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Fun in the Sun: Best Places to Visit and Things to Do in Brevard County, Florida

Brevard County earns rather more of a trip than a stretch of Florida coast would ever really suggest out there. Merritt Island runs 140,000 acres of refuge out there and the herons and the gators are right there. Manatees and dolphins come up beside the kayak right out there without anybody arranging it at all. Sea turtles nest on the sand out there as well. Genuinely.

Planning a trip to Brevard County, Florida and wondering what to do and see? Brevard County runs activities and attractions across the board for visitors of all ages and interests. Beaches through outdoor adventures, historical landmarks through local artisan work, this county has it all.

Brevard County’s Must-See Views are a great place to start your adventure. The county has some of the most beautiful and scenic views in Florida. You can enjoy the breathtaking sunsets at Cocoa Beach or watch the waves crash against the rocks at Sebastian Inlet. You can also take a stroll along the Indian River Lagoon and witness the stunning views of the Space Coast.

Outdoor Adventures in Brevard County suit anybody who loves working nature. You can go kayaking in the Thousand Islands, hike the trails at the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary, or go fishing at the Sebastian Inlet State Park. You can also take an airboat ride at the St. Johns River or a guided tour of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. Whatever the interest, Brevard County covers it.

Key Takeaways

• Brevard County offers a wide variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests.
• Must-see views and outdoor adventures are some of the top attractions in Brevard County.
• The county is a great destination for nature lovers, space enthusiasts, foodies, and families.

Brevard County’s Must-See Views

After long views that leave you in awe? Brevard County runs plenty. Kennedy Space Center through the beach, the viewpoints that make you feel on top of the world run across the range.

Kennedy Space Center Viewpoints

The Kennedy Space Center is one of the most iconic landmarks in Brevard County, and it carries some of the strongest views around. Do not miss the chance to see the launch pads up close. The Observation Gantry is the spot for watching rockets take off, and you feel the ground shake beneath your feet as the rocket goes up. And for something more relaxed, the Apollo/Saturn V Center carries long views of the Saturn V rocket and the area around it.

Beach Views

Brevard County holds some of the finest beaches in the world, and the views land hard. A quiet spot to slow down or an action-packed day of surfing, the beach covers both. Walk along the shoreline and take the long views of the Atlantic Ocean, or head to the top of the Cocoa Beach Pier for a panoramic view of the beach and the area around it.

Nature Preserve Views

Brevard County also holds a number of nature preserves carrying long views of the local flora and fauna. The Helen and Allan Cruickshank Sanctuary is a quiet corner that gives you a peaceful escape from the noise of everyday life. Walk through the sanctuary and take the long views of the wetlands and the wildlife living in them. The Enchanted Forest Sanctuary is the other one not to be missed, with over 470 acres of protected land and trails carrying long views of the local ecosystem.

Whatever kind of views you are after, Brevard County runs them. So pack the camera and get ready for some of the strongest views you will ever see.

Outdoor Adventures in Brevard County

Outdoor enthusiasts should be in Brevard County. Between the beaches, the parks and the nature preserves, the things to do and see never run out. Here are the strongest outdoor adventures in Brevard County:

Kayaking

Kayaking is a strong way to work the waterways of Brevard County. The places to rent a kayak run plenty, and you can paddle through mangroves and wetlands and even see dolphins and manatees up close. Try Cocoa Kayaking for a serious day out.

Surfing

Brevard County holds some of the strongest surfing spots in Florida. Pro or beginner, there is a wave that suits you. Head to Cocoa Beach, Melbourne Beach or Sebastian Inlet for some gnarly waves.

Hiking Trails

If you prefer keeping your feet on solid ground, Brevard County runs some strong hiking trails. The Enchanted Forest Sanctuary in Titusville is a fine nature preserve with over 7 miles of trails to work. You can also take the Turkey Creek Sanctuary in Palm Bay for more hiking.

Beaches

And no trip to Brevard County is complete without the beach. With over 70 miles of coastline, the options run plenty. Try Satellite Beach for some strong waves, or head to Cocoa Beach for the classic version.

Wildlife

Brevard County holds wildlife across the range, dolphins and manatees and sea turtles among them. You can take a tour to see these creatures up close, or simply keep watching while you kayak or walk the beach.

