8 Best Things To Do In Cocoa, Florida - The Charming And Historic City

things to do in cocoa florida
Paolo
Paolo 
Updated
| 4 min read

There are various stories about the origin of the metropolis, but one thing is for sure, Cocoa has an eventful history. It managed to overcome a few economic setbacks in the past and now, it has become a beloved tourist destination. So if you’re planning to visit this lovely city, then let this list help you out. Here are the top 8 things to do in Cocoa, Florida. Beaches, parks, museums, and historical sites and other must-see attractions await you.

1. Historic Cocoa Village

Cocoa - Historic Cocoa Village (2)
Source: Photo by Flickr user Jared used under CC BY 2.0

Cocoa’s downtown is well-known not only for its history, but also for its unique shopping and dining establishments. Come to Historic Cocoa Village and visit the shops selling antiques, decorations, jewelry, toys, artworks, and other precious items. If you’re hungry, then head to one of the many gourmet restaurants. The restaurants offer a wide variety of dishes from different parts of the world. When the sun goes down, you can proceed to the nightlife spots to enjoy drinks and live band performances. You can also just go for a stroll and savor the relaxing village atmosphere.

Historic Cocoa Village

Address: 12 Stone St, Cocoa, FL 32922, USA

Website: Historic Cocoa Village

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2. Porcher House

Historic Porcher House / Cocoa Village FL
Source: Photo by Flickr user Rusty Clark ~ 100... used under CC BY 2.0

Porcher House in Delannoy Avenue was built in 1916 by a respected businessman and it’s included in the National Registry of Historic Places. Thanks to its elegant design, Porcher House also became a popular spot for weddings and receptions. Take a tour of the 10-bedroom home and be fascinated by its teak stairs, oak floors, and many other unique features. It’s the perfect example of classical 20th-century architecture. As you explore further, you will learn more about the place’s rich history. Keep in mind that tours are by appointment only, and it can be arranged at the office on the first floor.

Porcher House

Address: 434 Delannoy Ave, Cocoa, FL 32922, USA

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3. Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science

Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science
Source: Photo by Flickr user Rusty Clark ~ 100... used under CC BY 2.0

Located at Michigan Avenue, Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science is home to over 3,000 artifacts from the country. You will see fossils of the Windover People, which are believed to be about 7,000 years old. Witness how the relics were unearthed at the simulation of the archeological dig. You will also get a good look at the skeletons of a Mastodon, Giant Ground Sloth, and Saber Tooth Cat. These creatures date back to the Ice Age.

The museum’s dioramas accurately depict the culture and traditions of Florida’s first inhabitants as well as the state’s diverse ecosystem. There are also dioramas that will enlighten you about space exploration. As for the kids and kids-at-heart, they can proceed to the Imagination Center and re-enact a NASA shuttle launch.

Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science

Address: 2201 Michigan Ave, Cocoa, FL 32926

Facebook: Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science

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4. Planetarium and Observatory at Eastern Florida State College

A wide view of the "Visions of the Cosmos", the astronomy-inspired artwork of E. Lee Wilson, Jr. – a space art...

Posted by E. Lee Wilson, Jr. on Monday, 23 May 2016

The Planetarium and Observatory at Eastern Florida State College will enlighten you about Earth and outer space in the most exciting way. At the Observatory, be enthralled by the view of the stars and neighboring planets from one of the telescopes. The Science Quest Exhibit Hall is where you can learn about meteorites, the solar system, and Earth’s rotation and gravity. Another highlight is the state-of-the-art Star Theater, which offers awe-inspiring movies about astronomy. It’s also the venue of the equally stunning light show. Lastly, visit the Art Gallery to see the colorful space-themed masterpieces of different local artists.

