Blake Walsh

23 Best Things to Do in Melbourne, FL

  • Published 2023/04/04

Melbourne is a beautiful city in Brevard County, Florida, with amazing views, beaches, pubs, art galleries, aesthetic cafes, nature reserves, and museums.

From sampling craft beers at local breweries to browsing the gorgeous displays at classic art museums, you are in for the most incredible ride.

This city is filled with thrill and adventure, and your trip to Melbourne will surely be no different.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a lover of the arts, or a beach bum, this city is an excellent choice as your next travel destination.

Are you interested in discovering what else you can see and explore here?

These are the best things to do in Melbourne, Florida:

Have a Full Day of Family Fun at Paradise Beach

The waters of Paradise Beach

Sergey and Marina Pyataev / Shutterstock.com

Paradise Beach is one of Melbourne, Florida’s most famous beaches and tourist destinations.

This beach in the city is the liveliest place you will visit here.

It is an immaculate and well-maintained beach where you can dip in the warm waters or sunbathe during the beach hours.

Enjoy all the usual beach activities like playing beach games like volleyball and Frisbee and making sand castles.

Afterward, you can also have a beach picnic as plenty of tables are available.

You can go surfing, pick up various available water sports, or kick back and relax.

Another fun thing about Paradise Beach is the public grills, where you can have a barbecue evening with your family and spend quality time together filled with love and laughter.

Go Zip Lining at Treetop Trek Aerial Adventures

Treetop Trek Aerial Adventures provides all kinds of adventure courses for you to choose from.

You can go for a canopy walk, which is relatively simple and can be done by young teens.

You can also go zip lining, one of the most popular and thrilling activities they offer.

The activities occur inside a zoo, where you can witness various animals.

You can watch monkeys and small animals without going deeper into the zoo while performing your chosen activities.

The black diamond course is one of the most challenging courses here, and it is highly recommended to try it out if you are into adventure.

Overall, Treetop Trek Aerial Adventures is a fantastic place to check out, as you can enjoy thrilling activities and visit a zoo all at once.

Explore Downtown Melbourne

Open air artwork in Downtown Melbourne

Dale Borchardt / Shutterstock.com

Downtown Melbourne is a beautiful, aesthetic, and lovely place.

It is full of cafes, pubs, breweries, and so on.

There are a lot of shopping stores for you to choose from.

The downtown area is full of fantastic vibes and liveliness.

Its cafes have aesthetic outdoor seating areas to provide the best experience for visitors.

Road entryway of Downtown Melbourne

Thomas Kelley / Shutterstock.com

Downtown is perfect for people who love exploring different restaurants, cafes, bars, shopping centers, art galleries, and more.

This district has everything; you can spend all day here and still not get bored.

Boasting everything from live music performances at night to classic art galleries, this part of Melbourne is not to be missed.

A farmers’ market is nearby where you can buy all sorts of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other groceries.

It’s the perfect place to shop, eat, and saunter.

The shops along Downtown Melbourne

Dale Borchardt / Shutterstock.com

Satisfy Your Inner Art Enthusiast at the Eau Gallie Arts District

Exterior of the Foosaner art museum

Leonard J. DeFrancisci, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Art museums have such beauty in them that no other historic place could ever hold.

Fortunately, Melbourne’s Eau Gallie Arts District is filled with such art galleries.

The Fifth Avenue Gallery is one of the art galleries in the city’s famous arts district.

This beautiful artist’s haven boasts an awe-inspiring collection of crafts, jewelry, and local art exhibits.

Do not miss the chance to experience this fantastic district in and around the city.

Spend a Relaxing Day at the Melbourne Beach Pier

Entrance arch of Melbourne beach pier

Thomas Kelley / Shutterstock.com

The historic Melbourne Beach Pier in Florida is a must-visit.

It is the perfect place to watch the most beautiful sunsets, simply fish, or for docking your boats.

The views here are stunning.

The view from within the Melbourne Beach Pier

jtomlin980 / Shutterstock.com

You can experience beautiful sea creatures like dolphins and small whales.

The sunrise and sunsets here fill the sky with orange and purple hues, which are stunning to look at.

Melbourne Beach Pier is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the stunning views while sipping a cold beverage.

Gorgeous sunset over Melbourne Beach Pier

Doug Frazier / Shutterstock.com

Go Night Clubbing on the Shore

This is probably the Melbourne experience all party animals have been waiting for.

The city’s after-dark events and entertainment include the best night clubbing experiences—not just regular clubbing, but clubbing on the beach!

There probably aren’t a lot of activities that are as much fun as beach parties, especially when you experience them with the right company.

If you’re looking for a good time in Melbourne, grab the opportunity to experience the city’s exciting nightlife!

