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24 Best & Fun Things To Do In Melbourne (Florida)

In the southeast of Florida City lies Melbourne, the home of excitement and adventure.

The city, formerly called “Crane Creek” in honor of the first postmaster (Crosthwaite John Hector), is rated one of the best places to grow old and retire.

Filled with enormous art and cultural diversities fit for the pursuit of sports, leisure, art, or passion, Melbourne is a place that offers every kind of pleasure, irrespective of what your hobbies tend to be.

Of note, Melbourne was expanded by merging with nearby Eau Galle.

With a population of more than 83,000 people, the region is home to famous attractions such as Brevard zoo for animal lovers, and Wickham Park; if you are down for a good time, Foo saner art museum for art lovers, and many more!

Indeed, a trip to this breathtaking city will leave you mesmerized. Here are some of the exciting places to visit in Melbourne, Florida.

Things To Do In Melbourne, Florida

1. Brevard Zoo, Melbourne

Things to do in Melbourne

Sarah Wray / Flickr

For animal lovers, Melbourne offers a place for you in the Brevard zoo.

The safe animal haven is a 75-acre non-profit facility containing 900 animals and 195 species from Florida, South America, Africa, Asia, and Australia.

Although the zoo is rather small, there are so many activities to indulge in, such as kayak tours, animal feeding, train rides, and many more.

To top it all, the zoo has hosted several dinosaur exhibitions in the past, each exhibit creating a nostalgic feel of the Stone Age.

Who knows?

Another exhibit may be just around the corner.

Luckily, the designers of the zoo kept the children in mind by creating a kids’ section at the zoo. Kids of all ages can have a swell time in the splash pool or play with the tortoises.

The Brevard zoo is one of the coolest places you will really want to visit if you are in Melbourne, Florida.

Address: Melbourne, Florida, United States

2. Wickham Park, Melbourne

Things to do in Melbourne

Wickham Park

For outdoor festivities, Wickham Park offers a full blast of excitement to outdoor lovers who want to experience nature’s bliss.

The public country park shares boundaries with the Eastern Florida State College on the west by Wickham road and, on the south, along parkway drive.

Spacious and equipped with recreational activities, the park features two ponds, campgrounds, a disc golf course, equestrian facilities, an archery range, hike trails, an event pavilion, a playground, and ball fields.

Asides from being one of the top recreational parks in the region, it is also renowned for hosting major events like archery competitions, the Vietnam veterans memorial, India fest, and the strawberry festivals.

A stroll around the park will expose you to the gorgeous view of the birds and plenty of fish to catch by the lake.

You also get to experience a wave of romance while you cuddle up in your car during the drive-in movies hosted by the park on Friday nights.

As a bonus, the park also provides an off-leash dog park so that you don’t have to leave your adorable pet at home.

Isn’t that amazing?

So come along with your family and furry friends as you experience a lifelong wonder at Wickham Park.

Address: 2500 Parkway Dr, Melbourne, FL 32935, United States

3. Downtown Melbourne

Things to do in Melbourne

Voyageur du Monde / Flickr

If you have an insatiable thirst for excitement and fun, then you should stop by Downtown Melbourne.

A stroll through the streets laced with shops, art galleries and restaurants/bars will prove worthwhile for shopaholics (who want to put their money where their mouth is), or sightseers (who derive pleasure in feeding their eyes).

Varieties of items are sold in downtown Melbourne, from wine to food or even bonbon.

You can go for a walk, window shop, or rather, fill your belly up with the finest wine and delicacies. Whichever one you want to indulge in, Downtown Melbourne has got you covered.

Let’s also not ignore the numerous art galleries, where colorful artworks of various artists are displayed.

So if you have an artistic bone, a visit to downtown Melbourne will leave you fascinated for a long time.

Downtown Melbourne also boasts of unforgettable nightlife with restaurants, bars, and clubs lined up to soothe your every need.

