Melbourne, FL

The Historic Rossetter House Museum & Gardens is comprised of the 1865 Houston Cemetery, the 1892 Roesch House, and the 1908 Rossetter House and Gardens. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a reminder of Florida’s storied past and the exceptional people who made it home in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors are welcome to partake in their guided tours of the beautifully restored home, its gardens, and the cemetery to get an in-depth look at what life was like during these times. They also feature the charming Ella’s Closet Gift Shop where guests can purchase books on local Florida history.

1320 Highland Avenue, Melbourne, FL, Phone: 321-254-9855

The Liberty Bell Memorial Museum is a completely free attraction dedicated to preserving the rich history of the United States. It features two distinct areas, the first of which is The Rotunda of American History, focused on the major milestones of American history. The patriotic memorabilia and documents are displayed in a timeline fashion. This includes a replica of the Liberty Bell and exhibits related to Florida’s history such as pre-revolutionary period artifacts and objects recovered from the naval air space station of Melbourne, old forts, and space exploration. The museum also has Freedom Hall, a tribute to the men and women of the United States armed forces.

1601 Oak Street, Melbourne, FL, Phone: 321-727-1776

The Brevard Zoo features an outstanding design reminiscent of the wild instead of the typical manmade enclosures most zoos are known to have. Each habitat is specially designed to imitate the natural environment of each animal’s original home. It’s a necessity when you consider there are over 650 animals representing over 165 species from Asia, Australia, Africa, Florida, and South America. Visitors can explore each habitat in a completely unique way, from kayaking around the 10-acre Expedition Africa Exhibit to paddle-boating around 22 acres of restored Florida wetlands in the Wild Florida Exhibit. They can also zip line through South America and soar above gators and crocs, invite a giraffe eat straight from their hand, and even pet a rhino.

Brevard Zoo, 8225 North Wickham Road, Melbourne, FL, Phone: 321-254-9453

The Florida Tech Botanical Gardens boast an “old Florida” garden style containing over 200 bamboos, palms, and other common and rare botanical specimens. Located in the heart of the college, the gardens feature a serene stream surrounded by a leafy hammock of palm trees, creating a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. There is one main paved trail aptly named Dent Smith Trail in honor of the founder of the Palm Society. This trail takes visitors on a discovery quest throughout the visually striking gardens. Self-guided tours begin at Melbourne’s original school house where visitors receive a map of the area highlighting its most prominent aspects like Silk Floss trees, Green Bamboos, and African Oil Palms.

Florida Tech Botanical Gardens, 150 W University Boulevard, Melbourne, FL, Phone: 321-309-3836

Good Natured River Tours provides relaxing two-hour cruises through part of the Brevard county estuary on the Banana River and Indian River Lagoon. While gliding through the water, you will get a chance to view manatees, playful dolphins, various wild birds, and even an occasional alligator as well as over 4,300 unique and local plant species. The entire adventure is narrated by a licensed U.S.C.G. Captain who educates guests on the history of the Indian River Lagoon and the various landmarks that he passes by. These include Dragon Point and Mathers Turn Bridge. Throughout the tour, you can listen to the gentle sounds of Caribbean music.

6075 N. US 1, Melbourne, FL, Phone: 321-987-0088

Jacqueline’s Bakery & Cafe is a dream realized by husband and wife team Christophe and Jacqueline. After studying and receiving extensive training in Paris, France, Jacqueline decided to bring her skillset to the historic downtown area of Melbourne and open her very own French bakery. What she created was a dynamic French lunch menu and an exquisite collection of traditional French artisan breads, pastries, cakes, baked goods, and ice creams. Her selections include items such as a hot sandwiches like the Croque Monsier and Hotdog Baguette as well as a variety of quiches. Guests can also indulge in her savory and sweet cakes like the Opera, a Joconde Cake with coffee syrup, and buttercream icing.

906 E New Haven Avenue, Melbourne, FL, Phone: 321-312-6594

Sebastian Inlet State Park is a legendary saltwater fishing destination on Florida’s east coast. It’s a popular spot for anglers looking to catch snook, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, and redfish from its jetties. As an added bonus the park also houses the Sebastian Fishing Museum, which documents the history of the region’s fishing industry.

You’ll appreciate the three miles of stunning beaches perfect for watersport activities such as surfing, swimming snorkeling, scuba diving, shelling, and sunbathing. The park is also home to the McLarty Treasure Museum, which showcases the history of the Spanish treasure fleet of 1715. For those who prefer land-locked activities, the mile-long hammock Trail is a great option.

9700 South Highway A1A, Melbourne Beach, FL