15 Best Things to Do in Sebring, FL
This article was written by local contributor Celine Smith & edited by the Travel Lens team.
Welcome to Sebring, Florida! I have lived here for most of my life and let me tell you, this charming town has so much to offer.
Nestled in the heart of Central Florida, Sebring boasts a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and a small-town atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.
Over the years, I've discovered countless hidden gems and unique experiences that showcase the best of our lovely town. So grab a pen and paper, because I'm about to share with you some of my favorite things to do in Sebring that you simply can't miss.
A Day at Highlands Hammock State Park
One of my favorite places to visit in our area is Highlands Hammock State Park. It's such a majestic place with its lush greenery and old Florida charm. I've been camping there a few times, and it's always been a great experience.
The campground is quiet, well-kept, and the staff is friendly and helpful. The showers are clean, and there's even a nice trail through the cypresses with some interesting history to learn along the way.
Whenever I have friends or family visiting, I always recommend the park's bike loop. It's a fantastic way to spend the day, and it's suitable for kids as well. The best part is that we hardly ever see any cars on the loop, making it a safe and enjoyable ride.
You never know what kind of wildlife you'll come across in this beautiful park.
Experiencing Sebring International Raceway
I can confidently say that Sebring International Raceway is an absolute must-visit for any sports car racing fan. I love taking my kids there to watch the races and enjoy the electric atmosphere. We usually spend our time wandering the infield for the perfect view or taking in the incredible sights and sounds of a live racetrack.
One of my favorite events is the Sebring 12, which is the second jewel in the triple crown of endurance races, along with Daytona and Le Mans. It has hosted a veritable "who's who" of racers over the decades, making it a fantastic place to witness top-notch competition.
Another highlight of the raceway is the hotel that directly overlooks the track. It's a fantastic spot to stay if you're a racing enthusiast or even just looking for a unique experience. I've also had great meals at the onsite restaurant, which offers delicious food and a perfect view of the racecourse.
A word of advice for fellow locals and visitors – if you can, get the parking pass when attending an event at Sebring International Raceway. It makes the entire experience even more enjoyable.
A Visit to the Military Sea Services Museum
I've always been interested in military history, and living in the area, I decided to pay a visit to the Military Sea Services Museum.
Although the museum looks small from the outside, I was pleasantly surprised to find it packed with military sea memorabilia spanning from World War I through the Gulf wars.
The signage was excellent, and I was fortunate enough to have a docent guide me through the exhibits. I ended up spending about 75 minutes exploring the museum, and I found it to be a very enriching experience. What's even better is that there's no entrance fee, making it easily accessible for everyone.
During my visit, I met an awesome guide who shared his extensive knowledge and many interesting stories.
I spent 2 hours learning new things from him. It's amazing how much you can learn from these small, volunteer-run museums. I highly recommend it for anyone interested in military sea history.
Discovering Hidden Gems at the Lost Mines of Atlantis
One of my favorite spots in the area has to be the Lost Mines of Atlantis. I've been a regular visitor for quite some time now, and it never gets old. The experience of mining for stones and geodes, uncovering beautiful and unique gems, is simply mesmerizing.
The excitement of cracking open a geode and discovering the amazing center is truly unparalleled.
What makes this place even more special is the warmth and friendliness of the owners, Steve and his family. They are always welcoming and more than happy to answer any questions you might have, making the experience more enjoyable and educational.
In addition to the mining experience, their gemstone store has a fantastic variety of stones and souvenirs. I've purchased several beautiful pieces, including a stunning large turquoise, which has become a prized possession of mine.
Whether you're a gemstone fan or simply looking for a fun and engaging activity, the Lost Mines of Atlantis is definitely a must-visit spot.
Discovering the Charm of Secret Gardens Winery & Farm
Secret Gardens Winery & Farm has quickly become a favorite spot of mine to unwind and indulge in some delicious locally-made wine.
The family-operated winery offers a variety of Muscadine wines, as well as some amazing cheese spreads to enjoy alongside a glass of wine. I particularly enjoyed the raspberry walnut and Swiss almond cheese spreads, which went perfectly with the beautiful surroundings.
