Featured Photo by Cruise Port Canaveral
When you book a Fly Snooze Cruise package with Go Port, your vacation can begin well before your cruise ship sets sail. With pre-cruise hotel stays near Port Canaveral and transportation included to your cruise, our packages are designed to eliminate the stress of travel logistics. That means you have more time to relax and explore some of the great attractions in the area.
Here are some of our favorite things to do near Port Canaveral:
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Make your first stop one that’s truly out of this world. The Kennedy Space Center offers an immersive experience into the world of space exploration. You can walk among massive rockets in the Rocket Garden, take part in a simulated shuttle launch, and even dine with a real astronaut. Interactive exhibits like the Space Shuttle Atlantis bring history and science to life in a way that’s thrilling for visitors of all ages. Don’t miss the bus tour to NASA’s launch pads!
Many of our Fly Snooze Cruise partner hotels put you within convenient reach of the Kennedy Space Center.
- Address: Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953
- Age Range: 3+
- Distance from Port: 13.8 miles
- Distance from MCO Orlando Airport: 43.1 miles
Ron Jon Surf Shop & Florida Surf Museum
You haven’t truly visited Cocoa Beach until you’ve stopped at the Ron Jon Surf Shop, the world’s largest surf store. Open 9 am to 11 pm daily, this 52,000-square-foot destination offers everything from surfboards and swimwear to souvenirs and beach gear. But it’s more than just a shopping experience.
The shop is also home to the Florida Surf Museum. Take a dive deep into the state’s surfing heritage with vintage surfboards, memorabilia from Florida surf legends, and exhibits that chronicle the evolution of the sport. Together, Ron Jon and the Surf Museum create a memorable stop for beach lovers and history buffs alike.
- Address: 4151 North Atlantic Avenue, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
- Age Range: All ages
- Distance from Port: 3.8 miles
- Distance from MCO Orlando Airport: 42.8 miles
Beaches: Cocoa Beach, Lori Wilson Park & Jetty Park
If relaxing on the sand is more your speed, the beaches near Port Canaveral won’t disappoint. Cocoa Beach is famous for its soft sands, surfable waves, and welcoming atmosphere. For a more laid-back vibe, head to Lori Wilson Park, which features nature trails, picnic areas, and free parking.
Another gem is Jetty Park, a scenic beachfront park located next to the cruise terminal. Watch cruise ships sail past from the pier, go fishing, rent a bike, or just enjoy the calm shoreline. It’s a fantastic spot for families to spend a few low-key hours before boarding.
Lori Wilson Park
Address: 1500 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
Age Range: All ages
Distance from Port: 5.6 miles
Distance from MCO Orlando Airport: 50.1 miles
Jetty Park
Address: 9035 Campground Circle, Cape Canaveral, Florida 32920
Age Range: All ages
Distance from Port: 1.8 miles
Distance from MCO Orlando Airport: 46.6 miles
Brevard Zoo & Treetop Trek
Just a short drive from the port, the Brevard Zoo in Melbourne offers unique, hands-on animal experiences. Feed giraffes, kayak through African-themed exhibits, or hop on the zoo’s miniature train. For thrill-seekers, the Treetop Trek adventure course features aerial obstacles and zip lines weaving through the trees. With something for every age group, this is one of the best attractions for families looking to combine education and adventure.
- Address: 8225 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL 32940
- Age Range: All ages
- Distance from Port: 28.6 miles
- Distance from MCO Orlando Airport: 47.6 miles
Pro tip: Flying into Melbourne Airport (MLB) before your cruise? Book a Fly Snooze Cruise package at nearby hotel, just a short drive from all of these great Port Canaveral things to do.
Cape Canaveral Lighthouse Tour
History buffs and lighthouse lovers alike will appreciate the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse, an active beacon dating back to the mid-1800s that’s still maintained by the U.S. Space Force. As the only fully operational lighthouse on an active military installation, tours require advance reservations for security clearance—but it’s well worth the effort. You’ll be guided through the lighthouse grounds, learn about its fascinating role in Florida’s maritime and military history, and enjoy incredible views from the tower.
- Address: Lighthouse Rd, Cape Canaveral, FL 33920
- Age Range: All ages
- Distance from Port: 5.7 miles
- Distance from MCO Orlando Airport: 46.5 miles
The Dinosaur Store and Museum
Located in nearby Cocoa Beach, The Dinosaur Store is home to life-sized prehistoric displays, a two-story museum, and a hands-on adventure zone. Kids can dig for fossils, explore ancient cultures, or play in themed game rooms, while adults will appreciate the stunning fossil displays and educational exhibits. This is an excellent indoor activity if the Florida weather turns rainy during your stay.
