tourist attractions in vero beach florida

Top Things to Do in Vero Beach, FL

Places to visit in vero beach, explore popular experiences, tours in and around vero beach.

Vero Beach Inshore Fishing Charters

2- Hour Jungle Tour at Prehistoric Preserve Site in Fort Pierce

Clear Kayak Tours in Fort Pierce

4-Hour Mangrove Island and Dolphin Watch Sandbar in Fort Pierce

6-Hr Tropical Mangroves, Coastal River and Ocean Wildlife Watch

Dolphin Tours along and near the beautiful Indian River Lagoon

GLOW Clear Kayak Tour

2 hour Dolphin Sightseeing Tour in Melbourne Florida

Mangrove Tunnel, Manatee and Dolphin Kayak Tour of Cocoa Beach

Florida Everglades Airboat Tour and Wild Florida Admission with Optional Lunch

Top attractions in vero beach.

Other Top Attractions around Vero Beach

What travellers are saying

• McKee Botanical Garden
• Round Island Beach Park
• McLarty Treasure Museum
• VBMA-Vero Beach Museum of Art
• Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge
• Environmental Learning Center
• Humiston Park
• Captain Ken's Airboat Tours
• Capt. Bob's Airboat Adventure Tours
• Florida Airboat Excursions
• Florida Cracker Airboat Rides
• Marsh Beast Airboat Tours

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Vero Beach , an elegant city on Florida’s Atlantic Coast, is a haven for golf , water sports , and fishing .

This Treasure Coast gem boasts 26 miles of beaches, an uncrowded shoreline, posh resorts, and a sophisticated arts and entertainment scene, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway.

Set off on a kayak, cruise the Indian River Lagoon , surf some waves, or fish from the shore before setting out for some in-town adventures.

Shop the historic downtown , attend a street festival, get a taste of the local cuisine , explore museums, stroll the scenic pathways of McKee Botanical Garden , visit art galleries, and see live performances at the opera , ballet , and theater .

Plan your stay at Visit Indian River County .

County and city parks offer ample access to Vero’s beaches.

• Golden Sands Beach Park
• Seagrape Trail Beach Access
• Humiston Park
• Jaycee Park
• Round Island Park
• South Beach Park
• Tracking Station Park
• Treasure Shores Park
• Turtle Trail Beach Access
• Wabasso Beach Park
• More beaches

Vero Beach offers access to one of the most diverse ecosystems in North America.

• Indian River Lagoon

There is no shortage of family-friendly activities in Vero Beach.

• Riverside Theatre children’s programs
• Environmental Learning Center
• McKee Botanical Garden children’s garden
• Royal Palm Pointe interactive fountain
• Goofy’s beachside breakfast at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort
• Safari Golf & Games

MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Vero Beach is the place to see opera performances, fine art, museums, ballet, and live music.

• Vero Beach Opera
• Vero Beach Museum of Art
• Ballet Vero Beach
• Gifford Historical Museum & Cultural Center
• Vero Beach Theatre Guild

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Vero Beach’s coastline and waterways are perfect for an action-packed vacation that includes surfing, hiking, biking, swimming, paddling, and fishing.

• Fishing and paddling
• Lagoon Greenway
• Historic Jungle Trail
• Airboat Tours
• Sea Turtle Night Walk

PET-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES

Planning a dog-friendly vacation is easy in Vero Beach.

• Vero Beach Dog Park
• Dog-friendly city parks

ACCESSIBILITY

Vero Beach offers wheelchair-accessible beach access points, trails, and gardens.

• Beach wheelchairs
• Wheelchair-friendly trails
• McKee Botanical Garden scooters and wheelchairs

Sit down to dinner just a stone’s throw away from the lapping ocean waves, take a drive to an old-fashioned country diner, or stop in for a casual bite at a local cafe.

• Ocean Grill
• The Wave Kitchen and Bar
• C.J. Cannon’s
• Mrs. Mac’s Fillin’ Station
• More restaurants

Find unique stores, boutiques, and antique treasures while shopping along the streets of Vero Beach.

• Vero Beach Farmers Market
• Wildwood Antique Mall of Vero Beach
• Vero Beach Outlets

INCLUSIVITY

Vero Beach is an inclusive community with Pride events throughout the year.

Vero Beach is home to stellar golf courses and an MLB-managed, all-inclusive sports training complex for baseball, softball, soccer, football, and lacrosse.

• Jackie Robinson Training Complex
• Sandridge Golf Club
• Vista Plantation Golf Club
• Vero Beach Clay Shooting

PLACES TO STAY

Choose to RV camp, book a beach resort, or stay at a Vero Beach vacation rental.

• Costa d’ Este Beach Resort
• Disney’s Vero Beach Resort
• Encore Sunshine Travel RV Resort
• More places to stay

Plan a Trip to Vero Beach

Vero beach, sebastian, and indian river county in 60 seconds, one fun day in vero beach, quick facts.

Affordable town known for watersports

Nearest Airport

• Vero Beach Regional Airport
• Melbourne International Airport

VERO BEACH BUSINESS LISTINGS

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Vero Beach   Travel Guide

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11 Best Things To Do in Vero Beach

Updated March 7, 2023

At first glance, Vero Beach may seem like just another beach town, but don't let its name fool you. In this East Coast locale, you'll find cultural attractions, high-end shops, family-owned restaurants, history-focused sights and a slew of

• All Things To Do

Round Island Oceanside Park and Round Island Riverside Park Round Island Oceanside Park and Round Island Riverside Park free

One of Vero Beach's main draws is its beautiful beaches, and many consider the town's best to be the beach at Round Island Oceanside Park. Located 8 miles southeast of downtown Vero, this beach park offers everything you need. You'll find covered pavilions with grills, a playground and restrooms, among other amenities. Plus, the wide shore offers plenty of space for stretching out, even when there are sections blocked off to protect sea turtle nests.

But what sets this beach apart from others is its proximity to the Indian River Lagoon. When you want a change of scenery, you can walk across state Road A1A to the beach's sister park: Round Island Riverside Park. This park's amenities include a 400-foot-long boardwalk, nature trails, a fishing pier and an observation tower. Climb up the tower to look for manatees, or go paddleboarding or kayaking to see the gentle creatures up close. Water sports equipment rentals are not available on-site, so remember to bring your own gear or arrange equipment delivery if you want to get out on the water.

