Space Coast Titusville, Melbourne, & Cocoa Beach The entire Florida East Coast...in detail !

Above: a nighttime shuttle launch

The Space Coast is an area that prides itself on it's marriage of technology and nature. While this area is famous for housing the U.S. space program, it is obvious after one look at the beautiful surroundings that nature comes first. In Titusville, there is the Indian River Lagoon, which is one of the most diverse estuaries in the country. If you go, remember to take your camera, because chances are you will have the chance to see the majestic manatee in it's natural surroundings. The Aerospace industry is the economic mainstay of the Space Coast area, with tourism and the citrus industry not far behind. Be sure to visit the Kennedy Space Center, where you can take a tour of the NASA complex, and learn about all that takes palce behind the scenes of a shuttle launch.

A great place to stay while in the area is the Best Western Space Shuttle Inn. They offer odor-free, allergen-free and non-smoking rooms, but also fun things like the "Space Shuttle Room" (your bed is shaped as a space shuttle), the Galaxy room, the pink "Champagne room" and the Royal Honeymoon room with it's heart-shaped bathtub. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a 140,000 acre home to 16 threatened or endangered species. This reserve is known for having some of the worlds finest birding. The adjacent Canaveral National Seashore boasts 24 miles of unspoiled beaches. These National areas have been ranked eleventh in the world as ecotourism destinations. If a tour of "old Florida" is what you crave, then perhaps an airboat tour is what your after. See the marshy wetlands of Florida up close and personal. This is a good way to view some of florida's most unique aquatic wildlife. Perhaps you are an equine enthusiast. If so, try visiting the Ace of Hearts Ranch, where you have the special opportunity to ride along the beautiful beaches of Florida's Space Coast. This is an experience that should not be missed. The Melbourne Art Festival has been ranked as one of the top 100 art festivals in the country by Sunshine Arts Magazine. There is a juried art show, in which 250 artists compete for cash awards. This is the highlight of the event. the Space Coast has something for everyone, from every walk of life. Come and enjoy the great beaches, attractions, and entertainment that this area has to offer.