24 Hours in Titusville

A recent interview discussing tourism in North Brevard wrapped before I had time to talk about half the places I think people should visit. If you were going to try and hit all the highlights in one day, here’s my roadmap: 

Start at Playalinda Beach at sunrise. That’s my favorite time to go, as it’s quiet. It’s a national park so there is an entrance fee, and you have to take whatever you think you might need while there. Watch the sunrise, enjoy the pristine natural surroundings and gear up for a day of adventure.

Next, tour Blackpoint Wildlife Drive. This 7-mile one-way driving loop hosts plenty of wildlife. Or visit the Refuge Visitor Center, grab a map, and try Biolab Road or Gator Creek Road.  So many options with 140,000 acres of habitat that is home to more than 500 species.

On your way back into town, visit Space View Park. It’s full of space history and includes beautiful monuments to the space programs. Plus, this is a great location to actually view a launch if you time things right.

Then spend a little time in historic downtown. You can hop over to the American Space Museum or the North Brevard Historical Museum, shop at one of the boutiques or art galleries, or grab a coffee or a snack at a local eatery. Or pop into the Downtown Welcome Center to rent a bicycle to ride the trails.

From downtown, head north to either White Sands Buddhist Sanctuary or the Moore Cultural Center — both hidden gems in Mims. White Sands features the three largest granite statues of Buddha in Florida. The Moore Cultural Center preserves the memories of Harry T. and Harriet V. Moore and the history of African-American culture of the pre-civil rights era.

Next, I recommend getting back outdoors to the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary. It has several miles of easy hiking trails and a great education center with hands-on exhibits. This forest has an unusual display of plants.

Finally, if you still have the energy, I encourage you to pick another museum. Not far from the Enchanted Forest are the Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum and the American Police Hall of Fame. Both are full of interesting exhibits and information and worth a visit.

This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what to see and do in North Brevard. I invite you to enjoy a staycation — and if you need additional information or recommendations, just call 321-267-3036 or email TitusvilleChamber@titusville.org.

Marcia Gaedcke is president of the Titusville Area Chamber of Commerce and a lifetime resident of Titusville and Brevard County. She is a passionate leader and a serial volunteer, concerned about the future of our community and economy, and is willing to roll up her sleeves and work for the betterment of Brevard.

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