22 Things To Do In Melbourne, FL

things to do in melbourne florida
Kirsty
Kirsty 
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Melbourne is a city in Brevard County, Florida, one of the second biggest counties by size and population. Melbourne is located near Indian Lagoon and plenty of glorious sandy beaches and is home to a wide range of wildlife and water activities. Nature and wildlife are popular with tourists and there is a variety of things to see and do for all ages, here are the best things to do in Melbourne, Florida, on a budget.

1. See magnificent artwork at Fifth Avenue Art Gallery

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Red's Art Linda Harrison is back in our Pop-Up Gallery throughout February! Opening tonight, 5:30 - 8:30

Posted by Fifth Avenue Art Gallery on Friday, February 4, 2022

Located in the Eau Gallie Arts District, Fifth Avenue Art Gallery is a premier art gallery that has been exhibiting artworks done by many different artists throughout the decades. An artist owned co-op, it is a great place to appreciate works created by local artists. It proudly exhibits original fine art, fine crafts, and handcrafted jewelry that are sure to catch the eye of any art enthusiasts, collectors, and art aficionados.

Various exhibits are regularly on rotation and the gallery showcases a new themed exhibition each month.

Fifth Avenue Art Gallery

Address: 1470 Highland Ave, Melbourne, FL 32935, United States

Website: Fifth Avenue Art Gallery

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sun)

Price: Free

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2. Check out the amazing collection at American Muscle Car Museum

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

The museum is happy to announce the addition of the #16 1966 Ford GT40 Alan Mann Lightweight. This car is currently on...

Posted by American Muscle Car Museum on Monday, February 14, 2022

American Muscle Car Museum is a private museum that showcases Mark Pieloch’s car collection. The museum has over 350 cars and other attractions such as vintage balloon tire bicycles, antique gas pumps, jukeboxes, motorcycles, and more. There is a vehicle display area, a showroom, and a maintenance and restoration facility for the cars.

Although the museum is not normally open to the public, it does offer its space for non-profit fundraisers, car activities, charities, and educational tours. Check out the website to stay in tune with upcoming events at the museum.

American Muscle Car Museum

Address: 3500 Sarno Rd, Melbourne, FL 32934, United States

Website: American Muscle Car Museum

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3. Enjoy a game of baseball or basketball at Wickham Park

Wickham Park (Melbourne, Florida)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Leonard J. DeFran... used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Wickham Park is frequented by locals and tourists alike, due to its amazing amenities and well-maintained park area. You can enjoy the natural shade of the many trees planted here, take a walk along the walking path built around the periphery of the park, or try your hand at one of the many sports that people play here. There are a couple of artificial ponds, an archery area, plenty of well-maintained restrooms, and even a Frisbee golf course. There is staff available if you need any help, and they are extremely friendly and accommodating.

Wickham Park

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

Website: Wickham Park

Opening hours: 9:30am - 6pm (daily)

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4. Explore Downtown Melbourne

Historic Downtown Melbourne
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user MicheleHaro used under CC BY 3.0

Downtown Melbourne is the ultimate place to be when you travel to Melbourne. With its plethora of fun events and festivals, dining establishments including bars, coffee shops and restaurants, and shopping complexes, there is just so much to do and explore here. Pop into an art gallery and explore the art scene in Melbourne, go on a shopping spree in the many stores lining the streets, peruse unique souvenir stores such as a candle-making store, ceramics store and more, or enjoy grabbing a cup of coffee at the cafes. If you are lucky, you might find a party or event going on at one of the pubs or bars.

Downtown Melbourne

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

Website: Downtown Melbourne

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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5. Go on a shopping spree in Melbourne Square

Art Blvd (former Payless Shoesource) - Melbourne Square Mall - Melbourne, FL
Source: Photo by Flickr user Keith C used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Malls are representative of wholesome and family-friendly fun in America. So when you are in Melbourne, be sure to hit Melbourne Square for a whole day of shopping, dining, bowling at the arcade, and more. This mall has all the popular brands that you are used to shopping at, such as Bath & Bodyworks, Dillards, H&M, and more. Once you are done shopping, you can head over to the food courts for fast food, and go to the restaurants or coffee shops for a more relaxed meal.

