Things to Do in Melbourne FL
When living and working in Melbourne and along the eastern coast, residents and employees enjoy the beautiful beach every day. Whether viewing the sunrise, soaking up the sun, strolling the beach, dining al fresco or sightseeing around the local attractions, there is no shortage of ways to spend a day (or longer) on the Space Coast.
Fun in the Sun
Pack a bag, bring some chairs, plenty of sunscreen and a good book to enjoy some sand and waves at Melbourne Beach, Indialantic Boardwalk and Park, Indian Harbour Beach or Satellite Beach. While soaking up some sun, spend the day surfing, fishing or swimming. End your day at the beach by eating at one of the many great restaurants in the Melbourne Region.
Explore the Great Outdoors
From the coastline to the almost endless variety of wildlife along the Space Coast, the ecological beauty of Brevard County attracts people from across the globe. Nature enthusiasts regularly hike, bike, canoe or kayak through natural habitats and refuges.
Say “I Do” by the Shore
Combine the area’s natural beauty and resources with the abundant local recreation and entertainment choices, along with reasonably priced accommodations, and couples have themselves a sensational Florida wedding. Not to mention the breathtaking photos with a backdrop that cannot be beat.
Delectable Dishes
Being situated on the coast means that Melbourne and the surrounding areas are home to exceptional seafood dishes. However, that is not the only cuisine to be dished up. Numerous restaurants throughout the area offer a variety of culinary delights. Everything from locally owned eateries to well-known national chains dish up American classics, international fare, savory seafood and mouthwatering steaks.
Shop Local
Shop for a new outfit, a gift or a souvenir to take back home when visiting the area. Open-air destinations include the Avenue in Viera, Hammock Landing in West Melbourne, Historic Downtown Melbourne and the Eau Gallie Arts District. Dozens of other shopping plazas and, of course, Melbourne Square Mall round out the shopping destinations.
Appreciate the Arts
The Eau Gallie Arts District is a historic area in Melbourne responsible for preserving the community’s history, architecture and culture. Browse through a mix of studios, galleries, boutiques, restaurants, bakeries and even a craft brewery. Churches and professional offices are also located throughout the urban neighborhood.
Venture Downtown
Historic Downtown Melbourne is a popular area for shopping, dining and nightlife. Year-round events staged in downtown make the area a draw for residents and visitors alike. The Downtown Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, which takes place in November, is a must-attend. Streets are closed for the event and guests enjoy live music, vendors, tasty food and a kid zone.
Calling all Animal Lovers
Kids of all ages can have a fully interactive experience at the Brevard Zoo, run by the East Coast Zoological Society of Florida. Not only can they see and learn about a multitude of species from blue-tongued skink (lizard) to Komodo dragon, but they also have the opportunity to feed some of the animals as well. Guests can also enjoy train rides, paddle boating and kayaking. Adults have just as much fun as the kids!
All About Alligators
Get up close with real gators in their natural habitat. Discover the beauty of east central Florida by taking a ride on an airboat across waterways filled with spectacular wildlife, including alligators. Book a ride during sunrise or sunset for amazing views.
Out of this World Entertainment
Take a tour to learn how astronauts go from the ground to the stars in a matter of minutes. Don’t miss the Shuttle Launch Experience, which simulates a space shuttle liftoff. The space center continues to provide a calendar of upcoming launches so people from near and far can see rockets take flight.
Premier Productions
The Henegar Center for the Arts is housed in a building that was originally used as a public school. It now contains a nearly 500-seat theater. Past productions have included “Willy Wonka” and “West Side Story.”
Tee off
For a challenging round, play at a Melbourne municipal courses, take a swing at Crane Creek Reserve and Mallards Landing. Enjoy Suntree Country Club, Duran Golf Club, which offers a par-3 under the lights course for nighttime golf or a number of other courses offered through the Space Coast Golf Association.
Cheer for the Home Team
At Eastern Florida State College, Titans athletics has had a strong presence and tradition in Brevard County for many years. The college continues to be competitive in baseball and men’s and women’s basketball, as well as soccer, golf and tennis. The competitive spirit is always in the air at Florida Institute of Technology with year-round programs for men and women. Florida Institute of Technology sports are rich in heritage, including baseball, basketball, cross country, golf, football, lacrosse, rowing, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis and volleyball.
Take a Look at the Past
The Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science has exhibits to pique many interests, including the Ice Age, Butterfly Garden and Imagination Station. For a timeline of American history, historic documents and, of course, a replica of the Liberty Bell, visit the Liberty Bell Memorial Museum.
The Foosaner Art Museum boasts more than 5,000 objects, including Asian ceramics, works by 20th-century Florida artists and photographs. Additionally, the Ruth Funk Center for Textile Arts displays a collection of 16th- through 20th-century handmade textiles, embroidery and garments from across the globe. The Brevard Veterans Memorial Center features a library, museum and park in honor of soldiers and the military.
Climb to the Top
No matter what the weather is like outside, avid climbers can scale On the Edge Rock Climbing’s indoor rock wall daily. A fully stocked pro shop provides all types of gear, accessories and clothing. To relax after a challenging ascent, members and guests can participate in yoga or Pilates classes.
A Thrill a Minute
Andretti Thrill Park is a must for an adrenaline rush! Go-kart drivers can reach speeds up to 40 miles per hour and laps have computerized precision timing that clocks who won the race. Guests can also enjoy the arcade, play laser tag or get in a round of miniature golf.
Take a Gamble
At Club 52, crowds cheer on their favorite dogs as they take to the track January through April. Simulcast wagering on all types of events from horse racing to jai alai takes place every day. In addition, guests can play a hand of Ultimate Texas Hold ‘Em, Two Card Poker or other card favorites. Those with the best poker faces can go on to participate in tournaments. Travel off land for fun aboard a Victory Casino Cruse. For five to six hours, you can try your hand at poker, slot machines, craps, roulette and blackjack.
To see all that the Melbourne region has to offer, visit www.MelbourneRegionalChamber.com and click on Live Work Play.