Martin Luther King Day is just around the corner which means now is the time to book your getaway to sunny Fort Walton Beach. Whether you’re heading here solo, as a couple or with the entire family in tow, there will be plenty of activities for Martin Luther King Day in Fort Walton Beach waiting to be enjoyed upon arrival. The following are just a few of the Fort Walton Beach, FL, things to do to add to your itinerary this time of year!
Martin Luther King Day in Florida
The arrival of Martin Luther King Day in Florida means the arrival of the annual MLK Day parade in Fort Walton Beach. This highly anticipated event typically kicks off at 9:30 am and starts and ends at Chester Pruitt Park. This beginning and end point of the parade is located at the corner of Harbeson Avenue and Hollywood Boulevard. The route follows Hollywood Boulevard to Beal Parkway before heading north toward Walter Martin Road. From here, the parade makes its way south back around to Chester Pruitt Park. In years past, there’s been a rally held at Chester Pruitt Park once the parade has come to a close complete with a guest speaker. 2023 is looking to follow much the same itinerary but Fort Walton Beach travelers will want to keep an eye on the city calendar to be up to date with any changes that might occur.
Enjoy a Stroll on the Sand This MLK Day
While Martin Luther King Day in other destinations often comes with cold temperatures to contend with, those heading to Fort Walton Beach to celebrate will find weather that’s much more on the warm side waiting. That makes a January trip the ideal time to take a walk on the sand and enjoy the tranquility offered up from this scenic setting. While visitors aren’t likely to want to hop in the water this time of year, walking the shoreline is refreshing when afternoon temperatures reach the mid-60s. Take time to enjoy the view of the wave and incorporate bird watching into the experience too as many shore birds stick around or migrate through this time of year.
Explore the Fort Walton Beach Heritage Park and Cultural Center
Martin Luther King Day is an opportunity to reflect on important progress made in society. When you’re in Fort Walton Beach over MLK Day this year, another place to reflect on the past and how far we’ve come is the Fort Walton Beach Heritage Park and Cultural Center. This stop is dedicated to telling the story of those who have explored and lived in this area for thousands of years. From exhibits that focus on Native American tribes to stories of local settlers, it’s a stop that’s certainly worth your while. The Indian Temple Mound Museum is a must-see when you’re visiting the center. Since opening in 1962, this museum has brought the local tribal past of Fort Walton Beach to life. Here, over 1,000 artifacts are on display including relics of shell bone, and stone. A visit to the Fort Walton Beach Heritage Park and Cultural Center is also a chance to visit the Camp Walton Schoolhouse. This two-room building dates back to the 1930s and shows the progression of education in the area. Guests can also visit the Garnier Post Office Museum when they’re interested in seeing how the postal system has progressed. This post office dates back to 1906 and is an authentic look into a communication process that continues to prove vital to our societies.
Visit the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
A trip to Fort Walton Beach over MLK Day is also a chance to check out local hot spots like the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. This is a great option if you’re in the area with little ones and you’re looking for an activity that’s equal part educational and engaging. The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park provides guests with opportunities to enjoy chats with wildlife experts as well as amazing encounters with some spectacular creatures along the way. This adventure park focuses on educating the public about marine life as well as conservation efforts to help various species thrive. Guests can see everything from sea turtles and penguins to dolphins during their visit and learn more about the habitats they rely on too. From stingray touch pools to opportunities to swim next to bamboo sharks, it’s a stop that you won’t want to miss.
Book Your Stay Today
Make more of your MLK Day in Fort Walton Beach when you book accommodations through The Breakers of Fort Walton Beach. Our spacious and luxurious Martin Luther King Day vacation rentals in Fort Walton Beach offer up amazing views and incredible amenities too that elevate the experience from start to finish. Reach out to learn more about our incredible property options and how we can help you turn travel plans into a reality. We can’t wait to see you enjoy Fort Walton Beach, FL, things to do this Martin Luther King Day!