Melbourne, Florida: Where Fun and Adventure Collide – The Best Things to Do and Places to Visit!
Check the launch schedule first, before you book anything else at all here. A rocket going up will rearrange your whole trip around itself entirely, too. Everything else on this list is going to still be there afterwards anyway. The beaches, the lagoon and the zoo are none of them going anywhere. That one single check is worth more than all of the other planning.
Melbourne, Florida: A Hidden Gem for Fun and Adventure
Looking for a trip that puts the outdoors, the culture and the eating in one place? Look at Melbourne, Florida. This town on the Space Coast gives visitors a long run of things to do that will hold anybody.
With its clean beaches and its water, Melbourne is the town for anyone who surfs, paddleboards, kayaks or simply sits in the sun. But that is not all this city holds. From hiking and biking trails to wildlife preserves and botanical gardens, the outdoor options in Melbourne run long. And if you would rather be indoors, the city’s arts and culture scene is a serious one, with galleries, museums and theaters running everything from local performers to names you know.
Key Takeaways
- Melbourne, Florida offers a unique vacation experience that combines outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and gastronomic delights.
- Visitors can enjoy pristine beaches, water adventures, hiking and biking trails, wildlife preserves, botanical gardens, arts and culture scene, and shopping and neighborhood wandering.
- Melbourne is a family-friendly destination with numerous attractions for all ages, including space and science exploration, and a range of accommodation options to suit any budget.
Melbourne, Florida: A Hidden Gem
You may think you know Florida, but have you heard of Melbourne? This town is the one for anybody who wants open country, a historic downtown and neighborhoods with character.
Melbourne sits in Brevard County, Florida, and is known for its beaches, its water sports and its outdoor days. But there is more to Melbourne than the country around it. The city also holds a downtown area with real history and culture in it.
One of the strongest attractions in Melbourne is the Historic Downtown area. Here you’ll find shops, restaurants and galleries in a short walk. The area also hosts the Melbourne Arts Festival, which runs every April with local artists and musicians.
If open country is what you want, Melbourne will not disappoint you. The city holds several parks, including the Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands, which is where the bird watching and the walking happen. You can also work the Indian River Lagoon, which holds manatees, dolphins and a good deal else.
Melbourne is also known for its neighborhoods. The city runs a range of them, each with its own character. Some of the better-known ones include Eau Gallie Arts District, which holds several art galleries and studios, and Historic Downtown Melbourne, which is full of historic homes and buildings.
So if you want a Florida town most people drive past, Melbourne is the one. With its open country, its historic downtown and its neighborhoods, this city serves every interest.
Beaches and Water Adventures
Melbourne, Florida is where beach people and water people both do well. With miles of unspoiled beach, the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, the water options never run short. Here are the strongest things to do when you are in Melbourne:
Fishing and Wildlife Spotting
If fishing is your subject, you’ll do well in Melbourne’s water. The Indian River Lagoon is where the redfish, trout and snook are. You can also head to the Sebastian Inlet State Park for the snook fishing. If the day goes your way, dolphins or manatees will surface while you are out there.
Surfing and Swimming
Melbourne’s beaches suit surfing and swimming alike. Head to Cocoa Beach, a short drive away, for some of the strongest waves on the East Coast. If you have never surfed, take a lesson from one of the local surf schools. And if you simply want the sun, Melbourne’s unspoiled beaches are where you take it.
Kayaking and Snorkeling
Explore the Indian River Lagoon and everything living in it by kayak or paddleboard. You’ll see manatees, dolphins, ospreys and pelicans without trying hard. And if you want to go further, snorkel the lagoon itself. The clear water makes the fish and the sea turtles easy to find.
Melbourne, Florida is where the water does the work for you. Whether fishing, surfing, kayaking or simply the beach is what you want, everybody gets served. So grab the sunscreen and get out onto it.
Outdoor Activities and Nature Exploration
Melbourne, Florida rewards anybody who came for the natural world, with plenty of ways into the habitat here. Whether you want to see alligators, walk the wetlands or simply look at what grows, Melbourne has it.
