FaithLooking for the things to do in Fort Pierce, Florida? One of the most stunning cities on the Treasure Coast is Fort Pierce, Florida, sometimes known as the “Sunrise City” for its breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and coastal inlets. In the city’s award-winning restored historic downtown core, visitors can explore boutiques, eat at top seafood restaurants, and see theatrical performances at historic landmark venues.
The Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute at Florida Atlantic University and the internationally acclaimed Smithsonian Marine Ecosystems Exhibit at the St. Lucie County Aquarium are two of Southeast Florida’s premier marine institutions and aquariums that are situated in or close to the city. Several stunning Florida state parks are accessible via day trip, including the magnificent Fort Pierce Inlet State Park, a popular swimming and surfing beach in the area.
Are you curious to learn more about this beautiful city? Because of its charming and unique tourist attractions, Fort Pierce is occasionally referred to as Florida’s best-kept secret. The city is the ideal destination for family vacations because it is filled with historical and cultural landmarks, museums, nature parks, beaches, and recreational areas. Planning a trip to Fort Pierce, Florida? From stunning gardens to museums to parks to cafes, and everything in between, we’re here to give you some of the very best things to do in Fort Pierce.
Disclosure: Due to new safety regulations, some of the information regarding the attractions and sites listed below may have changed. For the most up-to-date information, please contact the location.
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Here are the ultimate best things to do in Fort Pierce (Florida):
1. Fort Pierce Inlet State Park
Fort Pierce Inlet State Park is a beautiful 340-acre park located on the lovely North Hutchinson Island, close to the Fort Pierce Inlet. The State Park includes dunes, stunning beachfront, and coastal hammock habitats. A visit to this park is among the top things to do in Fort Pierce, Florida, for outdoor activities all year round. The Park, regarded as one of South Florida’s premier surfing spots, annually organizes top-tier surfing competitions between September and February.
Anytime of year, visitors to the Park can swim at the open-air beach there that faces the Atlantic Ocean. Kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and snorkeling are all excellent activities you would enjoy in Tucker Cove and the Indian River Lagoon. Youth organizations remain at a rustic campsite all year round. One of the other attractions in the Park is the observation tower on the Marsh Rabbit Run Trail, which offers wide aerial views of the island’s topography.
Address: 905 Shorewinds Dr, Fort Pierce, FL 34949, USA
2. Sunrise Theatre
Attending live performances at the Sunrise Theatre with loved ones is one of the entertaining things to do in Fort Pierce, Florida. The Sunrise Theatre, which has undergone renovations in Fort Pierce’s historic downtown, was erected in 1922 by the architect John N. Sherwood. The Mediterranean Revival, Florida’s premier cultural institution, held performances by renowned national artists for a significant amount of the middle of the 20th century.
After being damaged in the 1980s, the Theater underwent renovation in the early 2000s and was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Currently, it offers pop music festivals, Broadway music tours, several performances, musical and comic acts, as well as visits by renowned artists like Ziggy Marley, Diana Ross, and Willie Nelson. The Black Box theater 1,200-seat Theater hosts regular improv, comedy, and jazz jam sessions.
Address: 117 S 2nd St, Fort Pierce, FL 34950, USA
3. Manatee Observation and Education Center
The Manatee Observation and Education Center, located along Fort Pierce’s gorgeous downtown Atlantic Ocean and Indian River Lagoon shorelines, is one of the city’s top environmental education and animal observation facilities. The building is located in a region where the state’s manatee species assemble together. Due to the waters being heated by the Henry B. King power plant, the region has become a crucial manatee habitat. You may explore the interactive aquatic life exhibits at the center, which also include a covered observational boardwalk and a two-story observation tower that provide up-close views of the magnificent animals in their natural habitat.
The establishment’s beautiful botanical gardens are a pleasure to see, it attempts to conserve native Florida flora and offer a habitat for butterflies. Additionally, there are touch tanks, saltwater aquariums, and other kid-friendly exhibits. The Manatee Observation and Education center is one of the top attractions in Fort Pierce, Florida, if you have never seen a manatee but would want to.
