Up and coming on the eastern coast of Central Florida, Titusville is a town rapidly gaining recognition for its rich science education, deep history, and an abundance of hidden gems awaiting discovery. With a vibrant array of outdoor activities available in the area, visitors are sure to work up a hearty appetite, making Titusville’s diverse restaurant scene a particularly appealing highlight.
The culinary landscape here is impressively broad, encompassing everything from grills specializing in locally sourced seafood to establishments serving classic southern-style cooking, and an exciting variety of Hispanic flavors. Titusville truly doesn’t fall short when it comes to dining options, offering something to satisfy every craving, whether you’re seeking a quick bite, a lovely evening dinner, or a memorable night out with the family. The food selection is thoughtfully curated to ensure that all visitors find something delightful.
As you plan your visit to this captivating Space Coast destination, prepare to immerse yourself in an experience that blends gastronomic delights with awe-inspiring attractions and comfortable stays. This in-depth guide will introduce you to some of the very best establishments and sites Titusville has to offer, ensuring your trip is filled with unforgettable moments and exquisite tastes. We’ve handpicked a selection of places that truly represent the heart and soul of this charming Florida town.
1. **Shiloh’s Steak and Seafood**Heading south on US1, you’ll eventually encounter Shiloh’s Steak and Seafood, an American-style restaurant that immediately catches the eye with its charming cabin-like exterior. What truly sets this establishment apart are the amazing, unobstructed views of the Kennedy Space Center, providing a spectacular backdrop to your dining experience.
Perched on the tranquil shore of the Indian River Lagoon, Shiloh’s offers a truly beautiful venue for dining with a view, allowing guests to soak in the natural beauty of the area. The restaurant provides both indoor and outdoor seating options, giving patrons the flexibility to enjoy their meal in comfort or under the Florida sky.
Shiloh’s frequently entices diners with several appealing specials throughout the week. A popular highlight is their Taco Tuesday, where guests can enjoy delicious tacos for just $3 each. Another highly anticipated event is Fish Fry Friday, which offers an all-you-can-eat special featuring delectable Cod or Catfish.
The regular menu is just as enticing, boasting a variety of southern seafood options such as crispy calamari and savory crab cakes. For those with a taste for barbecue, BBQ-style choices like BBQ pulled pork tacos and tater skins are readily available. Additionally, Shiloh’s serves up classic sandwiches, allows you to build your own burger to your exact specifications, and features a selection of pasta entrees. To complete the culinary journey, there are over 10 choices of hand-cut, char-grilled steaks, promising a perfect cut for every preference.
2. **Durango’s Steakhouse Titusville**Conveniently located just off I-95, Durango’s Steakhouse stands as the definitive answer to any steak and burger cravings you might have while in Titusville. This restaurant prides itself on using an oak grill for cooking its meats, imparting a distinct and robust flavor to every dish that truly elevates the dining experience.
Durango’s embraces an intriguing 1800s train-style aesthetic, seamlessly blending it with a modern twist, creating an ambiance that is equally fitting for a romantic couple’s date night or a lively dinner with the entire family. The unique décor, inspired by the Durango to Silverton train line, adds an element of historical charm to your meal.
The restaurant offers a special lunch menu available from 11 AM to 4 PM, Monday through Saturday. This menu features a range of chicken and pork entrees, various sandwiches and wraps, and tempting flatbreads, all offered at a decent and accessible price point. It’s a perfect option for a mid-day meal that doesn’t compromise on quality or taste.
During dinner hours, guests are invited to indulge in a broader selection, including hearty burgers, flavorful pasta dishes, and fresh seafood. The true stars of the evening menu are the seven specialty hand-cut USDA steaks, each prepared to perfection. Additionally, for those looking to unwind, Durango’s boasts an array of cocktails, available both on the rocks and expertly mixed out of the shaker. To conclude your dining experience on a sweet note, Durango’s offers a variety of decadent desserts, such as an all-natural Crème Brulee, rich Red Velvet Cake, and a tangy Key Lime Cheesecake. These options ensure a memorable finish to any meal.
