Brevard County, Florida: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Brevard County launches over 70% of all U.S. space missions? This stunning stretch of Florida’s east coast, aptly nicknamed the Space Coast, offers visitors the unique opportunity to witness actual rocket launches throughout the year. But space exploration is just the beginning of what makes this 72-mile coastline an extraordinary destination.

From pristine beaches and wildlife refuges to historic downtowns and world-class attractions, Brevard County delivers an impressive array of experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best things to do in this captivating coastal region.

Planning Your Brevard County Adventure

Before diving into the exciting attractions, let’s cover some essential travel planning information to ensure your Brevard County visit goes smoothly.

Getting There

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the closest major airport, located about 45 minutes west of Brevard County. Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) offers a more convenient option with direct flights from several major cities. Once you arrive, renting a car is highly recommended as public transportation is limited throughout the county.

Best Time to Visit

Brevard County enjoys pleasant weather year-round, but the ideal time to visit is from November to May when temperatures are mild and humidity is lower. Summer months (June-September) bring warmer temperatures and afternoon thunderstorms, but also offer excellent beach conditions and numerous outdoor events.

Where to Stay

Brevard County offers diverse accommodation options to suit every preference and budget. Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral feature oceanfront resorts and hotels with stunning views. Melbourne and Titusville provide more affordable options while still offering convenient access to major attractions. For a unique experience, consider beachfront vacation rentals or charming bed and breakfasts in historic areas.

Space Coast Attractions: Reach for the Stars

Brevard County’s identity is deeply intertwined with space exploration, earning it the nickname “Space Coast.” These stellar attractions offer visitors a chance to experience humanity’s greatest adventure firsthand.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

No visit to Brevard County is complete without exploring the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. This world-class attraction brings NASA’s incredible space program to life through immersive exhibits, historic spacecraft, and behind-the-scenes tours. Stand in awe beneath the massive Saturn V rocket, experience the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, and meet real astronauts during special events.

For the ultimate experience, time your visit to coincide with a rocket launch. The visitor complex offers special launch viewing packages, or you can watch from numerous public viewing spots throughout the county. Check the launch schedule on the Kennedy Space Center website before planning your trip.

Space-Related Museums and Attractions

Beyond Kennedy Space Center, Brevard County offers several other space-themed attractions. The American Space Museum in Titusville showcases artifacts donated by astronauts, engineers, and NASA workers. The Space Coast Lightfest in Melbourne transforms Wickham Park into a dazzling holiday light display with space-themed illuminations during the winter season.

Beaches and Outdoor Adventures

Brevard County’s 72 miles of pristine coastline provide endless opportunities for beach relaxation and outdoor recreation. From world-famous surf spots to serene nature preserves, the natural beauty of the Space Coast is truly remarkable.

Cocoa Beach

As the surfing capital of the East Coast, Cocoa Beach attracts wave riders from around the world. Visit the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier for fishing, dining, and shopping with panoramic ocean views. Don’t miss Ron Jon Surf Shop, the world’s largest surf shop, open 24 hours a day. For beginners, several surf schools offer lessons that will have you riding waves in no time.

Sebastian Inlet State Park

Located at the southern tip of Brevard County, Sebastian Inlet State Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers excellent surfing, fishing, snorkeling, and scuba diving opportunities. Its beaches are also important nesting grounds for sea turtles. The park’s campground provides a perfect base for extended exploration.

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Adjacent to Kennedy Space Center, this 140,000-acre wildlife refuge showcases Florida’s diverse ecosystems. Drive the 7-mile Black Point Wildlife Drive to spot alligators, bald eagles, and numerous bird species. The refuge also offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and seasonal manatee viewing areas. Visit during winter months for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Family-Friendly Attractions in Brevard County

Brevard County offers numerous attractions designed with families in mind. From educational experiences to pure entertainment, these destinations will create lasting memories for visitors of all ages.

Brevard Zoo

Located in Melbourne, the Brevard Zoo houses over 900 animals representing 195 species from around the world. What makes this zoo special is its interactive experiences. Feed giraffes from an elevated platform, kayak through the African exhibit, or zip line over alligators at Treetop Trek. The zoo’s conservation efforts and natural habitats make it both fun and educational.

Andretti Thrill Park

For adrenaline-seeking families, Andretti Thrill Park in Melbourne delivers excitement with go-karts, mini-golf, laser tag, and arcade games. The park features multiple go-kart tracks for different age groups, making it suitable for the entire family. Its indoor attractions provide a perfect escape during afternoon showers.

