Google Maps Melbourne Florida Travel Guide
Overview
Melbourne, Florida is located on the east coast of Florida and is known for its beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and historical landmarks. It’s a popular tourist destination for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a relaxing vacation in the sun. With Google Maps, exploring Melbourne has never been easier. You can easily navigate the city and find the best attractions, restaurants, and hidden gems.
Top Attractions
The Brevard Zoo
The Brevard Zoo is a great family-friendly attraction in Melbourne. The zoo features over 900 animals from around the world, including giraffes, rhinoceroses, and kangaroos. Visitors can also take a kayak tour through the zoo’s restored wetlands and see animals from a different perspective.
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in space and science. Visitors can explore the history of space flight, see rockets up close, and even meet an astronaut.
Hidden Gems
The Foosaner Art Museum
The Foosaner Art Museum is a hidden gem in Melbourne. The museum features a collection of American art from the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as contemporary art. Admission is free, making it a budget-friendly activity.
The Florida Tech Botanical Garden
The Florida Tech Botanical Garden is a peaceful escape from the city. The garden features over 200 species of plants and trees, as well as a butterfly garden. Admission is also free, making it a great budget-friendly activity.
Food Scene
Melbourne has a diverse food scene, with options ranging from seafood to Cuban cuisine. Some top restaurants to try include:
The Fat Snook
The Fat Snook is a popular seafood restaurant with a great atmosphere. The menu features fresh seafood and local ingredients.
El Ambia Cubano
El Ambia Cubano is a great spot for authentic Cuban food. The menu features classic dishes like Cuban sandwiches and empanadas.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Melbourne can be a budget-friendly destination if you know where to look. Some tips for saving money include:
- Visit free attractions like the Foosaner Art Museum and Florida Tech Botanical Garden
- Eat at local markets and food trucks for affordable meals
- Take advantage of happy hour specials at restaurants and bars
Outdoor Adventures
Melbourne is known for its outdoor activities, with options for hiking, kayaking, and surfing. Some top outdoor attractions include:
The Barrier Island Sanctuary
The Barrier Island Sanctuary is a nature preserve with hiking trails and a visitor center. Visitors can learn about the local ecosystem and see wildlife like sea turtles and manatees.
The Indian River Lagoon
The Indian River Lagoon is a great spot for kayaking and paddleboarding. Visitors can rent equipment and explore the lagoon’s diverse ecosystem.
Historical Landmarks
Melbourne has a rich history, with landmarks dating back to the 1800s. Some top historical landmarks to visit include:
The Rossetter House Museum and Gardens
The Rossetter House Museum and Gardens is a restored 19th-century home that showcases life in Melbourne during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Visitors can take a guided tour and see period furnishings and artifacts.
The Historic Downtown Melbourne District
The Historic Downtown Melbourne District is a great spot for shopping and dining, with buildings dating back to the early 1900s. Visitors can take a walking tour and learn about the history of the area.
Family-Friendly Activities
Melbourne is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities for kids. Some family-friendly attractions include:
The Andretti Thrill Park
The Andretti Thrill Park is an amusement park with go-karts, bumper boats, and mini-golf. It’s a great spot for families with kids of all ages.
The Melbourne Beach Pier
The Melbourne Beach Pier is a great spot for families to relax and enjoy the ocean. Visitors can fish off the pier or just enjoy the views.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Melbourne has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences for adventurous travelers. Some unique experiences include:
The Treetop Trek Aerial Adventure Park
The Treetop Trek Aerial Adventure Park is a ropes course and zipline park that’s great for adventurous travelers. Visitors can challenge themselves with obstacles and ziplines high up in the trees.
The Sebastian Inlet State Park
The Sebastian Inlet State Park is a great spot for surfing and fishing. Visitors can also see wildlife like dolphins and manatees.
Natural Wonders
Melbourne is home to several natural wonders, including:
The Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge
The Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area that’s home to sea turtles. Visitors can see nesting sea turtles during the summer months.
The Turkey Creek Sanctuary
The Turkey Creek Sanctuary is a nature preserve with hiking trails and a boardwalk. Visitors can see wildlife like alligators and otters.
Vibrant Nightlife
Melbourne has a vibrant nightlife scene, with options ranging from bars to live music venues. Some top spots to check out include:
The Mansion
The Mansion is a popular nightclub with multiple bars and dance floors. It’s a great spot for a night out with friends.
The King Center for the Performing Arts
The King Center for the Performing Arts is a great spot for live music and theater. Visitors can see performances by local and national acts.
Local Markets
Melbourne has several local markets that are great for shopping and exploring. Some top markets to check out include:
The Downtown Melbourne Farmer’s Market
The Downtown Melbourne Farmer’s Market is a great spot for fresh produce and local crafts. Visitors can also enjoy live music and food trucks.
The Melbourne Flea Market
The Melbourne Flea Market is a great spot for bargain shopping. Visitors can find everything from vintage clothing to antiques.
Beaches and Mountains
Melbourne is known for its beautiful beaches, and is also close to several mountain ranges. Some top spots to visit include:
The Melbourne Beaches
The Melbourne Beaches are some of the most beautiful in Florida. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
The Blue Ridge Mountains
The Blue Ridge Mountains are located a few hours from Melbourne and are a great spot for hiking and camping. Visitors can enjoy beautiful views and fresh mountain air.
Cultural Immersion
Melbourne has a rich cultural scene, with several museums and performance venues. Some top spots to immerse yourself in the local culture include:
The Henegar Center for the Arts
The Henegar Center for the Arts is a great spot for theater and live performances. Visitors can see local and national acts.
The Liberty Bell Memorial Museum
The Liberty Bell Memorial Museum is a museum dedicated to the history of the United States. Visitors can see artifacts and exhibits related to American history.
Art and Music Scene
Melbourne has a vibrant art and music scene, with several galleries and live music venues. Some top spots to check out include:
The Foosaner Art Museum
The Foosaner Art Museum is a great spot for art lovers. Visitors can see a collection of American art from the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as contemporary art.
The Open Mike’s Coffee Lounge
The Open Mike’s Coffee Lounge is a popular spot for live music and poetry. Visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee and listen to local musicians and poets.
Walking Tours
Melbourne is a great city to explore on foot, with several walking tours available. Some top walking tours to check out include:
The Historic Downtown Melbourne Walking Tour
The Historic Downtown Melbourne Walking Tour is a great way to learn about the history of the area. Visitors can see buildings dating back to the early 1900s and learn about the city’s past.
The Eau Gallie Arts District Walking Tour
The Eau Gallie Arts District Walking Tour is a great way to explore the local art scene. Visitors can see galleries and public art installations.
Architectural Marvels