Located in Brevard County in Florida, Melbourne is a lovely city famed for its pristine beaches, high-tech companies, spectacular cultural attractions, and a variety of wildlife and water activities. Enjoy Melbourne’s small-town charm with a visit to its historic downtown area where you will find world-renowned Henegar Center for Performing Arts Theatre, connect with nature at places like the Wickham Park and Sebastian Inlet State Park, and experience family-friendly attractions such as the Brevard Zoo and Andretti Thrill Park. To make the most out of your stay, we’ve decided to share this list of the best things to do in Melbourne, FL.
1. Brevard Zoo
Vacationers visiting Melbourne with the little ones will want to spend a day at the fabulous Brevard Zoo. Modest in size, the zoo is home to around 650 animals and 150 species from all around the world. Whether you wish to hop on a kayak and explore each habitat from a unique perspective or zip-line through the forest and see giraffes, rhinos, and gators from above, there are many ways to observe wildlife here at the Brevard Zoo. For those who wish to relax, there are a bunch of shaded seating areas and a small café where refreshing drinks are available to order.
2. Wickham Park
Searching for romantic things to do in Melbourne, FL? Make your way to Wickham Park, a picturesque recreational venue with a wide range of attractions. Spend a day with that special someone exploring the park’s small fishing lakes and nature and horse trails. Visitors can also participate in many sporting activities ranging from volleyball and soccer to golf. Animal lovers will be happy to hear that Wickham Park also features a nice horse stable that has a show ring.
3. Indian River
While not exactly a proper river, the Indian River consists of over 100 miles of inland waterways located near the Atlantic coast of Florida. From dozens of ponds and natural preserves that feature an abundance of wildlife to a wide range of extensive maintenance programs and a private Indian River Colony Club Golf Course, there is no shortage of fun things to do at the Indian River. The Indian river offers many water activities, like fishing, kayaking, and boating among others and enjoying this unique waterway is one of the best things to do in Melbourne FL during your stay.
4. Andretti Thrill Park
Not many places in Florida are as amazing as Melbourne’s Andretti Thrill Park. With an extensive list of attractions that include everything from train rides, go-karting, and paddle boats to laser tag games, playgrounds, and mini-golf, there is plenty to look forward to when visiting the Andretti Thrill Park. Check out the Space Coast’s biggest arcade, enjoy mini bowling, or take your kids to the Andretti Challenge which is one of the most popular rides here. There is no need to pack lunch, as many food and drink options can be found on-site.
5. Paradise Beach & Park
Located just a short drive from the city, Paradise Beach & Park is definitely one of the must-visit beaches in the region. Offering a quiet escape away from the busy streets of the city, this lovely beach and park is an ideal destination for vacationers who wish to get away from it all and enjoy a relaxing beach experience. With its soft sand and clear waters, Paradise Beach & Park attracts families with children who just love the park’s playgrounds where they can build sandcastles. Although the beach doesn’t have many amenities, it is close to plenty of shopping and dining options.
6. Downtown Melbourne
Whether you wish to experience Melbourne, FL nightlife, visit popular shops like the Flop Shop, the Irish Shop, and Indian River Soap, or dine at one of the 20 restaurants, a visit to Downtown Melbourne is one of the must-do things while traveling through Florida. Want to hear more good news? The area hosts many annual city events which are usually free of charge. Don’t miss out on other notable attractions in downtown Melbourne such as the Henegar Center and Green Gables House.
7. Pelican Beach Park
Pelican Beach Park is an ideal spot for events like family gatherings, team-building activities, and birthday parties. The park’s six lovely pavilions with picnic tables and grills are available for rent and can accommodate up to 70 guests. As for other amenities, there is a nice volleyball court on the sand and 2 play structures where you can take your kids to play. Keep in mind that the Pelican Beach Park is a popular place and booking pavilions well in advance is advised.
