20 Fun Things to Do in Sebring FL with Teens

Where is Sebring Fl

First, let’s look at where is Sebring Florida.

Sebring is a beautiful city in Highlands County, Florida. It is situated approximately 95 miles south of Orlando and 160 miles northwest of Miami. 

The city is easily accessible by car, with major highways such as US 27 and US 98 passing through the area. Sebring is also home to an airport, the Sebring Regional Airport, which offers commercial and general aviation services.

Sebring is on the shores of Lake Jackson, which is one of the largest lakes in Highlands County. The lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and water sports, and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. 

The city is also near several state parks and wildlife reserves, including the Highlands Hammock State Park, one of the first in the Florida State Parks system. These parks offer a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

Sebring is known for its warm and sunny weather throughout the year, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking a warm-weather getaway. 

The city has a vibrant downtown area, with many shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the historic architecture of the downtown buildings, or enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants that offer a variety of cuisine.

Overall, Sebring is a beautiful city in the heart of central Florida. Other areas to visit in the Highlands County area include nearby cities, Lake Placid and Avon Park.

1. Sebring International Raceway

What is Sebring Fl known for you might ask? It is home of the Sebring International Raceway.

One of the most exciting things to do in Sebring Florida with your teenagers is to check out the Sebring International Raceway. This iconic raceway is a must-see for any motor sports fan and is home to the legendary 12 Hours of Sebring endurance race. This is one of the most prestigious endurance races in the world.

It is a 3.74-mile (6.02 km) road course with 17 turns, known for its rough and bumpy surface that is very demanding on both drivers and cars. 

On race weekends, the energy is electric, and the town is buzzing with excitement. Head to Sebring for the 12-hour race on this famous road racing track for a truly unique experience. 

There are other races during the year so be sure to check out their track schedule if you visit any time other than March. 

2. Sebring Soda Festival

One of the most unique events in Sebring is the annual Sebring Soda Festival, which takes place the first weekend of April.  Recently, I attended the Soda Festival in Sebring, Florida, and it was an absolute blast! 

This celebration of all things soda features over 200 craft sodas from around the world, as well as live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities. Teens will love sampling different flavors and brands of soda, from classic root beer to exotic fruity flavors. 

Pick up a sampling card, for a very reasonable cost. I’d recommend the 48 samples for $25 for the whole family. Many of the samples are big enough that more than one person in your family can try. 

Other live entertainment includes a soda pop princess competition, stilt walkers, and roaming clowns. Clowns seem o have a special place in the Sebring area.

Plus, they hold the festival is held in the downtown area, so you can take in the charming architecture and local shops while sipping on a cold drink.

Of all the events in Sebring FL, I looked forward to this one the most!

3. Sebring Soda Shop

Don’t worry if you can’t make the Sebring Soda Festival. You can still stop into the Sebring Soda Shop to get your fizzy fix. This is by far one of the best things to do in downtown Sebring.

As one of the best places to eat in Sebring, FL, the Soda Shop carries the 200 sodas year-round while also serving up ice cream and hot dog treats. I had a Chicago-style dog and it was a true Chicago style and delicious.

Pro tip: Choose to get an ice cream float from any of the flavored sodas they carry! I recommend the chocolate or butterscotch sodas with vanilla ice cream.  

They keep a wide selection in the cooler for immediate consumption or you can choose from even more on the shelf to chill in your own cooler. 

4. Shopping in Sebring Downtown Historic District

Since you’re in downtown Spring, it’s time to explore the Downtown Sebring Circle. The City of Sebring is known as the city in the circle thanks to its circle hub at the center of town. This makes for a great festival location, as seen at the Soda Festival above.

Downtown Sebring Florida, With its vibrant ambiance and numerous dining options, is a magnificent spot to unwind and make some memories with the family. What I love about the downtown district is their effort to include a variety of shops and restaurants so you won’t find any two places the same. 

As you explore the bustling streets, you’ll find a variety of unique shops and boutiques, perfect for picking up souvenirs to take home. And if you’re feeling hungry, there are plenty of restaurants to satisfy everyone’s cravings.

5. Visit the Highlands Hammock State Park

Highlands Hammock State Park is a beautiful and peaceful oasis in Sebring, Florida, just a short drive from Sebring Raceway. 