Address: 2004 Vernon Pl, Melbourne, FL 32901, United States

4. Andretti Thrill Park

Things to do in Melbourne

Andretti Thrill Park

For the ideal family get-together, Andretti Thrill Park is the most suitable location.

Fully equipped with both indoor and outdoor games, the park is the most natural site to unwind and have a splendid time.

Since its commencement of activities in 1999, the 6-acre park has everything for all ages with features like 18 miniature golf, laser tag arena, 5 go-kart tracks, paddle boats, an indoor rope course, a spinning coaster, 360 ride, a train ride, kiddies rides and many more!

Interestingly, the Andretti Thrill Park is home to over 1000 arcade games on the space coast and that’s not all; the video game arena is equipped with state-of-the-art video games.

Besides, the park likewise offers prizes to outstanding players.

Experience the thrill of riding a bumper boat, try out the indoor rope course, or partake in the game of laser tag.

The games in the park are unending, so you don’t have to worry about getting bored. As long as you can handle the thrill, Andretti Park will serve it to you.

Address: 3960 S Babcock St, Melbourne, FL 32901, United States

5. Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands

Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands

Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands

Are you anxious to explore nature and beyond? Then journey to the Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands. This wetland features a deep lake and several artificial ponds.

Situated alongside the Moccasin island track of the River lakes conservation area and the Brevard zoo, the wetland was designated in honor of a long-time employee; Ritch Grissom who worked at the adjacent treatment facility.

Formerly called the central regional water reclamation facility until 2007, the wetland is home to 200 species of birds.

Animals such as raccoons, white armadillos, white-tailed deer, otters and alligators can also be found in the wetland.

With your binoculars in hand and a mind hungry for adventure; hike, drive, or bike into the wetlands.

However, remember to bring your camera along to take beautiful pictures as you spend time with nature.

Step into a world of adventure and explore the wonders of the Ritch Grissom memorial wetlands.

Address: 3658 Charlie Corbeil Way, Viera, FL 32940, United States

6. American Tank

Things to do in Melbourne

American Tank

Ever dreamt of knowing how it feels to be on the battlefield with tanks?

American tank is designed for that rush of adrenaline that comes with wars, guns, and tanks.

A gem for weekend adventures, American tanks offer the thrill of crushing a car, being in combat, and executing high-profiled operations (just kidding).

Team up with your friends and battle it out in a firing sprawl, drive around in tanks and relive the life of a soldier on the war front.

Head on for battle on a real stage with guns and bullets that look and feel real. So cock your guns, aim, and fire!

Get ready to experience another load of excitement in the laser tag arena.

Ultimately, the staff is rated top-notch, so you are in good hands when you visit the American tank.

Address: 6605 Muskogee St, Orlando, FL 32807, United States

7. Melbourne Beach Pier

Things to do in Melbourne

R. D. Smith / Flickr

In 1889, Melbourne and Atlantic Railroad Company built what is now referred to as the perfect spot for relaxation- Melbourne beach pier.

This serene environment is located between Ocean Avenue and Riverside. Mainly constructed from wood planks, the pier is the oldest pier on the Indian River.

Regarded as one of the favorite places for anglers in Melbourne, the beach is home to varieties of fishes.

So if fishing is one of your hobbies, this beach is your best bet to spend an awesome day doing what you know how to do best.

The pier isn’t only meant for fishing alone; you can relax and get an incredible view of the sunset.

In the evening, the pier is lighted up so you can chill with your friends as you enjoy the spoils of your catch, and entertain yourself with the gorgeous sight of dolphins and other sea animals.

Address: Melbourne, FL 32903, United States

8. Howard E. Fitch Memorial Park at Paradise Beach

Things to do in Melbourne

Howard E. Fitch Memorial Park

What is that saying about all work and no play, again?

Howard E. paradise beach provides you with that exciting getaway you have been craving for.

Seated on 12.39- acres of land, the park is a famous venue for group and family activities in Melbourne.

