Top Things to Do Near Port Canaveral: Must-See Port Canaveral Florida Attractions

Port Canaveral, located on Floridas Space Coast, is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world and a gateway to thrilling adventures, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. Whether youre spending a few hours before or after a cruise or planning a longer stay, theres no shortage of exciting things to do near Port Canaveral. From exploring outer space to relaxing on pristine beaches and savoring fresh seafood, Port Canaveral Florida attractions offer something for everyone.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: A Galactic Experience

One of the most iconic attractions near Port Canaveral is the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Just a 20-minute drive away, this NASA facility offers visitors the chance to walk through history and explore the future of space exploration.

Highlights Include:

• Space Shuttle Atlantis Exhibit

• Heroes & Legends featuring the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame

• Bus tour of launch pads and historic sites

• Rocket Garden

• Astronaut Encounter with real astronauts

This is one of the top Port Canaveral Florida attractions and a must-see for science and space enthusiasts of all ages.

Cocoa Beach: Surf, Sand, and Sun

Just minutes from the port, Cocoa Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Florida. Known for its wide, sandy shores and laid-back vibe, Cocoa Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Top Beach Activities:

• Surfing lessons at Ron Jon Surf School

• Paddleboarding and kayaking

• Beachfront dining and tiki bars

• Fishing from the Cocoa Beach Pier

When looking for things to do near Port Canaveral, relaxing on Cocoa Beach is always a good option.

Exploration Tower: A Stunning Viewpoint

Located right in Port Canaveral, Exploration Tower is a visually striking structure that offers panoramic views of the harbor, cruise ships, and the Atlantic Ocean. The tower also features seven floors of exhibits about the history of Port Canaveral, maritime navigation, and space exploration.

Dont Miss:

• Outdoor observation deck

• Interactive exhibits and historical displays

• Beautiful photography opportunities at sunset

It's a quick and informative stop for cruise passengers looking for nearby Port Canaveral Florida attractions.

Jetty Park: A Family-Friendly Retreat

If you're traveling with kids or simply want a calm beach day, Jetty Park is one of the top things to do near Port Canaveral. With a fishing pier, picnic pavilions, a snack bar, and beach rentals, its a convenient and scenic spot to unwind.

Jetty Park Offers:

• 1,200-foot fishing pier

• Playground and picnic area

• Campgrounds for overnight stays

• Stunning cruise ship views as they sail by

Jetty Park is the perfect mix of nature and recreation, making it one of the top Port Canaveral Florida attractions.

Port Canaveral Seafood and Dining Scene

No visit to Port Canaveral is complete without indulging in the local seafood. The area is home to a variety of restaurants offering fresh catches with views of the harbor.

Top Dining Spots:

• Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar Fresh fish, tropical cocktails, and live music

• Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill Great views of departing cruise ships

• Rustys Seafood & Oyster Bar A local favorite for oysters and laid-back vibes

Dining here isnt just about food its an experience and one of the most satisfying things to do near Port Canaveral.

Deep Sea Fishing and Boat Tours

If you're a fan of adventure on the water, Port Canaveral is a hub for deep-sea fishing charters and wildlife cruises.

Activities Include:

• Deep sea fishing trips for grouper, snapper, and mahi-mahi

• Dolphin and whale-watching cruises

• Sunset sailing tours

• Bioluminescent kayaking (seasonal)

Many excursions depart directly from the port, making it easy for visitors to enjoy the ocean without traveling far. These water-based outings are among the top Port Canaveral Florida attractions for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.

Victory Casino Cruises: A Unique Night Out

For adults looking for something different, Victory Casino Cruises offers five-hour gaming cruises with live entertainment, dining, and ocean views. The ship sails twice daily from Port Canaveral and features slot machines, poker, blackjack, and more.

Why It's Worth It:

• Affordable way to enjoy Vegas-style fun at sea

• Buffets, bars, and live shows onboard

• Great way to unwind before or after a cruise

This is one of the more unique things to do near Port Canaveral, especially for adults wanting to mix fun and fortune.

Canaveral National Seashore: A Hidden Gem

Located a bit north of the port, Canaveral National Seashore is a protected area with unspoiled beaches, hiking trails, and a glimpse into Floridas natural coastal ecosystem. Its a serene escape from the busier beach scenes.

Activities Here Include:

• Birdwatching and wildlife spotting

• Kayaking in Mosquito Lagoon

• Exploring historic Eldora State House

• Stargazing and nature photography

This national park is a haven for nature lovers and one of the lesser-known but rewarding Port Canaveral Florida attractions.

Downtown Cocoa Village: Historic Charm and Local Culture

A short drive from the port brings you to Historic Cocoa Village, a quaint downtown area full of shops, galleries, cafes, and events.

Things to Explore:

• Antiques and artisan boutiques

• Local breweries and dessert shops

• Cocoa Village Playhouse for live theater

• Farmers markets and seasonal festivals

If you're searching for more cultural things to do near Port Canaveral, this charming district is ideal for a leisurely afternoon.

Brevard Zoo: A Wildlife Adventure for All Ages

About 40 minutes from Port Canaveral, Brevard Zoo is a family-friendly destination that goes beyond traditional animal exhibits. It features interactive experiences and lush natural settings.

Zoo Highlights:

• Kayaking through animal habitats

• Feeding giraffes and birds

• Treetop Trek aerial adventure courses

• Educational talks and conservation programs

Its one of the best regional Port Canaveral Florida attractions for families with kids.

Space View Park: Tribute to Space Pioneers

Located in nearby Titusville, Space View Park honors astronauts and space missions with monuments and plaques. Its also a great spot for watching rocket launches from Kennedy Space Center.

Why Visit:

• View actual rocket launches (check NASA schedules)

• Learn about Apollo, Shuttle, and Mercury missions

• Peaceful waterfront atmosphere

This is a more reflective and educational option for those interested in history and science among the things to do near Port Canaveral.

Florida Beer Company: Cheers to Local Brews

Located right in Cape Canaveral, Florida Beer Company is one of the largest craft breweries in the state. Stop in for a tasting or brewery tour.

Experience Includes:

• A wide selection of local craft beers

• Tasting room and brewery tours

• Live entertainment and trivia nights

Its a fun stop for adults looking to unwind and sample Floridas brewing scene close to all other Port Canaveral Florida attractions.

Conclusion

Whether youre a cruise passenger with a few hours to spare or a traveler exploring Floridas Space Coast, the area around Port Canaveral is filled with diverse experiences. From space exploration and beach relaxation to wildlife adventures and vibrant dining, the list of things to do near Port Canaveral is extensive and exciting. With iconic landmarks like the Kennedy Space Center and natural escapes like Canaveral National Seashore, youre guaranteed a memorable visit packed with some of the top Port Canaveral Florida attractions.