15 Insanely Unique Things To Do In Sebring FL | Karta.com

15 Insanely Unique Things To Do In Sebring FL

Trip Ideas Jun 4, 2025

If you're searching for purpose in Sebring, you won’t find massive crowds or overhyped attractions. What you will find is something much rarer: authenticity. Nestled in the heart of Central Florida’s Highlands County, Sebring is a place where life moves at the speed of a front porch swing, and nature still gets the final say.

Wrapped around the mirror-still waters of Lake Jackson, this historic town invites visitors to reconnect—with the outdoors, with themselves, and with a pace of life that feels refreshingly unrushed. From fishing at dawn to catching the roar of vintage race cars at Sebring International Raceway, the area is full of unexpectedly rich experiences. Think kayaking through moss-draped hammocks, wandering past murals in the revitalized downtown, or sipping sweet tea after 18 holes at one of Sebring’s many scenic golf courses.

The real charm of Sebring lies in its contrast: adrenaline-fueled racing one day, a peaceful sunset over the lake the next. Whether you’re stopping in for the weekend or snowbirding for the season, this small town has a way of making a big impression.

Keep reading for the top things to do in Sebring that locals love—and travelers never forget.

1. Explore Highlands Hammock State Park

Address: 5931 Hammock Rd, Sebring, FL 33872

Fun Fact:

The park was created during the Great Depression as part of President Roosevelt’s New Deal, and you can still see historic CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) structures today.

Walking into Highlands Hammock State Park feels like stepping into Old Florida—before the theme parks, before the high-rises, before the highways carved everything up. This is one of Florida’s very first state parks, and it shows its age in the best way possible: in the sprawling oak trees with limbs as thick as a pickup truck, in the sun-dappled boardwalks that wind through cypress swamps, and in the silence that surrounds you as soon as you step onto the trail.

File:Highland Hammocks SP Swamp Trail03.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

The park features nine short trails, each offering a slightly different slice of wilderness. You’ll pass through dense ferns, blackwater sloughs, and mossy hammocks where deer, bobcats, and the occasional alligator lurk just out of sight. If you're lucky—and quiet—you might even hear the distant hoot of an owl or catch a glimpse of the elusive Florida panther, though sightings are rare and thrilling.

On my last visit, I took the Cypress Swamp Trail, which includes a raised boardwalk that hovers just above the wetland floor. The reflections of the bald cypress trees in the still water, the calls of birds echoing through the canopy—it all felt more like a meditation than a hike.

And here’s the best part: this park doesn’t feel curated or polished. It feels alive.

Important Information:

Best for: Hikers, photographers, birders, families, lovers of “Old Florida”
Hours: Daily, 8am–sunset
Admission: $6 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
Parking: Ample parking near the ranger station and trailheads
Accessibility: Visitor center and boardwalk trails are wheelchair accessible; other trails vary in terrain
Amenities: Picnic areas, restrooms, campground, biking paths, nature center, tram tours
Tip: Visit in the morning when wildlife is most active and trails are cooler. Bug spray is a must in warmer months!

2. Catch a Race at Sebring International Raceway

Address: 113 Midway Dr, Sebring, FL 33870

Fun Fact:

Sebring’s track surface still includes sections of the original WWII-era concrete from its days as Hendricks Field Air Base.

For motorsports fans, Sebring International Raceway isn’t just a racetrack—it’s a pilgrimage site. Built on a former WWII airbase, the track has a gritty, legendary reputation that makes it one of the most iconic circuits in the world. It’s loud. It’s fast. It’s a little rough around the edges. And that’s exactly what racing purists love about it.

The headliner event here is the 12 Hours of Sebring, an endurance race that draws top-tier international drivers and thousands of devoted fans each March. But the action doesn’t stop there. Throughout the year, the track hosts club races, vintage car weekends, driving schools, and even opportunities for fans to get behind the wheel on the same historic tarmac.

File:2022 1 000 Miles of Sebring Start of the race.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

I attended a race weekend once without knowing much about endurance racing. But the second I walked into the paddock and heard the engines screaming through Turn 17, I got it. The whole place vibrated with adrenaline. Fans camp out in RVs, deck out their spaces with flags and lawn chairs, and talk racing with anyone who’ll listen. It’s an atmosphere that somehow feels like both a party and a family reunion—for people bonded by the love of speed.