This 9,000-acre park is one of the oldest and largest state parks in Florida, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region.s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of Sebring. Take your teens on a hike or bike ride through the park’s trails, or simply relax with a picnic while listening to the sounds of nature.

The park is named for its unique feature, a large stand of old-growth hammock forest that covers over 1,000 acres of the park. This forest is one of the few remaining examples of this type of ecosystem in the state, and it provides an important habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species. 

Visitors can explore the forest on several hiking trails that wind through the trees, offering stunning views of the canopy and the wildlife that calls it home.

The Cypress Swamp Catwalk is a popular attraction within Highlands Hammock State Park in Sebring, Florida. This elevated wooden boardwalk winds through beautiful cypress swamps, offering visitors a unique perspective on this important ecosystem. 

The catwalk is one of the oldest in the park, built by the original Civilian Conservation Corps. It is about a quarter-mile long and provides stunning views of the swamp and its inhabitants. While they have restored it over the years, parts of the original catwalk remain.

Speaking of the CCC, there is a museum at Highlands Hammock dedicated to the CCC and how they played a part in creating Florida’s oldest state parks. This is one of the oldest park in the state. There is a CCC Festival every November as well.

Visitors to the park can also enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as camping, fishing, wildlife viewing, picnicking, and bicycling. The park has over 100 campsites, including both tent and RV sites, as well as several cabins for rent for a more comfortable camping experience. Fishing is available in several of the park’s lakes and streams, and visitors can rent canoes or kayaks to explore the waterways. There are also several picnic areas throughout the park, with grills, tables, and shelters available for use.

Park tram tours are also available. 

6. Lake Istokpoga

Lake Istokpoga is the fifth largest lake in Florida. There are plenty of places to take in some of the scenic views of this 27,000-acre lake. However, if your teens like to fish, this is the place to go.

Lake Istokpoga is known for excellent fishing, particularly for largemouth bass. Many fishing tournaments take place here every year. 

Visitors can rent a boat or bring their own and launch at Landings 98 Boat Launch, off Istokpoga Park Access Road or Rutledge Boat Launch Ramp. 

7. Airboat Wildlife Adventure

Want to see even more water and wildlife? Go on an Airboat Tour of Lake Istokpoga. This was a highlight of our Sebring things to do.

Jon, with Airboat Wildlife Adventure, took us through Arbuckle Creek, one of the flattest creeks I’ve seen, on his airboat.

We saw dozens of birds, including spoonbills, and even some baby alligators. 

The best part was gliding over miles of wetlands and even onto some solid ground!

I truly felt like this was the most authentic airboat ride I’ve been on in Florida. 

The peacefulness of the environment and the thrill of the ride make for an unforgettable adventure for all ages. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just looking for a unique outdoor experience, an airboat ride in Sebring is not to be missed.

8. Visit PARC

The PARC is a newer attraction in Sebring. Listed as forest, farm, fauna & Flora, PARC stands for Practical Arts Resort Campus. Currently home to a learning academy where children can learn to work with nature through immersive experiences. 

Culina is the PARC’s farm-to-table dinner series. As each menu features produce from PARC and local farms to create seasonal dishes, dine in their beautiful outdoor seating area while you enjoy the view and dozens of lemon trees.

Villas at the PARC will be available soon. Stay in one of their treetop villas and immerse yourself in nature and learning. 

9. Take Selfies with the Murals of Lake Placid

Need other free things to do Sebring Florida? Consider taking a short drive to nearby Lake Placid to view some of Florida’s most impressive murals. In fact, it’s called the City of Murals. These colorful and picturesque murals depict the town’s history and culture, making for the perfect backdrop for a fun photo shoot with your teen. 

Once you arrive in Lake Placid, set out on foot to explore the town’s various murals. Keep your eyes peeled for murals that showcase the town’s citrus heritage, depictions of local wildlife, and nods to the surrounding natural beauty. Take turns taking silly selfies with your teen in front of each mural to document the experience.

There are at least 50 different murals by local artists in Lake Placid. Many are along Main Ave and Interlake Blvd, and many you can get to on foot. Be sure to pick up a guide, The Murals of Lake Placid guide for $4 or map out your route here. 

In addition to the murals, look for artistic trash containers painted like vehicles, as well as some representing the areas caladiums.