Parks

Brevard County runs some fine parks that suit picnics, hiking and wildlife watching. Take Wickham Park in Melbourne for some strong hiking trails, or head to Lori Wilson Park in Cocoa Beach for a boardwalk and beach access.

In Brevard County the outdoor adventures do not run short. Kayaking through mangroves, surfing gnarly waves, or simply slowing down on the beach, all three hold up. So pack the sunscreen and get ready for some fun in the sun.

Space Lovers’ Paradise

Space lovers should be in Brevard County. With the Kennedy Space Center, or KSC, in the county, it is no surprise the area is known as the Space Coast.

At KSC you can take the Shuttle Launch Experience, which simulates a shuttle launch and gives you a taste of being an astronaut. You can also work the Atlantis building, which houses the Space Shuttle Atlantis and other exhibits from the space shuttle program.

To get closer to nature, the Kennedy Space Center Nature Preserve is a strong place to visit. It holds wildlife across the range, alligators and bald eagles and manatees among them. You can also take a guided tour of the preserve and learn the area’s history and ecology.

And no trip to the Space Coast is complete without a rocket launch. Rocket launches are a regular occurrence at KSC, and you can watch them from the nearby beaches. Check the schedule and plan the visit around it to catch a rocket going up.

So Brevard County suits space lovers. With that much to see and do, the things to work never run out. So pack the bags, grab the telescope and get ready for a serious adventure.

Wildlife Encounters

Brevard County holds a diverse range of wildlife, and the chances to get close to some of the area’s finest creatures run plenty. Fish, gators, birds, turtles, alligators, giraffes, rhinos, sea turtles or lions, something here will hold your interest.

One of the most popular places for wildlife is Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. This 140,000-acre sanctuary holds animals across the range, herons and egrets and alligators and sea turtles among them. You can work the refuge on foot, by bike or by car, and the chances to spot wildlife run plenty along the way.

For a more hands-on day, head to the Brevard Zoo. This 75-acre facility holds more than 800 animals, giraffes and rhinos and a lion enclosure among them. You can also take part in interactive exhibits across the range, feeding the lorikeets or petting a goat at the petting zoo among them.

For a lower-key wildlife day, take Turkey Creek Sanctuary. This 130-acre nature preserve holds birds and turtles and other animals, and the hiking trails to work run plenty. You can also take the Enchanted Forest, a boardwalk trail winding through a fine oak hammock.

And for a genuinely unusual wildlife day, head to Gatorland. This alligator-themed park holds hundreds of gators, along with other animals, birds and snakes and turtles among them. You can watch alligator feedings, take a zipline tour over the park, or hold a baby gator in your arms.

So nature lover or simply somebody after a fun family outing, Brevard County runs plenty of wildlife. Just bring the camera, and maybe a can of bug spray too.

Foodie’s Guide to Brevard County

Eaters are in luck, because Brevard County runs a lot on culinary delights. Fresh seafood through craft beer, this county has it all. Here is a guide to the strongest eating spots in Brevard County.

Seafood Galore

Being a coastal county, Brevard County runs plenty of seafood options. One of the many seafood restaurants in the area will not let you down. Some of the strongest include:

Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill

This restaurant carries a strong view of the water and puts out seafood dishes that hold up. Try their fish tacos and lobster bisque.

Squid Lips Overwater Grill

Another strong seafood spot with a fine view. Their seafood platter should not be skipped.

Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar

This restaurant runs a fun and lively atmosphere with live music and strong seafood. Their crab cakes are a fan favorite.

Craft Beer Heaven

Beer lovers will be glad to know Brevard County runs a thriving craft beer scene. Here are the strongest breweries in the area:

Playalinda Brewing Company

This brewery runs a strong selection of beers and a cozy room to take them in.

Intracoastal Brewing Company

A laid-back brewery with friendly staff and strong beers. Try their Key Lime Pie beer.

Florida Beer Company

This brewery has been working since 1997 and runs beers across the range. Their tasting room is a strong place to slow down over a cold one.

Other Foodie Gems

Along with seafood and craft beer, Brevard County runs plenty of other eating spots to take. Here are a few:

The Burger Place

This restaurant puts out some of the strongest burgers in the county. Their Hangover Burger with a fried egg and bacon should not be skipped.

The Fat Snook

For a more upscale dinner, this restaurant is the place. Their menu changes often, and you can always expect fresh food that holds up.