Exploring Wetlands and Wildlife
Melbourne holds some of the strongest wetlands and wildlife in Florida. You can work the Indian River Lagoon, which holds over 4,000 species of plants and animals, or visit the nearby Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which covers over 140,000 acres of protected land. Keep an eye out for manatees, dolphins and sea turtles, all of which are regular here.
Hiking Trails and Bird-Watching
If you want a more active way into the country, Melbourne runs plenty of hiking trails and bird-watching. The Turkey Creek Sanctuary is where the bird-watchers go, with over 130 species to find. For walkers, the nearby Enchanted Forest Sanctuary runs over seven miles of trails through pine forest and wetland.
Alligator Spotting and Plant Appreciation
For something you will not get elsewhere, Melbourne gives you alligators and the plant life around them. The Viera Wetlands is where the alligator watching happens, with over 200 of them living there. The Brevard Zoo is the other stop for local wildlife and plants, with exhibits running from Florida panthers to native orchids.
So whether you came for the sun or for the habitat itself, Melbourne, Florida has the outdoor days. So take the boots, take the binoculars and go and see what Florida’s country actually looks like.
Gastronomic Delights
Melbourne, Florida feeds people properly, with something for every appetite at the table. From formal restaurants to food trucks, this city runs the lot. Here are the places to go when you are hungry.
Top Restaurants to Visit
If you want a formal dinner or an evening out, Melbourne runs plenty of options. The Fat Snook is where seafood people go, with the day’s catch and cooking that does something with it. For a taste of Italy, try the wood-fired pizzas at Pizza Gallery & Grill. And if Southern comfort food is what you want, head to The Mansion for the fried chicken they are known for.
Food Trucks and Street Food
Melbourne’s food truck scene is a real one, and you will find them parked around town most days. The Wandering Chef runs a rotating menu of gourmet sandwiches and sides, while The Bearded Chef does tacos and burritos. For something sweet, check out the Cupcake War Truck for the cupcakes and cakes.
Seafood Delights
Being on the coast, Melbourne never runs short of fresh seafood. The Chart House is the classic choice, with the water outside and the seafood inside. If you want something more relaxed, try the shrimp and grits at The Tiny Turtle or the fish tacos at Sand on the Beach.
No matter what you feel like eating, Melbourne can meet it. So go out and work through the strongest cooking this city has.
Arts and Culture Scene
Melbourne, Florida runs an arts and culture scene that will hold even a demanding visitor. From music and live performance to museums and historical sites, everybody gets served.
Music and Live Performances
If music is your subject, you are in luck, because Melbourne has a genuine scene. You can catch live performances at venues like the King Center for the Performing Arts or the Henegar Center for the Arts. If you are in town during the summer, take the free concerts at the Downtown Melbourne Friday Fest.
Museums and Historical Sites
Melbourne holds several museums and historical sites worth the time. The Liberty Bell Memorial Museum is the first stop for history people, holding a replica of the Liberty Bell alongside other artifacts from America’s past. If architecture is your interest, take the Rossetter House Museum & Gardens, which sits on the National Register of Historic Places.
Art Galleries and Exhibits
Melbourne’s art galleries and exhibits are worth the walking. The Eau Gallie Arts District is where the art people go, holding several galleries and studios. The Foosaner Art Museum is the other one to work in, with a collection of over 5,000 works including paintings, sculptures and photographs.
No matter what your interests, Melbourne’s arts and culture scene will hold up. So get out there and work through what this city puts on.
Shopping and Neighborhood Wandering
If you want an easy afternoon in Melbourne, Florida, why not walk the shops and the neighborhoods? From one-off boutiques to vintage stores, most tastes are covered. Here are the strongest spots to check out:
Best Shopping Spots
Melbourne runs plenty of shopping, but the local boutiques are where it gets interesting. These stores carry clothing, accessories and home goods you will not see at home. Some of the ones to work in include:
The Hen House
This small shop keeps a strong run of women’s clothing, jewelry and gifts. The owner, Lisa, is usually in and will tell you what actually works on you.
Vintage Thistle
If vintage clothing and accessories are your subject, this is where you belong. The store carries vintage pieces from the 1920s through the 1980s along with home decor nobody else has.