Unarguably a great place to surf the waves and have a good swim, the beach also features a picnic pavilion, volleyball, three dune crossovers, a playground, clean restrooms, and a large pavilion.

Not only that, it’s likewise a great place for anglers to fish.

Wheelchairs and ramps are accessible at the beach to provide a smooth experience for people with disabilities. Nobody is excluded from having a worthwhile adventure.

Lastly, your safety is also assured as the beach makes provision for seasonal lifeguards who are always on standby 24/7.

So pack your bags and head down to this amazing park to enjoy the best of your tour.

Address: Melbourne, FL, United States

Planning a road trip outside of Melbourne? Why not check out our list of things to do in Fort Myers, Clermont, Apopka, Marianna, and Altamonte Springs?

9. The Eau Gallie District

Things to do in Melbourne

Deanna Derosia / Flickr

In 1859, the first settlement in Gallie was established by John C. Huston, when he received an 80-acre on the north shore of the Eau Gallie River.

In a bid to restore revitalization to the Eau Gallie area, murals were added to the buildings.

This historic rosette houses museums and gardens, the Eau Gallie Public Library, Pineapple Park, restaurants, galleries and shops are included in the historic district.

The beautiful murals on the building stand out as they captivate passersby and tourists. Not only do the murals beautify the district, but they also portray the artistic side of the region.

Hungry?

Grab a bite at FM pizza or Joan’s perfect pies when the excitement takes a toll on your appetite.

Although many events are held in the Eau Gallie District, the most popular is Good Friday.

Eau Gallie District is truly a nice place to feed your eyes and appreciate art.

Address: Melbourne, Florida

10. Kennedy Space Centre

Things to do in Melbourne

Archie Martin / Flickr

Well, if you yearn for an out of the world experience, Kennedy space center will take you there.

Located in Merritt Island, Florida, the center gives you firsthand experience of what space travel feels like.

The center is designed to make you feel like an astronaut through guided tours, interactive displays, and visits to launch sites.

Historic space crafts are displayed and bus tours are provided to the spaceport. Presentations are also carried out daily by veteran NASA astronauts in the visitors’ complex.

Here comes the best part; there is a stimulated ride into space!

There are also shops where food and souvenirs are sold, just in case you want to refill after all the bursts of adrenaline.

The center is definitely a fun place for space lovers to feed their imaginations and explore.

Address: Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953

11. Erna Nixon Park

Erna Nixon Park

Erna Nixon Park

Do you feel the need to just relax and spend time with nature? Then you should definitely take a walk in Erna Nixon Park.

The park grants you an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Named after the city’s village naturalist; Erna Nixon, the serene park is situated on Evans road, Melbourne, Florida.

Erna Nixon Park exposes you to a 10-15 minutes refreshing walk through the 3,000-foot elevated boardwalk.

Featuring ferns and oak trees, the park is a safe haven for many species of birds and animals, including the gopher tortoise and indigo snake.

Large trees act as shades to protect you from the sun, and pavilions are provided to relax and appreciate nature.

This huge pavilion is right at the entrance where reptiles are exhibited.

Besides, visitors are entitled to clean restrooms, helpful trail guides, and access to wheelchairs.

The attraction boasts of events frequently hosted at the park. The most popular is the annual moonlight stroll that is held in the evening, accompanied by live music.

A short walk through Erna Nixon Park should give you that magic you have been yearning for.

Address: 1200 Evans Rd, West Melbourne, FL 32904

12. Canova Beach, Melbourne

Canova Beach

R9 Studios FL / Flickr

Canova beach is a fun place for you and your furry friend.

The 9.1-acre dog beach park features a grill picnic shelter, restrooms, small pavilions, drinking fountain, and outside showers.

However, to best enjoy this park, all dogs are expected to be on a leash, wear tags displaying their recent license and vaccinations.