Sebastian Inlet State Park Sebastian Inlet State Park

Situated less than 2 miles north of Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge between the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, this protected area is a surfer's paradise. At Sebastian Inlet State Park, you'll find world-renowned surf spots like First Peak and Monster Hole, which offer some of the state's best and most consistent surf breaks. In fact, this inlet's surfing conditions are so sublime, professional surfers like Kelly Slater and C.J. and Damien Hobgood came here regularly as kids to hone their skills. But the gnarly swells aren't the only reason why you should visit. The park's unspoiled beaches are great places to look for seashells and sea turtle nests, the jetties offer excellent fishing opportunities, the Bayside Marina serves as a terrific spot to view wildlife like dolphins and manatees, and the lagoon features calm water ideal for kayaking. There's also the Hammock Trail, a mile-long path that travels past various subtropical plants, including mangrove, palm and oak trees.

If you're a history buff, save time for a visit to the on-site Sebastian Fishing Museum. The free museum offers various exhibits about some of the fish houses that were established here in the 19th and 20th centuries, including a replica of an original fish house, a homemade fishing boat and fishing gear. Another must-see historical attraction is the McLarty Treasure Museum , which sits just outside of the park by its south entrance.

McKee Botanical Garden McKee Botanical Garden

Vero Beach appeals to travelers who have an appreciation for art and nature. If you have an interest in both, then you'll want to visit McKee Botanical Garden. Occupying 18 acres by U.S. Route 1, this outdoor oasis showcases a diverse collection of foliage native to Florida, plus top-notch sculptures by acclaimed artists like Hans Godo Frabel and Seward Johnson. The property also houses several restored buildings, which helped it earn a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1998.

According to previous visitors, McKee Botanical Garden's gorgeous garden, knowledgeable staff and interesting sculptures make it a can't-miss attraction in Vero. Many were especially impressed with the property's Children's Garden, which was added in January 2020 and offers interactive, educational features like a music maze, a splash pad and a pirate-themed climbing structure. However, a few bemoaned the main garden's small size and lack of shade. To see some of the property's best plants – its 80-plus kinds of waterlilies – in bloom, several reviewers recommended visiting during the summer months.

Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge free

You'll feel worlds away from society when you visit Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge. Established in 1903 as the country's first national wildlife refuge, this 5,400-plus acre sanctuary is a haven for migratory birds, fish, sea turtles, alligators and mammals like manatees, dolphins and bobcats. More than 10 kinds of pelicans also nest here. It's hardly surprising, then, that the refuge's main activities are bird-watching and fishing. You can also enjoy leisurely hikes along three trails that cover roughly 7 miles of the property.

For the best view of Pelican Island, the refuge's main landmark, past visitors recommended trekking the Centennial Trail. This nearly 1-mile-long trail features an 18-foot-tall observation tower with two mounted spotting scopes, as well as a boardwalk with several signs that display QR codes you can scan with a smartphone to access additional information. Regardless of which trail you choose to traverse, reviewers suggested bringing plenty of drinking water since it's not available on-site. Also plan on slathering on lots of sunscreen and insect repellant, especially during the warmer months, to keep yourself protected from the sun and mosquitoes.

Vero Beach Museum of Art Vero Beach Museum of Art

Head to this nonprofit in Riverside Park (a green space on the barrier island that also houses Riverside Theatre  to browse some of Vero's most impressive works of art. Within the property's 7 acres, you'll find five art galleries, a sculpture park, seven studios that host art classes, an interactive kids space, an auditorium, a cafe and a gift shop. With so much space dedicated to its 880-plus pieces, it's hardly surprising that the more than 55,000-square-foot facility is considered the largest of its kind on the Treasure Coast.

The museum's impressive collection means you'll discover plenty to admire, so consider prioritizing the kinds of works you gravitate toward. Recent visitors recommended checking out the sculpture park and the permanent collection of contemporary paintings by the likes of Andy Warhol and Salvador Dalí. The museum's collection of glass objects by Dale Chihuly and Frederick Carder, among others, also shouldn't be missed. Depending on when you visit, you may also want to save time for perusing the museum's temporary exhibit. Past ones have focused on everything from the gold Chinese zodiac sculptures to astronomy photos to 19th-century posters from France.

McLarty Treasure Museum McLarty Treasure Museum

At first glance, Vero Beach may not seem like a destination with a rich history, but dig a little deeper and you'll quickly discover some fascinating facts about the town. In the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, the state of Florida was a Spanish colony. When the famous 1715 Fleet – a group of 11 ships that set sail from Havana to bring a massive haul of gold and silver coins to Spain – shipwrecked off the coast of Vero during a hurricane, the town cemented its place in history. Treasure hunters still come to the town's beaches to search for washed-up coins from the sunken ships.

While your chances for striking gold during your trip are slim, you can learn more about this part of Vero's past during a visit to the McLarty Treasure Museum. Located on the site where survivors from the fleet camped after swimming to shore, this museum is filled with artifacts and displays about the failed voyage and its treasure. The property also features an observation deck with views of the ocean.

Riverside Theatre Riverside Theatre

After spending the day swimming at the beach , shopping on Ocean Drive or checking out the Vero Beach Museum of Art 's exhibits, catch a performance at Riverside Theatre. Located in Riverside Park, this nonprofit institution is the largest professional theater in Florida. Its events calendar regularly includes touring musicals, kids productions, comedy shows and lectures with distinguished guests like Colin Powell, Tom Brokaw and Ben Stein. What's more, the theater hosts the fun Live in the Loop event, a twice-weekly outdoor concert series featuring alfresco dining and live music.

Regardless of which event you attend here, past theatergoers said you'll have a memorable experience. Many praised Riverside Theatre's Live in the Loop event, which takes place most Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30 to 9:15 p.m. Others raved about the theater's Broadway-style performances, citing the beautiful sets, talented actors, excellent costumes and thoughtfully laid out theaters as highlights. You won't find a bad seat in the house, so plan on choosing a spot based on your budget. Since main events like musicals sell out fast, you'll want to make sure you reserve tickets for bigger shows months in advance. Prices vary depending on the chosen event, but many previous visitors said they're more affordable than what you'd pay to see a show on Broadway .

South Beach Park South Beach Park free

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Environmental Learning Center Environmental Learning Center

Vero Beach Outlets Vero Beach Outlets free

Humiston Beach Park Humiston Beach Park free

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17 Best Things to Do in Vero Beach You Shouldn’t Miss

January 24, 2022 //  by  Florida Trippers

Are you looking for a list of things to do in Vero Beach, Florida? We have you covered with our suggestions for fun things to do in Vero Beach!

Located on the Atlantic Ocean there are a ton of Vero Beach activities! From golf courses to beaches, museums, and history, the Treasure Coast is a great place to explore if you’re looking for both adventure and relaxation!

With a population of under 15,000, Vero Beach was named as a town in 1919 and in 1957 the first bridge was built to connect the barrier islands with the mainland!

If you’re on a road trip of Florida make sure to stop in Vero Beach after leaving Miami or after heading south from Daytona Beach. This laid-back small city will not disappoint as there are a lot of things to do in Vero Beach!

