Banana River Park

Sometimes the best family park is the one where you can sit by the water, eat a sandwich, and watch your kids run without a care in the world — and Banana River Park in Cape Canaveral delivers exactly that. Located at 901 Puerto Del Rio Dr, this free waterfront park sits right on the Banana River with open grassy areas, playground equipment, and some of the most pleasant water views in the area.

For families visiting Cape Canaveral who want a break from the Kennedy Space Center hustle or a low-key morning before a beach afternoon, this park fills that role perfectly. It's peaceful, spacious, and completely free. Bring a picnic and make an event of it — the waterfront setting elevates what would otherwise be a standard park outing into something genuinely scenic.

Nature lovers will appreciate the waterfront access. The Banana River is home to manatees, dolphins, and a variety of waterbirds. In the cooler months (October through March), manatees congregate in warmer water areas, making casual sightings more likely. Bring binoculars to enhance the experience.

Sunset visits are particularly special — the Banana River reflects the colors beautifully, and the Space Coast sky at dusk is something families in the area take for granted but visitors consistently find stunning.

The park is stroller-friendly with paved paths, making it suitable for all ages from infants through tweens. For teens, the appeal is more limited — this is a relaxation and younger-kid destination rather than an activity-driven one.