1. A. E. Backus Museum & Gallery An anchor of Fort Pierce culture since 1960, this museum and gallery hosts an array of original Backus landscapes, plus a select few works from the Florida Highwaymen. 500 N. Indian River Drive
2. Manatee Observation and Education Center This environmental education center helps the community get to know Florida’s favorite aquatic mammal on a new level. Learn about the threatened species and say hello up close on the observation deck. 480 N. Indian River Drive
3. Sunrise Theatre After opening its doors in 1923, this theater has seen its fair share of rock-and-roll legends and stars. The venue underwent a renovation aimed at preserving its original glamour in 2006 and now offers 100 shows, plays and events annually. 117 S. Second St.
4. Melody Lane Fishing Pier Drop a line with locals at the go-to fishermen’s hangout and find out why Fort Pierce is named the Sunrise City. Reel in drum, bluefish, snook and trout against pink and orange skies. Melody Lane and Boston Avenue
5. Fort Pierce City Marina Though it originally opened in 1937, this town treasure is nothing short of hot and happening. Dock your prized vessel, visit the on-site bait-and-tackle shop, meander into the heart of downtown or stop by the Saturday farmers market next door. 1 Avenue A
6. Fort Pierce Inlet State Park Once the training grounds for the World War II Navy Frogmen, this serene stretch of beach is now home to surfers, bird-watchers, scuba divers and sunbathers. Kayak through the inlet, hike the Coastal Hammock Trail and spot sea turtles making their nests. 905 Shorewinds Drive
7. St. Lucie Cultural Alliance at the Vault This edgy art space offers classes of all modes and means, like acrylic and oil painting lessons, decorative tile workshops and a concert series, plus local art exhibitions. 111 Orange Ave.
8. Sailfish Brewing Company With more than 18 taps, fresh ale flows at this locally-owned-and-operated brewhouse. Order a pint of one of their core beers like Sunrise City, an India pale ale; White Marlin, a witbier; or Tag & Release, an American amber ale, all brewed in-house. 130 N. Second St.
9. Nelson Family Farms In 1938, Alfred and Hilda Nelson started to sell citrus directly from their home. Now, their family operation is one of the largest open-air markets in the area, selling fresh fruits and vegetables, gourmet products, garden supplies and a range of flora. 875 W. Midway Road
10. Pierced Ciderworks Located in a 117-year-old building in what was formerly known as the Fishing Village, this cider brewery brings the flavor to downtown. Try their house-made pours, such as peach habanero, ‘Merica Dry and orange creamsicle. 411 N. Second St.
11. Old Florida Coffee Co. Grab a Floridaccino at this coffee shop located in the P.P. Cobb Building, a trading post built in the nineteenth century. Order espressos and crepes, such as the Cracker Trail crepe, made with scrambled eggs, bacon, smoked sausage and drizzled with maple syrup. 100 Avenue A
12. Blind Creek Beach Toss all your cares—and your clothes—to the wind and get some sun without the tan lines at St. Lucie County’s only clothing-optional beach. This secluded mile-and-a-half stretch of coastline is also home to green and loggerhead sea turtles during nesting season. 5460 S. Ocean Drive
13. Havana George Cafe Owners George and Zaida Quesada wanted to share the flavors of their home countries, Cuba and Peru, with Cubanos, cortaditos and guava pastries, and ended up with one of the best Hispanic eateries on the Treasure Coast. 100 S. Second St.
14. The Fort Steakhouse Just across from the Sunrise Theatre is a modern-style steakhouse serving up grilled bone marrow, sturgeon caviar, calamari steak and more. Murals by local artists decorate the interior, and photos of Adams Ranch, where they source their beef, adorn the walls. 106 S. Second St.
15. Heathcote Botanical Gardens Stroll along a winding path under palms and cycads, past the reflection pond and through the butterfly garden at this green oasis. Pause at the James J. Smith Bonsai Gallery, featuring over 100 trees. 210 Savannah Road
16. The Highwaymen Heritage Trail Visit the significant stops for the Florida Highwaymen. See the artists’ homes, hangouts, resting places and artworks while learning more about the troupe’s history. 482 N. Indian River Drive
17. Jetty Park Settle down on your own swath of sand for a sunny beach day at this park, wedged between Fort Pierce Inlet State Park and Hutchinson Island. Hit the rocks in the morning with rods and reels at the ready to fish for sheepshead, snapper and ladyfish. 2098 Seaway Drive
18. The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum As the only center completely dedicated to honoring Navy SEALs and Frogmen, the museum offers a closer look at antique weapons, retired aircraft and a 52-plus ton boat used by the Navy. 3300 N. Highway A1A 

Discover more travel guides to Florida cities here.