Important Information:

Best for: Racing fans, thrill seekers, history buffs, gearheads
Hours: Varies by event; main race weekends often run Friday–Sunday
Admission: Day passes start around $20; major events (like 12 Hours of Sebring) cost more
Parking: General and VIP parking available; shuttles provided during large events
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible seating and restrooms available; tram service for mobility needs during major races
Amenities: Concessions, restrooms, camping areas, gift shop, driving schools
Tip: Bring ear protection—this is real-deal racing, and it gets loud. If you're camping, reserve early—spaces sell out fast for major events.

3. Wander Historic Downtown Sebring

Address: Circle Park Dr, Sebring, FL 33870

Fun Fact:

Downtown Sebring’s layout dates back to 1912 and was designed around Circle Park to create a more pedestrian-friendly experience—long before “walkability” became trendy.

Historic Downtown Sebring doesn’t follow the rules of modern grid layouts—instead, it orbits around Circle Park, a charming roundabout that gives the downtown its unique character and slower pace. It’s the kind of place where you park your car, put away your phone, and just stroll—ducking in and out of antique stores, grabbing an espresso at a sidewalk café, or browsing hand-thrown pottery in a local art shop.

File:Sebring FL hist dist street circle03b.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

At the heart of it all is the Sebring Postcard Mural, a vibrant piece of public art that has quickly become a selfie hotspot. Painted in bright vintage hues, it captures the spirit of Sebring with scenes of palm trees, citrus groves, and nods to the famous raceway. After being featured in HGTV’s Home Town Takeover, the whole downtown got a refresh—new signage, restored facades, and a wave of energy from local makers and small businesses proud to show off their town.

I wandered Circle Park on a warm afternoon, sipping sweet tea from a boutique café and listening to the faint hum of blues guitar drifting from an open shop door. It’s small-town Florida at its most relaxed and real—unpolished in the best way.

Important Information:

Best for: Shoppers, casual strollers, families, photographers, history lovers
Hours: Most shops open Mon–Sat, 10am–5pm; varies by business
Admission: Free to explore
Parking: Free street and lot parking around the Circle
Accessibility: Sidewalks are flat and wheelchair-friendly; many businesses have ramps
Amenities: Public restrooms, benches, nearby restaurants and cafés
Tip: Visit on a Saturday for local events like farmers markets, art walks, or live music nights

4. Visit the Highlands Museum of the Arts (MoTA)

Address: 351 W Center Ave, Sebring, FL 33870

Fun Fact:

The museum is part of the Sebring Cultural Center, which also houses a performance space and artist studios—making it a true hub for Highlands County creatives.

Tucked just blocks from the historic downtown, the Highlands Museum of the Arts (MoTA) is one of Sebring’s cultural gems—and a surprisingly dynamic space for a town of this size. Far from stuffy or pretentious, MoTA offers a thoughtfully curated mix of rotating exhibits that span fine art, photography, sculpture, and mixed media from both regional and national artists.

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The gallery itself is intimate—just enough space to let you linger with each piece without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. One exhibit might explore Florida’s shifting natural landscapes; another might feature vibrant abstracts from emerging artists. What’s especially cool is how the museum doesn’t just display art—it creates community around it. There are frequent workshops, art classes, and events like wine-and-paint nights or guest speaker series that bring locals and visitors together in meaningful, creative ways.

I happened upon a photography exhibit during my visit that showcased rural Florida in black and white—fields, tractors, and weathered faces. It was raw and beautiful, and a reminder that art doesn’t just reflect a place—it reveals it.

Important Information:

Best for: Art lovers, solo travelers, creatives, anyone looking for a quiet cultural moment
Hours: Tues–Fri, 10am–2pm; Sat 10am–1pm (subject to change during exhibit transitions)
Admission: Free; donations appreciated
Parking: Free lot adjacent to the Cultural Center
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible, including restrooms
Amenities: Gift shop, public restrooms, adjacent outdoor courtyard
Tip: Check their calendar before you go—timing your visit with a new exhibit opening or artist talk can turn a quiet museum stop into a highlight of your trip

5. Indulge at Sebring Soda & Ice Cream Works

Address: 201 Circle Park Dr, Sebring, FL 33870

Fun Fact:

They carry rare soda brands like Leninade (yes, with the hammer and sickle) and Flying Cauldron Butterscotch Beer for Harry Potter fans.

