Our eager young astronauts were so excited to get to Kennedy Space Center and we were too; then we were disappointed. It kind of felt like going to see your Great Aunt. Sure, she's a nice enough lady and has some delicious cookies but there's nothing to do and it was awkward listening quietly to her stories about people you don't know.
Overall the exploration, interest activities, and educational components were lackluster for anyone below the age of...when was the first rocket into space again? Well, that age. Young minds need interaction that doesn't come from way too many videos out of context or far too limited simulations in a singular part of the center.
The bus tour of the launch area was hands down the better part of the day and despite what you're told, sit on the passenger side of the bus. It is the ONLY side that gets an unobstructed view of anything worth seeing. Still, and while I realize this is a restricted facility, there needs to be more places to stop and engage with the history, even if it is just to pull over and talk on the bus. The driver on the way out was great, fun, and informative. The driver on the way back was a kindly older gent without much to say.
Delaware North Company (famous for your over-steamed hotdogs at every ballpark and airport in the country) just can't get it right. It's close mind you but it is very lackluster. We counted no less than 6 cafes and 3 gift shops. That's 9 commercial operations compared to 4 or 5 educational components. And short of air conditioning on a hot day, they weren't of much value. This is both a historic and important location for our nation and it would be better served if it were designed, operated, and updated by the National Park Service.
While we considered season passes to come back, I think we'll pass and catch a few videos online or watch The Right Stuff to get the gist of it. My suggestion if you're in Orlando for a trip would be to skip this for anyone under the age of 16. Instead have a family movie night in the hotel room and grab your favorite space documentary. You're unlikely to see much unless you're coming for a launch. Which you can just as easily catch from outside KSC.
Seriously, the National Park Service would be much better at this.