Address: 480 N Indian River Dr, Fort Pierce, FL 34950, USA
4. The Downtown Fort Pierce Farmers Market
The Downtown Fort Pierce Farmers Market, opened on Saturday mornings from 8 am to 12 pm on the waterfront of the downtown area, is the top-ranking farmer’s market event in the United States. More than 70 merchants sell their products at the market, along with local farmers and producers who sell the freshest fruit available. Spice, unusual plants, and pantry supplies are among the many things available at the Market.
Additionally, you’ll encounter vendors from Gruwell Apiary, Anita’s Guacamole, Gardens by the Bay, and Little Bakeshop. The finest of the town’s culinary industry is presented in a food court that includes top local food trucks and sellers serving drinks. Shopping for the best deals at the city’s Downtown Farmers Market is one of the top things to do in Fort Pierce, Florida.
Address: 101 Melody Ln, Fort Pierce, FL 34950, USA
5. Heathcote Botanical Gardens
Some of Fort Pierce’s most breathtaking outdoor attractions are found in the five-acre Heathcote Botanical Gardens, which are situated along Savannah Road. The gardens were built by architect Molly Crimmons and her husband after they bought the five acres property from Fort Pierce in 1985
The Gardens presently houses James J. Smith Bonsai Gallery, the most expensive tropical bonsai collection in the country, which boasts more than a hundred exquisite trees. There are several garden rooms with various themes, including contemplation gardens, herb gardens, Japanese gardens, palm and cycad walks, and rainforest displays. If you are a lover of marine life, one of the coolest things to do in Fort pierce is to pay a visit to the Heathcote Botanical Gardens.
Address: 210 Savannah Rd, Fort Pierce, FL 34982, USA
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6. Moonswiner’s Bar
While on your trip, take a short break at Moonswiner’s Bar, also known as Moonswiner’s Bar-B-Q. In addition to satisfying your hunger, Moonswiner’s Bar offers an amazing experience that is worth a visit. The Adkins family has been in charge of the bar and barbecue restaurant since it opened in 1981 under a previous name.
The barbecue is delicious. Enjoy some coleslaw, ribs, or pork on your plate while sipping a cold beer. Although there are many alternatives on the extensive menu, the award-winning dish known as the onion chips is a must-try.
Address: 3900 Okeechobee Rd, Fort Pierce, FL 34947, USA
7. Avalon State Park
One of the lovely public parks you can visit while in Fort Pierce is Avalon State Park. Driving along Route A1A from North Hutchinson Island can take you there in only 26 minutes. The Park contains more than a mile of undeveloped, beautiful coastline, providing a crucial natural habitat for animals like the leatherback, loggerhead, and Atlantic green sea turtles, all of which are under danger. Swimming in the Atlantic Ocean is one of the many outdoor things to do in Fort Pierce all year long in the breathtaking coastline of the Park.
It is crucial to be aware that there are no lifeguards on duty at the beach, therefore you should take caution while swimming or surfing. There are plenty of bluefish, red and black drummers, whiting, snook, and pompano in the area of the park that is allocated for fishing. Snorkeling, canoeing, and kayaking are allowed here and are one of the fun things to do in Fort pierce.
Address: N Hwy A1A, Fort Pierce, FL 34949, USA
8. Islamorada Brewery North
This distinctive brewery known as Islamorada Brewery should not be missed if you like beer and drinks. While you’re here, you can get something to eat from the popular mobile restaurant Spanky’s Kitchen, which serves a range of snacks and beverages. Take a look at the beer garden and the yellow taproom of the brewery, which is exactly where the Islamorada began.