Stepping into Sebring Soda & Ice Cream Works is like opening a time capsule—except this one’s refrigerated and packed with fizzy, frosty goodness. Located right in the heart of downtown, this charming little shop is more than a sugar stop—it’s an experience. You’ll find over 200 sodas from around the world, from obscure root beers to fruity Asian imports to bacon-flavored curiosities that spark wide-eyed reactions from both kids and nostalgic adults.

The vibe is unapologetically retro: checkerboard floors, vintage signage, and classic ice cream parlor stools that invite you to stay a while. And the ice cream? Creamy, small-batch, and served in generous scoops. Go classic with a hot fudge sundae or get adventurous with one of their soda floats—think mango soda over orange sherbet, or cherry cola with a scoop of vanilla bean.

On my visit, a couple from out of town was doing a blind soda taste test, laughing as they tried to guess the flavors. It’s that kind of place: low-pressure, lighthearted, and fun for literally anyone with a sweet tooth or a sense of play.

Important Information:

Best for: Families, kids, nostalgic travelers, sweet-toothed adults
Hours: Mon–Sat, 11am–8pm; Sun 12pm–6pm
Admission: Free to enter; sodas and ice cream priced individually
Parking: Free street parking on Circle Park Dr
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible; indoor and outdoor seating available
Amenities: Indoor A/C seating, restrooms, take-home soda packs available
Tip: Grab a variety pack of bottled sodas to take home—they make great gifts or road trip companions

6. Relax at Lake Jackson

Main Access Point: Veterans Beach Park – 2730 Memorial Dr, Sebring, FL 33870

Fun Fact:

Lake Jackson is one of Florida’s clearest natural lakes, with an average depth of just 7–10 feet—perfect for swimming and wading.

When the Florida sun is high and you’re craving open sky and open water, Lake Jackson is the town’s natural gathering place. This nearly 9,000-acre freshwater lake sits right in the heart of Sebring and offers more than just a view—it’s a full-on lake life experience, with sandy beaches, public fishing piers, boating, jet skiing, and even spots to launch a kayak or paddleboard.

File:Sebring FL Lake Jackson01.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

One of the most popular places to access the water is Veterans Beach Park, a shaded shoreline park with a designated swimming area, picnic tables, and panoramic lake views that become pure magic at sunset. Whether you’re laying out with a book, baiting a hook on the pier, or snapping golden-hour photos, Lake Jackson serves up serenity with just the right amount of activity.

I arrived late one afternoon and watched as a local dad taught his daughter to cast a fishing line while a group of teens played volleyball nearby. Boats cruised by slowly, music drifting from their speakers. As the sky shifted from orange to pink to deep blue, it struck me: this is Sebring—uncomplicated and utterly beautiful.

Important Information:

Best for: Nature lovers, families, anglers, swimmers, sunset chasers
Hours: Daily, 6am–sunset (for park areas)
Admission: Free
Parking: Free lot at Veterans Beach Park and other access points
Accessibility: Paved walkways and restrooms; beach area is sand-based
Amenities: Fishing pier, swimming area, boat ramps, restrooms, picnic shelters, playground
Tip: Visit during golden hour for dreamy light—and bring snacks, as food options nearby are limited

7. Discover the Military Sea Services Museum

Address: 1402 Roseland Ave, Sebring, FL 33870

Fun Fact:

The museum is believed to be the only one in the country that represents all three sea services under one roof.

Small but deeply moving, the Military Sea Services Museum is one of those hidden gems that surprises you—not just with what it displays, but with how it makes you feel. Dedicated to honoring the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, this all-volunteer-run museum is a quiet, reverent space filled with artifacts, photographs, uniforms, and personal stories that span decades of sea service history.

File:Sebring FL Military Sea Services Museum sign01.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

From World War II battleships to modern-day missions, the exhibits give voice to the men and women who’ve served on the water. You’ll find detailed ship models, preserved medals, flags flown during historic conflicts, and even everyday items that once belonged to sailors and marines—the kind of personal touches that make history feel human.

