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Fort Pierce

Fort Pierce, Florida, United States

Escape to Fort Pierce: Where Old Florida Charm Meets Modern Sunshine Nestled on the Treasure Coast of Florida, Fort Pierce offers a unique blend of historical charm, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Forget the crowde…

#Fort Pierce#Florida#United States#Coastal city#Tourist destination

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Fort Pierce.

Top Hotels in Fort Pierce

Top Flights to Fort Pierce

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Fort Pierce.

Tours

Exploring the Historic Downtown

A walking tour to explore the historic architecture and vibrant culture of Fort Pierce.

Shopping

Shopping at Fisherman's Wharf

A bustling marketplace offering fresh seafood, local produce, and unique crafts.

Outdoor

Outdoor Adventure at Fort Pierce Inlet State Park

Enjoy a range of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, and swimming.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Fort Pierce.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

Information not available.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Fort Pierce

Jan

23°13°

Feb

24°14°

Mar

26°16°

Apr

28°18°

May

30°21°

Jun

32°23°

Jul

33°24°

Aug

33°24°

Sep

32°23°

Oct

29°20°

Nov

26°17°

Dec

24°14°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Fort Pierce.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Fort Pierce, Florida:

Beaches: Fort Pierce is known for its beautiful beaches, including the Fort Pierce Inlet State Park and South Beach Park. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and other water activities.
Fishing: Fort Pierce is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, with opportunities for both offshore and inshore fishing. The area is known for its abundance of fish species, making it a great spot for anglers of all skill levels.
Historic Downtown: Fort Pierce's historic downtown area offers charming shops, restaurants, and galleries. Visitors can explore the city's history and architecture while enjoying the local culture.
Wildlife Viewing: Fort Pierce is home to several wildlife refuges and preserves, such as the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge and the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge. Visitors can observe a variety of bird species, marine life, and other wildlife in their natural habitats.
Outdoor Activities: In addition to beaches and fishing, Fort Pierce offers a range of outdoor activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, and biking. The area's natural beauty provides ample opportunities for adventure and exploration.

Overall, Fort Pierce is a vibrant coastal destination with a mix of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and natural beauty, making it a great choice for travelers seeking a relaxing and enjoyable vacation experience.

What to know

Traveling to Fort Pierce, Florida, like any destination, may have some cons that visitors should be aware of. Here are some potential drawbacks of traveling to Fort Pierce:

Weather: Fort Pierce, like many places in Florida, can experience extreme weather conditions such as hurricanes, heavy rainfall, and high humidity, especially during the summer months. Visitors should be prepared for sudden changes in weather and plan their trip accordingly.
Crowds: During peak tourist seasons, Fort Pierce can get crowded with visitors, especially at popular attractions and beaches. This may result in longer wait times, difficulty finding accommodations, and traffic congestion.
Limited Public Transportation: Fort Pierce may have limited public transportation options, so visitors may need to rely on rental cars or taxis to get around. This could add to the overall cost of the trip.
Limited Nightlife: Fort Pierce is known for its laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, which may not appeal to travelers looking for a vibrant nightlife scene. Those seeking a more lively entertainment scene may need to explore neighboring cities.
Limited Shopping and Dining Options: While Fort Pierce offers a variety of dining and shopping options, it may not have as many choices compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for a wide range of culinary and shopping experiences may find the offerings in Fort Pierce somewhat limited.
Limited Activities for Younger Travelers: Families with young children or teenagers may find that Fort Pierce has fewer entertainment and activity options compared to larger tourist destinations. It's important to research and plan ahead to ensure there are enough activities to keep everyone entertained.

These cons should be taken into consideration when planning a trip to Fort Pierce, but overall, the city offers a unique and relaxing coastal experience for visitors.

Fort Pierce, located in Florida, United States, has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. It is the county seat of St. Lucie County and is part of the Treasure Coast region of Florida. Here is a detailed history of Fort Pierce:

Early History

Indigenous Peoples: The area around present-day Fort Pierce was originally inhabited by the Ais people, a Native American tribe that lived along Florida's Atlantic coast.

19th Century

Establishment: Fort Pierce was established as a military post during the Second Seminole War (1835–1842). It was named after Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Kendrick Pierce, brother of President Franklin Pierce. The fort was constructed in 1838 to act as a base for operations against the Seminole people during the conflict.
Post-War Era: After the war, the fort was abandoned, but the area began to attract settlers, drawn by the promise of fertile land and a navigable river.

20th Century

Incorporation: Fort Pierce was officially incorporated as a city in 1901. The development of the railway system in Florida played a crucial role in its growth, making it a central hub for trade and transportation.
Great Depression and World War II: Like many American cities, Fort Pierce was affected by the Great Depression. However, during World War II, the city saw significant activity as the U.S. Navy established the Fort Pierce Naval Amphibious Training Base in 1943. This facility was crucial for training Navy personnel in amphibious operations.

Modern Era

Urban Development: Post-war, Fort Pierce underwent significant urban development and expansion, becoming a vibrant community known for its waterfront, historic architecture, and cultural events.
Historic Preservation: Efforts have been made to preserve Fort Pierce's historical landmarks, with several buildings and districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Significant Landmarks

Old Fort Park: This park is believed to be the site of the original fort from which the city gets its name.
Sunrise Theatre: Built in 1923, the Sunrise Theatre is an important cultural landmark in Fort Pierce, hosting various performances and events.
Fort Pierce City Hall: Known for its architectural style, the city hall is a notable historic building.
Manatee Observation and Education Center: Located along the Indian River Lagoon, this center is a popular attraction for both residents and tourists, focusing on the conservation and education of the local manatee population.
A.E. Backus Museum and Gallery: This museum is dedicated to the work of A.E. Backus, a renowned Florida landscape painter, and serves as a cultural hub for the community.

Notable Figures

A.E. "Beanie" Backus: An influential painter known for his Florida landscapes and a significant figure in the local art community.
Zora Neale Hurston: The celebrated author and anthropologist spent her final years in Fort Pierce and is buried there.

Fort Pierce's history is a tapestry of military significance, cultural development, and community growth, making it a unique and historically rich city in Florida.