Visitors at Islamorada Brewery North can see the whole filling and bottling processes in the distillery’s 25,000 square foot space. In the brewery’s tasting area, you may also try some of the brewery’s recently produced beer. The business is open every day of the week except Mondays. A nice glass of beer with friends at the Islamorada brewery is one of the relaxing things to do in Fort pierce
Address: 82229 Overseas Hwy Unit 3, Islamorada, FL, USA
9. Al’s Family Farms Citrus
As its name suggests, Al’s Family Farms Citrus is a family-run business that was established in the 1980s by the Schorner family and is now run by Jeff Schorner. The company has been operating in the Fort Pierce-Vero Beach region for the last four decades, where it has prospered by selling the finest, locally-grown citrus fruits in the Indian River agricultural area.
The business gives tours of its packinghouse and explaining wet-line processes, as well as samples of its freshly prepared orange juice. If you go with family, check out the O.J. corral to participate in enjoyable group activities like orange chute racing, or stop by the Red Barn Grill restaurant for some delectable American and Mexican cuisine.
Address: 2001 N Kings Hwy, Fort Pierce, FL 34951, USA
10. Savannas Preserve State Park
Are you seeking for outdoor things to do in Fort pierce, Florida, to enjoy with your friends? Visit Savannas Preserve State Park, a magnificent public park in Florida that spans along the Atlantic Ocean’s beach from Jensen Beach to Fort Pierce. Over 7,000 acres of pristine coastline habitat, including Southeast Florida’s biggest freshwater marsh ecosystem, are protected by this magnificent park.
Along with the open grassland savanna habitats that give the park its name, other ecosystems such as those in scrubby and pine flatwood, basin marsh, and wet prairie are also protected. Wet grassland, pine, scrubby flatwood, and basin marsh are some of the other environments this park protects. The park’s name was inspired by these areas’ protective qualities.
The Park offers a variety of enjoyable things to do in Fort pierce, including fishing, bicycling, motorcycling, hiking, and horseback riding. You could encounter sandhill cranes, American alligators, tortoises, and other animals in the garden. The Park also has an educational facility where you can see live exhibits, take guided tours, enjoy kayaking or canoeing, and more.
Address: 1400 E Midway Rd, Fort Pierce, FL 34982, USA
11. 2nd Street Bistro
In Fort Pierce’s historic downtown, next to landmark buildings like the 1922 Sunrise Theater, lies the welcoming and reasonably priced 2nd Street Bistro. Gary Sofen owns and operates the eatery, which is located within a charmingly restored historic building from 1929. In its dining room, it has decorative classical works of art.
This quaint American restaurant’s menu offers unique sandwiches, taco platters, seafood, and wraps that are low in fat and calories. As you peruse the extensive selection of domestic and local craft beers offered by the café, you can be sure to discover something to your liking. You won’t need to break the bank to enjoy a meal at 2nd Street Bistro. A visit to second street bistro is unarguably one of the best best things to do in Fort pierce.
Address: 122 N 2nd St, Fort Pierce, FL 34950, USA
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12. Manatee Island
Elida and Paul Gonnella and Richele and Michael Politano are the owners of the excellent Manatee Island bar and restaurant, which was founded in 2010 and is located in Fort Pierce’s downtown area. This lively restaurant provides breakfast, lunch, supper, evening services, and happy hour every day in its dining hall, which faces the stunning Fort Pierce Inlet. A few of the delicious supper options are jambalaya in the Bayou Stew style, three-cheese lobster mac & cheese, gigantic lump crab cakes, New York strip steak, and mahi mahi fish tacos.
All day long, inventive sharing appetizers in the alehouse style and gourmet burger alternatives are offered. The restaurant’s tiki bar serves tropical cocktails, and on Wednesday through Sunday nights, live music is performed there.
Address: 1640 Seaway Dr, Fort Pierce, FL 34949, USA
13. Sailfish Brewing Company
The first microbrewery in the area was Sailfish Brewing Company, which Nick Bischoff formally opened in 2013. Since 2017, the company has operated a 20-barrel brewhouse and outdoor taproom in Fort Pierce’s downtown area, producing a variety of tasty, artisanal, and drinkable beer styles. White Marlin Wit, Sunrise City IPA, Billfish oils, Sailor’s Choice Saison, and more products from the company are offered all year round.
