NASA is targeting early February 2026 for the crewed Artemis II lunar flyby, prompting an expected surge of tourists, journalists and space fans to Florida’s Space Coast. Local hotels near Kennedy Space Center are filling quickly, and officials anticipate crowds similar to or larger than the uncrewed Artemis I mission in 2022. Travelers should expect traffic delays — especially on S.R. 528 — and consider official Visitor Complex viewing tickets; the launch date may change for technical or weather reasons.
Artemis II Nears Launch: Florida’s Space Coast Girds for Surge of Tourists and Media
With NASA targeting an early-February 2026 launch for the crewed Artemis II mission, Florida’s Space Coast is preparing for a major influx of visitors, media and space enthusiasts to Brevard County. The mission — a roughly 10-day lunar flyby that will carry four astronauts into the vicinity of the Moon — would mark the first time humans have returned that close since 1972.
The region already experienced heavy crowds during the uncrewed Artemis I test flight in November 2022, when record attendance led to traffic congestion across Brevard County. Local tourism officials and businesses say they expect similar, possibly larger, numbers this time around.
“Milestone launches like this have seen between 100,000–250,000 visitors heading to the Space Coast in the past few years,” said Meagan Happel, public relations manager for the Space Coast Office of Tourism. During Artemis I, hotels filled with project personnel, out-of-town spectators and media.
Several hotels near the Kennedy Space Center are already reporting sellouts for the targeted February launch window. Properties in Titusville — including Courtyard by Marriott and Hyatt Place — are booked through the projected dates, and many Cocoa Beach hotels such as Four Points by Sheraton and Hilton Garden Inn show limited availability.
The timing adds extra national interest: 2026 also marks the 250th anniversary of the United States, making the flight a potential centerpiece of a celebratory year. “There is a tremendous amount of excitement surrounding Artemis II,” said Russell Bruhn, senior communications manager at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. “Based on attendance for Artemis I, we expect record-setting turnout.”
Media Demand and Public Viewing
NASA reports an overwhelming number of media credential requests for the launch. The Kennedy Space Center press site — usually calm during routine missions — is expected to be crowded, and limited press-site space has led to some outlets and social media creators being denied access.
For members of the public who want a closer view, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex has in past launches offered paid viewing experiences. Tickets for Artemis II viewing have not yet gone on sale; watch the Visitor Complex website and official NASA channels for announcements.
Travel Tips and Warnings
State and local officials previously warned that major launches can cause traffic backups on routes leading to the Cape, including S.R. 528. Visitors and residents are advised to plan ahead, leave early on launch day, and expect popular viewing areas, parks and beaches to fill quickly.
NASA also cautions that the launch date could move for technical or weather reasons. For the latest schedules and coverage, follow the Florida Today Space Team at FloridaToday.com/Space and official NASA updates.
Reporter: Brooke Edwards, Space Reporter, Florida Today. Contact: bedwards@floridatoday.com | X: @brookeofstars.
Originally appeared on Florida Today as: “As NASA's Artemis II nears launch, Florida's Space Coast hotels filling.”