When I visited, a retired Navy vet gave me an impromptu tour, pointing out a photo of his ship and sharing stories that made the displays come alive. This isn’t a flashy museum. But it is powerful. And it’s a testament to Sebring’s respect for service, sacrifice, and tradition.

Important Information:

Best for: Military history buffs, veterans, families, educators
Hours: Wed–Sat, 12pm–4pm
Admission: Free (donations appreciated)
Parking: Free lot on-site
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Amenities: Restrooms, shaded seating outside, guided tours often available
Tip: Take your time and ask questions—volunteers are full of insight and stories you won’t find on the plaques

8. Enjoy a Performance at Highlands Lakeside Theatre

Address: 356 W Center Ave, Sebring, FL 33870

Fun Fact:

Highlands Lakeside Theatre has been performing since 1974, making it one of the longest-running community theaters in Central Florida.

There’s something incredibly charming—and rare—about community theater done well. And Highlands Lakeside Theatre does it very well. Housed in a mid-century building just steps from downtown Sebring, this local treasure brings the stage to life with an impressive lineup of classic dramas, lively musicals, modern comedies, and even children’s productions throughout the year.

The theater itself is small, which only adds to its appeal. Every seat is close to the stage, making every performance feel intimate. It’s the kind of place where you recognize the cast afterward at the diner across the street, or where a neighbor might unexpectedly steal the show with a powerhouse solo. Local talent here runs deep—and the passion is contagious.

On one visit, I caught a production of The Addams Family musical, and the energy in the room was electric. The set, the timing, the acting—it could’ve held its own in a big city. But what stuck with me most was how connected everyone felt. The audience laughed, clapped, and cheered like they were rooting for their own.

Important Information:

Best for: Theater lovers, date nights, families, local culture seekers
Hours: Showtimes vary by production; typically Thurs–Sun evenings
Admission: ~$20 per adult ticket; discounts for students, seniors, and season passholders
Parking: Free lot and street parking available
Accessibility: ADA-compliant seating and restrooms
Amenities: Concession stand, indoor restrooms, nearby dining
Tip: Book in advance—performances often sell out, especially during their summer and holiday seasons. Arrive early for the best seats and a chance to mingle in the cozy lobby

9. Shop at the Downtown Mall & Marketplace

Address: 209 Circle Park Dr, Sebring, FL 33870

Fun Fact:

The marketplace often rotates vendors seasonally, so every visit feels a little different—even locals make regular stops to see what’s new.

Shopping at the Downtown Mall & Marketplace in Sebring isn’t about brands or big-box browsing—it’s about discovery. Located right on Circle Park in the heart of downtown, this unassuming space holds a maze of booths and mini-shops where local vendors, antique hunters, and quirky collectors come together under one roof.

Each turn reveals something unexpected: vintage Coca-Cola signs, hand-painted Florida postcards, mid-century dishware, Civil War memorabilia, local honey, or retro concert tees. It’s less department store and more treasure hunt. The variety is broad but curated, so it never feels like a garage sale—more like a well-loved community attic.

What makes this spot really shine is the vibe. You’re as likely to find a bargain as you are to have a conversation with someone who’s been collecting Florida citrus crates for 40 years. Whether you're a serious collector or just a curious browser, it's easy to lose track of time.

Important Information:

Best for: Antique lovers, gift shoppers, curious browsers, vintage collectors
Hours: Mon–Sat, 10am–5pm; closed Sundays
Admission: Free
Parking: Free street parking on Circle Park Dr
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible throughout the mall
Amenities: Indoor A/C, restrooms on-site, nearby cafés for post-shopping snacks
Tip: Bring cash—some vendors don’t take cards, and you’ll often get better deals when you’re ready to haggle a bit

10. Tee Off on the Citrus Golf Trail

Main Hub: Sun 'n Lake Golf Club – 5223 Sun 'n Lake Blvd, Sebring, FL 33872

Fun Fact:

The Citrus Golf Trail is considered one of Florida’s best-kept secrets for off-season golf travel—especially from May to October, when rates drop but conditions stay strong.