Twenty taps in the company’s taproom serve seasonal brews like barleywine martens, sour ales, and rauchbiers. Visitors to the taproom can choose from a full menu of flatbreads, gastropub-style pizzas, and homemade snacks at the company’s on-site Crafted Pie eatery. Games that can be played in bars include corn hole, foosball, giant Jenga, and Nintendo Wii. Only two special events are held yearly: live music sessions and the weekly Wednesday small tasting sessions.
Address: 130 N 2nd St, Fort Pierce, FL 34950, USA
14. Jetty Park
One of the nicest things to do in Fort Pierce is to go for a stroll, ride a bike, or just relax in Jetty Park. If you come to the park in a private car, you won’t have to worry about finding a parking spot since the park has enough of them. There are also several fantastic restaurants, the most popular of which being Taco Drive, Jackie’s Beach Bar, and Jetty Bar.
The Jetty Bar is well known for being a hangout for many Hollywood movie stars, perhaps as a result of its continuous attraction. You will encounter breathtaking ocean views as you go along the jetty walk routes. Additionally, you’ll see fishers throwing their lines, which is a beautiful sight. Also, if you’re lucky, you could get a glimpse of some manatees or see a rocket launch from the nearby town of “Cape Canaveral, FL.”
Address: Jetty Park Rd, Port Canaveral, FL 32920, USA
15. Last Mango Fishing Charters
The Last Mango, a 40-foot sport fishing boat operated by Last Mango Fishing Charters under the command of Captain Tris Colket, offers exhilarating fishing charters and excursions. Fishing trips depart from the Fort Pierce Marina and may last for a half-day or a full-day, with a variety of tour options to suit the needs of beginners to expert fishermen.
On extended excursions, fishermen may catch wahoo, sailfish, grouper, cobia, kingfish, dolphins, and amberjack. Customized tours to locations in the Bahamas where there are schools of marlin and tuna are available from Last Mango Fishing Charters. There are also evening swordfish trips available.
Address: 1 Avenue A, Fort Pierce, FL 34950, USA
16. Summer Crush Vineyard and Winery
In Fort Pierce, Florida, Gary and Susan Roberts founded the lovely family-run boutique winery known as Summer Crush Vineyard and Winery in 2012. They were joined by their sons Allen and Bud. The company has grown to produce estate grapes on more than 10 acres, including the premium Carlos, Doreen muscadine grape types, and Noble. The company’s cleverly themed wine blends include the Cap’N Polly’s Private Plunder dessert wine, Marlin Monroe rosé, and Rated ARRR semi-sweet red.
Fruit wines are also available at Summer Crush Vineyard and Winery, including the unique Mangotiki mango wine. One of the best things to do in Fort Pierce is to visit this place for a modest cost or, if you prefer, partake in some wine sampling by going between Tuesday and Sunday in the morning. A few of the business’s annual special events include festivals, concerts, and food truck pop-ups.
Address: 4200 Johnston Rd, Fort Pierce, FL 34951, USA
17. The St. Lucie County Aquarium
The Smithsonian Marine Ecosystem Exhibit is surrounded by St. Lucie County Aquarium, Fort Pierce’s premier aquatic and marine life facility. The Aquarium was transferred to the aquarium’s care in November 2000 after retiring from the acclaimed Smithsonian Institution National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C.
The magnificent 3,000-foot marine aquarium has a perfectly accurate recreation of the Caribbean coral reef environment. It is the first aquarium of this magnitude to be seen by the general public. Visitors may also explore more than 5,000 gallons of tank exhibits with marine life that replicate the natural surroundings and marine species of six Florida aquatic and estuarine habitats. For a thrilling experience, a visit to this aquarium is one of the best things to do in Fort pierce, Florida.
