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25 Place to Go in Treasure Coast County
by Charles Passy
Your calendar just got a little more crowded.
At least that’s the goal behind our annual “Go!” publication, which spotlights the Treasure Coast’s 25 best destinations. The idea is that by presenting such an array of places to see and things to do, you’ll soon be planning plenty of fun.
Consider the options, from exploring a state park to catching a show at a downtown arts center. Anglers can find suggestions for where to catch fish. Epicureans can find suggestions for where to dine on fish (and more).
Of course, you might not have time to fit in everything. But that’s no excuse not to try. A busy year of fun awaits you. Time to get moving…
The List
1. Hutchinson Island
2. Downtown Stuart
3. Jonathan Dickinson State Park
4. Jupiter Island
5. Gilbert’s Bar House of Refuge
6. Lyric Theatre
7. Fort Pierce Farmers Market
8. Dolphin Bar & Shrimp House
9. A.E. Backus Gallery & Museum
10. PGA Village
11. Tradition Field
12. Harry and the Natives
13. Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center
14. The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum
15. Ian’s Tropical Grill
16. Seminole Inn
17. Elliott Museum
18. Superplay USA
19. Manatee Observation and Education Center
20. Lady Stuart
21. 11 Maple Street
22. Sunrise Theatre
23. Zora Neale Hurston Dust Tracks Heritage Trail
24. Treasure Coast Square
25. Heathcote Botanical Gardens
Check out the flip book!
See the map
1. Hutchinson Island: From the Fort Pierce Inlet to the Ernest Lyons Bridge
This is the true treasure of the Treasure Coast, a stretch of beach that qualifies as one of the most picture-perfect in South Florida, if not the entire country. To experience it, head south from the Fort Pierce Inlet in St. Lucie County. Soon, ticky-tacky motels give way to vast expanses of…nothing. No towering condos. No crowds of South Beach wannabes. Instead, you have the shoreline of Old Florida — vast, desolate and untouched, with little in the way of amenities at many of the public beaches. (Their names alone — Blind Creek Beach, Green Turtle Beach — speak to their unspoiled essence.) Drive further south and civilization eventually intrudes. By the time you make it to Martin County’s Ernest Lyons Bridge, which connects Hutchinson Island to Sewall’s Point, you’ll have to say goodbye to this slice of paradise. But there’s always opportunity for a return visit.
Info: St. Lucie County Tourism, (800) 344-TGIF, visitstluciefl.com; Martin County Convention & Visitors Bureau, (772) 288-5451 or (877) 585-0085, martincountyfla.com
2. Downtown Stuart
There may be bigger downtowns in South Florida, but there are few that offer as perfect an experience for visitors, be they first-time tourists or old-time regulars. It’s not just the pedestrian-friendly streets (great for window shopping), the lively mix of stores and restaurants (almost no chains), the historic buildings (check out the Post Office Arcade), the fun events (regular jazz jams), the waterfront views. Rather, it’s the fact that Stuart combines all that and more in a tidy package and maintains its independent, eclectic character throughout. Plus, the downtown area continues to grow and evolve: Consider the new Sunset Bar Marina, with boat slips aplenty and a waterfront restaurant (The Sailor’s Return).
Info: Stuart Mainstreet Association, (772) 286-5967, stuartmainstreet.org
3. Jonathan Dickinson State Park
With 11,500 acres to explore, Jonathan Dickinson State Park is more than just a park. It’s an adventure and education in the making, with various ecosystems (sand pine scrub, mangroves, river swamps) on display. Named after the Quaker merchant who came upon the area in a shipwreck, the park offers an abundant array of activities: boating, biking, canoeing, fishing, hiking and horseback riding, among them. Two full-facility family campgrounds, a youth/group primitive campground and fully furnished and air-conditioned cabins make an overnight stay an easy possibility. But if you’re coming just for the day, make sure to take a boat tour aboard the Loxahatchee Queen. The big highlight: a stop at the sprawling homestead of Trapper Nelson, the fur-trapper and famed “Wildman of the Loxahatchee,” who lived alone in the area until his mysterious death in 1968. And if you want to learn more about the park, pick up a copy of the newly published “Visitor’s Guide to Jonathan Dickinson Park” ($9.95), replete with a four-color map; it’s available at the park and select local retailers.
