Getting away on a cruise vacation is easy from Port Canaveral, Florida. Port Canaveral, located in Orlando, Florida, is a major cruise port that receives millions of passengers yearly. Most cruise ships transit through this port go to destinations like Panama Canal, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean. Several family-friendly attractions are also located nearby the port, making it an ideal destination before or after you take a cruise.
Port Canaveral isn't just about cruises! You will want to do at least one of these things before you set sail, whether this stop is on your itinerary or where you are setting sail from. Planning your next port for embarkation or disembarkation? Port Canaveral can be one. The port has several highlights, including the ones listed below.
Eight major malls in Orlando offer just about everything a shopper could need. When you cruise from Port Canaveral, you'll have the opportunity to visit some of the best outlet malls in the world. Visit some of the best outlet malls in the world on your Port Canaveral cruise. And shop in Historic Cocoa Village for local artwork and tropical decor. Disney Springs, Universal City Walk, and International Drive are the best places to shop for souvenirs in Orlando; if you are looking for Florida-grown oranges, grapefruit, and other fruits while on a cruise to Orlando, stop by Orange Blossom Indian River Citrus.
Visit the numerous theme parks in Orlando to have fun with the whole family. Check out Disney World, Universal Studios, LEGOLAND, and other fun theme parks while cruising from Orlando. An excursion to Walt Disney World is a must during your stay at Port Canaveral. You won't have to worry about transportation since some cruise lines offer motorcoach transfers to the parks. It's important not to miss this park when traveling with kids, especially when it's just a few miles from the "Happiest Place on Earth"!
Fresh fish tacos and mahi-mahi sandwiches are served at several waterfront restaurants in Port Canaveral's Cove. Chefs lead farm-to-table restaurants in Orlando, and theme park resorts offer character meals. There is a great Vietnamese restaurant in the Mills 50 District north of downtown Orlando.
Florida Beer Company's Tap Room gives you a taste of Florida. While enjoying fresh-brewed lagers, ales, and ciders, you'll vibe to live music the night before or after your cruise. More than 20 beer and cider taps are available at Florida Beer Company! They encourage guests to sip in a casual environment by offering darts, foosball, and shuffleboard games. The restaurant does not serve any actual meals, but there are dozens of flavorings for popcorn!
Shuttles can be taken here between exciting ports. Explore the exhibits of the nearby Kennedy Space Center. Enjoy the theme parks within driving distance. Airboating is also a fun way to spot alligators. Visiting Port Canaveral? Here are some attractions to consider.
Just south of Cape Canaveral lies Cocoa Beach, where you can spend hours relaxing. Getting to the Beach, it won't take long. Take a refreshing swim in the Atlantic Ocean whenever the mood strikes while basking in the sun for hours. The choice is yours. You'll likely see surfers on Cocoa Beach, so look for waves right off the shore. In addition to stretching out in the sun, there are plenty of nearby amenities. Surf shops and stand-up paddleboard rentals can be found near casual beachfront restaurants. You might eat on your own or enjoy an icy-cold tropical drink. There's nothing more relaxing than a day at Cocoa Beach.
Before you head out for your cruise, you may have time to board another kind of vessel for an off-coast adventure to see if you can catch the biggest fish of the day. Time is a factor, and you don't want to make a deep-sea trip? How about exploring more inland? If this area is one of your ports of call, you might also like to check out the other guided tours that may include the Space Coast's waterways, nature trails, and wildlife.
As you start cruising on the Space Coast, don't wonder what this building is; instead, see what's inside, including an auditorium, an exhibit center, a café, a gift shop, and observation decks that overlook the port. Before boarding your ship, you might even catch a glimpse of it! The excursion also makes sense when you sail from Port Canaveral, close by.