3. **Pier 220 Seafood and Grill**Nestled right under the impressive Max Brewer Bridge in North Titusville, you’ll discover Pier 220 Seafood and Grill, a bistro with a truly unique and historic setting. This establishment is located on a pier that is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, a testament to its enduring presence and popularity in the community. Despite having sustained damage from numerous hurricanes over the decades, the pier has consistently remained a very popular fishing spot in Titusville.
Pier 220 takes great pride in sourcing its seafood from local sustainable fisheries, ensuring both freshness and a commitment to environmental responsibility. Guests at Pier 220 can choose between comfortable indoor or refreshing outdoor seating, allowing them to enjoy the scenic waterfront views regardless of their preference. The restaurant is also actively working to reduce its environmental footprint by utilizing sustainable cutlery and takeout containers, and by incorporating bamboo products into its operations.
As for menu specials and engaging events, Pier 220 certainly keeps things lively throughout the week. They host entertaining trivia nights every Monday, offer $1 off wines and whiskey on Wednesdays, and feature $5 Tito’s Thursdays for spirit enthusiasts. To enhance the weekend atmosphere, live music is a regular fixture from Friday through Sunday evenings.
Offering a diverse array of seafood platters, tasty tacos, satisfying burgers, and classic seafood entrées, Pier 220 Seafood and Grill presents itself as an excellent choice for a relaxing cocktail night with friends. The combination of its historic location, commitment to sustainability, and vibrant social calendar makes it a standout dining destination in Titusville.
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4. **Orleans Bistro and Bar**Located just north of Titusville’s newest retail hub, Titus Landing, on US 1, you’ll find the Orleans Bistro and Bar, an exciting culinary destination with a distinct Cajun twist. This restaurant’s menu is most notably celebrated for its flavorful burgers, savory wings, and perfectly cooked steaks, offering a taste of the South that is both authentic and incredibly satisfying.
Beyond its enticing menu, Orleans Bistro and Bar is a vibrant spot for entertainment, featuring live music on Friday and Saturday nights. This makes it a fantastic option for those seeking a fulfilled and lively night out, where delicious food can be paired with enjoyable performances and a great atmosphere. The energy here is infectious, drawing in crowds looking for a good time.
The bistro also enhances the dining experience with a variety of enticing specials available throughout the week. Monday nights bring $4 house Margaritas, offering a refreshing start to the week. Wednesdays are for wing lovers, with wings priced at an unbeatable .65 cents each. Thursdays feature $5 Category 1 Hurricane specialty drinks, adding a tropical flair to the evening. As mentioned, Friday nights are dedicated to live music, while Saturday nights boast both Karaoke and additional live music, ensuring there’s always something happening.
Weekends are made even better with brunch specials available on Saturdays and Sundays, complemented by $4 mimosas for a perfect leisurely start to the day. The extensive menu includes specialty burgers, various sandwiches, rich pasta dishes, classic Po Boys, and generous platters. Moreover, Orleans Bistro offers a compelling selection of Creole and Cajun specialties, such as succulent shrimp, chicken, and crawfish étouffée, comforting shrimp and grits, hearty jambalaya, and classic gumbo. This affable bar truly delivers, satisfying any craving you might have for southern cuisine, even if these specific flavors didn’t originate directly in Florida.
5. **Victorio’s Italian Oyster Bar and Grille**While Victorio’s Oyster Bar and Grille boasts several locations across Central Florida, it has earned a cherished reputation as a beloved small neighborhood pizzeria within the Titusville community. This family-owned restaurant has been a culinary cornerstone, proudly serving the area since 1979, and has consistently maintained its long-standing status as the number one restaurant in Florida for Italian Seafood and Oysters. Its deep roots and consistent quality speak volumes about its dedication to fine dining.
Victorio’s offers a dynamic menu with various daily lunch specials and enticing dinner features, many of which are exclusively available when dining in the restaurant, encouraging a full experience. For those looking to unwind, everyday beer buckets are available at a friendly price of $14, providing a great value. Adding to the lively atmosphere, live music graces the patio on Friday nights, creating a perfect setting for weekend relaxation.
For sports enthusiasts, Victorio’s is an excellent choice to catch a game, thanks to its impressive setup of 26 TVs strategically placed throughout the establishment. This ensures that no matter where you’re seated, you won’t miss a moment of the action. The restaurant truly caters to a diverse clientele, from families enjoying a meal to friends gathering for a game.
