Cafe: This restaurant serves Caribbean-inspired cuisine and has a lively atmosphere.
  • The Rusty Pelican: This restaurant offers seafood and steak dishes with stunning views of the ocean.
  • The Hard Rock Cafe: This restaurant is a popular spot for tourists and serves American classics.

What are the best hotels in Port Canaveral?

  • The Port Canaveral Resort & Spa: This resort is located right on the water and offers a variety of amenities, including a spa, a pool, and a fitness center.
  • The Hilton Garden Inn Port Canaveral: This hotel is close to the cruise terminals and offers a free shuttle to the Kennedy Space Center.
  • The Holiday Inn Express Port Canaveral: This hotel is located near the beach and offers a free breakfast buffet.
  • The Comfort Inn & Suites Port Canaveral: This hotel is close to the shopping and dining, and it offers a free airport shuttle.
  • The Days Inn Port Canaveral: This hotel is located near the cruise terminals and offers a free continental breakfast.

What are the best things to do with kids in Port Canaveral?

  • Visit the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: This is a great place for kids to learn about space exploration.
  • Go to the Brevard Zoo: This zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and elephants.
  • Go to the Orlando Science Center: This museum has exhibits on science, technology, and nature.
  • Go to the Crayola Experience: This hands-on museum is a great place for kids to learn about art.
  • Go to the Legoland Florida Resort: This theme park is perfect for kids who love Legos.

What are the best times to visit Port Canaveral?

  • The best time to visit Port Canaveral is during the winter months, from November to April. This is when the weather is warm and sunny, and there are fewer crowds.
  • The summer months, from May to October, can be hot and humid, but there are more opportunities for outdoor activities, such as swimming and fishing.
  • The shoulder seasons, from March to May and September to October, offer a good mix of weather and crowds.

How do I get to Port Canaveral?

  • By car: Port Canaveral is located about 45 miles from Orlando. The drive takes about an hour and a half.
  • By bus: There are several bus companies that offer service to Port Canaveral from Orlando and other cities. The ride takes about two hours.
  • By train: Amtrak offers service to Port Canaveral from Miami and other cities. The ride takes about three hours.
  • By plane: The closest airport to Port Canaveral is Orlando International Airport. The airport is about 45 miles from Port Canaveral, and the drive takes about an hour and a half.

    Port Canaveral is a great place to visit for a cruise stop. There are many things to see and do, from exploring the Kennedy Space Center to relaxing on the beach. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, you’re sure to find it in Port Canaveral.

Here are a few key takeaways:

  • Port Canaveral is home to the Kennedy Space Center, where you can learn about the history of space exploration and see the launch pads where astronauts have blasted off into space.
  • The Port Canaveral Beach is a great place to relax and soak up the sun. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops nearby.
  • There are many other things to do in Port Canaveral, including visiting the Port Canaveral Dolphinarium, taking a boat tour, or fishing.

No matter what you’re looking for in a cruise stop, you’re sure to find it in Port Canaveral.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.