Melbourne Square

Address: 1700 W New Haven Ave Ste 965, Melbourne, FL 32904, United States

Website: Melbourne Square

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 7pm; Sun: 12pm - 6pm

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6. Admire unique African bead work at Ruth Funk Center for Textile Arts

Editor’s note: Establishment is permanently closed

Are you interested in funky art or unique graphics on your clothing and accessories? This textile museum is worth visiting and it features a wide variety of textile crafts from all over the world, including African beadwork. If you make your own clothes, this can be an amazing place to get some inspiration and learn about how certain techniques are used in textile arts. The sheer craftsmanship is sure to blow you away and you are sure to return with great memories.

Ruth Funk Center for Textile Arts

Address: 150 W University Blvd, Melbourne, FL 32901, United States

Website: Ruth Funk Center for Textile Arts

Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 10am - 4pm; Sat: 12pm - 4pm (closed on Sun & Mon)

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7. Enjoy a lovely picnic at the Joy & Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Little Red Schoolhouse

Posted by The Joy & Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden at Florida Tech on Saturday, June 3, 2017

The Joy & Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden spans over 15 acres (6 hectares) of a beautiful well-maintained garden area that seeks to educate people about the unique flora and fauna that exists in Florida. With plenty of walking paths, fountains and artificial ponds, hammocks tied to palm trees, and other convenient amenities such as adequate clean restrooms and parking space, you are sure to have a lovely day hosting a picnic or taking a walk here. Within the garden, you can also visit the Little Red Schoolhouse and take pictures outside it.

Joy & Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden

Address: 150 W University Blvd, Melbourne, FL 32901, United States

Website: Joy & Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden

Opening hours: 6:30am - 8pm (daily)

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8. Visit the manatees at Manatee Cove Observation Park

Manatees - Bair's Cove, Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
Source: Photo by Flickr user Rusty Clark ~ 100... used under CC BY 2.0

Manatee Cove Observation Park is a peaceful and relaxing way to see manatees in a natural environment. A nature trail is accessible around the lagoon providing access to shoreline fishing, for those who are experts who want to try their hand at catching a few fish. Those with children a playground grill and picnic tables are available to take your own food and shaded areas are provided to take the heat off. The 12-hectare (29-acre) community is a fisherman’s paradise with admission to the river park retreat, a road from the area leads to a park facility entrance. This small and tranquil lagoon refuge for manatees, the facility also allows launch for canoes, another great way to go looking for wildlife!

Manatee Cove observation Park

Address: 32953 Merritt Island, FL

Website: Manatee Cove observation Park

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9. Hike the trails at Turkey Creek

Turkey Creek, Florida
Source: Photo by Flickr user Kirby Collins used under CC BY 2.0

Managed by the City of Palm Bay, the creek boasts a boardwalk nature trail through the 53-hectare (130-acre) sanctuary; fantastic views are on offer also. Venture through hydric hammocks (wet) and mesic hammocks (moist) with most of the trail overlooking the creek. It’s great for those who love to be active.

While exploring the trail, be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife such as the box turtle, woodpeckers, alligator and the endangered Florida mouse. For the extra active, the creek can be explored by canoe or kayak. The sanctuary offers a nature center which holds informative exhibits alongside a lovely little gift shop.

Turkey Creek

Address: 1518 Port Malabar Blvd NE, 32905 Palm Bay, FL

Website: Turkey Creek

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10. Stroll along Melbourne Beach Pier

Melbourne Beach FL old pier04
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ebyabe used under CC BY-SA 3.0

The perfect pier to watch wonderful sunsets, Melbourne Beach Pier was built in 1889 and inducted as a U.S. National Register of Historic Places. It’s survived through hurricanes, still standing although partially damaged. The pier is great for those who wish to fish. Fishing is available on the end of the pier. Tourists flock to watch the sunset over the Indian River Lagoon, with opportunities to see sharks and have been known to even see rocket launches on a clear day. Between April to November, there is a chance to see turtle breeding grounds; this beach is truly great for animal and nature enthusiasts.

Melbourne Beach Pier

Address: 32903 Indialantic, FL

Website: Melbourne Beach Pier

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11. Learn about sea turtle preservation

With the turtle population in a critical state, the Melbourne Beach Committee invites others to help keep them safe and clean. The best time to see any turtles breed and lay eggs is at night where the go to the dunes to their chosen breeding grounds. The sanctuary is run by volunteers of the Sea Turtle Preservation Society. They strive to educate and encourage the public’s help to raise awareness. Visiting the Sanctuary is a great way to educate children and enjoy helping the community.

Sea turtle Preservation

Address: 111 S Miramar Ave, 32903 Indialantic, FL

Website: Sea turtle Preservation

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12. Learn about the area's past at Rossetter House Museum

The Rossetter House and areas are still standing as a reminder of Florida’s past and the people who kept it home during the late nineteenth and well into the early twentieth century. The house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989. Guided tours are available Wednesday through Saturday from 11 to 3 p.m.

