Two things worth knowing before the list: a couple of attractions that still show up on other "things to do with kids" pages don't exist anymore, and the free-versus-paid line in Brevard is not where people assume it is.
Two closed attractions, still recommended elsewhere
The Foosaner Art Museum in Melbourne closed permanently in July 2021, Florida Tech sold the building and the collection moved to the Appleton Museum in Ocala. If an older list sends you there, it's wrong. Separately, a Space Coast Science Center has been planned for Melbourne and ran at least one event in early 2026, but as of this writing it has no confirmed public opening, it is not a current visitable attraction, just a "coming soon."
Free
Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands (Viera Wetlands), 3658 Charlie Corbeil Way in Viera, is free, open 7am to 7pm daily, and a real spot for kids to see alligators and birds up close. One update worth knowing: the classic drive-through loop is gone. It reopened in 2024 as a walking- and biking-only area, paved but not a drive-through anymore, so plan for a walk rather than a car tour.
The Brevard County Library System runs free youth programs and storytimes across its branches, days and times vary by location, call (321) 633-1801 or check a specific branch's calendar before you go.
Worth the money, priced honestly
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is the region's flagship paid kid attraction, and it is genuinely expensive: standard one-day admission runs $77 adult and $67 for ages 3 to 11, plus parking. Watch for seasonal promotions, a mid-2026 summer discount brought it closer to $59/$49, but confirm the current price before you build a day around a number.
Brevard Zoo, 8225 N. Wickham Rd in Melbourne, runs $34.95 adult, $28.95 senior, $22.95 for ages 3-11 online (about $2 more if you buy at the gate), under 3 free. Hours 9:30am-5pm, extended to 8am on Thursday through Sunday in summer.
For a rainy day: Golf N Gator in Cape Canaveral (not Melbourne, despite some listings) pairs mini golf with a real outdoor alligator habitat kids can feed, $11.99 adult and $9.99 child/senior per round, go-kart pricing by call. Lighthouse Cove Adventure Golf in Cocoa Beach is a tropical-themed course with an aquarium and an ice cream parlor on site. Urban Air Adventure Park in Melbourne covers trampolines, a ninja course, laser tag, and climbing walls indoors.
Prices and hours change, especially at the paid attractions, and I've flagged the two spots that closed specifically because outdated lists keep recommending them. Call ahead or check the official site before you plan a day around any single price.