Dog owners also are mandated to pick up after their pets (don’t worry, waste bags are made available to this effect).

Nevertheless, the beach park provides a gorgeous view of the sun, clean sand, and immaculate water for surfing.

Feel free to take a stroll through the mangroves, lay on the sand to watch a launch from the Kennedy space center, or spend the day by the water.

Amazingly, an Easter sunrise service is held in the park yearly. Sometimes, a food truck operates from the parking lot too.

So what are you waiting for? Go have fun with your furry friend at the Canova beach.

Address: Melbourne, Florida

13. Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier

West Cocoa Beach Pier

Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier

It won’t hurt to spend pleasurable time at “the surfing capital of the East coast”, would it?

Of course not!

The 50-Year-Old landmark stretches over the Waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Home to restaurants, shops, bars, and live music, the beach features fresh water showers, a volleyball court, skilled lifeguards, and the best surfing experience on the West coast.

Delight yourself with tasty meals and delicious drinks from the restaurants and bars.

Dig and spike at the volleyball court with your friends and family.

Go get a surfboard from Ron Jon’s surf shop and move to the waves of the ocean. Experience the magic of cocoa beach pier and don’t hold back.

Hold on to your fishing rods when you visit the heaven of Anglers.

Haven to several aquatic species and animals, feel free to explore the ocean. Dive in and play with dolphins, have a surfing competition with your friends, or scuba dive to the depths of the sea.

Need to cool off after the activities of the day? Head out to the bars and enjoy the melodious songs from the live band.

Wine and dine in the restaurants, and immerse yourself in the night view of the beach.

Address: Melbourne, Florida

14. Joy and Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden

Joy and Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden

Joy and Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden

Lovers of nature and plants can call Joy and Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden their abyss.

The 15-acre garden is located in the Florida Institute of Technology. A beauty to behold, it is renowned to be the most beautiful garden in Melbourne, Florida.

Journey over the campus-based site to see the adorned native Flore from pines and various palm varieties.

You can also enjoy a peaceful stroll through the pathway laced with benches and pavilions.

Asides from being a perfect place to have a family picnic, Joy and Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden features a grotto, varieties of flowers, palm trees to provide you with shade, and a hammock to relive childhood memories.

So, what’s holding you back from enjoying the serene environment the garden provides and inhaling the air of tranquility?

Address: 150 W University Blvd, Melbourne, FL 32901

15. Juan Ponce De Leon Landing

Juan Ponce De Leon Landing

Scott Smith / Flickr

Built in honor of Juan Ponce de León (the first Westerner to reach Florida), the Juan Ponce de Leon landing is a sight to behold.

Situated south of the village of Tramore, the park provides resources to learn about history.

Endowed with two entrances, Juan Ponce de Leon features a boat tour, a nice children’s playground area, a nature trail, bike rides, neat bathrooms and showers, and an underwater spring.

Cool off by the shoreline at dusk to watch sea turtles mate, explore the natural world of coconut, or lay back observing the birds and sand crabs.

Besides, you can likewise get a feel of the famous underwater spring known as the fountain of youth, walk the trail or go on a boat tour.

Such an excellent place to relax and relive history.

Of note, Juan Ponce de Leon landing offers great roadside beach access and wheelchair accessibility so everyone can enjoy the wonderful experience it provides.

Address: 4005 Florida A1A, Melbourne Beach, FL 32951

16. Gleason Park

Gleason Park

Gleason Park

To the south and west of the south of Patrick drive and Yacht club intersection, lies a 217-acre space endowed with a recreational Centre, playground, and a trail by the lakeside.

For an outdoor goer looking for the right spot to enjoy some personal time and also build some muscles, Gleason Park is just the right place to drop by.

This dog-friendly park features a workout area, a large fountain, a walking pier over the lake, plenty of seating in shades and grills, multiple swimming pools, and public dog water that comes along with bowls.

Need to clear your head?

Take a walk through the trails circling the park.