The Flop Shop
This odd little store works mostly in flip-flops and sandals, but the beach clothing and accessories are worth the look too. It’s where you stock up for a day on the sand.
Exploring Downtown Melbourne
Downtown Melbourne is where a slow walk pays off. The area runs shops, restaurants and cafes, and something is nearly always happening. Some of the highlights of downtown Melbourne include:
Meg O’Malley’s
This Irish pub is where the locals go, and the reason is not hard to find. The food is done properly, the beer is cold and the room carries the noise well.
Mainstreet Pub
Another solid choice for food and drink, Mainstreet Pub keeps a long craft beer list and a menu of pub food that holds up.
You can stand on the actual ground that the rockets go up from. The spacecraft at the Kennedy Space Center have every one of them flown. They are not models, and they are not reproductions of anything either. That one distinction is the whole reason for coming out here at all. A photograph of any of it does not do the same work at all.
The Mansion
This historic building now holds a collection of shops and restaurants. Wander through and look at the boutiques, or eat at one of the restaurants inside.
Unique Neighborhood Finds
Melbourne runs several neighborhoods, each with its own character. If you want something the guidebooks skip, check out these:
Eau Gallie Arts District
This neighborhood holds a real arts community, with galleries, studios and shops carrying the work of local artists.
Historic Downtown Melbourne
This area is full of historic buildings and small shops. Take a walk down the tree-lined streets and let the pace of it work.
Indialantic
This beachside community runs at its own speed and gets strong surf. Check out the local shops and restaurants, or take the beach for the sand and the sun.
No matter where you go in Melbourne, something will be worth stopping for. So put the walking shoes on, take the wallet and get out into it.
Family-Friendly Attractions
When it comes to family attractions in Melbourne, FL, you are well served. There are plenty of places to go and things to do that hold children and adults alike. Here are the strongest options:
Visiting the Brevard Zoo
If you want a full day out with the family, the Brevard Zoo is the one to book. This zoo holds over 900 animals from around the world, including giraffes, rhinos and kangaroos. You can also take a kayak tour of the zoo’s exhibit, which puts you nearer the animals than walking does.
Fun at Andretti Thrill Park
For something faster, head to Andretti Thrill Park. This amusement park runs go-karting, laser tag and mini golf between them. There are also arcade games and rides to keep the whole family busy.
Playgrounds and Family Spots
If you’re looking for a more low-key way to spend the day, there are plenty of playgrounds and family spots around Melbourne. Wickham Park is a great option, with multiple playgrounds, picnic areas, and even a dog park. Paradise Beach and Park is another great option, with a playground, beach access, and plenty of space to run around.
No matter which kind of family day you want, Melbourne has plenty to pick from. So take the children and give the day to it.
Space and Science Exploration
Are you ready to take the space and science side of this? Melbourne, Florida is the town for anybody who follows the universe seriously. Here are the strongest places to go and things to do in Melbourne for exactly that.
Visiting the Kennedy Space Center
No trip to Melbourne is complete without the Kennedy Space Center. This is where NASA launches its rockets and sends astronauts up. It’s the real version of what the films show you. You can tour the launch pads, see the actual spacecraft that have flown, and meet a real astronaut. If the timing goes your way, you may see a launch. Just bring earplugs for it.
Exploring the Space Coast
Melbourne sits on the Space Coast, which means the space-related days do not stop at one. Take a walk down the Cocoa Beach Pier and watch the water do its work. Or head over to Cape Canaveral and tour the Air Force Space and Missile Museum. You’ll get the history of space exploration and the part Florida played in it.
Science at Florida Institute of Technology
The Florida Institute of Technology is a serious research university working in science, engineering and technology. It’s the stop if you want to know what is actually being worked on now. Take a tour of the campus and see the research facilities. You may also meet some of the people trying to solve the harder problems.
So whether space is your subject or you simply like learning how things work, Melbourne, Florida has plenty. Get ready for some genuine discovery.