The Nomad Cafe

This cozy cafe puts out vegetarian and vegan dishes that hold up. Try their Nomad Burger made with a black bean patty.

So there you have it. Brevard County runs plenty of options to satisfy the cravings. Seafood, craft beer or something else entirely, something in this county will land.

Shopping and Local Artisan Work

You have had your fill of beaches and outdoor activities, and now you are ready to shop. Brevard County runs plenty of options for retail therapy.

Head over to Cocoa Village, a charming downtown area filled with shops, restaurants and art galleries. You find everything from handmade jewelry to vintage clothing to unusual home decor. Stop by the Village Art Gallery, where you can browse and buy works by local artists.

For something more beachy, take the shops in Cocoa Beach. Surf shops through souvenir stores, the options for beachwear, sunscreen and kitschy Florida-themed gifts run plenty. And pick up a postcard to send to the jealous friends back home.

But for something really special, seek out the local artisan work. Brevard County holds many talented artists and craftspeople who make singular pieces. Visit the studios of artists like ceramicist Bonnie Mitchell or glassblower Duncan McClellan to see their work up close and maybe buy a piece to take home.

And if you land in town during one of the many art festivals or markets, you are in luck. The Melbourne Art Festival, held annually in April, runs over 250 artists showing their work across mediums. The Cocoa Beach Art Show, held over Thanksgiving weekend, is the other strong chance to see and buy local art.

So a new outfit, an unusual piece of jewelry or a fine work of art, Brevard County covers all three.

Black Point Wildlife Drive costs you the fuel out there and absolutely nothing else at all. Merritt Island is federal land and the birds do not charge admission either out there. The beaches want a parking fee, so bring the cash along for that. The zoo is where all of the money goes instead.

Hidden Gems of Brevard County

So you are after something quieter in Brevard County? You want the local flavor and the places nobody names? Then read on, my adventurous friend. Here are the unusual and quirky places that make a trip to Brevard County stick.

Titusville: Space and Serenity

Space exploration fans cannot miss the American Space Museum and Space Walk of Fame in Titusville. This quiet corner runs exhibits worth the trip, a replica of the Mercury capsule and a real Russian space suit among them. And for something more serene, head to the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary. This 470-acre nature preserve runs miles of hiking trails, a butterfly garden and a boardwalk taking you through a cypress swamp.

Melbourne: Art and Architecture

Melbourne holds some of the finest and most unusual architecture in Brevard County. The Henegar Center for the Arts is a strong place to start. This historic building was once a school and has been turned into a performing arts center. And for something a little more modern, take the Eau Gallie Arts District. This funky neighborhood is full of street art, galleries and public art installations.

Satellite Beach: Surf and Sand

Satellite Beach suits surfers, and even if catching waves is not your thing, there is plenty to do here. One of the most unusual things about this beach is the sea turtle nesting season. From May to October you can watch these creatures come ashore to lay their eggs. And for a more active beach day, head to Pelican Beach Park. This park runs a playground, picnic areas and even a skate park.

Palm Bay: Parks and Recreation

Palm Bay suits getting outside into the Florida sunshine. One quiet corner is the Turkey Creek Sanctuary. This 130-acre nature preserve runs a boardwalk taking you through a mangrove forest and over a salt marsh. And for something more active, take the Palm Bay Regional Park. This park runs everything from baseball fields to a disc golf course.

Rockledge: History and Mystery

Rockledge is full of history and mystery, which makes it a strong place to work. One of the most unusual places to take is the Rockledge Drive-Thru Safari. This drive-thru zoo gets you up close to animals like giraffes, zebras and camels. And for something a little more mysterious, head to the Indian River Queen. This historic paddleboat runs dinner cruises and is said to be haunted by a ghost named Molly.

Port Canaveral: Seafood and Sunsets

Port Canaveral is a strong place to end the Brevard County adventure. This busy port holds some of the strongest seafood restaurants in the area. One quiet corner is Grills Seafood Deck and Tiki Bar. This waterfront restaurant runs live music, strong food and long views of the sunset. And for something more active, take Jetty Park. This park runs a beach, a fishing pier and even a campground.

So there you have it, folks. Some of the quieter corners of Brevard County. Space, art, surfing, nature, history or seafood, something here will land. So what is the hold-up? Get out and work it.