Want to stretch your muscles?

Then head out to the recreational Centre. Equipped with adequate workout equipment, they offer swimming lessons, kids’ classes, workout sessions, or a para course.

You can likewise have a relaxing day sitting on the bench to take in the sight of the gopher turtles or just enjoy the sunset.

Let the children have a splendid time at the playground while you grill a chicken on the grill used for cookouts.

The park is a hotspot to have a swell time playing Pokémon Go, raids, or team rockets. The beautiful and serene environment makes the park suitable for large events to be held in the attraction.

So have a great time planning a birthday or a wedding. Who knows? It could be one of your favorite places in Melbourne, Florida.

Address: 1233 Yacht Club Blvd, Indian Harbour Beach, FL 32937

17. Escape Room Entertainment

Escape Room Entertainment

Escape Room Entertainment

Bored and in need of a mind-blowing adventure?

Or maybe you just need a place to strengthen the bond among your friends or family. Try out the escape room and experience an adventure inside the four walls of a building.

Escape room entertainment offers an interactive game built in a physical location that challenges players to decipher ways out of a locked room.

Explore clues, unlock secrets, and solve puzzles and mysteries to discover a way out.

Designed to Foster creative thinking, teamwork and at the same time have fun, the escape room is known for its authentic decor and historical accuracy.

The games are also suitable for both children and adults.

Hop in a themed room and transform into a modern Sherlock Holmes while playing CSI homicide or experience the world of a mobster in the game mob one.

Whichever game you wish to play, escape room entertainment promises you an amazing time.

Address: 630 S Wickham Rd #105, Melbourne, FL 32904

18. American Muscle Car, Melbourne

American Muscle Car

American Muscle Car

Lovers of automobiles also have a place to call home in the American Muscle Car Museum.

The 123,000 feet complex is home to Mark Pieloch’s car collection.

Mark, being a car enthusiast for a span of more than forty years, has amassed more than 3,254 cars ranging from classic American muscle cars to modern muscle cars.

Situated on 42 acres in Melbourne, the complex features a vehicle display area, showroom, and varieties of muscle cars.

Although the museum is not open to the public, numerous educational tours, car activities, and charitable fundraisers are hosted in the museum.

Enjoy the sight of incredible cars, bikes, and trunks in a state of the art powered facility.

Bring your camera along to take pictures of the classical cars or sophisticated muscles.

Explore and learn about the features of these muscle cars and in some rare situations, you can also try out these cars if you want to get a feel of the cars.

So when you need a place to spend time with the guys, the museum is just the place.

Address: 3500 Sarno Rd, Melbourne, FL 32934

So far so good we all can agree Florida has a lot of cities filled with engaging attractions/places for visitors to explore. So, why not check out our list of things to do in Tampa, Davenport, Alachua, Stuart, and Destin?

19. Viera Wetlands

Viera Wetlands

Wildspaces / Stock Adobe

Popular for nature lovers and bird watching, viera wetlands is a man-made habitat located on the outskirts of St. John River flood plain.

A perfect escape for nature lovers, the marshy area is a perfect spot to watch the sunrise or sunset.

It is endowed with a gazebo, beautiful trails, and wildlife, such as alligators, Armadillos, turtles, and varieties of birds.

Besides, you can also choose to visit in the winter as the wetland is a peaceful sanctuary to enjoy birding and wildlife.

To get the best experience, hang on to your binoculars and camera to feed your eyes and capture special moments with the birds and family.

Take in the serene environment as you take a hike along the trail circling the wetlands and if you are tired, you can chill out in a clean spot overlooking the birds and alligators.

Bask in the warmth that nature provides and don’t forget to take an insect repellent while you are at it.

Address: Viera North, 10001 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL 32940

20. Ballard Park, Melbourne

Ballard Park

Kevin Borlan / Flickr

Containing a memorial of Thomas Barbour, who was an author and a naturalist, Ballard park is situated at 924 Thomas Barbour drive and is seated on the Indian River lagoon.