Aside from the delicious wine and cheese, the winery's blue barn provides a lovely venue rental and currently serves as a farm store that carries Amish-made goodies. I can definitely see the charm in hosting events at this beautiful location.
The outdoor seating area offers a relaxing space to enjoy a glass of wine and take in the picturesque view of the vineyard. I can't wait to return to Secret Gardens Winery & Farm and enjoy more of their delightful offerings!
A Night at Highlands Little Theatre
One of my favorite ways to spend an evening in Sebring is visiting Highlands Little Theatre. The performances never fail to amaze me, as the actors pour their hearts into every production.
The theatre is such a cozy and relaxing environment, and I especially love the option to sit at tables at the front of the theater. My son even participated in their summer camp, which ignited his passion for theater. Whenever you're in Sebring, I highly recommend taking the time to enjoy a show at Highlands Little Theatre.
Fishing and Picnicking at Lake Istokpoga
I can say that Lake Istokpoga is a popular spot for both fishing and picnicking. I've had my fair share of fishing trips here, but I've also experienced days when the water was murky after a storm, making it difficult to catch anything. However, when the weather is nice, the lake is an excellent spot for bass fishing.
My family and I often enjoy having picnics at one of the nearby parks around the lake. One of our favorite spots is the one with shaded picnic tables and covered pavilions. It's perfect for a hot summer day in Florida since most of the area is heavily shaded, keeping it relatively cool.
We usually grab some food from a nearby restaurant like Subway or Panera and have an impromptu picnic by the lake.
In addition to fishing and picnicking, Lake Istokpoga also offers airboat rides and a chance to see the locks in action.
The peacefulness of the lake is only occasionally broken by the sound of an airboat passing by. If you're ever in Highlands County, I highly recommend visiting Lake Istokpoga for a fun and relaxing day outdoors.
A Visit to Children's Museum of the Highlands
The Children's Museum of the Highlands is a fun day out. The moment we walked in, we noticed kids running around and having a blast. It's definitely more of a play museum for younger kids, with various play areas designed to let them act out careers and pretend to be employees at a supermarket.
I must say that this museum is best suited for children aged 2 to 6 years old, as older kids might become bored quickly.
Overall, if you have small children, the Children's Museum of the Highlands can be a fun place to spend a couple of hours. However, if you're looking for more of a traditional museum experience or something for older kids, you might want to consider other options in the area.
Exploring the Sebring Downtown Historic District
One of my favorite places to spend a leisurely afternoon is the Sebring Downtown Historic District. Located at Circle Drive and Ridgewood Drive from Mango Street to Magnolia Avenue, this charming area is home to 22 historic buildings and offers a glimpse into the past of Sebring, Florida.
As you stroll through the streets, you can enjoy the beauty of the old architecture and marvel at the well-preserved buildings that are a testament to the city's rich history.
The district boasts a variety of delightful shops, restaurants, and cafes, perfect for an afternoon of leisurely shopping or grabbing a delicious bite to eat. I particularly enjoy stopping by the ice cream and sandwich shops that line the main square area and the surrounding side streets.
The park in the middle of the square is a lovely spot to sit and relax while taking in the beauty of the historic district.
In addition to its charm and architectural beauty, the Sebring Downtown Historic District often hosts special events, like the Annual Sebring Soda Fest.
I happened to visit the district during this festival, and the atmosphere was full of energy and excitement! There were plenty of people in attendance, and the streets were lined with mini booths offering a wide variety of sodas and treats to indulge in.
If you're looking for a quaint and charming escape in Sebring, I highly recommend visiting the Sebring Downtown Historic District.
Its unique blend of history, shopping, dining, and special events make it a truly delightful destination for locals and visitors alike.
A Day at City Pier Beach
I often visit City Pier Beach when I want to have a relaxing day. The beach itself is quite small, but it's never too crowded, making it perfect for a quiet day out. There's a boardwalk that leads to a covered fishing pier, which is a nice spot for a leisurely stroll or some casual fishing.