Golf in Sebring isn’t just a pastime—it’s a point of pride. Dubbed “America’s Value Golf Capital,” this central Florida town delivers championship-level play without the ego or the price tag. The Citrus Golf Trail is a collection of public-access golf courses that combine affordability, Southern hospitality, and scenic fairways lined with oaks, palms, and the occasional sandhill crane.

Golf Citrus, Hammamet - Book Golf Holidays, Flights & Breaks

At the heart of the trail is the Sun ‘n Lake Golf Club, featuring two highly regarded 18-hole courses—Deer Run and Turtle Run. Deer Run is longer and more traditional, while Turtle Run offers tighter fairways and trickier water features. But that’s just the beginning: other courses on the trail include Sebring Municipal, Pinecrest Golf Club (where Ben Hogan once played), and River Greens in nearby Avon Park.

During one morning round at Sun ‘n Lake, I was paired with a retired couple from Wisconsin who’d been wintering in Sebring for over a decade. Between swings, they shared tips about hidden eateries, best tee times, and how Sebring’s laid-back vibe kept drawing them back. By the end of the round, I believed them—and booked a tee time for the next morning.

Important Information:

Best for: Golfers of all skill levels, snowbirds, sports travelers, buddy trips
Hours: Tee times generally 7am–6pm; varies by course and season
Admission: Rates vary by course; many offer rounds for under $50, with better deals in summer
Parking: Free at all courses
Accessibility: Golf carts and course facilities are ADA-compliant
Amenities: Pro shops, restaurants, bars, club rentals, lessons available
Tip: Book weekday tee times for better rates and lighter crowds. Ask about multi-round or group packages across the Citrus Golf Trail

11. Savor Local Flavors at Maxwell Groves Country Store

Address: 607 E Circle St, Avon Park, FL 33825 (Just 15 minutes from Sebring)

Fun Fact:

Maxwell Groves began in 1935 as a roadside fruit stand and has been family-run ever since.

If there’s one place that distills the flavor of Central Florida, it’s Maxwell Groves Country Store. In operation for over 80 years, this old-school citrus stand has become a destination for both locals and visitors who crave a taste of the “real” Florida—ripe oranges, friendly smiles, and that unmistakable scent of fresh-squeezed juice in the air.

When you arrive, expect crates of seasonal citrus piled high—navels, tangelos, ruby reds—often picked just hours before they’re sold. Inside the store, you’ll find local honey, jams, preserves, and gifts that reflect the region’s agricultural roots. But the real reason many people come? The homemade orange soft-serve ice cream. It’s tart, sweet, and creamy all at once—a little cup of sunshine you’ll be thinking about long after you’ve left.

I made the drive to Maxwell Groves on a warm afternoon, ordered a cone, and ended up chatting with the owner about how the business has weathered hurricanes, freezes, and changing times. It’s more than a store—it’s a living piece of Florida heritage.

Important Information:

Best for: Foodies, families, road trippers, nostalgic travelers
Hours: Mon–Sat, 10am–5pm; closed Sundays
Admission: Free to enter
Parking: On-site parking lot
Accessibility: Step-free entrance; mostly wheelchair accessible
Amenities: Restrooms, outdoor seating, gift shop, fresh-squeezed juice by the glass
Tip: Citrus season runs from November to May—visit during these months for the freshest selection and in-season varieties

12. Attend the Sebring Soda Festival

Location: Downtown Sebring (Circle Park Dr & surrounding streets)
When: Annually in early April

Fun Fact:

The Sebring Soda Festival was the first of its kind in the U.S., and continues to grow each year in attendance and flavor selection.

Sebring doesn’t just like soda—it celebrates it. And the Sebring Soda Festival is proof. Every April, the charming downtown district transforms into a fizzy playground of more than 200 craft sodas from all over the world, complete with tasting booths, food trucks, retro games, and live music. It’s quirky, nostalgic, and surprisingly addictive—especially when you realize just how many soda flavors exist (birch beer? cucumber melon? pickle? Yep.)

The festival draws soda makers and fans from across the country. It’s equal parts family fun and soda geek heaven. Kids run between bounce houses and tasting tents with root beer mustaches, while adults sip small pours and hunt for vintage bottles or rare flavors. There are also soda-inspired challenges, mix-your-own-float bars, and vendors selling everything from kettle corn to hand-crafted hot sauces.