Info: 16450 S.E. Federal Highway, Hobe Sound; (772) 546-2771; floridastateparks.org/jonathandickinson
4. Jupiter Island
Tiger Woods is building a home here. Bill Gates is rumored to have recently purchased one. But the biggest buzz on Jupiter Island is usually that of a passing bee. That’s because this enclave of the rich and famous (population: 653) likes to keep things low-key. The folks who live on the island don’t want you know to know they’re here, so they hide their domiciles with pine-high hedges. In a sense, that means there’s nothing really to see, save for a passing glimpse afforded by the occasional hole in the green “wall.” But in another sense, that means there’s everything to see: Call Jupiter Island the ultimate lesson in the art of discretion.
Info: townofjupiterisland.com
5. Gilbert’s Bar House of Refuge
Built in 1876, this one-time rescue center for shipwrecked sailors is not only the oldest structure in Martin County, it’s also the last house of refuge still standing in the country. And it’s got quite a bit of fight left in it: Even though the building sustained $500,000 in damage during the 2004 hurricane season, it reopened a couple of years later. Today, Gilbert’s leaves the lifesaving to the Coast Guard and instead functions as a museum, run by the Historical Society of Martin County. Its mission: to offer “a fascinating look at a bygone lifestyle along the sea.” Exhibits showcase historical lifesaving equipment and the keeper’s living quarters circa 1904.
Info: 301 S.E. MacArthur Blvd., Stuart; (772) 225-1875; elliottmuseumfl.org
6. Lyric Theatre
With just 500 seats, this former silent-movie theater could hardly be called large. But the Lyric, situated in the heart of downtown Stuart, hasn’t let that stand in its way. Year after year, it books the biggest in big-name talent: The 2009-2010 season alone will see Lily Tomlin, Mel Tillis, Chita Rivera, Arlo Gurthrie, the Chamber Orchestra Kremlin and the American Ballet Theatre II, among other artists and ensembles. The Lyric also serves as the home for many local arts groups, from the Atlantic Classical Orchestra to the StarStruck theater company. But if you plan to catch any of the aforementioned acts, book your tickets early. The Lyric is so popular that many of its shows sell out months in advance.
Info: 59 S.W. Flagler Ave., Stuart; (772) 286-7827; lyrictheatre.com
7. Fort Pierce Farmers Market
Consider this more a downtown weekly food festival than just a produce market. The vendors at this Saturday event, which runs from 8 a.m. to noon, offer a little of everything: outstanding Caribbean fare (including coco bread and jerk chicken), perfectly salted boiled peanuts, a great homemade smoked fish dip, even bath and beauty products. Oh, and if you’re looking for local produce, you’ll find plenty of it, from hydroponically grown strawberries to Indian River citrus. Finally, the market’s setting, overlooking the Indian River Lagoon, makes it a wonderfully breezy place to while away a weekend morning. And if you decide to make a day of it, you’re close to several attractions, including the A.E. Backus Gallery & Museum (see No. 9).
Info: (772) 940-1145, ftpiercefarmersmarket.com
8. Dolphin Bar & Shrimp House
Call this dining as history: The Dolphin Bar is better known as film, radio and television star (and Florida native) Frances Langford’s famed Outrigger Resort. Langford herself used to entertain the patrons at this waterfront eatery, which offers dining inside and outside. She sold the restaurant in 1988 — and passed away in 2005 — but her mark remains, thanks to the memorabilia on display, including pictures of her with Bob Hope (she toured with him in the World War II era), Ginger Rogers and Jackie Gleason, among other luminaries. The food itself is solid, traditional fare – think New York strip, shrimp cocktail and an old-school relish tray. Among the house specialties are Pineapple Pina Colada Coconut Fried Shrimp and Fred’s Incredible Meatloaf (named after the Dolphin’s owner, Frederic Ayres).