Where Is Vero Beach Located?

Vero Beach is located on the Atlantic side of Florida in an area known as the Treasure Coast. It’s situated on the east coast of Florida, with Palm Beach to the south and Daytona Beach to the north. (The Treasure Coast was named after a Spanish treasure fleet of ships that got lost in a hurricane in 1715.) The closest airport to Vero Beach is Melbourne Florida, which is about a 30-minute drive away. Vero Beach is also only an hour and a half southeast of Orlando International Airport.

Vero Beach makes a great day trip from Orlando!

14 Fun Things To Do In Vero Beach Florida

Vero beach museum of art.

For art lovers, one of the best things to do in Vero Beach is to visit the Vero Beach Museum of Art. The museum focuses its collection on the early twentieth century to the current days, with over 880 works on display. There is a wide range of art, including sculptures, photographs, glass pieces, paintings, and videos.

Established in 1978, the Vero Beach Museum of Art opened to the public in 1986. Situated on Riverside Park, the museum has grown over the past 26 years.

In 2007 a sculpture garden was opened, and then in 2018, the museum introduced a children’s section featuring interactive displays in order to encourage children’s interest in the arts. The museum also offers an art school with a variety of workshops offered for both children and adults.

The Vero Beach Museum of Art is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm and Sundays from 1 pm to 4 pm. Admission for those 17 and under, military, first responders, and health care workers is free. Regular adult tickets are $8 and seniors are $7.

McKee Botanical Gardens

The McKee Botanical Gardens is another one of the fun things to do in Vero Beach. This historic garden is a tropical paradise and is one of the prettiest botanical gardens in Florida !

The McKee Gardens were envisioned by Arthur McKee and Waldo Sexton, who purchased 80 acres on which to grow citrus. Once they saw the land, however, they decided to pivot and hired landscape architect William Phillips to design an outdoor tropical oasis.

During the 1940s, the gardens received more than 100,000 tourists annually making McKee Gardens one of the earliest tourist attractions in Florida! But by the 1970s the gardens closed.

In 1994 the land was refurbished using funds raised by the community to rescue the gardens. Today, you can see over 10,000 species of plants with one of the largest water lilies collections on the 18-acre tropical hammock.

The children’s garden is one of the great things to do in Vero Beach with children. Kids can climb a swinging bridge, enjoy the splash park, have fun with the music maze, and end their adventure at the scorpion shipwreck.

Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for military and children. McKee Garden also hosts a yearly water lily festival, one of the best festivals in Florida !

Round Island Beach Park

Round Island Beach Park is located on A1A and is comprised of two parks: Riverside Park and Oceanside Park. Either park is the perfect place to come if you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Vero Beach, FL.

On-site on the Riverside Park there are grills, picnic tables, restrooms, walking trails, a boat ramp, and water fountains. You can canoe or kayak, as well as climb an observation pier or fish! At Round Island Beach Park you can often spot endangered manatees.

Meanwhile, on the Oceanside Park there are playgrounds, restrooms, showers, pavilions, walking trails, and picnic tables! Hang out on the white sand beach and keep an eye out for sea turtles if visiting from March through October.

Riverside Theatre

Riverside Theater in Vero Beach is the largest professional theater in Florida, with over 300 performances each year. Founded in 1973, the theater was built with private donations. Its inaugural season was 1985, and by 1987 it became the first equity theater. The new location was opened in 2007 and it is now one of the best things to do in Vero Beach.

Riverside Theater also operates educational programs for both youth and adults, as well as holding camps. In addition, they host the “Comedy Zone Experience” on Friday and Saturday for live stand-up. Other events hosted on Friday and Saturday nights include Live in the Loop, an outdoor grill-out/live music event.

Check out the theater’s website for upcoming productions, including both musicals and plays. You can purchase season tickets or individual show tickets.

The Riverside Theater has also hosted distinguished lecturers for the past 23 seasons. Past lecturers have included Theresa May and Brigadier General Robert Spalding.

Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge

Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge is America’s first national wildlife refuge, founded in 1903 and landmarked by President Theodore Roosevelt. This spurred the United States conservation movement for wildlife. Visiting Pelican Island is one of the best things to do in Vero Beach for nature lovers!

Located on the Indian River Lagoon this little island is surrounded by 5,400 acres of protected land, providing a home to fish and wildlife. On Pelican Island there is an ancient shell mound, marsh and lagoon, and habitat for endangered species.

Wildlife on the island includes not only pelicans, but over 140 species of birds, 782 species of fish, and 14 endangered species. There are also 18 species of mammals like bobcat, otter, marsh rabbits, as well as sea turtles, alligators, and tortoises.

Explore the Jungle Trail that winds for 7.8 miles throughout the refuge. For a shorter walk though, walk along the 0.75-mile Centennial Trail boardwalk, which crosses through marshlands and mangroves.

Piper Aircraft Factory Tour

The Piper Aircraft Factory Tour is one of the unique things to do in Vero Beach, Florida. It is located at the Vero Beach Municipal Airport. Founded by William T. Piper in 1937, Piper has been a pioneer in the aircraft industry for over 80 years.

At the Vero Beach Piper Aircraft Factory, you can take a tour to see how advancement has been made in aviation over the past 80 years.

See the factory assembly line, ask questions, and see manufacturing at different stages. The tour lasts about two hours and does require quite a bit of walking through the twelve manufacturing buildings, and up and down stairs.

The Hallstrom Farmstead

The Hallstrom Farmstead is a historic home located in Vero Beach, that was built in 1909 on a pineapple plantation. It was completed in 1918 for a Swedish horticulturist named Axel Hallstrom.

In 2002 the historic farmstead was added to the National Register of Historic Places. You can take a tour to see the interior of the home that has been decorated in a Victorian style, as well as pieces collected throughout the years by the family’s travels abroad.

The farmstead features art sold by African-American artists who sold paintings on the side of the road of Old Florida. A visit to this historic home is one of the things to do in Vero Beach if you’re wanting a tour of a pioneer home!

Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area

The Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area is located on the Indian River Lagoon, making this tropical hammock a great place to visit. If birding and wildlife observation is on your list of things to do in Vero Beach, head here!

The diverse Conservation Area is 298 acres of undeveloped land. It has a diverse group of plants including coffee, fungi, wildflowers, and bromeliads. There are two hiking trails, with the South Trail being accessed from a spilt off on the original trail, known as the Herb Kale Nature Trail. Bring hiking boots as the trail is often muddy.

If you want to canoe you can rent one from the University of Florida’s Lab situated on Pelican Island. There is also a boat launch.

Vero Beach Outlets

If you’re looking for some retail therapy on your trip to Vero Beach visit the Vero Beach Outlets. With over 40 designer brands and over 340,000 square feet of retail space, the outlets have almost all leading fashion brands in one place.