10. Shop the Lake Placid District

Find a wide range of boutique shops and local thrift stores in Lake Placid. If you have time and are looking for things to do near Sebring FL, visit here.

Lake Placid, Florida is a charming town that offers a unique shopping experience for families with teens. Whether you’re looking for trendy boutiques, antique stores, or outdoor markets, Lake Placid has it all.

One of the must-visit places in Lake Placid is the Blueberry Patch. It is a boutique-style shop that offers a variety of items, including clothing, jewelry, and home decor. It is perfect for families with teens who are looking for fashionable clothing and accessories. 

The Blueberry Patch is on a beautifully landscaped town square. You’ll also find a Lake Placid Soda Shop, brewery, and Morty & Edna’s Craft Kitchen. The square is set up for outdoor movies if you are in the area at night. 

There are also plenty of thrift and vintage stores along Main Avenue for your teen who likes a vintage look. 

Be sure to stop into Good Vibes Juice & Smoothies while you’re there. 

Another popular spot is the Lake Placid Farmers Market. It’s an open-air market that offers fresh produce, homemade jams, baked goods, and handmade crafts.

11. Sugar Sand Distillery

Yes, I put a distillery on the list of things to do with kids and teens. This is a great place for mom and dad to try some of the locally distilled rums, vodkas, and moonshine. 

The distillery has an open-air stage and hosts live music. It’s a unique experience. Follow their Facebook page for up-to-date info about their events. 

12. Eat Ice Cream at Maxwell Groves

Drive through miles of orange groves as far as the eye can see to get to the Maxwell Groves Country store. Here you can taste the best orange and vanilla swirl ice cream, and grab your locally grown bags of oranges, grapefruits, and other citrus. 

This is truly one of the hidden gems in the Sebring area but not to be missed. Maxwell Groves is just one of the things to do in Avon Park, one of the places for day trips from Sebring. 

Maxwell Groves is a working orange grove and sells oranges, grapefruits, orange juice, orange marmalade, and orange blossom honey. 

The real treat however is their orange-flavored soft-serve ice cream. I highly recommend getting it as a swirl with the vanilla for a true creamsicle-flavored treat.

13. Hit the Greens on the Citrus Golf Trail

If you’re looking for a more active way to spend your Sebring vacation, then consider hitting the greens on the Citrus Golf Trail. This scenic trail weaves through 10 different golf courses, each offering its own unique challenges and breathtaking views. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s a course for every skill level. Not to mention, it’s a great way to enjoy some fresh air and exercise while bonding with your teenagers.

The golf courses in Highlands county range from PGA courses to a championship course build in 1928 that gives a  great example of old Flordia. Each course is 18 holes, Par 71-72. With rates as low as $25, how could you turn it down?

14. Fishing

We mentioned Lake Istokpoga above, but that’s not the only place you can go fishing in the Sebring area. There are fish camps on Lake Istokpoga, so if you have serious fishers in your family, check those out.

Also, many fishing tournaments happen in the Sebring area. Whether you want to stay at the fish camps or just take a rod and reel out.

Lake Jackson is another one of the freshwater lakes in the area. You can check out one of the professional fishing guides in the area to take you out as well. 

15. Biking Trails 

Biking is always a great way to see the towns and Sebring has plenty of family-friendly biking options. From paved bike trials to nature trails, you can bring your own or rent bikes at one of the local bike shops. 

The Hammock Road Trial is perfect for families as it is a paved trail that connects Hammock State Park to Lake Jackson. At 3.7 miles long, it won’t take you long to complete either. Or continue on through the Lake Jackson Trail a 10.5-mile loop in and around Lake Jackson. You will get some scenic views here. 

You can also bike one of the nature preserve trails. Highlands Hammock Tate Park has a 3 mile paved loop. If you’re camping there, be sure to bring your bikes to explore and stop off and visit some of the many nature trails on foot too. 

If you want something more challenging, there is a six-mile mountain biking trail.

16. Paddleboard or Kayak on Lake Jackson

Rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore the tranquil waters on your own, or take a guided tour with one of the local eco-tour companies. As you paddle along, take in the breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings. You might even spot some of the abundant wildlife that calls Lake Jackson home.

