Last Updated on November 2, 2023
The city of Fort Pierce is located on the Treasure Coast, part of Florida’s east coast by the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 17 miles north of Port. St. Lucie and 15 miles south of Vero Beach.
The Central East Florida city is known for many great things, including its beautiful beaches, local events, downtown area, and much more.
We’re here to recommend some of the top things to do in Fort Pierce, from beautiful gardens to museums to parks to cafes; check out all the places you can visit on a trip to this exciting city.
Here are seven of the best things to do in Fort Pierce:
Seven Gables House
The Seven Gables House is a visitor information center and a perfect spot for the first stop on your trip to Fort Pierce. The house was built in 1905 and moved to its current location on the waterfront in 1998.
Seven Gables House offers information on local restaurants, parks, and attractions. You can also purchase local art and souvenirs there. The center gives tours daily.
The Seven Gables House is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 3:30 pm.
For more information, visit the official St. Lucie Commerce website.
Manatee Observation & Education Center
Manatee Observation & Education Center is an environmental education center and wildlife viewing facility in downtown Fort Pierce. It is a great place to learn about the natural habitat of local manatees, which migrate to the area for winter.
There are tons of exhibits here, an observation walkway where you may be able to spot roaming manatees, and a gift shop that supports the manatee center. They also host special events like story times and lectures and offer kayak tours.
Manatee Observation & Education Center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday from 12 pm to 4 pm.
Tickets are available for adults and children 6 and up. Children 5 and under are admitted free with adult admission.
For more information, visit the official Manatee Education Center Website.
Fort Pierce Marina
The Fort Pierce Marina is a popular place to visit by the water. It is located in downtown Fort Pierce and is publicly owned and operated.
If you are interested in docking your vessel there, there are fueling stations, electric and water hookups, and other amenities.
Check out the onsite restaurants for live music and an opportunity to dine by the water.
If you are there on a Saturday morning, make sure to stop by the Downtown Fort Pierce Farmers Market, where local vendors gather to sell fresh produce, delicious foods, flowers, and more!
The Fort Pierce Marina is open year-round.
For more information, visit the official City of Fort Pierce Website.
Zora Neale Hurston Dust Tracks Heritage Trail
Zora Neale Hurston was an American author from Eatonville, FL, most widely recognized for her book, Their Eyes Were Watching God.
The Zora Neale Hurston Dust Tracks Heritage Trail in Fort Pierce commemorates the author and her time living in this city. There are trail markers that take you on a walk with stops that include Hurston’s home and her gravesite.
Zora Neale Hurston Dust Tracks Heritage Trail is open year-round.
For more information, visit the official City of Fort Pierce Website.
A.E. Backus Museum & Gallery
A.E. Backus Museum & Gallery is a space dedicated to the largely self-taught Fort Pierce artist Albert Ernest Backus. The artist created well-recognized images of timeless Florida landscapes.
Backus’ art covers a variety of landscapes, from beaches to rivers to the Everglades. This museum holds the largest collection of art by A.E. Backus.
View the collections and enjoy the gift shop’s wide selection of souvenirs featuring the artist’s work.
A.E. Backus Museum & Gallery has seasonal hours. Please call or check the official website before visiting.
Tickets are available for adults. Children 18 and under are admitted free.
For more information, visit the official Backus Museum Website.
Heathcote Botanical Gardens
Heathcote Botanical Gardens is a nonprofit garden located in Fort Pierce where visitors can learn about a variety of plants and conservation efforts.
There are different gardens to explore here, including a butterfly garden, bonsai gallery, and reflection garden.
Check out the gift shop for gardening tools and books, jewelry, natural soaps, and more.
Heathcote Botanical Gardens is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. Tickets are available for adults and children 6 and up. Children 5 and under are admitted free.
For more information, visit the official Heathcote Botanical Gardens Website.
Fort Pierce Inlet State Park
Fort Pierce Inlet State Park is a beachside park with plenty of outdoor activities and things to do. There is a half-mile beach perfect for swimming, surfing, and snorkeling.
Hiking, fishing, and bird watching are all popular options. There are kayak and paddleboard rentals available within the park, with several launch areas for those wanting to canoe or kayak the Indian River Lagoon.
Picnic areas are located in the park for visitors who want to enjoy packed lunches and snacks.
Fort Pierce Inlet State Park is open daily from 8 am to sundown. Admission is $6 per vehicle.
For more information, visit the official Florida State Parks Website.
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