Located off I-95 and open Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 8 pm, you can hit favorites like Williams- Sonoma, Brooks Brothers, Restoration Hardware, J Crew, and many more. Scoring a great deal could be one of the best things to do in Vero Beach!

Environmental Learning Center

The Environmental Learning Center (or ELC for short) was founded in 1988 by members of the Pelican Island Audubon Society. Located on a 64-acre Indian River Lagoon island the ELC hosts EcoAdventures to teach about biodiversity and the history of the lagoon.

George Bunnell and Maggy Bowman founded ELC and were at the forefront of environmental conservation. The Environmental Learning Center is used by local elementary schools to learn about the Indian River Lagoon.

From family adventures like net fishing, campfire cooking, survivor hour, nature journaling, and an aquarium experience you can book private excursions, choosing three of the mentioned activities. Visiting the ELC is one of the best things to do in Vero Beach with kids!

For water activities you can take a two-hour tour guided tour of the Indian River Lagoon aboard a pontoon boat, learning about the mangroves and wildlife in the area. See-through canoe and guided kayak tours and stand-up paddleboards are available to book!

The artist series at ELC features rotating artists, whose nature-focused photographs are displayed. They also have wellness programs such as private guided retreats, walking, mediation, and yoga.

Admission is $5 for adults 12 and over and it’s open Monday through Saturday 8am to 4pm and Sunday 9am to 4 pm.

Vero Beach Wine and Film Festival

The Vero Beach Wine and Film Festival is another one of the unique things to do in Vero Beach. The event takes place over four weekends, and has been held for the last five years! The films are shown at several venues around town.

The festival is presented by the Vero Beach Outlets and has both virtual and live events (the first film festival to offer this option). The Film Festival will usually screen over 100 independent films such as Academy Award winners, Sundance hits, and other world premiers. All films are played two times during the festival.

In addition to movie premiers, there are dinners and Sip and See events, where patrons can try over 100 different wines from all over the world! On Saturdays, there is a wine experience where you can meet winemakers and get a behind-the-scenes view.

Sandridge Golf Club

If you’re looking for some of the best golf courses in Florida , play a round at Sandridge Golf Club. One of the best things to do in Vero Beach is to visit one of the public golf courses in the area. There are also tons of other courses to play!

There are two courses both designed by Ron Garl: the Dunes Course which in opened in 1987 and the Lakes Course which opened in 1992. The Lakes Course is the more challenging of the two courses, with one of the toughest par 4 14th holes.

The 6,150-yard course is owned by Indian River County. It is well-maintained and has 5 sets of tees.

McLarty Treasure Museum

For those interested in history, the McLarty Treasure Museum should be on your list of things to do in Vero Beach. The museum is actually located north of Vero Beach on Orchid Island. Orchid Island is one of the barrier islands and is part of the Sebastian Inlet State Park .

The McLarty Treasure Museum is part of the Survivors and Salvagers Camp of the 1715 Fleet, the fleet for which Treasure Coast is named.

When a hurricane struck almost 300 years ago the fleet sunk with vast amounts of gold and silver from Mexico and South America and the 1,500 Spanish survivors set up colonies in St. Augustine and Cuba.

It was not until the 1960s that the shipwreck site was rediscovered and salvage began. The museum opened in 1971 and is where you can see original artifacts including coins, weapons, and treasure known as the Queen’s jewels.

The McLarty Treasure Museum is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm.

How Sweet It Is Chocolate

How Sweet It Is Chocolate Factory is a family-owned business with over 200 types of handmade chocolate. The factory even has its own homemade ice cream shop and antiques.

Try a sample of their homemade chocolates, fudge, or ice cream. Or if you’re interested in kitsch antiques this is the perfect place to visit! There are tons of statues and farm equipment on the exterior.

A visit to How Sweet It Is Chocolate is definitely one of the more unique things to do in Vero Beach, Florida, and you’d be supporting a small business!

Indian River Citrus Museum

For those interested in Florida history specifically, one of the best things to do in Vero Beach is to step inside the Indian River Citrus Museum.

Although the growing and harvesting of citrus is a big part of Florida’s history, this museum is quite small. However, you can spend an hour inside soaking up information on Florida’s historical citrus industry. Learn how citrus seeds were first brought to Florida and how Indian River County was geographically a prime spot for growing.

The Indian River Citrus Museum also has a gift shop where you can purchase local produce, gifts, and art. Make sure to try some local orange juice! And if you feel inspired, go out and find a grove at which you can pick your own citrus !

Known for its wildlife and marshlands, the Vero Beach area is a prime spot for casting a line. If you like to fish, or if you’ve never tried to fish, it should definitely be on your list of things to do in Vero Beach.

Luckily, you don’t even need your own boat! You can travel with a guide who will take you out on their boat and show you the best places for catching largemouth bass and other freshwater fish. Personal flotation devices, fishing tackle is provided, as is live bait (on request).

Bring a bagged lunch and take in the beauty of your surroundings as you wait for something to catch. But keep an eye out for alligators!

Book here : Fishing Guide Tour

Kountry Kitchen With Love

If you want to start your day right before trying all the things to do in Vero Beach, start at Kountry Kitchen With Love. It may not look like anything fancy inside, but they serve up the best breakfast in Vero Beach!

Folks love the homemade biscuits and gravy as well as the Belgian-style waffles. The staff is almost always friendly, even when it gets quite busy (like on Sunday mornings).

Kountry Kitchen With Love is the epitome of an old-fashioned diner experience. However, be aware it is cash only! If you forget though, there is an ATM located inside the restaurant. Make sure to check out our list of the best restaurants in Vero Beach!

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Top Things to Do in Vero Beach

Things to do in vero beach, explore popular experiences, tours in and around vero beach.

Vero Beach Inshore Fishing Charters

2- Hour Jungle Tour at Prehistoric Preserve Site in Fort Pierce

Clear Kayak Tours in Fort Pierce

4-Hour Mangrove Island and Dolphin Watch Sandbar in Fort Pierce

6-Hr Tropical Mangroves, Coastal River and Ocean Wildlife Watch

Dolphin Tours along and near the beautiful Indian River Lagoon

GLOW Clear Kayak Tour

2 hour Dolphin Sightseeing Tour in Melbourne Florida

Mangrove Tunnel, Manatee and Dolphin Kayak Tour of Cocoa Beach

Florida Everglades Airboat Tour and Wild Florida Admission with Optional Lunch

Top attractions in vero beach.

