Fort Pierce Attractions

The A. E. "Bean" Backus Gallery & Museum was founded in 1961 as one of the first visual arts center on Florida's Treasure Coast. The Gallery has the largest collection of original Backus paintings, which are presented through rotating exhibits. The Gallery also displays changing exhibits by other Florida artists.

Located at the St. Lucis nuclear power plant, FPL's Energy Encounter has 30 interactive displays and exhibits on the history of energy production. A self-guiding nature trail is available, it winds through three different habitats - beach/dune, mangrove and tropical hammock.

Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution is devoted to the research and study of the marine environment. Tours include a tour of the facility and a boat trip along Indian River lagoon to view the wildlife.

Heathcote Botanical Gardens includes a Japanese, herb and a children's garden. Exotic flora from the rainforests and other destinations around the world are successful in the varied microclimates around the gardens.

St Lucie County Historical Museum includea Spanish shipwreck treasures, Seminole relics, a restored 1919 American LaFrance fire engine, a memorial garden and other regularly changing exhibits.

This museum traces the history and development of the UDT (Underwater Demolition Team), the Navy SEALs program (Sea, Air and Land Teams) and other aquatic military operations. There are weaponry displays, diving equipment, photographs and videos.