The public park features various unique recreational facilities and equipment like boat ramps, tennis courts, picnic areas, a fantastic fishing location, and a pavilion with charcoal grills.

A perfect location for picnic dates, the park offers a nice shade to relax with friends, a great fishing experience for anglers, a fenced playground for the kids, an open space to play a game of basketball, and a heartwarming sight of birds and dolphins.

Whether you want to have a small grill party at the pavilion with your loved ones after a fun-filled day of fishing or flex your muscles with a friendly game of tennis battling with other sportsmen, the park is the perfect place to enjoy yourself to your heart’s content.

Address: 924 Thomas Barbour Dr, Melbourne, FL 32935

21. Mathers Bridge

Mathers Bridge

Chuck Palmer / Flickr

Get your fishing rods and lines ready because Mather’s bridge is calling out to you.

Built in 1927 by John Mathers, the 700-foot-long low-level bridge is situated on the edge of the southern tip of Merritt Island, Florida.

John Mathers built the bridge to link Merritt Island to the Indian Harbour bench.

However, it was later moved to its present location in 1952 after the bridge collapsed and was reconstructed by the Austin brothers.

The Mathers Bridge is a popular spot for anglers and sightseers. It is lovely to catch all types of fish and also socialize at the same time. So be sure to make new friends while doing what you love.

Blessed with a spectacular view, the Bridge is home to dolphins and open to everyone.

So if you are looking for a nice place to have a good time without spending a dime, now you’ve got it.

Address: Merritt Island, FL 32952, United States

22. Green Gables

Green Gables

Green Gables

Want to know more about the history of some of the areas in Melbourne, Florida? Then the green gables are the best place to start from.

Also called the well house, the historic home is located on south Harbor City Boulevard in Melbourne, Florida.

Built by businessman William Twills after he purchased the strobah property in 1880, the 110-year-old house is one of the historical gems of the century.

It is also believed to be the first house in the vicinity, with indoor plumbing and a bathroom.

The green gable is a hotspot for children to learn about history and also play nineteenth-century games.

The volunteers and workers are easygoing and can provide a lot of information about the history of the house and the region.

It is certainly important to preserve this ancient treasure so that future generations can enjoy it.

Address: 1501 S Harbor City Blvd, Melbourne, FL 32901

See also the list of things to do in Siesta Key!

23. Old Town Hall History Center

Old Town Hall History Center

Old Town Hall History Center

The old Melbourne beach town hall, currently located at 2372 Oak Street, Melbourne beach houses the Old Town Hall History center.

The center is centered on research and public education through its historical collections.

The center features exhibit on the history of the locals as well as Indians, Spanish shipwrecks, and the development of Melbourne beach.

Visitors are allowed to see these collections at events and are also allowed to access educational programs.

Besides, a tour around the center will likewise expose you to the history of the locals.

Address: 2373 Oak St, Melbourne Beach, FL 32951

24. Club 52, Melbourne

Club 52

Club 52

Up for a game of poker? Club 52 in Melbourne will be a cool place to play, have drinks and relax after a long day.

A wonderful spot for placing bets and gaming and making new friends, the poker room boasts of friendly dealers and waitresses, delicious food, and cheap drinks to go with the splendid moment.

Head on to club 52 and play a game of poker. It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner, you will be assisted by the staff of the club.

The club also features games like horse racing, dog racing, and a motorcycle training site.

Enjoy a wonderful evening having fun and also trying to win some money at club52.

Address: 1100 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL 32935

 

Start Planning Your Trip to Melbourne

What better place to spend your holiday than in a city that provides you with various activities and attractions to choose from?

Indeed, the region is a hub for entertainment, arts, nature
and tourist attractions just waiting to be explored.

So make up your mind to visit this hidden gem that guarantees to give you that taste of adventure you deserve.

Safe Travels!