Exploration Tower at Port Canaveral

This seven-story architectural marvel offers interactive exhibits about Port Canaveral’s history and the surrounding area. The observation deck on the seventh floor provides spectacular views of rocket launches, cruise ships, and the coastline. Indoor exhibits engage visitors with the region’s maritime, space, and natural history.

Historic Districts and Cultural Attractions

Beyond beaches and space exploration, Brevard County boasts charming historic districts and vibrant cultural scenes that showcase the area’s rich heritage.

Historic Cocoa Village

This revitalized downtown district features tree-lined streets with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants housed in colorful historic buildings. The village hosts frequent art and craft fairs, music events, and the popular Cocoa Village Playhouse, known as the “Broadway on Brevard.” Spend an afternoon browsing unique stores and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.

Downtown Melbourne

Melbourne’s historic downtown area offers a delightful mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The Melbourne Civic Theatre presents award-winning performances in an intimate setting. Monthly Friday Fest events bring live music and food vendors to the streets, creating a festive community atmosphere.

Museums and Cultural Centers

The Foosaner Art Museum in Melbourne showcases rotating exhibitions of fine arts. The Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science in Cocoa features exhibits on local history, including prehistoric fossils and Native American artifacts. For space history enthusiasts, the American Space Museum in Titusville displays unique artifacts from the early space program.

Dining and Craft Breweries

Brevard County’s culinary scene celebrates fresh seafood, local ingredients, and innovative cooking. From waterfront dining to craft breweries, food enthusiasts will find plenty to savor throughout the Space Coast.

Seafood with a View

Waterfront restaurants like The Island Waterfront Bar & Grill in Merritt Island and Grills Riverside in Melbourne offer fresh catches with spectacular views. For a classic Florida experience, try the rock shrimp at Dixie Crossroads in Titusville, a local institution famous for this regional specialty.

Local Craft Breweries

Brevard County’s craft beer scene has exploded in recent years. Playalinda Brewing Company operates two locations in Titusville, including the Brix Project with a full-scale production brewery and restaurant. Intracoastal Brewing Company in Melbourne and Cocoa Beach Brewing Company offer unique local brews in relaxed settings.

Food Festivals and Events

Throughout the year, Brevard County hosts food-focused events like the Space Coast Seafood & Music Festival, Cocoa Beach Uncorked, and various food truck rallies. These events showcase local culinary talents and provide a taste of the region’s diverse food offerings.

Events and Festivals

Brevard County’s event calendar stays packed year-round with festivals, concerts, and celebrations that showcase the area’s unique culture and community spirit.

Space-Themed Events

The Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival attracts nature enthusiasts from around the world each January. The Space Coast State Fair brings carnival rides and entertainment to Viera each spring. During summer, don’t miss the Cocoa Beach Air Show featuring breathtaking aerial performances over the Atlantic Ocean.

Community Celebrations

Friday Fest events in Cocoa Beach and Melbourne bring communities together with live music, food vendors, and family activities. The Grant Seafood Festival, one of the longest-running food festivals in Florida, serves up fresh seafood each February. During holiday seasons, light displays and parades create festive atmospheres throughout the county.

Practical Tips for Visiting Brevard County

Getting Around

A rental car is the most convenient way to explore Brevard County, as attractions are spread out along the 72-mile coastline. Limited public transportation is available through Space Coast Area Transit, but schedules and routes may not be convenient for tourists. Rideshare services operate throughout the county but may have longer wait times in less populated areas.

Weather Considerations

Brevard County enjoys a subtropical climate with mild winters and warm, humid summers. Summer temperatures typically range from 80-90°F (27-32°C) with afternoon thunderstorms common. Winter temperatures usually stay between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Hurricane season runs from June through November, so check weather forecasts if visiting during these months.

Plan Your Perfect Brevard County Adventure

From the awe-inspiring rocket launches at Kennedy Space Center to the serene beaches of Cocoa Beach and Melbourne, Brevard County offers an incredible diversity of experiences. Whether you’re fascinated by space exploration, seeking outdoor adventures, or simply looking to relax on pristine beaches, the Space Coast delivers unforgettable memories for every type of traveler.

With its unique blend of natural beauty, technological marvels, and small-town charm, Brevard County stands apart as one of Florida’s most distinctive destinations. Start planning your Space Coast adventure today and discover why this remarkable coastal region continues to captivate visitors from around the world.