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Fort Pierce, the “Sunrise City,” is the county seat of St. Lucie County on Florida’s southeast Atlantic Coast. This friendly city contains an incredibly rich history and exciting modern attractions, making it a sure draw for the outdoor enthusiast as well as the professional. The city has a biodiversity-ecosystem supported by a restored marina with state-of-the-art boating and aviation facilities. There are restored parks like Moore’s Creek, South Beach, and Marina Square, providing serene spots for recreation. Major attractions like the Port of Fort Pierce and Treasure Coast International Airport support the local economy and make the community richer in vibrant community life.
Location
Photo: Tamanoeconomico / Wikimedia Commons
Fort Pierce, on Florida’s southeast Atlantic Coast, is a storied county seat of St. Lucie County and the Treasure Coast. Its beaches are pristine, and it offers views of the wide Indian River Lagoon to promote clear waters and a rich ecosystem. The Port of Fort Pierce, one of 14 Florida deepwater ports, is developing into a mega yacht repair operating hub of Derecktor Shipyards.
How To Reach Fort Pierce
Photo: Krzysztof Golik / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
By Air: The nearest airport to Fort Pierce is Vero Beach Municipal Airport (VRB), 15.2 miles from Fort Pierce. Palm Beach International Airport is just 54.7 miles away, offering quick access to the area. Orlando International Airport is 91.2 miles from Fort Pierce, while Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport is 96.2 miles away.
By Train: The route that goes from Fort Pierce, Florida, is by taking the train at the Metrorail Transfer Station going to West Palm Beach Station. Upon getting there, you get out and walk to the West Palm Beach Bus Station, where you get on a bus going to Fort Pierce.
By Road: For a smooth road trip to Fort Pierce, you can easily reach the city via Interstate 95 or Route 1, then take the Florida Turnpike and exit at Exit 152 (Ft. Pierce/SR 70). If you prefer bus travel, FlixBus offers comfortable options with panorama and bed seats.
Places To Visit Nearby Around Fort Pierce
Here is the list of the top five places to visit in and around Fort Pierce and make your trip a truly mesmerising one:
1. Heathcote Botanical Gardens
Photo: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons
Heathcote Botanical Gardens, in Florida’s zone 10A, showcases a variety of speciality gardens, including Japanese, Reflection, and Rainforest exhibits. Its garden rooms edged with flowering shrubs, palms, and herbaceous plants, form an intimate setting. Situated in a biological transition zone, the garden houses native Florida flora as well as exotics from temperate, subtropical, and tropical climate zones. This unique location allows for an impressive variety of plants, bringing Mediterranean to tropical experiences for the visitors. The design provides a rich botanical adventure in botanical immersion for a plant lover.
Timings: 10 A.M – 4 P.M
2. Jetty Park
Photo: Calistemon / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Jetty Park is a 35-acre holiday destination offering surfing, kayaking, biking, and fishing. Here, visitors can experience a 1,200-foot lighted pier with beach rentals of chairs and kayaks. Along with the beach view, you can enjoy watching big ships cruise by. Other attractions at the park include several pavilions with tables and grills for an occasion and a playground for children. Whether it’s a family reunion or a laid-back day near the sea, Jetty Park has all these prepared for an unforgettable day.
Timings: 7 AM – 9: PM
3. Manatee Center
Photo: MatthewHoobin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center is an ideal opportunity to see the manatees in their natural environment, especially in winter when they migrate to warmer waters. Visitors can walk on boardwalks and explore an educational building or a tidal walk along coastal habitats. There is also a Rays Touch Tank, wildlife trails, and even a 50-foot observation tower with ocean views. Free parking is available making it a great spot for family outings. Open every day from November through April, the centre is a great way to get connected to Florida’s gentle giants.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum
Photo: Ebyabe / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The National Navy SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce, Florida, focuses on preserving the history of the U.S. Navy SEALs and their predecessors, known as the Frogmen. The museum grew significantly after its opening in 1985, providing interactive exhibits and recognizing fallen warriors through the Navy SEAL Memorial. It also offers support to SEAL families through the Trident House Charities Program. The museum educates the public on the significant role of SEALs in homeland security as it expands its mission and has plans to expand to the West Coast in San Diego.
Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM
5. Fort Pierce Inlet State Park
Photo: Ebyabe / Wikimedia Commons
Fort Pierce Inlet State Park Provides a beautiful half-mile beach for swimming, snorkelling, surfing and scuba diving. Beachcombing and picnicking are other options. After years of being a Navy Frogmen training site, Dynamite Point is now a bird-watching hotspot. The south end of the inlet is quite suitable for fishing. Jack Island Preserve, one mile away, features trails for hiking and biking. The Marsh Rabbit Run Trail ends with views of the Indian River and the nearby island in an observation tower.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Where To Stay
Photo: Tamanoeconomico / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Fort Pierce has several great places to stay. Road Runner Travel Resort comes with excellent accommodations and premium bedding, free Wi-Fi, as well as in-room dining due to great guest ratings. The Hampton Inn & Suites Ft. Pierce offers modern amenities, including an outdoor pool and Tempur-Pedic beds, though some areas are under construction. The Holiday Inn Express is another great option, known for its helpful staff, clean rooms, and comfortable stay.
Where To Eat
Photo: PPR 19 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Fort Pierce has some amazing dining options, ranging from the cosy Cafe des Artistes with its French cooking and beautiful view to the classy Fort Steakhouse, whose highlight is a prime beef steak along with classy cocktails. For Italian enthusiasts, Casa Pasta is geared up with a good homey atmosphere, along with handcrafted pasta. Seafood fans will be happy with Red Lobster or Kyle G’s Prime Seafood, where they can find fresh dishes of local origin, directly on the ocean shore.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: formulanone / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Fort Pierce, Florida, is during the dry season from December to May. However, spring and autumn are good for avoiding crowds since summer months fill up with a lot of tourists. To experience the Downtown Fort Pierce Farmers’ Market, visit on a Saturday morning. To fully enjoy what the city has to offer, a stay of at least three days would be ideal, leaving you time to look around the attractions and natural features in the area.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Tamanoeconomico / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of Trip
When visiting Fort Pierce, Florida costs vary with transportation, accommodation, and activities. Flights start at $34(INR 2870.83) one-way and $68(INR 5741.67) round trip. The average car rental price from different companies stands at $59(INR 4981.74) per day or $177(INR 14945.22) for three days. Mini rentals are cheaper.
Tips For Travellers
- To avoid the heat and take in the peaceful surroundings, start your walk early in the morning.
- To stay hydrated and motivated during the hike, pack water, food, and a first aid kit.
- To safely traverse the rocky paths, choose robust trekking shoes.
- Before your trip, especially during the monsoon season, keep an eye on the weather prediction.
- Keep the fort tidy to preserve its historical significance.
Fort Pierce, Florida, is a city composed of just the right blend of natural beauties, history, and adventure. From pristine beaches, outdoor activities, or a visit to the Navy SEAL Museum, there is something for everyone. Being easily accessible by air, train, or on-road, Fort Pierce is an excellent destination for both relaxation and excitement. Plan your next trip with TripXL and explore the historical wonders of Florida.
Cover Photo: Don Ramey Logan / Wikimedia Commons