Address: 420 Seaway Dr, Fort Pierce, FL 34949, USA
18. Jack Island Preserve State Park
The gorgeous Jack Island Preserve State Park, which is near to Fort Pierce Inlet State Park, can be accessed from the city’s downtown area by taking A1A. The Park, which is located on a beautiful barrier island connected to the mainland by a footbridge, has pathways that go for more than four miles through the natural setting. Osprey, Florida manatees, little blue herons, mangrove crabs, and roseate spoonbills are just a few examples of the local species that may be seen along the pathways.
You may enjoy a stunning view of the area’s natural beauty from the Park’s viewing tower, which is located towards the end of the walk and rises 30 feet over the Indian River lagoon. Take advantage of the chance to capture spectacular images from the Park’s greatest views, particularly along the coastline areas, which provide gorgeous backdrops.
Address: Unnamed Rd, Fort Pierce, FL 34949, USA
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19. A. E. Backus Gallery and Museum
Are you a creative person seeking ideas or perhaps someone who enjoys the beauty of art? When preparing your list of things to do in Fort Pierce, Florida, remember to include a visit to the A. E. Backus Gallery and Museum. The A.E. Backus Gallery and Museum is the leading worldwide exhibition venue for works by Florida painter A.E. “Bean” Backus. Backus was the first native Floridian who painted the stunning natural vistas of the state to provide a living for himself.
Backus, a member of the Florida Highwaymen collective, won the title of “Florida’s Painter Laureate” of the 20th century and made a major contribution to the cause of civil rights for African-American artists. The Museum currently serves as a memorial to Backus’s 70 years of painting. The only statewide permanent display honoring the works of the Highwaymen is found there. The works of well-known national and international artists are also on show in slow-spinning, one-of-a-kind displays, with a focus on those who are actively engaged in humanitarian endeavors.
Address: 500 N Indian River Dr, Fort Pierce, FL 34950, USA
20. Hard Axe Lounge
Axe throwing is often associated with loggers, but you are invited to give it a try at Hard Axe Lounge; you can be sure you will enjoy yourself while attempting to hit the targets. Visit Hard Axe Lounge, Sunrise City’s first institution of its kind, if you’re seeking for a place to hang out with other sports fans.
The amazing neighborhood that frequents the club right now makes your stay more exciting, warm, special, and memorable. Axe-throwing games will also be taught to your party by the tutors, who will also serve as your judge or referee and train you on how to play them. A fun time at the Hard Axe Lounge is certainly one of the best things to do in Fort Pierce, Florida.
Address: 200 N 2nd Street, Fort Pierce, FL 34950, USA
21. Main Street Fort Pierce
A trip to Main Street Fort Pierce is one of the top things to do in Fort Pierce, Florida, to pass the time. It was established in 1988 to supervise the restoration of the city’s magnificent historic structures and to stimulate business in the city’s central business district. The district’s beautiful historic landmark buildings are safeguarded by Main Street Fort Pierce. The downtown area has several unique eating and shopping choices, ranging from bustling pubs and seafood restaurants to chic boutiques and art galleries.
One of the city’s historic gems is the 1,200-seat Sunrise Theatre, which presents live performances of Broadway touring plays and internationally renowned comedy and music ensembles. A few of the annual events held along Main Street Fort Pierce are the Jazz Markets, the Sandy Shoes Festival, Sights and Sounds, and Bike Night.
Address: 122 A E Backus Ave, Fort Pierce, FL 34950, USA
22. Dolphin Watch Boat Tours
Dolphin Watch Boat Tours, owned and operated by Captain Adam Pozniak, is the most well-known tour provider on Florida’s Treasure Coasts. All outings are performed on a 25-foot pontoon boat that can accommodate up to six persons at once. The trips take place along the magnificent Indian River Lagoon, one of the most pristine marine environments in the United States, and cover 12 to 15 miles in two hours.