Meet Stunning Wildlife at Erna Nixon Park

Welcome sign of Erna Nixon Park

Leonard J. DeFrancisci, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Erna Nixon Park is a charming, clean, and well-kept park in the city.

The park is usually sunny, bright, and warm in the summers and is excellent for witnessing wildlife.

This nature preserve is home to many flora and fauna and local wildlife.

You can get a chance to view some wild animals like lions and tigers or meet cute little bears and pandas.

Boardwalk lined with trees at Erna Nixon Park

Leonard J. DeFrancisci, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This place is full of different well-marked trails for you to hike, with stunning views.

It is a perfect place to go whenever one feels like taking a break.

You can visit this park with your family and spend quality time in nature’s lap.

The park is well-lit at night, making it the perfect spot for overnight camping.

It is an excellent spot for taking pictures and enjoying the beauty of nature.

Have the Time of Your Life at Andretti Thrill Park

This amusement center in Melbourne is a fantastic place to go if you enjoy playing games.

Andretti Thrill Park offers visitors everything from go-karting and arcade games to mini-golf, laser tag, and loads of other activities for you to choose from.

They also have a lot of fun rides for visitors of all ages.

There are so many activities and rides for everyone at Andretti Thrill Park.

Grab an Ice-Cold Beer at Intracoastal Brewing Company

The Intracoastal Brewing Company is one of the best outdoor breweries where you can choose from a wide selection of beers.

The bar comes with a garden and is dog-friendly.

The beer here is excellent and is loved by all the tourists and locals.

It is a great place to visit with your friends.

The food truck, beers, and beverages make this place worth checking out.

Intracoastal Brewing Company also has live music in the evenings, making it a pleasant and lively experience.

The whole vibe of this place is very chill and fun.

Admire the Gorgeous Views at Lake Washington

Gorgeous sunset overWashington Lake

Stephen Wood / Shutterstock.com

Lake Washington is the largest and most beautiful lake in Melbourne.

You can enjoy the lake’s magnificence or go fishing.

Washington Lake wetlands

Stephen Wood / Shutterstock.com

The views here are stunning, and the sunsets are even more remarkable.

The water is sapphire blue and cold, and the lake’s vibe is serene.

You won’t regret adding this breathtaking spot to your itinerary.

Bring Your Pets to Pieloch Dog Park

This is the one for all dog lovers.

Pieloch Dog Park is a small, dog-friendly park where you can bring your dog for a walk or meet other dogs.

The place has many shaded seating areas for you to casually hang out while your dog plays and makes new furry friends.

There is plenty of space for your dogs to run, and the Pieloch Dog Park will offer all dog lovers a fantastic experience.

Have a Lovely Picnic at Bean Park

This beautiful riverfront park is a fantastic place to go for charming picnic dates with your loved ones.

Bean Park offers visitors a cozy setting, especially with its beautiful waterfront views.

You can find different kinds of swans sitting on the water.

The scenery of this place is breathtaking, and its serenity is even better.

Spend lunch at Bean Park!

Check Out the Plants at the Joy & Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden

The Joy & Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden is a public garden where you’ll see the true beauty of Florida’s natural plant life in full force.

Wander the trails and renew your appreciation for the trees and flowers around you.

There are some species you won’t find anywhere else, so savor the moment for as long as possible.

However, you must also remember to take care and be mindful of your actions.

A lot of the plant life in the area is delicate, so make sure you don’t disturb or damage them while you’re exploring.

Enjoy the day at the Joy & Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden!

Watch the Sunset at the Eau Gallie Causeway

Silhouette of the Eau Gallie Causeway during sunset

Stephen Wood / Shutterstock.com

The Eau Gallie Causeway connects Eau Gallie to Florida, and it’s part of one of the best views you’ll ever see.

The concrete bridge was dedicated on February 22, 1955, George Washington’s birthday.

Find the bridge in Melbourne and see how it towers over the sea.

View of the sunset from Eau Gallie Causeway

Carla Servedio / Shutterstock.com

It’s an unforgettable sight; you won’t regret reserving a moment to take it all in.

Watch as the sun’s rays shine against it and reflect on the water.

Snap a few photos of the Eau Gallie Causeway to save the moment before moving on and carrying that beautiful memory with you.

Learn History at the Green Gables

Exterior of the Green Gables

Leonard J. DeFrancisci, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Along the scenic Indian River, you’ll find a house built in the gorgeous and elegant Queen Anne style called the Green Gables.

It was built in 1896 by William and Nora Wells as a winter home and where they would permanently retire.

Side facade of the Green Gables

Leonard J. DeFrancisci, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The place was the first home in Melbourne to have electricity, and the original site stretched across 150 acres of land.