Other Top Attractions around Vero Beach

What travelers are saying

• McKee Botanical Garden
• Round Island Beach Park
• McLarty Treasure Museum
• VBMA-Vero Beach Museum of Art
• Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge
• Environmental Learning Center
• Humiston Park
• Captain Ken's Airboat Tours
• Capt. Bob's Airboat Adventure Tours
• Florida Airboat Excursions
• Florida Cracker Airboat Rides
• Marsh Beast Airboat Tours

THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Vero Beach

Things to do in vero beach, explore popular experiences, tours in and around vero beach.

Vero Beach Inshore Fishing Charters

2- Hour Jungle Tour at Prehistoric Preserve Site in Fort Pierce

Clear Kayak Tours in Fort Pierce

4-Hour Mangrove Island and Dolphin Watch Sandbar in Fort Pierce

6-Hr Tropical Mangroves, Coastal River and Ocean Wildlife Watch

Dolphin Tours along and near the beautiful Indian River Lagoon

GLOW Clear Kayak Tour

2 hour Dolphin Sightseeing Tour in Melbourne Florida

Mangrove Tunnel, Manatee and Dolphin Kayak Tour of Cocoa Beach

Florida Everglades Airboat Tour and Wild Florida Admission with Optional Lunch

Top attractions in vero beach.

Other Top Attractions around Vero Beach

What travellers are saying

• McKee Botanical Garden
• Round Island Beach Park
• McLarty Treasure Museum
• VBMA-Vero Beach Museum of Art
• Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge
• Environmental Learning Center
• Humiston Park
• Captain Ken's Airboat Tours
• Capt. Bob's Airboat Adventure Tours
• Florida Airboat Excursions
• Florida Cracker Airboat Rides
• Marsh Beast Airboat Tours

10 Best Things to Do in Vero Beach, FL

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated May 11, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley frequently visits Florida, most recently in 2022 when he explored the Vero Beach area extensively.

Situated midway between the much larger cities of Miami to the south and Orlando to the north — it's in fact just a 90-minute drive away from Orlando's theme parks and tourist attractions — Vero Beach offers plenty of great things to do for sun-seeking vacationers.

One of the most popular small towns in Florida , its location on the state's Atlantic coast, as well as its long, wide sandy beaches, also make it as popular a place to visit for those seeking leisure properties of their own as it does for those here for a day trip or weekend getaway.

In addition to its excellent beaches, Vero Beach offers plenty of other places to visit for outdoor fun. The city's parks and beaches feature volleyball courts, as well as playgrounds for the kids, along with boat launches and convenient places to dip a paddle in the water. Kayaking is especially popular on the vast Indian River Lagoon , which separates the mainland section of the city from its beaches.

Vero Beach is also a superb travel destination for wildlife fans, too. Nature parks and wildlife refuges can be explored, including some that feature fun animal experiences designed to educate visitors while protecting the creatures they protect and preserve.

Vero Beach and its surrounds also have a great reputation among anglers. The focal point here is the small city of Sebastian, an easy 20-minute drive north of downtown Vero Beach.

Add to this mix a great cultural scene, superb casual and fine-dining seafood restaurants, great family beach resorts, as well as excellent shopping opportunities, and you'll find no end of fun things to do in Vero Beach, Florida.

1. Explore Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge

2. discover nature at the environmental learning center, 3. enjoy a day at the beach, 4. visit historic mckee botanical garden, 5. take a drive to sebastian, 6. hike or bike the historic jungle trail, 7. vero beach museum of art, 8. mclarty treasure museum, 9. take in a show at riverside theatre, 10. visit hallstrom farmstead, vero beach, fl - climate chart.

Highlights : Huge wildlife park with hiking and biking trails, birdwatching, and washrooms

Covering an area of 5,400 acres and an easy 20-minute drive from downtown Vero Beach, Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit, especially for birders.

Notable as the first wildlife refuge in the USA — it was established in 1903 by President Theodore Roosevelt — the refuge is in fact part of the Great Florida Birding Trail , a network of over 500 parks and refuges dedicated to preserving Florida's abundance of birds.

The park's also profoundly quiet, allowing plenty of opportunities to not just see the many birds that nest and rest here (it's on a major migratory route), but to listen to them, too. Before tackling the trails (they're all level and relatively easy to navigate), check out the useful information kiosk located in the parking area. Here, you can get your bearings, plan your adventure, and make use of the restrooms.

While the park is a refuge for all manner of creatures, the air is literally filled with birdsong, so bring your binoculars and a notepad to record your finds. Take Centennial Trail to the first information shelter to learn more about the 140 bird species that call the refuge home.

Check out the adjacent Butterfly Garden , then follow the level, paved trail that skirts around the small lake to the first of two sheltered telescopes that enable you to spy on the waterfowl as they preen and feed. Another viewing point, in the form of an 18-foot-tall observation tower, overlooks Pelican Island and the Indian River Lagoon (the island itself is prohibited).

The trails are wheelchair and stroller accessible , and also feature benches in which to sit and soak up this remarkably tranquil scene. The refuge is open dawn to dusk, and entrance and parking are free. Wildlife tours are also available, including kayaking adventures .

Address: 4055 Wildlife Way, Vero Beach, Florida

Highlights : Family-friendly attraction with boardwalks, kayaks, wildlife, and a museum

Young and old alike will want to pay a visit to the Environmental Learning Center (ELC) to find out more about the incredible diversity of creatures and plant life to be found in Vero Beach. Set on 64 acres of preserved natural habitat on Wabasso Island , this first-rate facility, as its name suggests, encourages the exploration of nature up close.

A highlight of a visit is exploring the center's 1.5 miles of wooden boardwalks , which place you at the perfect elevation to observe nature doing its thing. Afterward, board a kayak and delve deep into the dense hammock, following a network of watery trails that promise encounters with the wildlife residents, from birds to fish and turtles, as well as manatees.

Pay a visit to the facility's Interactive Museum, where you can actually handle certain local species of wildlife in the large touch tank and watch them swim about in the aquariums. Other amenities include a gift shop, an art gallery, and a new event pavilion. ELC also offers fun pontoon excursions across the Indian River Lagoon. For a special treat, opt for one of the sunset tours.

Address: 255 Live Oak Drive, Vero Beach, Florida

Highlights : Long stretch of clean beaches, free parking, and oceanfront resorts

Little surprise that Vero Beach is a very popular destination for those who enjoy a great sandy beach on which to relax. Whether you're staying here or seeking a great beach break near Orlando , you're certainly spoiled for choice.

A favorite for many, Wabasso Beach Park is located at the end of the road of the same name, and offers free parking just steps away from the beach (it can fill up quickly, so arrive early). Surrounding the parking area are a variety of souvenir shops selling towels and other beach gear, if needed, while "Beach Bites" offers snacks and beverages.

