Are you trying to get your children to get off of their electronics and enjoy the scenery? The Space Coast is home to a large assortment of beautiful parks for you and your family to enjoy.
Viera: Brevard Zoo Linear Park
If you’re looking for something different and off the beaten path, then Linear Park just might be what you had in mind. Linear Park has a 10 ft. wide boardwalk that runs for 2 miles. This boardwalk boasts views such as wetlands, ponds and oak hammock. This hidden gem is perfect for strollers and wheelchairs as it’s completely accessible. Plus, there are plans to extend the boardwalk for more fun to come.
Cape Canaveral: Jetty Park
Jetty Park has everything from the beach, to a pier to a campground. You can spend a lovely day at the beach and watch the cruise ships go in and out of Port Canaveral, or fish on the pier that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. You can also extend your stay and spend the night in one of their campsites or cabins. The opportunities for fun are endless.
Rockledge/Cocoa: Cocoa Riverfront Park
If you’re in the mood for a mix of downtown fun and park time, then Cocoa Riverfront Park is the perfect fit for you. Cocoa Riverfront Park is located in the heart of Cocoa Village, right on the shore of the Indian River. Not only can you enjoy the scenery, playground and fishing area, but you are right next to all of the amazing shops and restaurants that Cocoa Village has to offer. Plus, Cocoa Riverfront Park has a fantastic amphitheater, so make sure to stay updated on the amphitheater’s schedule.
Merritt Island: Rotary Park
Rotary Park is a ten-acre park located right on the shores of the Indian River Lagoon in Merritt Island. This park has something for everyone, from the extensive covered picnic area with barbeques and restrooms, to the fishing pier that goes out over the lagoon. This park is the perfect place to teach your kids how to fish or to have that summer barbeque you’ve been dreaming of.
Titusville: Enchanted Forest Sanctuary
If you’re looking for an adventure, Enchanted Forest Sanctuary has plenty of hiking trails for you and your family to check out. Apart from the trails, Enchanted Forest Sanctuary also has an education center with which your children can engage. There are interactive and educational exhibits that will be fun and interesting for your kids. There is also a gift shop, so you can collect a souvenir from your day in the park.
Cocoa Beach: Alan Shephard Park
This five-acre park has one of the best beaches in Brevard while also having a playground and picnic area. Named after famed astronaut Alan Shepard, this park is a fantastic place for viewing rocket launches from the Kennedy Space Center. If you want a mix of sun and sand, this park is for you!
The Beaches: Gleason Park
Gleason Park, located right off of South Patrick in Indian Harbour Beach, is a beautiful place for you, your family and your dog! There is a large, renovated playground for the kids, a picnic area and plenty of turtles and fish to see. You can bring your bikes, scooters, roller blades or just your tennis shoes. Or, you can bring your hammock and spend the day relaxing in the shade.
Eau Gallie: Pineapple Park
Pineapple Park, located in the heart of Eau Gallie, is a beautiful park that overlooks the Indian River. This park is the best of both worlds because not only does it have a wonderful playground and picnic area, it is also steps away from the Eau Gallie Library. So, you can stop in at the library, pick up a book and enjoy the weather. And, if your kids are still into Pokémon Go, then you’re in luck—this park is one of Space Coast’s hotspots for the game.
Palm Bay: Turkey Creek Sanctuary
Turkey Creek Sanctuary is the perfect place for hiking, canoeing, kayaking and learning. There is a boardwalk hike that stretches 1.6 miles that covers sand pine scrub, river bluff and oak hammock. There is also a ranger led hike through the scrub from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. on the first and third Saturdays of the month. If you’re looking to beat the heat, there is kayaking and canoeing available. If kayaking is still too hot, there is an indoor and air-conditioned nature Center with educational and interactive exhibits.
Melbourne: Wickham Park
Chances are if you live in Melbourne, you’ve been to Wickham Park. Boasting a massive 391.04 acres, this park has anything and everything you could need in a park. There are lakes and hiking trails, as well as campgrounds for those wanting an overnight stay. With 133 campsites with water, electric and sewer hookups, you and your family will have everything you need for a night under the stars.
