Things To Do In Florida’s Rare Circular City + A Few Bonus Stops Worth Your Time
Nestled in the heart of Florida lies Sebring, one of the few circular-designed cities in America. This hidden gem offers a unique blend of small-town charm, outdoor adventures, and rich history that most tourists miss while rushing to the state’s famous beaches.
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, Sebring’s distinctive layout and local treasures provide an authentic Florida experience worth exploring.
1. Stroll Around the Historic Downtown District
Charming storefronts and vintage architecture create a postcard-perfect scene for visitors. Sebring’s downtown circle buzzes with local energy and history that dates back to 1912.
Shop owners often share fascinating stories about the buildings’ original purposes, from former banks to old-time theaters.
2. Explore The Scenic Lake At The City’s Center
Crystal clear waters reflect the Florida sunshine while offering a peaceful retreat from everyday hustle. Lake Jackson sits at Sebring’s heart, providing a 9,212-acre playground for fishing enthusiasts and boaters alike.
Morning visitors might spot great blue herons stalking the shallows or osprey diving for breakfast.
3. Visit Local Museums And Cultural Landmarks
History comes alive through carefully preserved artifacts and engaging exhibits. The Sebring Historical Society Museum showcases the city’s unique development as one of America’s planned circular communities.
Military history buffs shouldn’t miss the Military Sea Services Museum, housing rare memorabilia from various branches of service through the decades.
4. Browse Boutique Shops And Antique Stores
Treasure hunters will delight in the array of vintage finds and one-of-a-kind creations. Sebring’s antique district offers everything from Depression glass to mid-century furniture at prices that would make big-city collectors jealous.
Local artisans display handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and artwork that capture Florida’s distinctive natural beauty.
5. Try Classic Diners And Local Eateries
Mouth-watering aromas waft from family-owned establishments that have perfected their recipes over generations. Sebring’s culinary scene features everything from fresh-caught Florida seafood to Southern comfort classics.
Don’t miss the famous orange ice cream, a sweet nod to the region’s citrus heritage that locals swear tastes like sunshine in a cone.
6. Attend Seasonal Events And Community Festivals
Music fills the air as locals and visitors gather to celebrate everything from art to agriculture. Sebring hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the beloved Sebring Soda Festival showcasing over 200 craft sodas from across America.
The 12 Hours of Sebring race transforms this quiet town into a motorsports mecca every March, drawing racing enthusiasts worldwide.
7. Walk Or Bike The City’s Unique Circular Layout
Perfect symmetry makes navigation a breeze while offering a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century urban planning. The circular design of Sebring was inspired by Washington D.C. and Paris, creating a wheel-like pattern with streets radiating from the central downtown.
Casual cyclists particularly enjoy the flat terrain and logical layout that prevents anyone from getting truly lost.
8. Take A Guided Tour To Learn The City’s Origins
Fascinating tales of visionary founders and ambitious dreams await curious visitors. Sebring was established in 1912 by George Sebring, an Ohio pottery manufacturer who wanted to create his ideal retirement community.
Local guides point out original buildings and share stories about the city’s evolution from a planned community to its current status as a hidden Florida gem.
9. Snap Photos Of Iconic Architecture And Murals
Vibrant colors splash across historic buildings, telling stories of local heritage through art. Sebring’s downtown features Mediterranean Revival architecture alongside newer artistic additions that create perfect Instagram backdrops.
The restored Sebring Cultural Center showcases stunning details from the 1920s boom era, when Florida architecture embraced Spanish influences and tropical motifs.
10. Enjoy Outdoor Activities At Nearby Parks
Natural Florida awaits just minutes from downtown, offering shady retreats and wildlife viewing opportunities. Highlands Hammock State Park, one of Florida’s oldest state parks, surrounds visitors with ancient cypress trees and nine distinct natural communities.
Early morning hikers often spot deer, alligators, and countless bird species along the park’s well-maintained trails.
11. Hidden Gem Café Just Outside Town
Aromatic coffee and house-made pastries greet early risers seeking a peaceful start to their day. The Chocolate Factory Café in Sebring combines small-batch roasted coffee with handcrafted chocolates for a truly indulgent experience.
Locals recommend grabbing a window seat to enjoy the café’s signature orange-infused chocolate croissant while watching the morning unfold.
12. Peaceful Nature Trail Minutes Away
Sunlight dapples through ancient oak canopies while butterflies dance among native wildflowers. The Lake Jackson Ridge Trail offers an easy 1.5-mile loop through Sebring’s natural scrub habitat, showcasing Florida’s inland ecology.
Wildlife enthusiasts should bring binoculars – the trail is known for gopher tortoise sightings and seasonal migratory birds that make this ecosystem their temporary home.
13. Small-Town Winery With Local Charm
Fruit-forward flavors capture the essence of Florida sunshine in every sip. Secret Gardens Winery & Farm in Sebring specializes in wines made from blueberries, peaches, and other locally grown fruits rather than traditional grapes.
Visitors can tour the small production facility before settling onto the porch for a tasting flight paired with cheese from nearby farms.
14. Experience The Thrill Of Sebring International Raceway
Engine roars echo across the legendary track where racing history has been made since 1950. Sebring International Raceway hosts the famous 12 Hours of Sebring endurance race, second in prestige only to the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Even on non-race days, visitors can tour the facilities, check out the Hall of Fame, or participate in driving experiences designed for everyday motorsport enthusiasts.
15. Cool Off At Sebring’s Vintage Ice Cream Parlor
Sweet nostalgia serves up happiness in a waffle cone at this beloved local institution. Maxwell Groves Country Store offers handcrafted orange ice cream that has been drawing visitors to Sebring for generations.
The shop’s authentic Old Florida atmosphere, complete with rocking chairs on the porch, creates the perfect setting to savor their signature citrus treats and homemade fudge.