Beyond its renowned seafood and oysters, Victorio’s also features a comprehensive Italian menu. This includes a wide array of various pasta dishes, classic chicken entrees, and cherished Italian specialties such as eggplant parmigiana, all prepared with authentic flavors. And, of course, one cannot overlook Victorio’s identity as a pizzeria; they pride themselves on homemade pizza dough and sauces, offering mini, medium, and extra-large sized pizzas with a generous selection of 16 topping choices to customize your perfect pie. It’s a place where tradition meets delicious variety.
6. **Dixie Crossroads**Dixie Crossroads stands as one of Titusville’s quintessential southern-inspired classics, renowned globally for its exceptional ocean-caught seafood, perfectly char-grilled steaks, savory chicken, and famous corn fritters. For over 40 years, this establishment has also been celebrated for its prime rib, serving as a culinary landmark on the Space Coast. A significant draw is their commitment to freshness, known for serving fish and shrimp directly sourced from Port Canaveral, located just 30 minutes away.
Diners at Dixie Crossroads have the flexibility to enjoy their shrimp broiled, fried, or steamed, with the added benefit of being able to season it for no extra charge, catering to individual tastes. The restaurant proudly offers five different options of shrimp, with availability based on the season, including rock, boat run, medium, large, or royal red shrimp, ensuring a varied and fresh selection. Depending on the season, you may also be able to order Dixie Crossroads’ specialty raw, steamed, or charred oysters, providing a true taste of the sea.
For those with a penchant for luxurious seafood, Main lobster and Snow crab are also served when available at market price, offering an indulgent dining option. Dixie Crossroads is not just about delicious food; environmental sustainability is thoughtfully integrated into their operations, as evidenced by their use of biodegradable containers and cutlery. The menu further extends its embrace of southern classics with comforting dishes such as delectable crab cakes, crispy catfish, and creamy shrimp and grits, all prepared with traditional flair.
Operating daily from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, Dixie Crossroads ensures ample opportunity for guests to experience its offerings. A dedicated kid’s menu is available for children 12 and under, making it a family-friendly destination. While the restaurant does not take reservations, they do offer the convenience of calling ahead for priority seating requests. Beyond its seafood prowess, the large menu also includes appealing non-seafood options such as barbecue ribs and steak. For those who find it hard to decide, the restaurant’s combos or specials provide a fantastic way to sample different menu items. Hearty sides like mac and cheese, cheese grits, or a baked potato perfectly complement any entrée. And, as a delightful and widely appreciated tradition, many guests consider the complimentary corn fritters with powdered sugar as their perfect dessert, a sweet and simple end to a satisfying meal.
7. **Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex**For anyone with a keen interest in space travel, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is undoubtedly the perfect place to visit in the Titusville area. This expansive complex is a veritable treasure trove, packed with interactive exhibits and a multitude of fun activities designed to captivate visitors of all ages, ensuring an enriching and entertaining experience for everyone.
The Kennedy Space Center is home to many iconic pieces of history, offering a tangible connection to humanity’s journey beyond Earth. Among its most celebrated displays is the Space Shuttle Atlantis, a magnificent testament to space exploration. Here, visitors can delve deeply into the fascinating narrative of space exploration, tracing its evolution from the nascent beginnings of the U.S. space program and the awe-inspiring lunar landing, right up to the cutting-edge work currently being undertaken at NASA.
An excellent way to fully appreciate the sheer scale and historical significance of the complex is by taking the Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour. This immersive tour drives by a launch complex and provides unparalleled views of the colossal Vehicle Assembly Building. Visitors also get to see the Apollo/Saturn V Center, which proudly houses a real Saturn V rocket and an array of other priceless Apollo-era artifacts, offering a profound sense of the technological achievements of that era.
Should you wish to unwind and take a moment to reflect, a showing at the Hubble Space Telescope Theater comes highly recommended. The film eloquently chronicles the story of the Hubble Space Telescope and highlights the heroic missions undertaken by astronauts to repair it, enabling it to capture never-before-seen images of the cosmos, which are truly breathtaking to behold. For an extra special touch, visitors should check the daily calendar as there is often an incredible opportunity to meet an astronaut in person, providing a unique chance to interact with those who have journeyed to the stars.
