Fort Pierce Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Fort Pierce with our comprehensive travel guide and discover the best things to do, places to stay, where to eat, how to get around and more.


Introduction to Fort Pierce

Located on Florida’s Treasure Coast, Fort Pierce is a charming coastal city that boasts a unique mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Founded in the mid-1800s and named after the US Army post that was established there, Fort Pierce offers visitors a perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. With its stunning beaches, cultural attractions, and diverse dining scene, Fort Pierce is a must-visit destination in Florida.

List of Places to Visit in Fort Pierce

Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, or cultural attractions, Fort Pierce has something for everyone. Here’s a list of the top places to visit in Fort Pierce:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Indian River State College’s Hallstrom Planetarium: One of the few planetariums in Florida, the Hallstrom Planetarium features a state-of-the-art projector that brings the night sky to life.
  • St. Lucie County Regional History Center: Housed in a historic courthouse building, this museum features exhibits showcasing the history of the Treasure Coast.
  • Fort Pierce City Marina: A historic marina offering stunning waterfront views and access to unique cultural attractions.

Natural Attractions of Fort Pierce: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Fort Pierce Inlet State Park: With its pristine beaches, clear water, and abundant wildlife, Fort Pierce Inlet State Park offers visitors the chance to experience Florida’s natural beauty up close.
  • Heathcote Botanical Gardens: This beautiful botanical garden features unique flora from around the world, including a Japanese tea garden and a butterfly garden.
  • Savannas Preserve State Park: With over 10,000 acres of protected wilderness, this park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes in Fort Pierce

For those looking to explore Fort Pierce’s natural beauty on foot or bike, there are plenty of options available. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Fort Pierce:

  • St. Lucie County Regional History Center Trail: A short and easy trail that starts and ends at the history center.
  • Ten Mile Creek Preserve: A scenic trail that winds through the preserve’s wetlands, offering views of wildlife and beautiful plant life.
  • Fort Pierce Inlet State Park Beach Trail: A great trail for beach lovers, this route offers stunning views of the ocean and is also wheelchair accessible.

Best Things to Do in Fort Pierce: Activities and Tours

Fort Pierce offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the best things to do in Fort Pierce:

  • Sunrise Dolphin Watch Tour: A must-do experience for animal lovers, the Sunrise Dolphin Watch Tour takes visitors out into the ocean to see wild dolphins in their natural habitat.
  • Manatee Observation and Education Center: Located in downtown Fort Pierce, this center offers visitors a chance to learn about the area’s manatee population and see them up close.
  • Farmer’s Market: Held every Saturday morning, the farmer’s market in Fort Pierce is a great place to sample local produce and handmade goods.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fort Pierce

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Fort Pierce, here’s a sample itinerary that will help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Fort Pierce Inlet State Park and enjoy the beach
Day 2 Take a bike tour of the city’s historic downtown area
Day 3 Explore the St. Lucie County Regional History Center and Hallstrom Planetarium
Day 4 Head to Heathcote Botanical Gardens and the Savannas Preserve State Park
Day 5 Take a sunrise dolphin watch tour
Day 6 Spend the day at the farmer’s market and exploring the city’s unique shopping scene
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the beach or take a yoga class at a local studio

Food and Drink Scene of Fort Pierce

From fresh seafood to locally brewed beer, Fort Pierce offers visitors a wide range of options for food and drink. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Conch Fritters: A popular seafood dish that is a staple in many Florida restaurants.
  • Florida Stone Crab: A local delicacy that is typically served with mustard sauce.
  • Key Lime Pie: A dessert that is a staple of many Florida menus.

Local Beverages

  • Florida Orange Juice: Fort Pierce is located near one of the largest orange growing regions in Florida, making fresh-squeezed orange juice a must-try.
  • Craft Beer: Fort Pierce has several local breweries that offer a range of flavorful craft beers.

Where to Stay in Fort Pierce: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Fort Pierce offers plenty of options for visitors looking for a place to stay. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, here are some of the best places to stay in Fort Pierce:

  • Hutchinson Shores Resort and Spa: A luxury resort with oceanfront views and a range of amenities.
  • Laney’s Island Resort: A budget-friendly option that is located near the beach and offers a range of room types.
  • Dockside Inn and Resort: A cozy guesthouse located in the heart of downtown Fort Pierce.