- Address: 250 W Cocoa Beach Causeway, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
- Age Range: All ages
- Distance from Port: 4.2 miles
- Distance from MCO Orlando Airport: 48.7 miles
BK Adventure Kayaking Tours
For a unique, close-to-nature experience, BK Adventure offers guided kayaking tours on the Indian River Lagoon. Glide alongside manatees and dolphins during the day or book a magical bioluminescent night tour, where glowing plankton light up the water beneath your paddle. It’s an unforgettable way to connect with Florida’s incredible natural landscape. Best of all, no prior kayaking experience is required!
- Address: Courtenay Pkwy N, Titusville, FL 32780
- Age Range: 6+
- Distance from Port: 35.7 miles
- Distance from MCO Orlando Airport: 55 miles
Golf N Gator
Pair a round of mini golf with wildlife encounters at Golf N Gator. This quirky attraction features two 18-hole mini golf courses surrounded by waterfalls and tropical scenery, plus the chance to feed and hold live alligators. Kids will love spotting turtles, iguanas, and birds throughout the course. It’s a fun, low-cost activity that’s just minutes from the cruise terminal.
- Address: 6355 N Atlantic Ave, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
- Age Range: All ages
- Distance from Port: 2.8 miles
- Distance from MCO Orlando Airport: 47.3 miles
Cocoa Beach Parasail
Want to see Florida’s coastline like never before? Cocoa Beach Parasail offers tandem rides that lift you high above the Atlantic Ocean for jaw-dropping views of the Space Coast, cruise ships, and even the Kennedy Space Center. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or trying parasailing for the first time, this is a memorable way to kick off your vacation.
- Address: 505 Glen Cheek Dr, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
- Age Range: 6+
- Distance from Port: 0.2 miles
- Distance from MCO Orlando Airport: 45.6 miles
Lone Cabbage Fish Camp & Airboat Rides
For a taste of Old Florida, visit the Lone Cabbage Fish Camp. Feast on fried catfish and gator tail, enjoy live country music, and take an airboat ride through the St. Johns River marshlands. You’ll spot wildlife like alligators and bald eagles while speeding across the water at up to 45 mph. All in all, it’s a classic Florida experience you won’t want to miss!
- Address: 8199 W King St, Cocoa, FL 32926
- Age Range: All ages
- Distance from Port: 17.6 miles
- Distance from MCO Orlando Airport: 31.4 miles
Carib Brewery
Formerly known as Florida Beer Company, Carib Brewery in Cape Canaveral is a must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts. Sip tropical ales, hard ciders, and seasonal brews while enjoying shuffleboard, foosball, and live music in a laid-back taproom. It’s the perfect spot for a casual nightcap before heading back to your hotel.
- Address: 200 Imperial Blvd, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
- Age Range: 21+
- Distance from Port: 1.3 miles
- Distance from MCO Orlando Airport: 45.8 miles
Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures
Test your balance, strength, and courage at Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures, a treetop ropes course featuring over 40 obstacles suspended up to 45 feet in the air. With three different difficulty levels, it’s an exhilarating choice for families, teens, and groups looking for active pre-cruise fun.
- Address: 6419 N Atlantic Ave, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
- Age Range: 5+
- Distance from Port: 2.7 miles
- Distance from MCO Orlando Airport: 47.2 miles
Maximize Your Pre-Cruise Adventure with Go Port!
All of these things to do near Port Canaveral are within easy reach when you book a Go Port Fly Snooze Cruise package. Whether you fly into Orlando International Airport (MCO), Sanford Airport (SFB), or Melbourne Airport (MLB), you’ll get:
- A pre-cruise day hotel stay at a brand-name hotel close to the airport.
- More time and freedom to explore exciting local attractions before boarding.
- Comfortable, reliable transportation from the airport your hotel, then to the cruise terminal on embarkation day.
Don’t waste time arranging separate hotel and shuttle options. Go Port’s all-in-one packages make the journey to your Port Canaveral cruise ship smooth, convenient, and cost-effective.
Start Your Vacation Before You Sail
Book a Fly Snooze Cruise package with Go Port and enjoy everything the Space Coast has to offer. From surf museums and rocket launches to beaches and gator encounters, your cruise vacation can begin the moment you land in Orlando.
Don’t wait! Let Go Port handle the travel logistics while you focus on the fun.
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