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with hours seasonally extending to 6 pm, offering flexibility for your visit. Admission for a single day is priced at $75 for adults aged 12 and older, and $65 for children between 3 and 11 years old. Furthermore, discounted admission rates are thoughtfully available for U.S. military personnel and seniors aged 55 and older, making this incredible experience accessible to a wider audience. The complex truly provides an out-of-this-world adventure that educates and inspires.
Diving Deeper into Titusville: Discovering More Renowned Eateries, Natural Wonders, Historic Museums, and Unique Accommodations for Your Florida Getaway.
As we continue our exploration of Titusville, it becomes clear that this charming Florida town offers much more than just its initial culinary and space-themed highlights. Beyond the initial attractions, there’s a wealth of additional dining experiences, breathtaking natural wonders, enriching historical museums, and distinctive lodging options waiting to be discovered, promising a truly comprehensive and memorable visit.
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8. **River City Bar and Grill**For those seeking a blend of delicious food and engaging entertainment, River City Bar and Grill presents an excellent option. This full-service restaurant is conveniently located within the River Lanes Family Entertainment Center, a renovated bowling alley featuring both classic and custom-designed lanes, ensuring fun for all ages.
The establishment also boasts an arcade and a prize shop, making it a comprehensive family destination. While guests can enjoy the Bar and Grill’s offerings right at their bowling lanes, the venue also features a dedicated, renovated sports bar area with 10 flat-screen TVs, billiards, and other bar games for a more traditional lounge experience.
Happy Hour is a popular feature, running Tuesday through Friday from 3 PM to 6 PM, offering a variety of domestic beers and IPAs. The menu itself is a classic bar-style selection, including pizzas, wraps, sandwiches, burgers, and a range of appetizers, perfect for a casual meal or a night out with friends and family.
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9. **Loyd Have Mercy Restaurant**A true homestyle southern classic, Loyd Have Mercy Restaurant has captured the hearts of many Titusville residents, extending beyond just its food to its strong sense of community and love. This family-owned establishment is a cornerstone for soul food, seafood, and BBQ, offering guests comforting dishes that resonate with tradition.
Loyd Have Mercy frequently hosts special holiday brunches, such as their Father’s Day Brunch, creating memorable experiences for families. They also provide lunch specials from 11 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Saturday, featuring very affordable southern staples that are perfect for a midday meal.
For those planning a family take-out meal, Loyd offers an 8-piece chicken meal complete with two large sides and cornbread, ensuring a satisfying feast. Seasonal specials, like their blue crabs with garlic sauce (available steamed or fried), further enhance the menu, highlighting fresh, local flavors. Conveniently located on US 1, just south of the Titus Landing shopping plaza, it’s a readily accessible spot for a taste of authentic southern hospitality.
10. **El Leoncito Mexican and Cuban Restaurant**Delivering a vibrant taste of global cuisine, El Leoncito Mexican and Cuban Restaurant has been a steadfast Titusville staple since its relocation from California in 1995. Its owner’s decision to blend Cuban flavors with Mexican favorites has created a unique and beloved dining experience that has flourished for decades.
The restaurant offers enticing lunch specials available every day, Monday through Sunday, from 11 AM to 3 PM. During this time, diners can choose combination specials for under $9, featuring options like one or two enchiladas, Chile relleno, chile verde pork tamal, or tacos, all served with yellow rice and refried beans.
The extensive menu also features burritos, chimichangas, fajitas, and a wide array of authentic Cuban dishes, with most items priced under $10. Happy Hour runs Tuesday through Sunday from 3 PM to 6 PM, where guests can enjoy house and fruit margaritas, as well as sangria. Margarita Monday sweetens the deal with a buy-one-get-one-free offer all day, allowing patrons to savor their favorite margaritas on the house.
11. **Canaveral National Seashore**For those who find solace in the embrace of nature, Canaveral National Seashore is an indispensable destination in Titusville. This breathtaking expanse protects diverse environments, including pristine beaches, lush pine flatwoods, an expansive open lagoon, and even a designated area for nude sun worshippers (accessible at beach entrance/crossing 13).
