15 Insanely Unique Things To Do In Sebring, Florida

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.

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

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.

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.

2. Catch a Race at Sebring International Raceway

Address: 113 Midway Dr, Sebring, FL 33870

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.

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.

3. Wander Historic Downtown Sebring

Address: Circle Park Dr, Sebring, FL 33870

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.

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.

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

Address: 351 W Center Ave, Sebring, FL 33870

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.

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.

5. Indulge at Sebring Soda & Ice Cream Works

Address: 201 Circle Park Dr, Sebring, FL 33870

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.

6. Relax at Lake Jackson

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

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.

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.

7. Discover the Military Sea Services Museum

Address: 1402 Roseland Ave, Sebring, FL 33870

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.

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.

8. Enjoy a Performance at Highlands Lakeside Theatre

Address: 356 W Center Ave, Sebring, FL 33870

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.

9. Shop at the Downtown Mall & Marketplace

Address: 209 Circle Park Dr, Sebring, FL 33870

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.

10. Tee Off on the Citrus Golf Trail

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

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.

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.

11. Savor Local Flavors at Maxwell Groves Country Store

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

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.

12. Attend the Sebring Soda Festival

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

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.

13. Explore the Children’s Museum of the Highlands

Address: 219 N Ridgewood Dr, Sebring, FL 33870

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.

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 was 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.

14. Visit Secret Gardens Winery & Farm

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

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.

15. Stroll Through Sun 'n Lake Preserve

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

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.

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.

So, if you're looking for things to do in Sebring, 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 it 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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