Info: 1401 N.E. Indian River Dr., Jensen Beach; (772) 781-5136; dolphinbar.com
9. A.E. Backus Gallery & Museum
If Old Florida had a signature artist, it was surely A.E. “Bean” Backus (1906-1990), a landscape painter who captured the state in all its sun-splashed, quiet majesty. But just as important as the works that Backus left behind is this gallery/museum, which he established in 1960 just two blocks from his Fort Pierce home and studio. The museum’s permanent collection includes more than 30 Backus originals, including his earliest known painting (from 1918, when he was 12) to his final, unfinished one. And since Backus was equally famous for training members of the African-American Highwaymen school of painters, it’s only appropriate that the museum features some examples of their work as well. Finally, the museum offers changing exhibits by contemporary Florida artists.
Info: 500 N. Indian River Dr., Fort Pierce; (772) 465-0630; www.backusmuseum.com
10. PGA Village
If golf is your thing, PGA Village could easily become your home away from home. The nationally recognized complex includes three 18-hole courses (designed by greats Tom Fazio and Pete Dye), a PGA Learning Center and the PGA Historical Center (essentially, a golf museum with artifacts dating back to the 1600s). Little wonder that Golf World magazine recently ranked it among its 75 Best Golf Resorts in North America. But you don’t have to be a pro — or a member of an exclusive country club — to play here: PGA Village is a public facility — in fact, the first public facility owned and operated by the PGA. A round can cost as little as $16 (depending on when you visit). Even better: Admission to the Historical Center is free.
Info: 1916 Perfect Dr., Port St. Lucie; (800) 800-GOLF or (772) 467-1300: pgavillage.com
11. Tradition Field
The New York Mets may not have been a contender in 2009. But as they say, “Wait till next year.” For an early glimpse of what 2010 holds, come meet the Mets at Tradition Field, the team’s 7,400-seat spring-training home. And if you want to see the team’s real future, catch the minor-league Port St. Lucie Met during the rest of the year.
Info: 525 N.W. Peacock Blvd., Port St. Lucie; (772) 871-2115; stluciemets.com
12. Harry and the Natives
Yes, there’s a Harry here – Harry MacArthur. And he’s the mad genius behind this Old deservedly beloved eatery/dive bar, which bills itself as “Hobe Sound’s Only Waterfront Restaurant (When It Rains!)” Pancakes are a must-order item on the breakfast menu.
Info: 11910 U.S. Federal Highway, Hobe Sound; (772) 546-3061; harryandthenatives.com.
13. Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center
This 57-acre Hutchinson Island attraction offers everything from stingray feedings to sunrise beach walks to “snorkel adventures.” Adults can come for lectures on marine science, while children can celebrate their birthdays with fish-themed parties.
Info: 890 N.E. Ocean Blvd., Stuart; (772) 225-0505; floridaoceanographic.org
14. The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum
The Navy SEALS (Sea Air And Land Special Forces) trained in Fort Pierce in the ’40s, so it makes sense that the city is now home to a one-of-a-kind museum honoring these military specialists. The museum’s collection got a significant addition in the past year – namely, the lifeboat where a captain kidnapped by Somali pirates was held.
Info: 3300 N. A1A, Fort Pierce; (772) 595-5845; navysealmuseum.com
15. Ian’s Tropical Grill
Fine dining with a Treasure Coast spin. This Jensen Beach favorite offers creative cuisine, a great wine list and a fun and funky outdoor setting (indoor seating is available, too). And the restaurant now serves breakfast and lunch, thanks to a new partnership with another local favorite, Mary’s Gourmet Kitchen.
Info: 1205 N.E. Dixie Highway, Jensen Beach; (772) 334-4563 (for Ian’s), (772) 334-9488 (for Mary’s)
16. Seminole Inn
This historic Indiantown inn dates back to 1927 and has a royal connection to boot: Inn founder S. Davies Warfield was uncle to Wallis Warfield Simpson (England’s King Edward VIII gave up the throne to marry her). But you don’t have to stay the night to pay a visit: Regulars come just for the first-rate Southern-style Sunday brunch.