The seashore is a haven for biodiversity, boasting over 1,000 different types of plants and a remarkable 310 bird species, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching and ecological exploration. As Florida’s longest stretch of undeveloped Atlantic coastline, it offers a truly wild and unspoiled natural experience.
Visitors can engage in a variety of outdoor activities, from invigorating hikes and peaceful paddling to shelling along the shore and fishing in the lagoon. The park also provides unique vantage points for watching kite-surfers and, notably, offers incredible views of rocket launches from the nearby Kennedy Space Center. It’s an excellent place to enjoy a packed lunch amidst stunning natural surroundings. The park is open daily, with summer hours from 6 AM to 8 PM and winter hours from 6 AM to 6 PM, with a vehicle entrance fee of $25, valid for seven days.
12. **American Space Museum and Space Walk of Fame**Complementing the Kennedy Space Center, the American Space Museum and Space Walk of Fame offers another compelling dive into space history right in Titusville. This non-profit organization is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the U.S. Space Program through its engaging museum exhibits and the commemorative monuments at Space View Park.
The museum houses various galleries, each dedicated to different facets of space exploration, including detailed exhibits on the Apollo missions and a tribute to the women who contributed to the space program. A particularly popular attraction is the Cape Canaveral Gallery, which brilliantly recreates the sensory experience of a shuttle launch with immersive sounds and sensations.
The museum operates Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, with admission priced at $10 for adults and $5 for children aged 13 to 18; children 12 and under enjoy free entry. For a more in-depth experience, docent-guided tours are available Tuesday through Saturday at 10 AM, 12 PM, and 2 PM, though reservations are recommended. This site offers a profound appreciation for the human endeavor to reach the stars, presented through a unique historical lens.
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13. **Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge**Established in 1963 with the primary goal of protecting migratory birds, Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a vast and vital natural sanctuary spanning 140,000 acres. This expansive refuge encompasses a diverse range of habitats, including coastal dunes, saltwater marshes, carefully managed impoundments, scrubland, pine flatwoods, and dense hardwood hammocks.
Such varied ecosystems provide crucial habitat for over 1,500 species of plants and animals, including 15 federally listed species, making it a critical area for conservation. Yes, for wildlife enthusiasts, it’s worth noting that alligators are indeed among the many fascinating creatures residing here.
The refuge’s roads, trails, and boat ramps are accessible from sunrise to sunset daily, allowing ample time for exploration and appreciation of its natural beauty. Bair’s Cove boat ramp uniquely offers night launching for those looking for an after-dark aquatic adventure. The Visitor Center is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 8 AM until 4 PM, offering additional information and resources, though it is closed on Sundays, Mondays, and major holidays. It’s a truly immersive experience for anyone looking to connect with Florida’s pristine natural environment.
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14. **The Wayward Traveler’s Inn**For visitors seeking truly unique accommodations that deviate from conventional hotel stays, The Wayward Traveler’s Inn offers a captivating experience. This historic Florida Manor House, originally built in 1889, provides a charming and quaint setting for a memorable retreat in Titusville.
The inn features five distinct rooms, each thoughtfully designed with its own individual theme, inviting guests to choose between the Mardi Gras Room, the Adventure Room, the World Traveler Room, the Florida Room, and the Birding Room. This personalized touch ensures a stay that is both comfortable and full of character.
Guests can also enjoy cozy, shared spaces within the inn, fostering a sense of community and relaxation. Its convenient location places it not far from Titusville’s myriad attractions and diverse dining options, making it an ideal base for exploring the area. Reservations can be made online, with check-in from 2 PM to 8 PM and check-out at 11 AM. Please note that for the comfort of all guests, children under 12 and pets are not permitted.
As our in-depth journey through Titusville concludes, it’s evident that this Central Florida gem is far more than just a gateway to space exploration. From its vibrant array of dining experiences, spanning beloved local classics and exciting global flavors, to its breathtaking natural sanctuaries and unique historical sites, Titusville offers a rich tapestry of activities and stays for every traveler. Whether you’re savoring fresh seafood, spotting diverse wildlife, or stepping back in time through its museums and historic inns, Titusville promises an unforgettable and multifaceted adventure, ensuring your Florida getaway is truly out-of-this-world.