Paddling around the lake is a great opportunity for teens to unplug and connect with nature. They’ll appreciate the chance to get away from screens and enjoy the peacefulness of the water. And who knows, maybe they’ll discover a newfound love for water sports!

Sebring Kayak Tours has rentals for 4 hours, a full day, on weekends, or weekly. You can kayak Lake Jackson or take a trip on Alafia River, Arbuckle Creek, and others. 

17. Take a Sunset Cruise on Lake Jackson

Renta boat and enjoy a sunset cruise and let the gentle breeze and gorgeous scenery take your breath away. 

Lakeside Stables and Boat Rentals offer pontoon boat rentals, perfect for an afternoon cruising Lake Jackson that ends with a magical sunset. 

Be sure to pack a picnic, water, and sodas, and maybe throw in a couple of rods and reels if you haven’t got your fill of fishing yet!

18. Indulge in Local Cuisine at Sebring’s Best Restaurants

After a day of outdoor activities, there’s nothing better than sitting down to a delicious meal. Luckily, Sebring has a variety of excellent restaurants to choose from. 

For classic Florida beef head to Cowpoke’s Watering Hole for great steaks and seafood. This casual dining restaurant is jumping no matter what day of the week, but don’t worry. There is plenty of seating in the bar area and in the restaurant. It’s bigger than it looks!

For a finer dining experience, check out Chicanes Restaurant at the Inn on the Lakes Hotel. This Mediterranean-style restaurant features photos from past races adorning the walls. Remember Sebring has a 70+ year racing history. Dishes include everything from burgers to seafood, and it’s all delicious. 

As we mentioned the Downtown area before, there are countless places to eat in Sebring, FL

19. Get Spicy at Everglades Seasonings

Everglades Seasoning is a brand of spices that originated in Florida and is known for its unique blend of herbs and spices. The seasoning was created by Bill Gerstman in the 1940s, who wanted to develop a spice blend that would complement the flavors of the fish he caught in the Everglades. 

His blend of spices was an instant hit, and he began selling it at local farmer’s markets and specialty stores. 

Everglades Seasoning offers a wide range of spices, including all-purpose seasoning, fish and chicken seasoning, heat seasoning, and much more. 

If you have a chef in the family, stop at the Everglades Seasonings factory and store in Sebring. And while you cannot take a tour, you can take a selfie with a movie star. The alligator has been used as a prop in a few movies. 

Shop all the spices and gear, and if you can, talk to them about how to use the spice. Follow their Instagram for recipes. Trust me, Everglades seasoning on bacon is the ONLY way I’ll make it from now on. 

The company’s all-purpose seasoning is the most popular product, and it can be used on a variety of foods, including meat, vegetables, and popcorn. It contains a blend of salt, garlic, onion, paprika, and other herbs and spices that provide a delicious, savory flavor.

Everglades Seasoning has become a staple in kitchens across the United States, and chefs and home cooks alike often use it to add flavor to their dishes. The company has continued to expand its product line over the years, and it is now available in grocery stores and online retailers throughout the country.

20. Clown Around at Toby’s Clown Foundation and School

This unique attraction offers the opportunity to learn from experienced clowns and pick up new skills like juggling, balloon twisting, and face painting. It’s a great way to bond with your teens while creating some unforgettable memories. Even if performing isn’t your forte, you will have a blast clowning around and trying new things. 

So why not take a break from the typical tourist attractions and try something a little different? Head on over to Toby’s Clown Foundation and School and see where your inner clown takes you. And who knows? You might even discover a new passion or hidden talent.,

Sebring, Florida is more than just a scenic getaway—it’s a family vacation destination with something for everyone, especially teenagers. 

From adrenaline-pumping activities like airboat tours and high-speed races to more mellow options like exploring downtown and indulging in local cuisine, Sebring’s offerings are truly endless. With our guide to the 20 best things to do with teens, you will make the most of your trip. Don’t wait — start planning your Sebring adventure today!

Where to Stay in Sebring

The Inn on the Lakes is a beautiful 100-plus room Inn overlooking Lake Jackson. Its Mediterranean architecture is stunning. The rooms are spacious with a living and seating area, along with a dinette, mini fridge, and microwave. A separate room for the bedroom makes this a great setup for families.

Check Prices for the Inn on the Lakes here