All trips go on a two-hour journey down the Intracoastal Waters to Fort Pierce’s Port starting at the Stan Blum Boat Ramp in St. Lucie County. As you go through their habitat, you may encounter wild manatees, dolphins, fish, shorebirds, and sea turtles. On request, excursions may be organized for evening dates, morning tours, and sunset tours. One of the enjoyable things to do in Fort Pierce, Florida, is taking a tour with this company.
Address: 613 N Causeway, Fort Pierce, FL 34949, USA
23. Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute at Florida Atlantic University
The 146-acre charity oceanographic campus known as Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, or HBOI, is situated in the northwest part of Fort Pierce, Florida. It was founded in 1971 to provide methods for biological oceanography, aquaculture, and deep-sea ecology. The institution, which is located next to the gorgeous Indian River Lagoon, employs more than 160 scientists and marine biologists and manages substantial oceanographic research and conservation programs across Florida.
Visitors are welcome to explore the displays at the Harbor Branch Ocean Discovery Center, which include aquarium tanks, a video theater that shows films on marine life, and research being conducted nearby. A Visit to the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute at Florida Atlantic University is surely one of the best things to do in Fort Pierce especially if you have an interest in marine life.
Address: 5600 US 1 North, Fort Pierce, FL 34946, USA
24. Navy SEAL Museum
One of the top museums in the nation devoted to naval history is the Navy SEAL Museum. The history and achievements of the Navy SEAL and UDT Underwater Demolition Teams are preserved. Informally, the Fort Pierce Treasure Museum’s Museum was founded by former UDT Frogman Albert Stankie. The Museum made its formal debut in 1985. Currently, the Museum is home to a variety of rare SEAL-related artifacts, including training equipment for the UDT’s role in the Apollo spacecraft recovery, Vietnam War Patrol Boat Rivers, and WWII demolition training obstacles.
There is a list of all Frogmen and SEALs who have died in the course of duty. In the UDT-SEAL Memorial, recipients of the SEAL Medal of Honor are honored on a memorial wall. Throughout the year, unique events are conducted to pay respect to fallen heroes, such as a three-day Veteran’s Day memorial celebration. If you are a lover of history, one of the best things to do in Fort Pierce is to visit the seal museum.
Address: 3300 N Hwy A1A, Fort Pierce, FL 34949, USA
25. The St. Lucie County Regional History Center
One of the best things to do in Fort Pierce, Florida, if you love history is to explore the St. Lucia County Regional History Center. An overview of the region’s history and culture, from ancient periods to the present, is given by the St. Lucie County Regional History Center. The St. Lucie County Historical Museum is another name for it. In 1968, the St. Lucie County Historical Commission opened the museum to the general public. The commission transferred ownership of the museum to the St. Lucie County Historical Society twenty years later.
The Seminole and Ais native tribes are now the subject of lovely exhibitions, complete with recreated duplicate encampments and cultural artifacts. The exhibitions include the Spanish exploration and shipwreck period, the local fishing industry, and early civic and economic activities, such unsuccessful attempts to declare the region the “Pineapple Growing Capital of the World.”
Address: 414 Seaway Dr, Fort Pierce, FL 34949, USA
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Final Thoughts
Due to its abundance of beach parks and marine-related activities, Fort Pierce, Florida, is the ideal vacation spot, particularly during the summer. If you’re looking for a fantastic spot to relax, unwind, have a memorable time exploring the wild marine surroundings, or enjoy delectable meals in stunning locations, the city is a great place for you. Fort Pierce is distinctive and perfect for tourists on a low budget due to being far less costly than other surrounding locations.
This area has a lot to offer, including museums, parks, and a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors may explore a variety of stores, eat at premier seafood establishments, and see theater productions in historically significant buildings in the city’s award-winning renovated old commercial center. There are lots of amazing things to do Fort Pierce, Florida, therefore visit these amazing sites aforementioned for an intriguing vacation in this American paradise!
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