The beach itself stretches a long way in each direction here and is perfect for a beach stroll as it's hard-packed near the water's edge when the tide's out. Head south, and you'll pass Disney's Vero Beach Resort ; head north on launch day at Cape Canaveral and, although it's 80 miles away, you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a rocket making its way into space.

Other parks to include on your beach list are Golden Sands Beach Park , which features lifeguards and picnic tables, changerooms (with showers), and washrooms; Jaycee Park , which features a playground and boardwalk; and Humiston Beach Park , popular for its location in Vero Beach's poshest shopping district along Ocean Drive.

Feeling peckish? Just a few steps away from Humiston Beach along Ocean Drive is also where you'll find Craving s, a great little bakery with outside seating that serves fresh-baked pastries, sandwiches, and espresso coffees.

Address: 1820 Wabasso Beach Road, Vero Beach, Florida

Highlights : Life-size dinosaurs, beautiful gardens, gentle walking trails, kids' playgrounds

Opened in 1932 and included on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, the McKee Botanical Garden is set on some 18 acres of tropical hammock near the Indian River that's been transformed into a showcase of native and exotic flora. Crisscrossed by attractive gentle streams, and waterfalls, and dotted with numerous ponds, the garden's easy-to-follow trail network is fun to explore.

Along the way, you'll see numerous species of indigenous vegetation, as well as beautiful plants, flowers, and trees from across the globe. There are also a number of interesting sculptures to enjoy. On-site amenities include a gift shop and restaurant, as well as a kids' splash zone and playground.

Address: 350 US-1, Vero Beach, Florida

Highlights : Inland waterway with great fishing, kayaking, swimming, and boardwalk

Just 15 minutes' drive north of Vero Beach along the scenic coastal highway A1A, Sebastian Inlet Park makes for an excellent side trip. It's set on the Atlantic side of the Indian River Lagoon, a wide estuary that's teeming with wildlife, and which is a big draw for its rich flora and fauna.

The park is especially well-known for its superb fishing , and features some excellent fishing off its jetty. It's also a popular spot for surfers, drawn here by the challenge of surfing the park's "First Peak" and "Monster Hole." Kayaking, swimming, collecting seashells, and sunbathing are also fun, as is taking a stroll along the park's unspoiled stretch of beach.

Be sure to allow a little time to also explore mainland Sebastian, too. You'll have to cross the Wabasso Causeway bridge to get you there, so take the Main Street exit from US Hwy 1 toward the water, where you'll find plenty of parking. There's a pleasant boardwalk area to explore, as well as some neat outdoor sculptures (check out the huge all-metal alligator).

The promenade stretches for some distance in both directions, with many great eateries offering a variety of fresh-caught fish dishes.

Address:9700 S Hwy A1A, Melbourne Beach, Florida

Highlight : Traffic-free biking and hiking trail on a historic route through a lush natural area

Located in the same vicinity as Pelican Island (these two tourist attractions share the same parking lot) and a must-do for hikers and bikers, the Historic Jungle Trail is an eight-mile-long sandy road on Orchid Island that's just waiting to be explored.

While bikers will want to tackle the whole trail, hikers shouldn't feel too bad about it if they only tackle the first half. The trail here follows an old sandy road that was literally cut through the thick hammock foliage — the "jungle" — by citrus farmers in the 1920s and offers a unique perspective as it runs parallel to the Indian River.

Now included on the National Register of Historic Places , it's fascinating to contemplate the fact these early settlers managed to carve a road through the dense undergrowth. If biking, watch out for the occasional soft sandy section.

A number of additional trails can also be accessed off the Jungle Trail, including a number that lead deeper into the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge (though please note, bikes aren't allowed on these sections, so chain them up in the car park if venturing down them).

Location: The Jungle Trail starts at 4055 Wildlife Way, Vero Beach, Florida (Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge)

Highlights : Large art gallery with local and USA artists, workshops, kids' programs, and a shop

Boasting no less than five distinct galleries, the Vero Beach Museum of Art makes for an excellent diversion from all those outdoor activities. It's a huge facility and covers more than 55,000 square feet of great art created by artists from across Florida and the USA. It also boasts an impressive sculpture collection.

In addition to great art, you can also participate in a variety of fun art-related experiences. These include lectures and educational classes and seminars, workshops, a foundry, an art library, and a store.

Be sure to explore the sculpture garden, which features a variety of eclectic pieces in a lovely park-like setting.

Address: 3001 Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach, Florida

Highlights : Hear stories about buried treasure and shipwrecks with displays and artifacts

Vero Beach has long been known as a place where old treasures were lost. Its location on what's known as Florida's "Treasure Coast" can be discovered in the McLarty Treasure Museum, a great little museum chock-full of interesting displays and artifacts relating to real-life tales of buried treasure.

Of special interest are displays relating to the 1715 sinking in the area of a Spanish fleet carrying large quantities of gold and silver "treasures" from its colonies in South America and Mexico. To this day, some of the booty they carried has yet to be recovered

An interesting short film outlining this rich history is included with your admission. There's also a gift shop, as well as a great viewing platform looking out over the very coast on which the Spanish fleet floundered.

Address: 13180 North A1A, Vero Beach, Florida

Highlights : Twin-stage theater with Broadway shows, kids' programs, and a restaurant

Located in the city's Riverside Park cultural hub, Riverside Theatre is a state-of-the-art performance center that hosts a variety of shows each year on its two stages. Highlights include new and off-Broadway hits, as well as a range of shows for kids in its children's theater.

In need of a laugh? Then check out the regular Friday night stand-up comedy performances, which feature two comedians each show. Live music performances are also hosted here regularly, and a restaurant is located on the premises for a pre- or post-show meal.

Address: 3250 Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach, Florida

Highlights : Preserved farmhouse on old pineapple plantation offering tours and events

Hallstrom Farmstead is perhaps one of the most attractive historic homes in Vero Beach. Located a short drive away from the downtown core and set on five acres, the farmhouse was built in 1909 on what was at the time part of a working pineapple plantation.

Today, this perfectly preserved building, along with a number of outbuildings, serves as a living museum that showcases life in Vero Beach as it would have been in the early 1900s. Highlights include original furniture, photos, and memorabilia from the Hallstrom family, as well as interesting displays outlining the farm's history.

Address: 1701-1723 Old Dixie Hwy SW, Vero Beach, Florida

The best time to visit Vero Beach is spring. Typically lasting from March through April and into May, spring in Vero Beach will see temperatures average in the low to mid-80s Fahrenheit during daytime hours, with plenty of sunshine as well. The evenings are cooler and very pleasant for those who enjoy sitting outside.

Lasting from June through July, August, and September, you can expect summers to be hot and humid. Summer is also the wettest season in Vero Beach, with the chance of rainfall as high as 40 percent during the summer months.

