u If you are on the east coast of Florida, you can find Viera Florida by heading north from Miami on I95 for about 3 hours. It is a straight drive on I95 at exit 191. It is located in Brevard county and is part of the “Space Coast”. Viera is located about an hour south of Cocoa Beach and about 2 hours east of Tampa.
So Much To Do
Viera is one of Brevard’s many up-and-growing areas of the “Space Coast”. Over the past decade, this area has seen a population and growth boom both in residential building and commercial growth. It is an epicenter of shopping, eateries, and a multitude of outdoor activities. Picture a small-scale Orlando minus the amusement parks. There are a variety of outdoor walkways to enjoy leisure walks. If you’re looking for a day to shop with your girlfriends, play golf with the boys, or have an afternoon of fun with the family at a movie or zoo, Viera is the perfect day jaunt for you.
Brevard Zoo Family Day
The biggest family draw to Viera is the Brevard Zoo. The zoo houses over 800 animals from around the world, all in open-air habitats. That’s impressive for this size zoo. Within the zoo, you can visit the bird sanctuary, kayak, go on aerial adventures, and even take a train ride for the littles. Allow about 3 hours to tour the zoo. The zoo is laid out with distinct animal regions including Rainforest Revealed, Wild Florida, Lands of Change, and Expedition Africa. The zoo hosts an impressive array of animals from giraffes and rhinos to sloths and monkeys. Giraffes are always a hit as is the Reptiles of Florida. Plan to visit the bird sanctuary where you will get a personal close-up look at a variety of birds. Littles enjoy a stop at the Paws On area where they can enjoy the splash pad, barnyard animals, and see the aquarium.
Outside food is not permitted, although each guest may bring in one beverage. A small food court is available as well as a gift shop to pick up a souvenir of your day. Admission at the time of this writing is about $30 per adult and $23 per child. Memberships are also available if you plan to be visiting the zoo multiple times throughout the year. The zoo is open 9-5 pm daily with special extended times and events available throughout the year. Kayaking and zip lining are also available for an additional charge. This is an amazing day with the family, especially for those with children who love to experience animals up close.
Viera East Golf Course
If you are ready for a day on the green, Viera has an offering for you. Viera East is a municipal golf course that is open to the public. This 18-hole championship golf course is made up of beautiful lush fairways, lakes, and white sand bunkers. Be prepared to not only enjoy a wonderful day on the greens but get a glimpse of Florida’s beautiful landscape and wildlife. Be prepared to enjoy your game surrounded by the beautiful Florida sky and open serene setting of Viera East. There is an on-site restaurant available and booking your tee-time is available online.
Shopping
If you’ve come to shop, The Avenues of Viera is your stop. This is THE hot spot for Brevard County shopping. Within The Avenues, you will find famous chain stores including Loft, Kirklands, Ulta, Aerie, Nordstrom Rack, Homegoods and others. You will also find small boutiques and shops unique to Viera. Maybe you want to spend your day in The Avenues shopping, visiting a salon, or even taking a cooking class at Sur La Table. You can definitely take an entire day just visiting The Avenues. There are multiple special events throughout the year including live music nights, holiday activities, and family events that are planned for this area.
You Gotta Try Some Of These
You can find a plethora of good eats within The Avenues of Viera. Whether you’re ready for a quick bite at Moes or Panera, or you’re looking for a relaxing date night at Bonefish Grill or The Melting Pot, Viera has a food experience for you. There is an array of eateries, sweet treats, and coffee shops within Viera.
My personal recommendation if you are in the mood for Mediterranean, is Olive Tree. Check out the fresh Greek salad and lentil soup (gluten free) options for lunch. Of course, the gyro platter is a family favorite also. For dessert the baklava or rice pudding is a definite 10/10!
My Family Favorite
If Italian is your calling, Tuscany Grill is a must. When you walk in, be prepared to become part of the family. The restaurant is made up of beautiful décor transforming you to Tuscany. The menu is filled with a variety of scrumptious Italian dishes. Enjoy a great glass of wine from their wine selection to pair with your dinner. The restaurant accommodates a variety of group sizes, and the service is exceptional.
If you are ready for a sweet treat, enjoy a stop at a Brevard County staple, Grimaldi Chocolates. Cold Stone Creamery, Crumble Cookie, and Nothing Bundt Cake can fill that sweet tooth craving also. So many choices just steps away from each other.
You will have some hard decisions to make as there are so many food options available at The Avenues or within a small driving distance in Viera.
If you are looking for a day of outside fun, Viera is your spot. Expect to spend the day at the outdoor plaza shopping, eating at one of the many available eatery options, or enjoying the outdoors at the Brevard Zoo or golfing. The picturesque city of Viera is a great Florida day jaunt for families, friends, or couples.
Remember to make memories, share laughs, and visit Florida.
