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142 BARRETT-JACKSON EXPERIENCE SPRING 2024cross a big item off your bucket list – witness an actual rocket launch! The park’s proximity to the Kennedy Space Center (another amazing place to visit if time allows) provides incredible launch viewing. Playalinda Beach offers the closest view of the launches, but it’s important to note that incoming traffic may be restricted for security purposes prior to a launch, so it’s a good idea to be in the park early. SpaceX, NASA, ULA and other entities are sending more rockets up from the Space Coast than ever before, so you may be lucky enough to be in the perfect place at the perfect time (check online or use an app like Space Launch Now to see when the next launch will be).A visit to the Canaveral National Seashore is an authentic, Old Florida experience: sand, surf, sky and no development except for the boardwalks that allow for an easy walk over the sand dunes. Plan a day (or two) to escape today’s hectic world and enjoy what is truly a national treasure.Canaveral National Seashore is located along Florida’s East coast in both Volusia and Brevard counties. To access Apollo Beach (the northern entrance), take I-95 to exit 249, then go east until it turns into A1A. Follow A1A south to the park entrance. To access Playalinda Beach (the southern entrance), take I-95 to exit 220. Go east through Titusville on Garden Street, continue east and follow the signs. The seashore operates daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Bring provisions. No food or drinking water is available at the beaches; restrooms are available.) For more information, visit NPS.gov/cana.– Barbara ToombsPhotos courtesy of the National Park Service/ NPGallery: Sunset photo (previous page) by Barber, Bald Eagle (previous page) by Welch, Roseate Spoonbill by Steele.