Come fall, you can expect low levels of rainfall with cooler, drier weather. October can, in fact, still be quite warm with temperatures around 80 degrees Fahrenheit being common. These temperatures gradually dip during November, December, January, and February, but these months are still pleasant and dry enough to make Vero Beach a great place to visit in winter, too.

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14 Top Things to Do in Vero Beach, Florida

Marcea Cazel is a travel writer and digital marketer. She has written for publications such as Trips To Discover, TinyBeans, and more.

Located on Florida's east coast, halfway between West Palm Beach and Cape Canaveral, Vero Beach is a hub for those looking for a place to relax. With access to the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River Lagoon, the city offers plenty of opportunities for water adventures. Vero Beach blends the historic and the modern, too, as it was home to the first integrated Major League Baseball spring training site in the South. Truly, there is something to do for everyone visiting this city on the Treasure Coast of Florida. Here are the top things to do while in Vero Beach.

Enjoy the Outdoors at Sebastian Inlet State Park

Jill Bazeley / Flickr

Wildlife lovers have plenty to enjoy at this 1,000-acre Florida state park, located on a barrier island 6 miles north of Vero Beach. Search for the more than 190 varieties of birds that visit the island every year (ask for a checklist at the ranger station). Also, keep an eye out for nesting turtles, dolphins, manatees, and the most endangered whale in the world, the right whale, which sometimes appears offshore in January and February.

For adventure seekers, check out the three Florida "mountain" biking trails or try surfing in one of the few locations in the state where you can catch a wave. There are also two jetties for fishing, or visitors can relax on the park's 3 miles of beach.

Think there's too much to do all in one day? There's a campsite with water views that can accommodate RVs and tents. Campers should remember to take a look at the skies. The park's secluded location allows for star gazing you wouldn't be able to enjoy anywhere else nearby.

Visit the McLarty Treasure Museum

Jon. D. Anderson / Flickr

Shipwrecks, pirates, and lost treasure are as much a part of Florida history as theme parks and spring break. Visitors to the McLarty Treasure Museum will learn of 11 Spanish ships that were destroyed in a 1715 hurricane, during which only 1,500 people survived and the gold and silver cargo sank into the ocean. Taking refuge off the coast of Vero Beach at the site of the current museum, the survivors, with help sent from St. Augustine, worked to salvage the lost riches.

The shipwreck survivors' story of fending off nature and pirates is told in detail at the museum via a movie and artifacts, while the boardwalk out back shows the same view the survivors had more than 300 years ago. McLarty Treasure Museum is located inside the Sebastian Inlet State Park and requires park admission fees along with an additional $2 per person entry to explore the museum.

Take a Private Boat Tour of the Indian River Lagoon

Get to know Vero Beach from a place that gives it life—the Indian River Lagoon. Made up of three separate rivers, the lagoon goes through the city and is home to 370 varieties of birds and 2,200 animal species, including green and leatherback sea turtles, roseate spoonbills, manatees, and dolphins. While you could set out on the water on your own, exploring the area via a guided tour allows you to enjoy time with friends and family without having to know boating laws or rules. Select a wildlife cruise to learn more about the animals in the air, water, and surrounding land, or choose a sunset cruise to end the day.

Private boat rentals are typically covered to help protect you from the sun. Operators also allow food and drinks onboard, and well-behaved dogs are welcome. A few established choices in the area include Treasure Coast Cruise , River Explorer Boat Tours , and Vero Tackle & Watersports .

Explore the Vero Beach Museum of Art

Courtesy of Vero Beach Museum of Art

Opened in 1986 and located on the Indian River, the Vero Beach Museum of Art (VBMA) showcases a wide variety of art mediums, ranging from sketches and glassworks to sculptures and photography. Visiting exhibits have featured American folk art and Picasso showcases, while permanent exhibits include several pieces by Dale Chihuly. Considered the premier art venue of the Treasure Coast, VBMA also hosts music events, a children's arts festival, and onsite art classes for the public. Children under the age of 17 are admitted for free, and on the last Saturday of every month, everyone can enter at no cost.

Take a Stroll on the Indian River Lagoon Greenway

Open to bike riders, walkers, and joggers, the Indian River Lagoon Greenway is a public trail system maintained by the Indian River Land Trust and offers a glimpse into the region's unique ecosystem. Trails include the 1-mile, out-and-back boardwalk, which leads to an overlook of the Indian River Lagoon, and the roughly 2.5-mile Loop Trail. Whatever trail you take, expect to see plenty of wildlife, including birds, as well as mangrove forests. Motorized vehicles are not permitted. Dogs must be leashed while on the trail and scooped after. The trails are open year-round, rain or shine.

Sip a Brew at a Local Brewery

Walking Tree Brewery / Facebook

Home to hundreds of breweries, Florida has become one of the top places in the country to enjoy locally created beer. That includes the three in Vero Beach. Located in the historic Diesel Plant, American Icon Brewery serves IPAs, milk stouts, and pilsners alongside its menu of burgers, pizzas, and appetizers. Utilizing local Florida fruits and with a 540-barrel capacity, Sailfish Brewing Company 's selection of IPAs, stouts, and sours make a statement in its taproom and kitchen. And housed inside a 1945 aviation supply warehouse, Walking Tree Brewery is as dedicated to producing excellent beers as it is to protecting the local waterways. Several of its beers have been selected Best Florida Beer medal winners, including its Barnacled Manatee Barleywine and Prop Root English Pale Ale.

Birding at Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge

The first national wildlife refuge in the United States, Pelican Island has been protecting wildlife on the Treasure Coast for 120 years. The small island, along with the 5,400 acres of land and water surrounding it, offers nesting and feeding opportunities for the birds that call it home.

Bring a pair of binoculars and head out on the walking trails featuring salt marshes and mangroves. The observation tower and boardwalk area also give an overview of the preserve and the river. Anhingas, brown pelicans, ibis, kingfishers, warblers, and roseate spoonbills are some of the 130 different bird species you may observe. Keep an eye out for other wildlife that lives here, including the protected gopher tortoise, manatees, and dolphins.

Shop for Clothes, Antiques, and Other Souvenirs

Courtesy of Vero Beach Outlets

Visitors who love shopping and finding great deals will want to head to the Vero Beach Outlets . With brands such as Coach, Addidas, Crocs, Kay Jewelry, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Michael Kors having stores there, finding high-quality gifts and treats is simple. There's even a free VIP club visitors can join for even more savings.

Have an affinity for vintage goods or one day dream of purchasing an item that can pay for your retirement? The Wildwood Antique Mall of Vero Beach has 130 antique dealers who sell lighting, clothes, art, plates, and other pieces. Head over when you need a break from the sun or are just looking for something different to pass the time.

