Things to Do In and Around Sebring, FL
Sebring is a city that sits about smack-dab in the middle of the Florida peninsula. Its location makes it a fantastic base from which to ride out for motorcycle adventures. Both the Atlantic and Gulf coastlines are within easy access along the legendary Cracker Trail that passes by Sebring. Even a day trip to the Everglades in the south is on the table.
Yet, once they day’s ride is done, Sebring will still entertain you. The city and its surroundings will keep any rider busy until it’s time to lay your head down for the night. Here are 10 things you shouldn’t miss in and around Sebring.
Sebring International Raceway
Most famous for the 12-hour endurance race held on its track each March, auto events take place year-round at the Sebring International Raceway. From drift competitions to classic car shows, the wheels are always turning at this motorsports complex built on a former World War II Army Air Force base.
Sugar Sands Distillery
The Sugar Sands Distillery in nearby Lake Placid uses sugarcane grown on the farm that surrounds it to craft small-batch rum. Take a tour and do a tasting of their products—which also include vodka, gin, and moonshine—either at the distillery or its tasting room, The 301, in downtown Sebring.
Highlands Hammock State Park
Situated on 9,000 acres of pristine Old Florida landscape, the Highlands Hammock State Park is open 365 days a year. Hike one of the park’s nine trails to see alligators, deer, and migratory birds, and visit the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum to learn about the people who built many of Florida’s parks.
Sebring Soda and Ice Cream Works
Although it’s a modern addition, the atmosphere of the Sebring Soda and Ice Cream Works fits right into the downtown’s historical vibe. Sample one of the 200 craft fizzy drinks, such as Americana Cherry Cola, and catch the Sebring Soda Festival if you’re in town around the first week of April.
Lake Jackson Trail
This 10.5-mile multi-use path circumnavigates Sebring’s signature body of water, Lake Jackson. The trail will take you past picnic spots and a sandy lakeshore beach and offers plenty of opportunities for fishing, swimming, or just taking in the boats that ply the lake’s waters.
Military Sea Services Museum
Open Wednesday through Saturday, this small museum bills itself as the only one in the country dedicated to all three U.S. military sea services—the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. A grassroots effort, the museum got its start with donations of uniforms and memorabilia from local veterans.
The Cracker Trail
The Cracker Trail is a collection of modern roads that follow the original route of the cattle drives that established this part of the state. This historical route is both a road trip through Central Florida history and a showcase of the state’s contemporary agricultural economy.
Airboat Rides
Airboats are the best way to take in the nearby 28,000-acre freshwater Lake Istokpoga. Numerous tour operators in the area will take you on a personalized and high-speed 1.5-hour sampling of the flora and fauna that inhabit the area’s aquatic biosphere.
Secret Gardens Winery and Farm
Don’t associate Florida with vineyards? Let the Secret Gardens Winery and Farm show you what you’ve been missing. Known for wines made with muscadine grapes, this family-owned vineyard also uses other local fruits, like strawberries and elderberries. Take a tour or sample their craft in the tasting room.
Historical Downtown Sebring
A nationally designated historical district, downtown Sebring is a showcase of Florida architecture from the first half of the 20th century, from the courthouse to the fire station. Venture slightly outside the downtown area on Lake View Dr to take in more of the historical mansions and hotels that dot Lake Jackson.