Fun Activities for Kids

Brevard County is a strong place for kids to have some fun and adventure. With that many exciting activities to choose from, the little ones never get bored. Here are the strongest fun activities for kids in the area:

Andretti Thrill Park

After some high-speed action and adventure? Head over to Andretti Thrill Park. This place runs everything from go-karts and mini-golf to laser tag and arcade games. The kids take to the adrenaline rush of racing round the track and competing with their friends. And if they feel extra brave, they can try the Sky Coaster, which sends them through the air at 80 mph.

Laser Tag

Who does not love a good game of laser tag? Brevard County runs plenty of places where you can battle it out with friends. A dark and intense session or a more family-friendly game, both are covered. You can take places like Lazer Racer or Adventure HQ for some laser tag.

Arcade Games

Arcade games never go out of style, and Brevard County runs some of the strongest arcades around. Classic games like Pac-Man and Donkey Kong through newer ones like Dance Dance Revolution and Guitar Hero, the range is covered. Places like Andretti Thrill Park and Dave & Buster’s run games across the board.

Dinosaur Store

If the kids are dinosaur lovers, they will want the Dinosaur Store. This place runs everything from fossils and replicas to toys and books. They can even dig for their own fossils in the store’s fossil pit. It is a strong way to learn about these prehistoric creatures while having some fun.

So there you have it, the strongest fun activities for kids in Brevard County. Racing, battling, gaming or dinosaurs, the range is covered. Get out and have some fun.

Historical Landmarks and Museums

History people have plenty in Brevard County. Military history through specialty museums, the range is covered.

One of the most popular destinations for history lovers is the Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum. Here you see classic military planes up close across the range, a B-52 Stratofortress and a P-51 Mustang among them. The museum also holds a collection of artifacts and memorabilia from World War II and other conflicts. And with luck you catch a glimpse of the museum’s resident ghost, who is said to haunt the building.

The other one not to be missed is the Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science. Here you learn the area’s history, from the Native American tribes who first called the region home to the space program that put a man on the moon. The museum also holds a collection of fossils and other natural history exhibits.

Military history people should take the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. This historic site was the launch site for many of America’s most famous space missions, the Apollo moon landings among them. You can tour the launch pads and other facilities, and learn the science and engineering behind these feats of human achievement.

Finally, for something a little more offbeat, take the Cocoa Beach Pier. This historic landmark has been a fixture of the area’s beach scene since the 1960s, and it is still a strong place to catch some rays and take the ocean breeze. You can also grab a bite at one of the pier’s many restaurants, or shop at the various souvenir shops and boutiques.

Whatever the interest, Brevard County runs plenty of historical landmarks and museums to work. So grab the camera, put on the walking shoes and get ready to step back in time.

Beach Essentials

So you are heading to the beach in Brevard County? Strong choice. But before you go, make sure you have all the beach essentials for a fun and comfortable day in the sun.

First things first, parking. Most beaches in Brevard County want a parking fee, so bring some cash or a credit card. You do not want to be the person who has to turn around and leave because the parking money got left behind. Trust us, it is not a good look.

Once you have parked, it is time to hit the beach. But wait, do not forget the sunscreen. The Florida sun is no joke, and you do not want to end up looking like a lobster. Slather on the SPF and reapply often.

Now that you are protected from the sun, it is time to set up camp. Look for a spot near the pier for people-watching or being in the center of the action. And for a quieter spot, head down the beach a bit.

Most beaches in Brevard County run public restrooms, so holding it in all day is not the problem. And to rinse off the sand and saltwater, there are usually showers available too.

If you plan on spending the whole day at the beach, bring some snacks or a picnic lunch. Many beaches run picnic tables and a designated picnic area. And if packing a lunch is not your thing, look for a snack shack or beachside restaurant.

Finally, to take the beach day up a level, consider renting some beach gear. Umbrellas and chairs through paddleboards and kayaks, the rental options run plenty.

Now that you are fully equipped with the beach essentials, it is time to hit the sand and take what Brevard County runs.

Uniquely Brevard County

Brevard County is not your typical tourist destination. It runs unusual experiences you will not find elsewhere. Here are the things that make Brevard County stand out:

Nyami Nyami River and Black Point Wildlife Drive

Nature lovers should take the Nyami Nyami River and Black Point Wildlife Drive. The Nyami Nyami River is a fine waterway winding through the heart of Brevard County. You can take a slow kayak tour down the river and take the scenery. And with luck you spot some of the local wildlife, alligators and manatees and turtles among them.