The energy is infectious. I remember tasting a lavender cream soda while a local band played Fleetwood Mac covers, the sun bouncing off the nearby lake. It was fun, weird, joyful—and undeniably Sebring.

Important Information:

Best for: Families, food & drink lovers, soda fans, festival-goers
Hours: Typically Fri evening and all day Sat (check local listings for current schedule)
Admission: Free entry; soda tastings require a wristband and ticket booklet (~$7–$25 depending on quantity)
Parking: Free lots and street parking available; fills quickly
Accessibility: Fully walkable downtown layout with wide sidewalks and ramps
Amenities: Restrooms, shaded seating areas, food vendors, live entertainment stages
Tip: Go early for the most variety—popular flavors sell out fast. Don’t skip the float tent—it’s the fizziest fun of the weekend

13. Explore the Children’s Museum of the Highlands

Address: 219 N Ridgewood Dr, Sebring, FL 33870

Fun Fact:

The museum is one of the oldest continually operating children's museums in Florida, having served the community since 1990.

For families visiting Sebring, the Children’s Museum of the Highlands is the kind of place that can turn a hot Florida afternoon into a hands-on adventure. Housed in a cheerful building just off the historic downtown, this interactive museum is designed for kids to touch, build, imagine, and learn while playing—no “don’t touch” signs in sight.

File:Sebring FL Children's Museum01.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Inside, kids can role-play as doctors in a mini-clinic, shop for groceries in a child-sized market, or experiment with creative projects in the art room. There’s a stage with costumes for budding performers and plenty of STEM-focused activities that sneak in education under the guise of fun. The space is compact but smartly arranged to offer hours of entertainment.

During a recent visit, I watched a little boy explain the "hospital rules" to his mom while wearing a stethoscope twice the size of his face. Another group of kids were building a magnetic marble run on a wall. It’s a space designed to spark curiosity and make memories—and for parents, it's a much-needed chance to sit back while the little ones burn off energy in a safe, climate-controlled space.

Important Information:

Best for: Families with kids aged 2–10, local educators, play-based learners
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:30am–5pm; Sat 10am–4pm; closed Sundays
Admission: $7 per person; children under 1 are free
Parking: Free lot adjacent to museum
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible throughout
Amenities: Restrooms, gift shop, seating areas for adults, stroller-friendly
Tip: Pair your visit with lunch downtown—several family-friendly cafés are just a short walk away

14. Visit Secret Gardens Winery & Farm

Address: 8222 County Road 17 S, Sebring, FL 33876

Fun Fact:

The winery also offers small-batch elderberry syrup, handmade soaps, and local honey—all sourced or crafted right on the property.

There’s something undeniably peaceful about Secret Gardens Winery & Farm—maybe it’s the winding drive past pastures and palms, or the way the sunlight filters through moss-draped oaks lining the vineyard. Tucked away just south of Sebring, this family-owned gem combines Florida charm with a laid-back wine country vibe.

Visitors are invited to sip, stroll, and stay awhile. The tasting room offers a rotating selection of wines made on-site—from bright muscadines and semi-sweet blends to drier reds with local flair. Outside, you can wander through the vineyard rows, visit the farm animals (kids love the goats), or lounge under a shady pergola with a glass in hand. Live music, food trucks, and seasonal events often add extra magic on weekends.

On my last visit, I found myself at a rustic wine barrel table chatting with locals over blackberry wine and a shared charcuterie board. It felt less like a tasting room and more like a gathering of neighbors—one where everyone was welcome.

Important Information:

Best for: Couples, wine lovers, relaxed afternoons, local product shoppers
Hours: Thurs–Sun, 11am–5pm (hours may vary for special events)
Admission: Free to enter; wine tastings typically $10–$15
Parking: On-site grassy lot; spacious and free
Accessibility: Outdoor areas are mostly flat; indoor tasting room is wheelchair accessible
Amenities: Tasting room, restrooms, outdoor seating, gift shop, pet-friendly grounds
Tip: Check their Facebook or website before visiting—live music events and food truck schedules change weekly and are worth timing your visit around

15. Stroll Through Sun 'n Lake Preserve

Address: 4400 Sun ‘n Lake Blvd, Sebring, FL 33872

Fun Fact:

The preserve is part of Highlands County’s larger effort to conserve native habitats and serves as a living classroom for local schools and environmental groups.

