Cocoa is a city located in Brevard County, Florida. It's known for its historical significance, as the site of a number of key events during the Space Race of the 1960s. Just east of the city, the Kennedy Space Center is a popular tourist attraction. You can explore the Rocket Garden and the Space Shuttle Atlantis Visitor Complex, as well as watch rocket launches from the nearby Air Force Station. Cocoa Village is a beautiful historic district with Victorian-style buildings, boutiques, restaurants and galleries. Plus, you can find a number of outdoor activities in the area, from fishing and sailing on the Indian River to wildlife viewing at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.
1. Cocoa parks and places for a walk on a first date
Cocoa is home to some great parks and natural areas, where you and your date can enjoy a peaceful stroll. The picturesque Rotary Riverfront Park is perfect for a romantic first date, with its lush lawns and pretty ponds. Or, spend some time exploring the trails of the St. Johns National Wildlife Refuge, keeping an eye out for rare birds, reptiles and other amazing wildlife. For a fun and unique experience, you can even hire a guided airboat tour or kayak trip with Cocoa Kayaks.
2. Places for a coffee date in Cocoa
For a casual coffee date, try one of Cocoa's many cozy cafes. The Hot Spot Cafe is a great spot for coffee, breakfast and lunch, or you can visit Cafe 121 and try some of their homemade pastries. The Coronado Coffee Company is also a popular place for coffee, with a selection of locally-roasted beans. Or, for something a bit different, head to the Fifth Avenue Art Gallery and take a look at their rotating art exhibitions while you sip a freshly brewed latte.
3. Cocoa galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Cocoa is an ideal destination for art and culture lovers. Take your date to the Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science, which features a permanent collection of fossils and artifacts, as well as temporary exhibitions about the area's history. The Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum is a great place to explore aviation history, with vintage aircraft and historic artifacts. The Fifth Avenue Art Gallery is also worth a visit, with rotating exhibitions featuring local and international talent.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Cocoa
Cocoa is home to some great live music venues, where you can take your date for an evening of entertainment. The Cocoa Village Playhouse offers a wide range of shows and plays, or you can head to the local breweries to catch a live band. The Rusty's Seafood & Oyster Bar is a great spot for dinner and drinks with live music every night, and if you're feeling more adventurous, you can hire a boat from Cocoa Beach Boat Rentals and have a romantic cruise on the Indian River.
5. Cocoa pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
Cocoa is home to some excellent restaurants for a romantic dinner date. The Black Tulip serves a seasonal menu of European dishes, or you can try the seafood specialties of the Rusty's Seafood & Oyster Bar. The Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar is a great spot for waterfront dining, and if you're in the mood for a casual dinner, you can try one of the many pubs and bars around town, such as the Thirsty Turtle Bar & Grill or the Fat Snook.
6. Other date ideas to try in Cocoa
If you and your date are looking for something a bit different, why not experience a bit of culture with a guided tour of the Florida Historical Society's Heritage Park. Here you can explore the area's history and culture, from ancient artifacts to colonial artifacts, and from Seminole arrowheads to Civil War memorabilia. Alternatively, if you and your date are looking for some fun in the sun, you can head to Cocoa Beach, where you can enjoy a relaxing day on the beach or try your hand at surfing.
