Fort Walton Beach Attractions: 8 Reasons to Visit This Beach Town

Fort Walton Beach is a small beach town located in the Florida panhandle. This Gulf Coast destination is best known for spacious white-sand beaches, however the area also has history and modern attractions for all ages. So if looking for new things to do, read about the top Fort Walton Beach attractions and plan a trip.

Fort Walton Beach Attractions to Add to Your Bucket List

Okaloosa Island

Situated between Fort Walton Beach and Destin, Okaloosa Island serves as its own destination. This 3-mile stretch of beaches has white beaches, a family-friendly boardwalk, fishing pier and other attractions.

In fact, visitors can spend a few hours or days on Okaloosa Island trying new activities. While exploring, order fresh seafood at The Crab Trap, Lobster Tail and Floyd’s Shrimp House. Get the full Okaloosa Island guide.

Air Force Armament Museum

This museum ranks among the top Fort Walton Beach attractions because it’s the only museum dedicated to Air Force Armament and platforms of delivery. The foundation works to collect, preserve, and showcase artifacts and memorabilia suited for all ages.

At Air Force Armament Museum, see more than 29 different aircraft from WWII to present day. The museum houses a collection of modern weapons, historic firepower, missiles and special operations displays. Guests also enjoy free admission.

Indian Temple and Mound Museum

For over 50 years, Indian Temple and Mound Museum has showcased Native American heritage. The museum was the first city-owned and operated in Florida, and today features more than 1,000 artifacts.

Exhibits tell the story of 12,000 years of Native American culture. See special creations made with bone, clay, shell and stone. Then browse one of the largest collections of prehistoric ceramics in the southeast U.S. Indian Temple and Mound Museum also has displays representing European explorers, pirates and early settlers.

Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park strives to care for marine life while entertaining guests. The park has delighted visitors for over 60 years with live shows, exhibits, training demonstrations and animal encounters.

To enhance the experience, schedule a special encounter. Ranging in price and activity, Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park offers fun with dolphins, sting rays, harbor seals, reptiles, penguins, turtles, sea lions and alligators.

Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone

For all day fun, head to Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone. The park ranks among the top Fort Walton Beach attractions as it’s one of the largest family-friendly entertainment centers in northwest Florida. Wild Willy’s has rides, indoor activities, and opens rain or shine.

Outdoor attractions at Wild Willy’s include go-kart tracks, bumper boats, mini-golf, tree-top ropes course and trampolines. To cool off, play in the arcade, watch a 4D movie, compete in laser tag, and dig into pizza and ice cream. The park has everything families need in one convenient place.

Emerald Coast Science Center

With a focus on exploration and science, Emerald Coast Science Center helps guests learn about the world around them. The center has interactive exhibits where kids learn, run and play.

Examples include robotics, engineering, physics, electricity, ecosystems and kid-friendly labs. In addition, Emerald Coast Science Center encourages guests to play science-related games and try new activities. The center also provides a home to rescued animals such as cockatoos, parrots, parakeets, macaws, guinea pigs, hedgehogs and a large collection of reptiles.

Fort Walton Beach Flea Market

Enjoy shopping? Check out Fort Walton Beach Flea Market, which offers over 70 vendors selling treasures. Even better, the market is located inside, providing an escape from the heat.

Search antiques, jewelry, fashion, instruments, collectibles, furniture, family heirlooms, and daily essentials. Frequent visitors enjoy hunting for special finds and gifts, and visiting during rainy days.

Downtown Arts and Entertainment District

For more local goodies, shop the entire Downtown Arts and Entertainment District. Downtown Fort Walton Beach has a walkable area with boutiques, bars, restaurants, scenic views and Southern hospitality.

The whole family can walk around and find something to do. Shop stores selling fashion, antiques, beach gear, collectibles and accessories. Guests also have easy access to spas, yoga classes, health-related services, salons and a dozen local restaurants.

Next browse family-friendly vacation rentals in Fort Walton Beach. This beach destination welcomes travelers year-round.