Nowadays, the place is a historical site that everyone who visits Melbourne must see.

The sight of it will give you a glimpse of the culture and history of this beautiful city.

Take a Breather at the Crane Creek Promenade

Daytime view of the Crane Creek Promenade

Leonard J. DeFrancisci, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Crane Creek Promenade is one of the best places to see the full view of Crane Creek.

Take a stroll here with your family and friends and enjoy the sights, the clear waters, the sky’s endless expanse, and the city’s murmur.

Relax here and let the gentle breeze carry away all your worries and troubles.

You can catch a sunset here, undoubtedly becoming a memory you won’t forget anytime soon.

Take an afternoon walk along the Crane Creek Promenade.

Enjoy a Unique Dining Experience at Hemingway’s Tavern

Ernest Hemingway is one of the best American authors of all time, and visiting this tavern will let you get to know this great writer better.

Try his favorite foods and alcohol at the aptly named Hemingway’s Tavern.

Take the journey back to the 1930s and place yourself in his shoes.

Hemingway traveled to various countries and used his unique experiences to write his works.

This sense of adventure is reflected in the menu of Hemingway’s Tavern.

Try out the black bean hummus and the Cuban pork empanadas, among other things.

Go on an Adventure at Wickham Park

Signage of Wickham Park

Leonard J. DeFrancisci, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Wickham Park provides many fun activities in Melbourne, an excellent stop for day trips.

Some of the best attractions in Wickham Park are its disc golf course, archery range, and picnic areas.

The park also has many walking trails since it is one of the biggest parks in Melbourne and surrounding cities and towns.

If you visit at the right time, you can see the most anticipated events in Melbourne, like art festivals, farmers’ markets, and Christmas celebrations.

The park is along Parkway Drive.

Visit the Liberty Bell Memorial Museum

Exterior of Liberty Bell Memorial Museum

Leonard J. DeFrancisci, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Are you a fan of American history?

Visit the Liberty Bell Memorial Museum in Melbourne.

It contains a small exhibit paying tribute to US independence; its centerpiece is a full-sized replica of the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia.

Likewise, it is also a convenient spot to learn the history of Melbourne and the Seminoles.

If you’re in downtown Melbourne, don’t miss the mountains of knowledge at the Liberty Bell Memorial Museum.

The museum is along Oak Street.

Chow Down Mustard’s Famous Hot Dogs

If you’re hungry but on a budget, check out Mustard’s Famous Hot Dogs.

This hot dog joint is one of the most popular dining spots in Melbourne and the Orlando area.

Their hot dog selection is vast, comprising not your typical hot dogs, with vegan options available.

Despite several options, their Chicago dog remains one of their most popular varieties; many rave about its flavor.

Mustard’s Famous Hot Dogs are perfect for Florida’s beach vibe and an excellent eatery for all tourists.

The hot dog spot is along East New Haven Avenue.

Dine in Style at Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza

Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza is a prominent dining establishment in Melbourne and Florida.

It is a chic pizzeria and Italian restaurant perfect for dates and intimate family gatherings.

A big reason for its popularity is its light but delicious Italian food coupled with its wine and spirits.

Besides, this restaurant’s vibrant and visually appealing interior makes it Instagram-worthy.

Their unmissable items include the burrata and the quirky Nutella Pizza.

Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza is along East New Haven Avenue.

Explore the Indian River at Scurrah’s Landing

One of the best things to see in Melbourne is the Indian River, which flows toward the Atlantic Ocean.

You can explore this river from Scurrah’s Landing, a quaint park that doesn’t attract many people even during peak hours.

This park is a hidden gem and a fantastic relaxing spot with friends and family.

Moreover, you can spot dolphins in their natural habitat if you’re lucky.

Scurrah’s Landing is along Riverview Drive.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Take the Kids to Pelican Beach Park

Pelican Beach Park is another fantastic beach in Satellite Beach that you can visit with friends and family.

This beach park has the most beautiful views and relaxed seating.

The waves at this beach are calm and are perfect for little kids.

You can play all kinds of beach games on this beach and have a picnic with your peers, as there are a lot of picnic spots available here.

It is the perfect spot for relaxing, sipping beverages, reading your favorite books, or journaling.

The beach is next to a children’s park, making it ideal for kids and adults.

A food truck near the beach will take care of all your cravings.

This beach is a highly recommended attraction, especially if you are traveling with kids.

Pelican Beach Park is 14 minutes from Melbourne.

Final Thoughts

The beauty of Melbourne is easy to appreciate, but it also has many secrets waiting for the enterprising traveler.

The more you explore, the more you learn and discover from this city.

Start planning your trip and discover the best things to do in Melbourne, Florida.

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