Owned by The Rossetter House Foundation, Inc., the museum includes antiques and exhibits that explore local history. Guided tours are available however a small admission of 8 USD is to be charged. The guided tour lasts 45 minutes to 1 hour, so it’s a good value.

The tour consists of the interior of the house with entertaining and informative debates of the history concerning the house and the surrounding areas. The tour consists of the house, gardens, garage and family cemetery. Those who don’t wish to visit the cemetery are allowed to skip this part of the tour. As you can see, you get such value for your money. The house is a must-see for history buffs.

Rossetter House Museum

Address: 1320 Highland Ave, 32935 Melbourne, FL

Website: Rossetter House Museum

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13. Attend Brevard County's movie in the park

Welcome to Brevard County sign 001
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Leonard J. DeFran... used under CC BY-SA 3.0

A fantastic way to spend an evening, Brevard offers a wide range of movies in the baseball park. The event is for all ages and free. Visitors are prompted to bring chairs and blankets to keep warm and be comfortable through the film. Food trucks will be available during the event for those who don’t choose to bring food, with over 10 trucks with varying cuisines to cater to everyone’s individual tastes. Be sure to check the website before the event. During bad weather, it will be subjected to cancellation.

Brevard County movie in the park

Address: 1515 Sarno Rd # B, 32935 Melbourne, FL

Website: Brevard County movie in the park

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14. Learn about environmental conservation at Lagoon House

Lagoon House (Palm Bay, Florida) 002
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Leonard J. DeFran... used under CC BY-SA 3.0

The Ted Moor-head Lagoon House is an education center for the Indian River Lagoon National Scenic Byway. The center is owned by the City of Palm Bay and run by the Marine Resources Council. Exhibits on display focus on history and environment of the area. The house offers a fantastic view to stop and relax overlooking the Indian River Lagoon. The center is a lovely slice of history giving tourists a small glimpse into the town’s local history. There are few local sites to see around the house such as the fishing pier and area which make a lovely picnic family area.

Lagoon House

Address: 3275 Dixie Hwy NE, 32905 Palm Bay, FL

Website: Lagoon House

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15. View the display at Foosaner Art Museum

Foosaner Art Museum 001
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Leonard J. DeFran... used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Editor’s note: Establishment is permanently closed

Since the art gallery’s opening in 1978, the art museum has tripled the exhibition area. The permanent collection has grown to over 3,000 subjects, accumulated during the time of opening. Children and adults alike are encouraged to try out classes and study art in the education center, where pottery, painting and printmaking classes can be attended.

Foosaner Art Museum

Address: 1463 Highland Ave, 32935 Melbourne, FL

Website: Foosaner Art Museum

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16. Visit the Liberty Bell Memorial Museum

Liberty Bell Memorial Museum Front 2
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Leonard J. DeFran... used under CC BY-SA 3.0

The Liberty Bell Memorial Museum has been serving as the anchor of Honor America’s focus towards education. The bell was cast by the Whitechapel Bell Foundry in London in 1751. The freedom museum was extended to the original museum in 2005 through local volunteers and financial organizations.

The hall is a tribute to the men and women of America’s armed forces. Displays of military awards and decorations feature alongside the major wars America has involved themselves in. The museum is a must for those who wish to honor and show respect for those who fight for the freedom of others.

Liberty Bell Memorial Museum

Address: 1601 Oak St, 32901 Melbourne, FL

Website: Liberty bell memorial museum

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17. Attend a performance at the Melbourne Community Orchestra

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Melbourne Community Orchestra on Friday, January 28, 2022

An orchestral organization that is striving to raise awareness and education of the appreciation of instrumental talent, they promote this through free public events. The aim is to educate the young and those who wish to become developed musicians. The mission has been running for over 25 years successfully. A lovely way to spend an evening, for all ages and those who appreciate the arts, it is encouraged to bring your own supply of food.

Melbourne community orchestra

Address: 1924 Melody Ln, 32901 Melbourne, FL

Website: Melbourne community orchestra

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18. Explore the Eau Gallie Arts District

Carroll's Furniture Ghost Sign - Eau Gallie Arts District - Eau Gallie, FL
Source: Photo by Flickr user Keith C used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Eau Gallie Arts District is a non-profit organization in Melbourne, Florida that houses some of the most vibrant and incredible art in the area. Everything from abstract art to street-style graffiti portraits can be found here. A beacon of art and culture in the city, Eau Gallie Arts District attracts visitors from far and wide and is especially busy during Pride Week. Community events are hosted every month and regular additions to the stunning exhibits keep people coming back for more.

