Find myriad things to do with kids in Fort Pierce, an incredible city teeming with exciting activities for the whole family to enjoy. Kids of all ages will love what this sunny Treasure Coast city has to offer, from nature and history to local biology exhibits and more.
Whether you’re a local or visiting for vacation, there are plenty of free or low-cost, family-friendly activities in Fort Pierce to visit this summer. You might even find some new favorites to visit year after year! Here is a list of the best things to do with kids in Fort Pierce, Florida.
Visit the Manatee Observation and Education Center
The Manatee Observation and Education Center is one of the top family activities for learning more about marine life. This center is ideal for watching manatees in their natural habitat, especially during colder months when they migrate to the warmer waters of Fort Pierce.
Kids can enjoy interactive exhibits that explain the lives of manatees, along with information about mangrove ecosystems and local wildlife. Be sure to check out the observation decks, where you’ll see manatees, dolphins, and beautiful birds.
You can also experience the gorgeous butterfly garden with your children, offering a peaceful spot for the entire family. There are even guided eco-tours to add an educational element to the day, making it ideal for curious little minds.
Discover Local Marine Life at the St. Lucie County Aquarium
If you love the Manatee Observation, then you’ll enjoy the St. Lucie County Aquarium. It’s ideal for younger kids who are just learning about marine science.
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There are touch tanks that let children gently interact with starfish, sea urchins, and other incredible sea creatures. This hands-on experience is ideal for children who also enjoy educational talks and feeding demonstrations, helping to foster a love of marine life from a young age.
Most importantly, it familiarizes youngsters with the beautiful flora and fauna that we have to be grateful for in our area.
Find Your Favorite Playground
There are so many underrated playgrounds in Fort Pierce. Get out and see which ones you love. You can often visit multiple in a day, especially if you’re using them to kill time between other activities or just burn off some energy before naptime.
Here are a few playgrounds to add to your list when you want to keep the kids active:
- Jaycee Park
- Jetty Park
- Museum Pointe Park
- Rotary Park
- White City Park
- Palm Lake Park
- Kid’s Crossing Playground
- Pioneer Park
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Walk Through the Saturday Morning Farmers’ Market
The Downtown Fort Pierce Farmers’ Market is a top community event in Marina Square. This historic farmers’ market has something for everyone and introduces kids to locally-grown produce.
It’s perfect for horticulture enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys farm-fresh goodness. Vendors sell more than fruit and veggies; you can expect everything from produce to homemade bread, local honey, and handmade jewelry.
The market typically features live music, creating an atmosphere that is both fun and exciting. Children can dance or enjoy the sound of local musicians while enjoying some of the kid-approved snacks for sale. If you want to make a day of it, pack a blanket, chairs, water, and sunscreen, and have a picnic with some fresh goods.
Kayaking with the Whole Family
Although this isn’t for children of all ages, older kids might enjoy guided tours when kayaking in Fort Pierce. This is an excellent way to explore Fort Pierce’s beauty while enjoying something many people don’t experience. Here are some of the top spots for kayaking in the area:
- Fort Pierce Inlet State Park
- Little Jim Bridge
- North & South Causeway Parks
- Jaycee Park
You can also request a clear-bottom kayak tour, complete with expert guides who point out local wildlife while teaching you about native plants and animals. Kids will love exploring sandbars and shallow water, perfect for splashing with their families, making the entire day a mix of relaxation and adventure.
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Spend the Day at Jetty Park
Jetty Park is perfect for beach lovers and offers a great place to watch boats, build sandcastles, have lunch, and more. This scenic spot has tables and grills, so families can have a cookout while throwing a frisbee or swimming. If you stopped by the Farmers’ Market first, you can have a picnic at Jetty Park after!
There are also plenty of amazing restaurants near the Jetty and paths with gorgeous views. Kids can look for dolphins and other wildlife, or head to the playgrounds and smaller beaches. These spots are great for splashing in the shallow water as a family or collecting shells.
There are showers and bathrooms on-site, but parking can be difficult on busier days.
Experience Nature at Heathcote Botanical Gardens
Heathcote Botanical Gardens has incredible themed gardens that the whole family will love. Some features include a Japanese garden, a reflection garden, and a tropical bonsai collection. This bonsai collection is the most extensive public tropical bonsai collection in the nation, making it a must-see.
Kids will love the children’s garden, which features whimsical playhouses, outdoor musical instruments, a fairy garden, and numerous interactive art pieces. Check out guided nature walks, scavenger hunts, or even an afternoon picnic. If you have a well-behaved leashed pet, bring them along!
Take an Educational Boat Tour at FAU Harbor Branch
The FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute has interesting and fun pontoon boat tours for the entire family. Led by marine biologists, you can learn about marine biology and conservation, along with Florida’s aquatic ecosystem.
Look for dolphins, observe seagrass beds, and learn fascinating facts about different fish species and seaweed. There is also a tram tour that shows rescue vehicles used to assist injured whales and dolphins, along with other interactive exhibits.
Dine at Family-Friendly Fort Pierce Restaurants
Although a day of exploring is fun for the whole family, you’re bound to work up an appetite. What better way to enjoy the best of Fort Pierce than with a family-friendly meal? Some delicious local eateries offer a blend of scenic waterfront beauty with kid-friendly menus.
Chuck’s Seafood Restaurant is casual and welcoming for families with children of all ages. There are tons of great seafood options and a kid-friendly atmosphere. To name a few recent favorites of ours:
- On the Edge Bar & Grill has outdoor seating by the water and a children’s menu. It’s a local staple for families, offering a wonderful atmosphere.
- 12A Buoy offers a relaxed atmosphere and incredible seafood dishes. It’s ideal for parents and kids and will quickly become a favorite.
- High on the Hog BBQ is a casual food truck that’s quickly become one of the go-to spots in the area. Visitors drive from all over the Treasure Coast and love the wings, pork sandwich, and sides.
Enjoy These Incredible Children Activities in Fort Pierce, FL
Fort Pierce offers a wide range of activities for the whole family, catering to everyone’s interests. Choose from fun, educational, or outdoorsy options—or a mix of all three!
No matter what you do, Fort Pierce is an excellent spot for making new family memories. Stroll through botanical gardens, look for manatees, or enjoy some local produce and live music at the farmers’ market.
There’s something in Fort Pierce that every kid is sure to love. When you check out any of these things to do with kids in Fort Pierce, FL, you’ll find yourself falling in love with the Treasure Coast!
