Viera Wetlands

Viera Wetlands, or Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands, is a barren area with dirt roads where you can drive to watch wildlife. When you first arrive you see endless empty land that stretches for miles, plus the sewer plant which provides the water for the wetlands. There is an inner road in a pea shape, that hugs the water, and an outer road that connects to the inner road with two short and two long connector roads. On the inner road is a tall observation deck and a gazebo. You can also walk the dirt road but there is no shade, and you must beware of cars. If you're lucky the road will be roped off and then you can walk without worrying about cars. It's only worth it to come the hour after sunrise or the hour before sunset, because that is when the gorgeous animals are active. You will likely see alligators and all kinds of birds. It's unnerving because there is no boardwalk so the alligators are near you. If that's too scary, come when the rope is open and you can drive the path, though it is a bumpy road.

The inner road is 0.8 miles. The outer road is 2.3 miles.
The day I came it was the wrong time of day, so stay tuned for photos of the animals when I return!
After, have a cup of coffee at Bold Cup Coffee in the pretty outdoor mall called The Avenue at Viera.

Directions

Viera Wetlands, or Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands, are located at 10001 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL 32940. There is plenty of free parking in a dirt parking lot.

Click on map for interactive view