On Merritt Island off Florida's east coast, the Kennedy Space Center bridges modern technology and nature. This home to giant rockets is also a National Wildlife Refuge.

Just south of launch pad 39A, manatees graze and shore and songbirds feed. About 500 species of wildlife meander through protected habitats of brackish marshes, salt-water estuaries and hardwood hammocks.

At the space center, you will find at least a full day of exploration.