20 Attractions to Explore Near Thousand Islands

In the 1960s, Cocoa Beach began its rapid growth. As a result of the U.S. space program, there was a 1000% increase in population from 1950 to 1960. NASA's John F. Kennedy Space Center is located about 24 kilometers north of town. A lot of people moved to Cocoa Beach in search of new opportunities and because of jobs related to the space program.

Lori Wilson Park offers a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts. The park includes boardwalks, lookout towers and bike/walking trails that become home to different species of birds and other wildlife. Enjoying a sunny day on the beach can include strolling along the sand and soaking up the peacefulness of waves crashing onto 350 feet of crystal-clear shoreline. A highlight of this Florida beach paradise is an area for hand launch boating and fishing within Indian River Lagoon.

Brevard Veterans Memorial Center honors the sacrifices of servicemen and women of Brevard County, Florida. The centerpiece of the Memorial Center is a Field of Honor with individual memorials representing each war veterans have served in. It also houses a library, exhibit hall and museum with artifacts and photographic displays covering veterans service from World War I to the present day. Additionally, located at Liberty Bell Park, the center holds annual ceremonies.

The Wizard of Oz Museum is every fan's dream come true. Located in the heart of Central Florida, it houses an incredible assortment of memorabilia from the classic 1939 movie that continues to captivate multiple generations. Within its three stories, visitors can explore full-size sets and period costumes, see a treasure trove of rare artwork and vintage props, discover Judy Garland's original silver slippers, and even satiate their taste buds at Auntie Em's cafe.

The Helen & Allan Cruickshank Sanctuary is a scenic oasis of serenity and beauty. It spans 15 acres of coastal uplands with wetlands, scrub jays, gopher tortoises, and other wildlife thriving amongst its tall pines, oaks and palms. Visitors to the sanctuary can explore various trails that meander through a diverse ecosystem of aquascapes, longleaf sandhill, mesic flatwoods -- as well as boardwalks and bridges that make for an docile sightseeing journey.

Cape Canaveral Light is a historic lighthouse located on Florida's east coast. First constructed and lit in 1868, the current 151-foot (46 m) lighthouse tower was relocated inland between 1893-1894.

Port Canaveral is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. With its deep-water port and proximity to both land and sea resources, visitors can enjoy a host of activities while here. It boasts 12 world-class terminals where visitors can board their vessels and embark on any number of voyages across the globe. But the fun doesn't end at boarding a cruise ship; there are plenty of beaches, fishing spots, shopping centers and other to explore for those who would rather spend some time on land.

Jetty Park is a great spot to enjoy beautiful sunsets and views of the Atlantic Ocean. It features over 500 feet of fishing jetty, picnic areas with shelters, a beachfront pavilion with restrooms and showers, plenty of parking, a campground for RV's, and several nature trails perfect for joggers or birders. One of the highlights of the park is its rich history - visitors can learn about its original construction as well as the repair projects conducted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Cocoa Village, is a charming and eclectic cluster of stores and restaurants located by the Indian River. This hip haven offers plenty of activities for everyone in the family; the kids will love shopping at one of the unique little shops or riding the vintage carousel while parents enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the many cozy cafes. Just around the corner lies nearby Cocoa Beach which offers miles of pristine coastline, excellent surfing opportunities and loads of sun-drenched fun.

The USSSA Space Coast Complex is an unparalleled sports complex featuring 11 premium quality, multi-use fields for tournaments, leagues, and practices. It also includes a 10,500 square foot air-conditioned indoor facility for year-round activities. With two onsite restaurants and ample parking, this prized facility offers the ultimate sports experience in Central Florida. It is home to numerous youth and adult softball teams and hosts world-famous tournaments.

More than 900 animals representing more than 195 species can be seen at the Brevard Zoo in Melbourne, Florida, United States. It was founded in 1986. They wanted a zoo to serve as a "conversation hub where people could learn about animals and nature" for Brevard County.

More than 900 animals representing more than 195 species live at the Brevard Zoo. There are four loops at the zoo: Expedition Africa, Lands of Change: Australia and Beyond, Wild Florida, and Rainforest Revealed.

As part of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex's "Cape Canaveral Early Space Tour," the museum is open to the public four days a week. The Air Force 45th Space Wing Community Relations office also offered free tours until June 2013.

At the museum are the remains of the Windover Woman, the oldest human remains found on the North American continent. Visitors can see how Native Americans lived and how Florida pioneers survived.

Located along the Indian River, there are 2 miles of boardwalk paths and trails that meander through lush seagrass beds and past kayaking access points. Visitors can take in spectacular sunset views from the beachside pavilions and fishing piers, or spend time bird watching from the several observation decks scattered throughout the park. When you’re done exploring you can stop by the concession stand for a cold beverage or snack before heading back home.

The Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands is are a spectacular place to visit no matter the time of year. Stretching across 250 acres of marshes and shallow-water habitats, they provide an important environmental resource for native wildlife, plants and migratory species. Visitors can explore these wetlands through trails that wind through cypress swamps, picnic areas and boardwalks with observation decks. These wetlands also play host to educational programs, special events and guided tours.

This is an exciting venue for music, comedy and theatre performances. Established in 1991, this state-of-the-art facility has seating for 1,602 guests and features dynamic audio and visual technology with a main stage setting of over 4,400 square feet. Both educational shows and top national performers have graced the stage here throughout the years; memorable acts like Fleetwood Mac, Bill Cosby, LeAnn Rimes and Mannheim Steamroller have all wowed audiences at the King Center.

Wickham Park is a public county park located at 2500 Parkway Drive in Melbourne, Florida. There are a number of recreational facilities and amenities here, including campgrounds, a disc golf course, equestrian facilities, an archery range, an off-leash dog park, a bicycle/jogging roadway, nature trails, exercise trails, ball fields, an event pavilion, picnic pavilions, a playground, and swimming lakes.

Space Launch Delta 45 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (CCSFS) is an installation of the United States Space Force. CCSFS was the launch site for a number of American space exploration pioneers, including the first American earth satellite in 1958.

The Eau Gallie Arts District is a vibrant and inviting cultural venue in the area. This district is located in historic downtown Melbourne. The area boasts dozens of art galleries with works ranging from abstract photography to unique handcrafted jewelry and sculptures. Local restaurants, pubs, bookstores and music venues offer patrons plenty of entertainment options. The district also hosts weekly events such as outdoor concerts and performance art.