Tucked just minutes from golf courses and quiet neighborhoods, the Sun 'n Lake Preserve feels like a world apart. Spanning more than 1,350 acres of protected land, this nature preserve offers a tranquil escape into Florida’s wild heart—no admission fees, no distractions, just winding trails through cypress swamps, pine flatwoods, and wildflower-dotted scrubland.

What makes this preserve special isn’t just its size—it’s the intimacy. The trails here aren't paved; they’re natural and rustic, making each hike feel immersive. Expect birdsong, dragonflies, and if you’re lucky, a deer slipping silently through the brush. It’s also a prime spot for birdwatchers, with woodpeckers, herons, and even bald eagles regularly spotted overhead.

On a quiet morning walk, I passed a pair of sandhill cranes gliding across a clearing, their calls echoing softly across the trees. The light filtered through the canopy in bands, and for a moment, the only sound was the wind. That’s the kind of peace Sun 'n Lake Preserve delivers—effortless, grounding, and completely free.

Important Information:

Best for: Hikers, birdwatchers, wildlife photographers, solitude seekers
Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset
Admission: Free
Parking: Small gravel lot near the main trailhead on Sun 'n Lake Blvd
Accessibility: Natural trails—not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers
Amenities: Trail maps at entrance, minimal signage; no restrooms or water fountains
Tip: Bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. This is true back-to-nature Florida—come prepared and leave no trace

Conclusion

Sebring doesn’t try to be the flashiest destination in Florida—and that’s exactly why it stays with you. This is a place where mornings begin on a glass-still lake and afternoons roll out slowly, whether you’re wandering a citrus grove, catching a live show downtown, or watching the sunset turn Lake Jackson gold.

For all its easygoing charm, Sebring still surprises. One minute you’re sipping old-school orange ice cream at a country store, the next you’re hearing racecars thunder down a world-famous track. It’s a town that balances adrenaline and quiet in equal measure—a rare combo these days.

Whether you're visiting for a weekend or staying longer, Sebring welcomes you like an old friend. It offers the kind of travel experiences that don’t scream for your attention—they unfold gently. And in that slow reveal, you’ll find what many travelers are really looking for: connection. To nature, to local flavor, and maybe even to yourself.

So if you're looking for things to do in Sebring, FL—know that the best moments here aren’t just found on a list. They’re felt in the stillness, shared in small-town smiles, and remembered long after you’ve packed the car to head home.

FAQ

1. What is Sebring, Florida known for?

Sebring is best known for the Sebring International Raceway, home of the legendary 12 Hours of Sebring endurance race. But beyond motorsports, it’s also recognized for its pristine freshwater lakes, historic downtown, and affordable golf courses—earning it the nickname “America’s Value Golf Capital.”

2. Is Sebring, FL worth visiting if I’m not into racing?

Absolutely. While racing is a major draw, Sebring offers a slower, more nature-connected experience: think kayaking, hiking in ancient oak hammocks, wine tasting at a local vineyard, or hunting for antiques downtown. It’s especially ideal for those who want a quieter Florida getaway without the crowds.

3. When is the best time to visit Sebring, Florida?

The best time to visit is between late fall and early spring (November to April), when the weather is cooler and outdoor activities are most enjoyable. This also aligns with citrus season, the Sebring Soda Festival, and prime racing events. Summer can be hot and humid, but offers fewer crowds.

4. How far is Sebring from major Florida cities like Orlando or Tampa?

Sebring is centrally located—about 90 minutes from both Orlando and Tampa by car. That makes it a convenient escape for weekend travelers or day-trippers who want to explore Central Florida’s natural beauty without straying too far from the big cities.

5. Are there kid-friendly things to do in Sebring?

Yes! Families will find plenty to do, from the Children’s Museum of the Highlands to lakeside parks, mini-golf, and old-fashioned soda tasting downtown. Many local attractions are outdoors and hands-on, making Sebring a solid pick for travelers with young kids.

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Emily Carter

With over 10 years of experience, Emily is a seasoned expert in planning bespoke tours across the United States and Canada, with a specialization in eco-tourism and adventure travel.