Downtown Melbourne: The Staycation and Workcation Paradise
Tourism in Brevard County is strong and growing, and that’s more good news for Downtown Melbourne. According to the Space Coast Office of Tourism, the Tourist Development Tax — sometimes referred to as the ‘bed tax’ — continues to see historic growth throughout local destinations and is on track to surpass last year. In fact, the tax had 12 straight months of record revenue between March 2021 and 2022.
Business travel to the area is an important component of this. Melbourne Orlando International Airport was recently ranked No. 1 in the state for its increased seat capacity on flights, which grew by 130% between July 2021 and 2022. The airport credits much of this growth to easy commuter flights from business hubs like Atlanta and Charlotte, and during peak season, Washington D.C. and Dallas.
But while Downtown Melbourne has long been a big draw for travelers who want to take a stroll down Main Street, it has not historically been a high-demand lodging destination. In years past, nearby overnight options were extremely limited and the number of “things to do” downtown could fill half a day, but not much more.
Thankfully, things are changing on both fronts. Travelers now have more places to lay their heads, as well as plenty of great things to do for entertainment, outdoor recreation, and even spa pampering and cigars.
In fact, even though we are still growing, Downtown Melbourne is already a perfect choice for local “staycations” and business travel “workcations.” The new Hotel Melby offers stunning views from the rooftop bar and restaurant, but the Crane Creek Inn is also a must-see-and-stay iconic bed and breakfast on the waterfront. Short-term rentals on the main strip and in bordering neighborhoods are rapidly becoming available through vacation rental services.
For locals who boat, Melbourne Harbor is a sweet spot with transient boat slips typically available. Properties along Crane Creek are starting to offer dockage for visitors who come to enjoy both the Main Street offerings, as well as some good fishing and island hopping.
The downtown area now hosts spa, glam and creative barber shops and about 40 places to eat and drink. Visitors can throw axes, take cooking lessons, pot plants, make their own home décor, tour our murals, and paddle around on the waterfront with manatees. There’s also evening entertainment, from musicals at the Henegar Center to late-night dancing at Hurricane Creek Saloon.
While tourism is going to continue to drive more new lodging options in Downtown Melbourne, locals and regular business travelers should stay tuned for great staycation or workcation ideas in the Harbor City. Downtown Melbourne truly is both a traveler’s and a local’s destination, and our businesses are committed to keeping it that way.
Learn More
Map It