If you prefer staying on dry land, take a drive down the Black Point Wildlife Drive. This scenic route takes you through a wildlife refuge where you see all kinds of animals, birds and deer and even bobcats among them.

Neighborhoods and Forests

Brevard County holds some of the finest neighborhoods and forests in the state. A quiet retreat or an active community, you find it here. The charming streets of Cocoa Village through the sprawling forests of the St. Johns River, the range is covered.

Shaved Ice and Daiquiri Bars

When you need to cool off from the Florida heat, head to one of Brevard County’s many shaved ice and daiquiri bars. These refreshing treats beat the heat and carry the local flavor. Fruity daiquiris or classic shaved ice, the options in Brevard County run plenty.

Brilliant

After an unusual shopping run? Brilliant is the answer. This local boutique runs handmade goods from around the world, jewelry and clothing and home decor among them. You find singular pieces you will not find elsewhere.

African Environment

Finally, Brevard County holds the African Environment, an unusual sanctuary providing a home for rescued animals from Africa. You can tour the sanctuary and see the animals up close, lions and tigers and elephants among them. It is a day you keep and you will not find it elsewhere.

Brevard County is a genuinely unusual destination running something for everybody. Nature lover, eater or shopper, the things to do and see run plenty here. So pack the bags and head to Brevard County for a vacation you keep.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some hidden gems in Brevard County that are worth checking out?

For something quieter, take the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary in Titusville. It is a fine nature preserve with hiking trails and boardwalks winding through ecosystems across the range. The other quiet corner is the Barrier Island Sanctuary in Melbourne Beach. It is a strong place to learn the local wildlife and the importance of protecting coastal habitats.

What are some unique and quirky things to do in Brevard County?

If you are into UFOs and extraterrestrial life, take the UFO Watchtower in Melbourne. It is an unusual attraction where you can stargaze and keep watching for any alien activity. For something a little more down-to-earth, take the Brevard Zoo’s Treetop Trek Aerial Adventures. It is a fun and hard obstacle course that takes you high into the trees.

What are some fun things to do in Melbourne, FL that won’t break the bank?

On a budget, the fun things to do in Melbourne still run plenty. Walk along the Eau Gallie Arts District and take the local galleries and shops. You can also hit the Melbourne Square Mall for some shopping or catch a movie at the Premiere Theaters. And for some outdoor fun, head over to Wickham Park for a picnic or a game of frisbee.

What exciting events are happening on the Space Coast this weekend?

Check the Space Coast Daily for a list of upcoming events. Something is always going on in Brevard County, art festivals through live music through sporting events. And space exploration fans should not miss the Kennedy Space Center’s Rocket Launches.

What are some upcoming events in Brevard County that are not to be missed?

The Melbourne Art Festival should not be skipped, running over 250 artists from around the country. The Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival is also popular, pulling birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts from all over. And the Cocoa Beach Air Show is always a crowd-pleaser.

What are some interesting facts about Brevard County that most people don’t know about?

Did you know Brevard County holds the largest sea turtle nesting population in the country? Or that the first U.S. astronaut, Alan Shepard, was born in Derry, NH but raised in Cocoa Beach, FL? Brevard County also holds the world’s largest surf shop, Ron Jon Surf Shop, in Cocoa Beach.

Frequently asked questions about Brevard County, Florida

How big exactly is the whole of Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge actually running right out there, then, really now?

It covers 140,000 acres out there, and the animals are the whole point of it all. Herons and egrets and alligators and sea turtles all live right in there together. Work it out there on foot, by bike or by car, whichever one really suits. Wild.

How many of the animals does the whole of the Brevard Zoo actually hold right out there, then, really now?

More than 800 of them out there, across a whole facility of some 75 acres. Giraffes and rhinos and a lion enclosure all sit right inside that one as well. You can feed the lorikeets or pet a goat at the petting zoo out there. Hands-on.

How long exactly is the whole sea turtle nesting season actually running at Satellite Beach, then, really now?

May right through to October out there, and they come ashore onto the sand to lay. Brevard County holds the largest nesting population in the whole of the country out there. Watch from a distance out there and simply let them get on with it. Seasonal.

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