The Ultimate Guide to Pub Crawl Culture in Merritt Island

Merritt Island has a thriving nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and pubs catering to every taste and preference. One of the most popular ways for locals and tourists alike to explore the city’s pubs and bars is through a pub crawl. A pub crawl is an event where participants visit multiple pubs and bars in one night, usually with a group of friends or fellow pub crawlers. In this guide, we’ll explore the pub crawl culture in Merritt Island and give you some tips on how to make the most of your pub crawl experience.

The Best Time to Go on a Pub Crawl in Merritt Island

The best time to go on a pub crawl in Merritt Island is on a Friday or Saturday night. Most of the pubs and bars in Merritt Island tend to get busy on the weekends, which makes it easier to hop from one establishment to another without having to wait in long lines or deal with overcrowding. It’s also important to note that many pubs and bars in Merritt Island have happy hours that extend well into the evening, making it easier to enjoy discounted drinks while exploring the city’s nightlife scene.

The Top Pub Crawl Routes in Merritt Island

One of the best things about pub crawls is that you can customize your route based on your interests and preferences. However, there are some tried and true pub crawl routes in Merritt Island that are worth exploring. Here are a few of our favorites:

The Waterfront Crawl

This route starts at Grills Seafood Deck and Tiki Bar, located right on the water with stunning views of the Banana River. From there, you’ll head over to Rusty’s Seafood and Oyster Bar and Fishlips Waterfront Bar and Grill, both located in the same complex. Finally, you’ll end your night at Coconuts on the Beach, a lively beachfront bar with live music and a laid-back vibe.

The Craft Beer Crawl

For beer lovers, this route is a must-try. It starts at the Bugnutty Brewing Company, a local craft brewery offering a variety of unique brews. From there, you’ll head over to the Dirty Oar Beer Company, another popular craft brewery with a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Finally, you’ll end your night at the Merritt Island Craft Kitchen and Brewery, which offers a variety of craft beers and delicious food options.

The Historic Downtown Crawl

If you’re interested in exploring the historic side of Merritt Island, this pub crawl route is perfect for you. It starts at the O’Keefe’s Irish Pub and Restaurant, located in a historic building overlooking the Indian River. From there, you’ll head over to the Yellow Dog Cafe, a fine dining restaurant with a cozy bar area. Finally, you’ll end your night at the Matt’s Casbah, a restaurant and bar offering a unique fusion of Asian and Latin American cuisine.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Pub Crawl Experience

Now that you know where to go, here are some tips for making the most of your pub crawl experience in Merritt Island:- Plan ahead: Decide on your route ahead of time and make sure to communicate it with your group. This will help you stay organized and ensure that everyone knows where to go and at what time.- Eat beforehand: Make sure to eat a full meal before starting your pub crawl. This will help you pace yourself and avoid getting too drunk too quickly.- Bring cash: While most pubs and bars in Merritt Island accept credit cards, some may only accept cash. Make sure to bring some cash with you just in case.- Dress appropriately: Most pubs and bars in Merritt Island have a casual dress code, but it’s always a good idea to check ahead of time. Avoid wearing anything too formal or uncomfortable.- Pace yourself: Remember that the goal of a pub crawl is to have fun, not to get drunk. Pace yourself and make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the night.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to explore the nightlife scene in Merritt Island, a pub crawl is the perfect option. With a variety of pubs and bars to choose from, you’re sure to find a route that suits your interests and preferences. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you’re sure to have a safe and enjoyable pub crawl experience in Merritt Island.

The Insider’s Guide to Merritt Island, Florida

Merritt Island, Florida, is a hidden gem known for its beaches, wildlife, and, of course, a thriving pub crawl culture that attracts locals and visitors alike. If you’re looking for a customizable pub crawl experience, Merritt Island is your go-to destination. In this guide, we’ll take you on an insider’s tour to hidden gems, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions. Let’s dive in!

Local Attractions: Hidden gems

While Merritt Island is known for its beaches, you might want to explore some of the hidden gems that only locals know about. For example, check out the Thousand Islands Conservation Area, a 330-acre wildlife sanctuary that offers hiking, kayaking, and a chance to spot manatees, dolphins, and other wildlife. For a historical experience, visit Veterans Memorial Park, a serene location with a waterfall, sculptures, and a monument that honors the sacrifices made by veterans.

For a more magical experience, head over to the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary, a 470-acre preserve with mesmerizing oak hammocks and pine flatwoods trails. This sanctuary offers a chance to see over 200 species of birds, rare snakes, and turtles, among other wild creatures.

Dining Spots: Local cuisine and its history

When in Merritt Island, you must try the iconic dishes that define the local cuisine. For instance, try the seafood gumbo at Doc’s Bait House, an institution that dates back to the 1940s. Their gumbo is a hearty blend of rich flavors, blending fresh seafood, veggies, and Cajun spices. Or, try out Florida’s famed pink shrimp at Shiloh’s Steak and Seafood, one of the best seafood restaurants in Merritt Island. Shilohs has been around since the 1970s and serves up fresh and delicious seafood platters.

Another must-try is the Peking duck at The China Wok restaurant, which has been serving Merritt Island with authentic Chinese dishes for over 20 years. Known for its crispy skin and tender meat, the Peking duck is a standout dish that exemplifies Merritt Island’s growing diversity in cuisine.

Cultural Experiences: Festivals and traditions

Merritt Island has a vibrant cultural scene with several festivals and traditions worth checking out. For example, the Merritt Island Wildlife Association holds an annual birding festival that brings together bird enthusiasts from all over the world. Visitors get a chance to explore the wildlife sanctuary, participate in birding walks and talks, and attend concerts.

If you’re in town during the spring, don’t miss the Merritt Island Pirate Fest. This festival is a three-day event that features pirate re-enactments, live music, and food. The highlight of the festival is the pirate battle on the river, where various pirate ships clash in a simulated battle.

Local History: Captivating Stories

One fascinating piece of local history is the tale of the Dragon Point Club, one of Florida’s most exclusive clubs that was members-only back in the day. In the 1920s, the club hosted wealthy travelers, celebrities, and politicians who came to watch boat races and enjoy the serene waterfront atmosphere. It’s said that several famous names, including Amelia Earhart, Babe Ruth, and Al Capone, visited the club.

Another captivating story is that of the Hacienda del Sol, a former mansion that now serves as a luxury event venue. Built-in 1901 by Edward R. Bradley, the mansion has hosted several notable guests, including Presidents Warren G. Harding, Calvin Coolidge, and Herbert Hoover. In the 1930s, the mansion became a casino and was a popular spot for famous names like Joe DiMaggio and Marilyn Monroe.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique experiences

Looking for something off-the-beaten-path? How about a night fishing experience on the Banana River? Captain Alex Gorichky offers guided night fishing tours where you can catch redfish, tarpon, and snook. You’ll be amazed by the bioluminescence that sparkles in the water at night, adding a magical touch to this unique experience.

For a more adrenaline-filled experience, visit the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and take a ride on the Shuttle Launch Experience. This simulator ride replicates the thrill and excitement of a space shuttle launch, and you can also explore the NASA rocket garden, space shuttle Atlantis exhibit, and much more.

In Conclusion

Merritt Island has so much to offer beyond its stunning beaches and pub crawl culture. Local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions make the city an exciting destination for any adventurous traveler. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Merritt Island and experience the ultimate pub crawl culture in Florida!