Info: 15885 S.W. Warfield Blvd., Indiantown; (772) 597-3777; www.seminoleinn.com
17. Elliott Museum
This quirky Stuart museum – “grandma’s attic,” some dub it — houses such treasures as automobiles from the early 1900s and the largest assortment of autographed Hall of Fame baseball memorabilia outside Cooperstown. Eventually, the museum will relocate to a new $18 million facility. But the old Elliott still has its charms.
Info: 825 N.E. Ocean Blvd., Stuart; (772) 225-1961; www.elliottmuseumfl.org
18. Superplay USA
As its name suggests, Superplay USA offers a whole lot of fun under one roof. This mega facility features a 48-lane bowling alley, a nine-hole indoor mini golf course, laser tag and a redemption arcade. (And look for the batting cages outside, too.) Feeling hungry? There’s even a Duffy’s Sports Grill on site.
Info: 1600 N.W. Courtyard Circle, Port St. Lucie; (772) 408-5800; superplayusa.com
19. Manatee Observation and Education Center
Naturally, manatees are the big draw at this Fort Pierce favorite: The center is one of the few places in the state that attracts the popular sea mammals throughout the year, not just during the colder months. But don’t forget some of the other activities the center offers, from kayaking trips to a brown-bag lecture series.
Info: 480 N. Indian River Dr., Fort Pierce; (772) 466-1600 ext 3333; www.manateecenter.com.
20. Lady Stuart
A party fishing-boat company that aims to please. Grouper, cobia, snapper, amberjack…you name it, the team here will try to help you catch it. And they’ll provide you bait and poles and clean your catch at no additional cost. Boats operate out of Fort Pierce and Stuart, offering five and seven-hour trips year-round.
Info: (772) 286-1860; www.ladystuart.com
21. 11 Maple Street
One of the most acclaimed restaurants in the entire state, this Jensen Beach high-end eatery offers everything from wood-grilled elk tenderloin to pan-roasted local pompano. And don’t forget the extensive wine list, which features selections both familiar (California, France) and unfamiliar (South Africa, Portugal).
Info: 3224 N.E. Maple Street, Jensen Beach; (772) 334-7714; 11maplestreet.net
22. Sunrise Theatre
After a $13 million restoration, this vaudeville-era 1,200-seat theater in downtown Fort Pierce came to life once again in 2006. This season, it keeps the excitement going with performances by such headliners as Kenny Rogers, Engelbert Humperdinck and the Moscow Circus.
Info: 117 S. 2nd St. Fort Pierce; (772) 461-4884; www.sunrisetheatre.com
23. Zora Neale Hurston Dust Tracks Heritage Trail
How many famous writers have a “trail” in their honor? Well, the African-American folklorist Zora Neale Hurston, who spent her final years in Fort Pierce, certainly does. The route begins at the city library named after her and continues at key places where Zora lived, worked and socialized. If you want to learn more, visit Fort Pierce during the city’s annual Zora Fest (April 16-18, 2010).
Info: Zora Neale Hurston Branch Library, 3008 Ave. D, Fort Pierce; (772) 462-2154; st-lucie.lib.fl.us/zora/index.htm
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24. Treasure Coast Square
The classic shop-till-you-drop suburban-style indoor mall, replete with anchor stores (Macy’s, Sears, JCPenney, Dillard’s), a multiplex (Regal 16 Cinemas) and specialty merchants (from Brookstone to Bandolino), plus a food court. And check out some of the newest stores, including Kiss My Glass (glass jewelry) and The Fishing Center.
Info: 3174 N.W. Federal Highway, Jensen Beach; (772) 692-0100; simon.com/Mall/?id=145
25. Heathcote Botanical Gardens
At this Fort Pierce oasis, you have your pick of gardens to enjoy, from an herb garden to a rainforest display. There’s also a pineapple collection, celebrating South Florida’s pineapple plantations of yesteryear. Finally, a busy slate of events, from photography classes to candlelight concerts, keeps visitors returning again and again.
Info: 210 Savannah Road, Fort Pierce; (772) 464-0323; heathcotebotanicalgardens.org