Planetarium and Observatory at Eastern Florida State College

Address: Eastern Florida State College, 1519 Clearlake Rd, Bldg. 19, Cocoa, FL 32922

Facebook: Planetarium and Observatory at Eastern Florida State College

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5. Riverfront Park

Cocoa Riverfront Park
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user COCOAFL used under CC BY-SA 4.0

The 10-acre (40,469 square meters) Riverfront Park is located in the Historic Cocoa Village, and it has lots of fun activities to offer. Go for a stroll on the boardwalk and enjoy the lush scenery and the view of the Indian River. You can also just unwind on one of the covered pavilions. If you want a more adventurous experience, then head to the water sports and fishing areas. At the amphitheater, you will have an opportunity to watch concerts or other huge events. Kids and kids-at-heart will surely have a great time at the playground.

Riverfront Park

Address: 401 Riveredge Blvd, Cocoa, FL 32922, USA

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6. Indian River Queen

Wishing everyone a very Happy Easter from all the crew and staff at the Indian River Queen.

Posted by Indian-River Queen on Sunday, 27 March 2016

Board a luxurious triple-decker boat and go on an unforgettable cruise along the Indian River Lagoon. As you move along the water, you will surely enjoy the lush surroundings and the fresh breeze. It’s also your opportunity to get an up-close look at the birds, manatees, and bottle-nosed dolphins. The narration will tell you more about the river as well as the diverse wildlife. These scenic voyages are only available on Sundays, and they’re about two and a half hours long. Other services offered by Indian River Queen include party cruises, lunch and dinner cruises, private charters, wedding receptions, corporate events, and many more.

Indian River Queen

Address: Cocoa Village Marina, 90 Delannoy Avenue, Cocoa, FL 32922

Website: Indian River Queen

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7. Florida's Space Coast

When the journey is just as beautiful as the destination. #SpaceCoast fan photo by Instagrammer @gordon_sumner

Posted by Florida's Space Coast on Saturday, 25 February 2017

This place will give you a truly memorable beach experience. Take a trip to Florida’s Space Coast and have a great time in its white sand beaches. The coastline is about 72 miles (116 kilometers) long. You can go for a swim in the pristine water or just unwind and savor the lovely sea breeze. If you’re an experienced surfer, then bring out your board and conquer the waves. Florida’s Space Coast is often considered as a world-renowned surfing spot. When it comes to the views, you will definitely enjoy the sight of the luxurious boats and Kennedy Space Center’s shuttle launches. The Space Coast’s office of tourism will provide you with all the information you need.

Florida's Space Coast

Address: 430 Brevard Avenue, Suite 150, Cocoa, FL 32922

Website: Florida’s Space Coast

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8. Taylor Park

Quirk at Taylor Park, Cocoa Beach, FL

Posted by Marlo Mooney-Itteilag on Monday, 11 February 2013

It’s another park that is guaranteed to give you precious moments. Go for a stroll through Taylor Park in State Highway and admire the fountains and lush surroundings. If you just want to relax, then go sit down on one of the shaded benches. The tranquil atmosphere will make it easy for you to unwind. You can also explore the rose garden where different types of colorful plants are waiting. The kids can head to the playground, which is shaded as well.

Taylor Park

Address: 430 State Hwy 515, Cocoa, FL 32922, USA

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Let Cocoa amaze you

The list already provided you with 8 attractions, but there are more to explore indeed. Apart from the dining establishments of Historic Cocoa Village, you can also visit Tony’s Famous New York Pizza in State Road 524 for some delightful Italian dishes. Muddie’s Down Home Cookin’ in North Cocoa Boulevard is the place to be if you’re looking for the best sandwiches in town. Other famous spots include Mamasan’s Vietnamese Café and Chaparral Mexican Grill.

If you don’t have a car, there are plenty of taxis that will take you to your preferred destination. The city also has bus stops for the Space Coast Area Transit. So now that you’re familiar with the best things to do in Cocoa, it’s time to begin your adventurous journey.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Freelance writer by day, rap artist by night. When he's not making music or joining rap battles, Paolo writes about anything under the sun. Throughout his eight-year experience as a copywriter, he...Read more

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