Media Kit: Orlando Side Trip

Planning an Orlando Vacation? The closest beach and best beach value is Florida's Space Coast - It's a BLAST!
SPACE COAST, Fla. -- Heading off to the castles and crowds of Orlando? Before the magic and money run low, consider this: only 45 minutes east of the arena of attractions lie 72 miles of sun-bronzed Atlantic shore and space age attractions at down-to-earth prices -- including Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex -- and protected wildlife refuges flourishing along the surf. From moon walks and dune overwalks to cruise ports and water sports, a galaxy of options await at Florida's Space Coast with affordable family accommodations at an average daily room rate of only $69 per night. Featured among Money magazine’s “Best Places to Vacation,” the area is the ideal side trip for the Orlando-bound vacationer with beach dreams for just a few bucks.

Three of “Florida’s Ten Best Beaches,” as declared by Southern Living, along with six others, ribbon along Florida's Space Coast offering nine distinct coastal settings from secluded, sea-oat scattered strands to sun-splashed excitement beside the breakers. The endless beaches are tempting year-round with warm Southern waters and an average daytime temperature of 73 degrees F.

For an affordably far-out time, the technology of tomorrow awaits at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex where guests view actual launch pads, a rocket garden and spin-offs from space. Nearby, the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame showcases America's first galactic explorers. Additionally, youngsters enjoy the thrills of simulated space travel by attending Camp KSC.

In sweeping contrast and absolutely free, surrounding Kennedy Space Center is the 220-square-mile Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge which is home to more federally endangered species -- such as the Western Indian manatee, southern bald eagle and Atlantic loggerhead turtle -- than any other refuge in the United States. Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, the largest sea turtle nesting area in the United States, and Turkey Creek Sanctuary, one of Florida's Audubon Parks are other natural attractions.

In the sporting arena, one of the best-kept secrets is Stick Marsh which boasts the “best bass fishing in Florida.” Inshore and offshore saltwater fishing targets numerous species including flounder, snapper, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, pompano, snook and giant redfish. Famous “fish tales” abound, with more than 20 marinas, three fishing piers and numerous charter boats and fish camps providing fresh and saltwater excursions.

On land, a collection of 23 golf courses and ranges and 10 public tennis facilities challenge players while the Space Coast Stadium offers baseball fans a chance to catch the Montreal Expos training center in spring and the Brevard County Manatees all season long.

For those who find shopping a main attraction, Main Street Titusville, Historic Cocoa Village and Downtown Melbourne offer historic settings, while surfers and sand-dwellers alike are mesmerized by world-renowned Ron Jon Surf Shop showcasing the latest out-of-this-world beach apparel. Awe-inspiring cultural arts and activities include everything from art galleries and science museums to musical entertainment centers and the wildly entertaining Brevard Zoo.

Whether posh or practical, Florida's Space Coast accommodations are plentiful with more than 9,600 rooms and 2,400 campground and RV sites.

To have a blast along Florida’s Space Coast during an Orlando escape, contact Florida’s Space Coast Office of Tourism at 800-93-OCEAN or visit www.space-coast.com.

Year 2008
For More Media Information
Amity Gay / Melanie Vigliotti
The Zimmerman Agency
(850) 668-2222
media@space-coast.com