While the parking lot is not very big, I've never had a problem finding a spot for my car. The beach also has a small play area for children and restrooms, making it convenient for families.
I personally love having picnics here and soaking up the sun while enjoying the view of Lake Jackson.
One of the things I appreciate about City Pier Beach is the clear water, which makes it ideal for swimming. Additionally, the beautiful homes around the lake add to the picturesque scenery.
Although I've visited the beach during rainy days, I still find it quite charming and peaceful.
Overall, City Pier Beach is a hidden gem in our community – a great spot to unwind, enjoy the view, and spend a lovely day by the lake.
A Treasure Trove of Used Books at Linda's Books
I've been a frequent visitor to Linda's Books for quite some time now, and I have to say that every visit to this cozy used bookstore is a delightful experience.
With an impressive inventory of over 300,000 books spread across 4800 sq. ft., I have never had trouble finding what I'm looking for. In fact, I've discovered many hidden gems that I would not have come across otherwise.
The bookstore has a vast variety of genres to choose from, including fiction, nonfiction, romance, historical, true crime, sci-fi, children's, young adult, westerns, cookbooks, inspiration, and self-help.
One of my favorite things about Linda's Books is the comfortable sitting area where I can relax and read or even host a book club meeting. It's a great community space, and the availability of drinks like soda and water is a nice touch.
I highly recommend Linda's Books to fellow book lovers and will continue to visit and support this local gem.
A Relaxing Escape at The Spa At Hammock Falls
Every time I need a break from the daily grind, I find solace at The Spa At Hammock Falls.
I've been a regular here for quite some time and it never disappoints. It's located in a quiet, private location in Sebring, making it the perfect escape for a local like me.
I recently visited the spa with a group of friends from out of town and had an amazing experience.
The staff was incredibly accommodating and made sure our group of five was well taken care of. We spent a morning indulging in various treatments, and it was such a memorable experience that my friends and I agreed it would be a must-visit every time they come to town.
One of the services I particularly enjoy is the deep tissue/therapeutic massages. The addition of hot stones makes it even more heavenly and by the time I leave, I feel like a completely new person.
What I also appreciate about The Spa At Hammock Falls is their monthly discounts and great summer specials, making it more accessible for regular visits. I'm looking forward to trying out more of their services and highly recommend it to anyone in need of some self-care and relaxation in the Sebring area.
Discovering Mon Cirque Wine Bar
I was delighted to discover the Mon Cirque Wine Bar through a friend's recommendation. From the moment I walked in, I knew that this place was something special.
The circus-inspired decor made for a fun and unique atmosphere that I hadn't experienced before. I was impressed by the variety of wines and beers available, making it the perfect spot for both wine enthusiasts like myself and my friends who prefer beer.
The staff was knowledgeable and friendly, always ready to answer any questions and help us find the perfect drink to suit our tastes.
One of my favorite things about Mon Cirque is the availability of cheese plates, fondues, and desserts to complement your wine or beer. It's ideal for an evening out with friends or a date night, enjoying the various seating areas and playing some of the games they offer.
I also love that they have live music and special themed events, making each visit a new and exciting experience. Mon Cirque Wine Bar is undoubtedly a hidden gem in this town, and I look forward to many more nights of fun and delicious drinks there.
Exploring the Wild Side with Airboat Wildlife Adventures
One of my favorite ways to spend the weekend is taking an Airboat Wildlife Adventures tour. This experience never disappoints, and as someone who enjoys exploring the local wildlife, I find it fascinating every time.
The staff are very friendly and informative, making sure to answer any questions that come up during the adventure. Every trip covers a lot of water, and sometimes even some land, which provides an amazing view of the area.
Each time I go on a tour, I see different wildlife like alligators, herons, horses, hawks, and hogs. The thrill of riding through the lake and the river is unmatched, and it truly is one of the coolest things I've ever done living here.
I always enjoy spending time with the local folks in Sebring and highly recommend adding Airboat Wildlife Adventures to your list of must-do activities in the area.
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