Eau Gallie Arts District

Address: 1542 Guava Ave, Melbourne, FL 32935, United States

Website: Eau Gallie Arts District

Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 10am - 5pm (closed from Sat - Mon)

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19. Have dinner at El Ambia Cuban Restaurant

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Excellent good and Social distance safety. Outdoor sitting and only 25 % indoors. Open 11:00AM to 2:30PM and 5:00PM to 9:00PM

Posted by El Ambia Cubano on Thursday, May 14, 2020

El Ambia Cubano is a Cuban culinary gem hidden in Melbourne, Florida. Its colorful design and front patio are inviting, and the mouth-watering food will make you come back for more. Portions here are generous, and when you taste how good their shrimp or steak is, you will be glad they are. With a view of the river providing a relaxing ambiance, the fantastic service and friendly staff only make your meal more enjoyable. Whether you are new to Cuban food or a regular at this dining spot, El Ambia Cubano will not disappoint.

El Ambia Cuban Restaurant

Address: 950 E Melbourne Ave, Melbourne, FL 32901, United States

Website: El Ambia Cuban Restaurant

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 2:30pm, 5pm - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 9pm (closed on Sun)

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20. Relax at Paradise Beach & Park

Melbourne Beach
Source: Photo by Flickr user Kirby Collins used under CC BY 2.0

Expectations are certainly high when you read a name like Paradise Beach & Park, but this stunning location in Melbourne, Florida, definitely delivers. Sit back and relax on a sandy beach right next to the ocean and take in the gorgeous sunset, or dive into the inviting waters and splash around with the whole family. The occasional powerful wave can make wakeboarding or amateur surfing exciting. Building an elaborate sandcastle is also fun. Just behind the beach, wooden walkways and paths lead to a grassy park with a playground. Paradise Beach & Park is one of the best attractions in Melbourne, FL.

Paradise Beach & Park

Address: 2301 N Hwy A1A, Melbourne, FL 32903, United States

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21. Have fun at Andretti Thrill Park

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Summer is almost over, have you tried our Bumper Boats yet? Included with the purchase of any wristband. Buy your...

Posted by Andretti Thrill Park on Wednesday, August 3, 2022

Still looking for what to do in Melbourne, FL? Check out Andretti Thrill Park. Located just off S. Babcock Street in Melbourne, Florida, this amusement park is fun for the whole family. A cornucopia of rides and games are joined by activities such as rock climbing, mini-golf, go-kart racing, and more. Far from being a kids-only place, adults are encouraged to get in on the fun. Take the whole gang with you, whatever your age, and have a blast at Andretti Thrill Park. It’s definitely one of the most fun Melbourne, FL activities.

Andretti Thrill Park

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

Website: Andretti Thrill Park

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22. Buy souvenirs at Rehab Vintage Market

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Bar/ island made from old doors live Edge wood 48.5" x 24"d 43"h SOLD Window 37"x 32.5" $85 RH stools Sold

Posted by Rehab Vintage Market on Wednesday, April 13, 2022

If any of you are interested in antiques, then Rehab Vintage Market is the right place to visit. They always have a vast collection of all sorts of antiques. From ancient dressers and hand-carved figurines to immaculately preserved vintage furniture, you are sure to find something to pique your interest here. Situated at 1442 North Harbor City Boulevard, Rehab Vintage Market is easy to get to, and its friendly staff knows just how to help you find what you’re looking for.

Rehab Vintage Market

Address: 1442 N Harbor City Blvd, Melbourne, FL 32935, United States

Website: Rehab Vintage Market

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10:30am - 6pm; Sun:10:30am - 2:30pm (closed on Mon)

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To the future and beyond

After the storm
Source: Photo by Flickr user Michael Seeley used under CC BY 2.0

Melbourne is host to the arts and culture, alongside educating on the importance of musical talents and encouraging youngsters to take up art classes. The beaches educate everyone on looking after the wildlife in these wonderful beaches. By having volunteers clean up beaches and help save the turtles, this glorious area is all about educating and working towards a positive future helping the next generation. If you’re visiting the city on a budget, you’ll find plenty of fun free things to do in Melbourne, FL. Check this destination out!

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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!
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Kirsty is based in the U.K's countryside, she loves travelling although she loves culture and exploring new places to visit. Her heart and favorite place will always be Disneyland. In her spare...Read more

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