8. Treetop Trek Aerial Adventures
Adrenaline junkies visiting Melbourne will want to check out Treetop Trek Aerial Adventures. This aerial adventure company offers a wide range of courses with dozens of self-guided paths suited for all beginners to advanced outdoor enthusiasts. Zip, climb, crawl and careen through each of these routes and admire the beauty of Florida’s lush landscapes. Along the way, travelers will come across many challenges and obstacles including a high-wire bicycle and swinging logs.
9. The Eau Gallie Arts District
The city’s trendiest destination, the Eau Gallie Arts District is a community-based area that houses several eateries, shops, museums, and chic galleries. Make sure to check out the new murals by local artists and enjoy events like crafts and art shows, wine tastings, beer festivals, and live music entertainment. The Eau Gallie Arts District is also home to the popular Rossetter House Museum which is a perfect place to learn about the region’s history.
10. Brevard County Movie in the Park
No visit to Melbourne is complete without watching a movie at the Brevard County Movie in the Park. Whether you wish to see a contemporary movie or watch a variety of classic films, there is something for every visitor. Expect to find dozens of food trucks on-site that offer both local and international food delicacies, snacks, and drinks. A movie under the stars at the Brevard County Movie in the Park is one of the must-have experiences while visiting Florida’s Melbourne.
11. Kennedy Space Center
Visitors looking for indoor things to do in Melbourne, FL can check out one of the city’s most popular attractions, the famous Kennedy Space Center. This visitor complex is actually a place where many NASA explorations took place. See the Space Shuttle Atlantic and admire a variety of other exhibits and artifacts like the Shuttle Launch Experience. From visiting launch sites to checking out exhibitions and learning everything there is to know about Florida’s rich space history, a visit to the Kennedy Space Center is an unforgettable experience.
12. Melbourne Community Orchestra
Once you get tired from all the outdoor activities, make sure to stop by the Melbourne Community Orchestra which organizes many free public events all year long. They’ve been around for more than 20 years offering easy access to performing arts from which many are appropriate for the little ones. The most popular events are held in the evening and you can even bring your own food and drinks.
13. Sebastian Inlet State Park
Nature lovers visiting Melbourne, FL should look no further than the fabulous Sebastian Inlet State Park. Located just a short drive from the city, this state park is one of the best saltwater fishing destinations in the country and allows visitors to fish for redfish, mackerel, and snook. For those who wish to learn more about the fishing industry in Florida, we recommend checking out the nearby Sebastian Fishing Museum. The state park is also home to three miles of pristine beaches that are ideal for activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, and swimming. If you wish to spend the night, there are nearly 50 full-facility campsites equipped with everything from picnic tables and grills to electrical hook-ups.
14. Good Natured River Tours
Wish to go on a tour on the Indian River Lagoon and the Banana River? Contact Good Natured River Tours that offer relaxing cruises that allow travelers to interact with playful dolphins, see a wide range of wild birds, and enjoy sightings and alligators. You will be passing by many attractions and landmarks including places such as the Dragon Point and Mathers Turn Bridge. While enjoying your drink of choice on-board and listening to relaxing Caribbean music, listen to the licensed captain who will tell you stories about the history of the famous Indian River Lagoon. It is also worth mentioning that Good Natured River Tours also offers romantic sunset cruises.
15. Liberty Bell Memorial Museum
Philadelphia is home to the famous Liberty Bell, but Florida’s Melbourne has a full-size replica at their Liberty Bell Memorial Museum. A tribute to people who are a part of the US armed forces, the museum is home to dozens of exhibits. During your visit to the museum, expect to see everything from reproductions of important documents to displays of military awards. The good news is that this fabulous museum offers free admission making it a top free thing to do in Melbourne FL.
16. Escape Room Entertainment
If you are looking for a truly unique thing to do in Melbourne FL, then checking out Escape Room Entertainment should definitely be on your itinerary. This unique escape room experience is perfect for groups, birthday parties, or corporate team-building outings and offers a fantastic group experience that forces your group to solve a mystery one clue at a time and make your escape! If you love treasure hunts, riddles, or cracking the case, then you should book a group adventure at Melbourne’s top escape room experience.