Accommodation Options
Best Hotels in Melbourne
Melbourne, Florida runs hotels across every budget, from the cheap to the upscale. Here are the strongest ones in the area:
| Hotel Name | Price Range | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Hilton Melbourne Beach Oceanfront | $$$ | Oceanfront location, beach access, pool, fitness center, on-site restaurant, bar |
| Hampton Inn Melbourne-Viera | $$ | Free breakfast, outdoor pool, fitness center, business center |
| Residence Inn Melbourne | $$ | Free breakfast, outdoor pool, fitness center, on-site laundry facilities, pet-friendly |
Unique Accommodation Options
If you want somewhere less standard to sleep, Melbourne has that as well. Here are a few:
Airstream Ranch
Stay in a vintage Airstream trailer at this odd little roadside attraction.
Crane Creek Inn Waterfront Bed and Breakfast
Enjoy a quiet stay in a historic waterfront home with the water outside every window.
Port d’Hiver Bed and Breakfast
This bed and breakfast runs individually decorated rooms and a serious breakfast each morning.
No matter what your budget or your preference, Melbourne has somewhere that will suit you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it true that Melbourne, FL has a secret underground speakeasy?
Yes, it’s true. The speakeasy sits in the heart of downtown Melbourne, and it is called the “Baldwin and Sons Trading Company.” To get in, you find the hidden entrance and give the password to the doorman. Once inside, the century falls away and the Prohibition era comes back. They mix a serious cocktail and the room does the rest. Just keep it quiet.
What are some quirky and offbeat activities to do in Melbourne, FL?
If you want something different, check out the “Escape Room Entertainment” in downtown Melbourne. You and your friends get locked in a room with clues and puzzles to work out before the clock runs down. It’s a genuinely good hour or two. Another odd one is the “Melbourne Mystery Clue” scavenger hunt. You’ll get clues and riddles that walk you around downtown Melbourne while feeding you the city’s history and culture.
Are there any haunted places to visit in Melbourne, FL?
Yes, there are a few. One of the better-known ones is the historic Rossetter House Museum. Visitors have reported apparitions and strange noises through the house. Another is the Melbourne Cemetery, where some of the city’s earliest settlers are buried. Legend has it that a night visit produces its own company.
What are the best outdoor activities to do in Melbourne, FL?
Melbourne is known for its beaches, so a day in the sun and the waves is the obvious answer. If you want something more demanding, try kayaking or paddleboarding on the Indian River Lagoon. You can also take a bike ride along the beach or through the city’s parks.
What are some hidden gem restaurants in Melbourne, FL?
One of the better secrets in Melbourne is the “Yellow Dog Cafe.” It’s a little out of the way, but the food repays the drive. They cook seafood properly and the wine list is worth reading. Another one people walk past is the “Squid Lips Overwater Grill.” It’s right on the river with the water under you. They do serious seafood, and the room does the rest.
Can you recommend any scenic drives or day trips from Melbourne, FL?
If you want a drive, head north on US-1 to the historic town of St. Augustine. It’s the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the United States and holds more historic sites than a day covers. Another one worth doing is the Kennedy Space Center. You can tour the facilities, see actual spacecraft, and watch a launch if the timing works.
Frequently asked questions about Melbourne, Florida
What is in the Liberty Bell Memorial Museum in Melbourne?
A replica of the bell itself. The museum holds that alongside other artifacts from America’s past, which is an unexpected thing to find on a coast far better known for launching rockets. The Rossetter House Museum is the other historical stop in this same town. That one sits on the National Register of Historic Places itself. Both of them predate everything that the Space Coast is now known for.
How many animals does the Brevard Zoo actually hold?
There are over 900 of them. The collection runs giraffes, rhinos and kangaroos among the rest, and the kayak tour of the zoo’s exhibit puts you nearer to the animals than any path would. Andretti Thrill Park is what covers the faster alternative around here. Wickham Park is what covers the free version of the same day. Pick by how much noise you want the children to be making.
What lives in the Indian River Lagoon near Melbourne?
A very great deal indeed. The lagoon holds over 4,000 species of plants and animals, with manatees, dolphins, ospreys and pelicans among the ones you will actually see from a passing kayak. The water out there is clear enough to snorkel in a few places. The sea turtles show up in that very same water as well. That is the older story here, from long before any of the rockets.
