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Is Merritt Island Worth Visiting?

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Is Merritt Island Worth Visiting?

Are you looking for a place to visit in Florida? Then, Merritt Island might be the perfect place for you. Merritt Island is a census-designated place located in Brevard County, Florida. Some of the main attractions in this area include the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, Kennedy Space Center, and the various beaches on the island. However, you may still be wondering if it is worth planning a trip to Merritt Island. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the reasons why you should consider visiting Merritt Island.

The Beautiful Beaches

If you love spending time at the beach, then Merritt Island is the place for you. The island has several beaches, including the famous Cocoa Beach. This beach is known for its soft sand and clear waters, making it an ideal spot for activities such as swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. The beach is also home to several shops and restaurants, so you can spend an entire day here without getting bored. Additionally, if you prefer a quieter beach experience, Jetty Park Beach or Playalinda Beach might be more your style.

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is another must-visit attraction in Merritt Island. This 140,000-acre refuge is home to over 1,500 species of plants and animals. You can explore this refuge on foot or by vehicle to see amazing wildlife such as alligators, Florida panthers, and more. Additionally, the refuge has several trails that let visitors experience the natural beauty of the area while getting a workout.

The Kennedy Space Center

The Kennedy Space Center, one of the most famous space stations in the world, is located in Merritt Island. Here, you’ll discover the history of space exploration, see spacecraft and rockets that have gone into space, and even meet astronauts. The center has guided tours and interactive exhibits that provide a fascinating look into the world of space exploration. Visitors can also enjoy unique experiences such as rocket launches, meeting an astronaut, or sitting in space shuttle seats.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are several reasons why you should consider visiting Merritt Island. The island offers a diverse range of activities, from exploring the natural beauty of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, to learning about space exploration at the Kennedy Space Center. Additionally, the beautiful beaches are perfect for soaking up the sun and spending time with loved ones. If you’re looking for an exciting and unforgettable vacation, Merritt Island is definitely worth visiting!

Insider’s Guide: Merritt Island, Florida

Merritt Island is a beautiful city located in Brevard County, Florida. It is a popular tourist destination because of its location near the Kennedy Space Center, which attracts thousands of visitors every year. But there is more to Merritt Island than just space flight history. The city is full of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and unique attractions. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore all the things that make Merritt Island worth visiting.

Attractions

Merritt Island truly shines when it comes to attractions. Of course, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is the most famous, but there are several other exciting places to visit in the area.

One must-see attraction is the Brevard Zoo, which is known for its interactive animal encounters and beautiful gardens. There’s also the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to more than 1,500 species of plants and animals. Here, visitors can explore hiking trails, go birdwatching, and even see manatees in the wild.

For history buffs, a visit to the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse is a must. This lighthouse has been in operation since 1868 and is one of the oldest landmarks on the Space Coast. Visitors can climb to the top for stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding area.

Dining

Merritt Island has no shortage of dining options. For seafood lovers, Florida’s Seafood Bar & Grill is a must-visit. This local favorite offers fresh seafood dishes like fish tacos, crab cakes, and shrimp scampi.

Another local favorite is The Mango Tree, which offers delicious Caribbean-inspired cuisine like jerk chicken and plantains. For a taste of Italy, check out Amici’s Italian Restaurant, which serves up classic Italian dishes like lasagna and chicken alfredo.

Cultural Experiences

Merritt Island is rich in culture and history. A visit to the Historic Cocoa Village is a great way to experience the city’s past. This charming downtown area is full of shops, restaurants, and historical sites. Visitors can tour the Cocoa Village Playhouse, which has been entertaining guests since 1924.

Another great cultural experience is the Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum. This museum is home to a collection of vintage aircraft, artifacts, and memorabilia from World War II to the present day. Visitors can even take a simulated flight in a WWII bomber.

Local History

Merritt Island has a fascinating history. In the early 1900s, the city was a major agricultural center, producing citrus, beans, and other crops. During World War II, the US Navy used the area for air and sea training, and in 1950, the Kennedy Space Center was established, forever changing the area’s landscape.

The Historic Derby Street Chapel is a great place to learn about the area’s religious history. This beautiful Gothic-style church was built in 1891 and served as the area’s first Methodist church. Visitors can tour the chapel and learn about its fascinating past.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Merritt Island is full of hidden gems that are definitely worth a visit. One such gem is the Banana River Aquatic Preserve. This beautiful natural area is full of stunning views and is a great place to go kayaking or birdwatching.

Another great off-the-beaten-path suggestion is the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary. This nature preserve is home to a variety of plant and animal species, and visitors can explore the hiking trails and boardwalks that wind through the area.

Conclusion

As you can see, Merritt Island is definitely worth visiting. From its natural beauty to its rich history to its unique attractions, there’s something here for everyone. Whether you’re a space enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Merritt Island should definitely be on your travel list.

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Is Merritt Island Worth Visiting?

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!