What to Buy in Fort Pierce: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to bring home from your trip to Fort Pierce, here are some unique options to consider:

  • Sea Glass Jewelry: Handmade jewelry made from sea glass that has washed up on the beach.
  • Treasure Coast Honey: A local honey that is produced by bees in the region.
  • Fort Pierce Souvenir T-Shirts: T-shirts featuring the city’s iconic landmarks and attractions.

Local Culture and Customs of Fort Pierce

Fort Pierce is a welcoming city with a rich history and culture. Visitors should be aware of the following customs and traditions:

  • Respecting the Beach: Fort Pierce’s beaches are some of the cleanest and most scenic in Florida, and visitors should be respectful of the marine life and natural habitats that make them so special.
  • Southern Hospitality: Hospitality is an important part of southern culture, and visitors should be prepared to be greeted with warmth and friendliness wherever they go in Fort Pierce.

Best Time to Visit Fort Pierce

The best time to visit Fort Pierce depends on what you want to do and see. The winter months are the most popular time to visit, thanks to the warm weather and sunny skies. Spring and fall are also great times to visit, as the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fort Pierce

Here are some things to do and not to do when visiting Fort Pierce:

Do:

  • Be Respectful: Fort Pierce is a friendly city with a welcoming community, and visitors should be respectful and courteous to locals.
  • Try New Things: Fort Pierce offers a range of unique experiences, from outdoor adventures to cultural attractions. Be open to trying new things and exploring the city’s offerings.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Visitors should be mindful of the environment and ensure that they dispose of waste properly.
  • Ignore Local Customs and Traditions: Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as southern hospitality and beach etiquette.

Safety and Health

Fort Pierce is generally a safe and healthy city for visitors, but it’s always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy in Fort Pierce:

Safety in Fort Pierce

  • Stay Alert: Visitors should be aware of their surroundings and exercise common sense when walking around the city.
  • Protect Yourself from the Sun: Fort Pierce is warm and sunny year-round, so visitors should wear sunscreen and protective clothing to avoid sunburn.

Health in Fort Pierce

  • Stay Hydrated: Fort Pierce is located in a warm climate, so visitors should drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
  • Watch for Mosquitoes: Like many parts of Florida, Fort Pierce is home to mosquitoes that can carry diseases like the Zika virus. Visitors should wear long sleeves and pants and use insect repellent to avoid bites.

Getting to Fort Pierce: Transportation Options and Logistics

Fort Pierce is located on Florida’s eastern coast and is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Fort Pierce

  • Melbourne International Airport: Located about an hour and a half south of Fort Pierce.
  • Palm Beach International Airport: Located about an hour and a half north of Fort Pierce.

Bus Stations Near Fort Pierce

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Located in downtown Fort Pierce.
  • Treasure Coast Connector: Offers local bus service throughout Fort Pierce and the surrounding areas.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Cars can be rented at the airports and in downtown Fort Pierce.
  • Uber/Lyft: Ride-sharing services are available in Fort Pierce and can be used to get around the city.

How to Get Around in Fort Pierce

Fort Pierce is a walkable city, but visitors may want to use a car or bike to explore some of the more remote areas. Here are some options:

  • Rent a Car: Several car rental agencies are available in Fort Pierce.
  • Use a Bike: Bikes can be rented at several locations in downtown Fort Pierce.
  • Take a Bus: The Treasure Coast Connector offers local bus service throughout Fort Pierce and the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Fort Pierce: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Florida’s east coast, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Vero Beach: Located about half an hour south of Fort Pierce, Vero Beach offers stunning beaches, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities.
  • Jupiter Island: Located about an hour north of Fort Pierce, Jupiter Island is known for its exclusive and luxurious resorts and beautiful beaches.
  • Kennedy Space Center: Located about two hours north of Fort Pierce, the Kennedy Space Center offers visitors a chance to learn about NASA’s space program and see rockets up close.

Conclusion

Fort Pierce is a charming and welcoming city that offers visitors a unique mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or relaxing on the beach, Fort Pierce has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover why Fort Pierce is one of Florida’s hidden gems.

South Beach Park South Beach Park The Sunrise Theatre in the heart of downtown The Sunrise Theatre in the heart of downtown Beach at Avalon State Park Beach at Avalon State Park Farmers' market in Fort Pierce Farmers' market in Fort Pierce