Rune / Flickr

Whether you prefer freshwater or saltwater fishing, the Vero Beach area has plenty of ways to catch something for sport or dinner. Looking to reel in some deep-sea treasures? Hire a charter boat and spend the day catching swordfish, mahi-mahi, and wahoo. Want to stay closer to land for your meal? Visit one of the local jetties or piers for redfish and flounder. If you're looking to catch some largemouth bass, head about an hour south and hire a guide at Lake Okeechobee.

Visit the Indian River Citrus Museum

Courtesy of Indian River Citrus Museum

Citrus has been a part of Florida since the 16th century when the Spaniards brought it over, and one of the best places to get it is in Indian River Lagoon country. The citrus industry here grew to such prominence in the late 1800s that the United States government restricted the name "Indian River Citrus" to the tangy fruit grown only within a 200-mile radius.

Discover more about this rich history at the Indian River Citrus Museum. Full of artifacts and authentic historic citrus crate labels, the museum paints a picture of when citrus was king in the Sunshine State. Open Tuesday through Friday, the museum is always free, although donations are welcome.

Head to the Beach

Anyone interested in soaking up the sun's rays and enjoying the salt air has plenty of opportunities to go to the shore. With 10 public beach areas, the city has options for every type of beach lover. Treasure Shores Park is more secluded, whereas Wabasso Beach Park offers a grocery store to grab a bite to eat, a reef to snorkel in, and a popular surfing location. If you have kids in tow, check out Humiston Beach Park . Voted one of the top beaches for families in the United States, it has playground equipment, restaurants, and beach access. Nature lovers, meanwhile, can head to Ambersands Beach Park, located inside the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge and featuring a habitat area for endangered green sea turtles.

Hit the Links

Courtesy of American Golf Club Vero Beach

Home to 13 golf courses, some of which are open to the public, Vero Beach offers plenty of opportunities for golfers to spend time teeing off. Sandridge Golf Club is a county facility with two courses, including one with a par-4 hole considered one of the hardest in the southern part of the state. A mile from the ocean, American Golf Club of Vero Beach has 27 holes, along with a driving range and a 19th hole to grab a drink and a bite to eat. And with both an 18-hole course and a shorter executive course, Vista Plantation Golf Course gives players of all levels time on the greens.

Pay Your Respects at Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary

Sitting on a barrier island off the mainland, Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary was created by the county in the 1960s to honor those who served in the United States Armed Forces. With tributes to Indian River County residents who died in combat, the sanctuary's paved shaded walkways, benches, and access to sit on the sand offer a peaceful place for quiet reflection.

Stroll the Grounds of McKee Botanical Garden

On lands purchased initially to create a citrus grove, McKee Botanical Garden is both a historical tribute to roadside attractions and a peaceful place to enjoy plants and nature. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the garden (formerly known as McKee Jungle Gardens) was one of the most popular attractions in Florida in the 1940s. After other attractions entered the state, however, it saw a drop in attendance and revenue, and eventually closed for two decades.

Fortunately, local preservation efforts in the early 1990s saved 18 of the original 80 acres by exposing the overgrown trails. The garden reopened in its current iteration in 2021 and is today home to more than 10,000 plants, a children's garden, and an onsite cafe that offers a full menu of salads, sandwiches, and desserts.

With access to the Atlantic Ocean and subtropical temperatures, Vero Beach is known for its outdoor activities. With plenty of golf courses, the opportunity to fish for sailfish or tarpon, reefs to snorkel, and plenty of places to take out a watercraft, there's always an activity to find in Vero Beach.

There are multiple public boardwalks in Vero Beach; some are located in parks, while others are on the beach. Jaycee Park is home to the longest boardwalk in Vero Beach and allows visitors to stroll and access the beach. The park next door offers pavilions and a playground. There are also restrooms and several restaurants nearby.

Families can visit Safari Golf & Game to play putt-putt golf, enjoy batting cages, and hit up the game room. Adults wanting to get out in the evenings can visit local breweries, and cigar bars, or enjoy a night out at The Comedy Zone .

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25 Best Things to Do in Vero Beach, Florida

Last Updated By VI on April 9, 2024 in Things to Do in Florida & Places to Visit

Beaches in Vero Beach

Mckee botanical garden, environmental learning center, places to visit: pelican island national wildlife refuge.

• See the Complete List

Humiston Beach Park and Jaycee Park are the only two of the Vero Beaches that provide beach wheelchairs. More beaches in Florida to explore on vacation.

350 US Highway 1,Vero Beach, FL 32962, Phone: 772-794-0601

More ideas: Best things to do in Miami

More ideas: Family-Friendly Things to Do in Florida

Vero Beach Museum of Art

3001 Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach, FL 32963, Phone: 772-231-0707

Museums Near Me: McLarty Treasure Museum

13180 North Highway A1A, Vero Beach , FL 32963, Phone: 772-589-2147

Things to Do in Vero Beach: Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge

S Hwy A1A, Melbourne Beach, FL 32951, Phone: 321-723 3556

Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area

More ideas: Tampa Bay Beaches are free and relaxing.

Vero Beach Theatre Guild

2020 San Juan Ave, Vero Beach, FL 32960, Phone: 772-562-8300

Hallstrom Farmstead

More ideas: best Florida state parks

Vero Beach Wine and Film Festival

1360 Us-1 Vero Beach, FL 32962, Phone: 772-925-9110

Paleo Discoveries

6540 36th Ln, Vero Beach, FL 32966, Phone: 772-539-7005

Riverside Theatre

3250 Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach, FL 32963, Phone: 772-231-6990

Piper Aircraft Factory Tour

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Florida Cracker Airboat Rides & Guide Service

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Treasure Coast Culinary Tours

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Vero Beach Outlets

1824 94th Drive, Vero Beach, FL 32966, Phone: 772-770-6097

Laura Riding Jackson Home

P.O. Box 643786, Vero Beach, FL 32964, Phone: 772-569-6718

Farmers Market Oceanside

2901 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach, FL 32963, Phone: 772-321-4145

Sandridge Golf Club

5300 73rd Street, Vero Beach, FL 32967, Phone: 772-770-5000

Round Island Beach Park

1401 Highway A1A, Vero Beach, Florida 32963, Phone: 772-678-3000

Humiston Park

3000 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach, Florida 32963, Phone: 772-231-5790

Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary

3001 Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach, Florida 32963-1874, Phone: 772-567-2144

Walking Tree Brewery

3209 Dodger Road, Vero Beach, Florida 32960, Phone: 772-217-3502

Historic Downtown Vero Beach vibrates with eclectic shops, restaurants, and shops, many of them on the National Register of Historic Places. Famous for its numerous cultural attractions, Vero Beach is just 135 miles north of Miami on Florida's east coast. With a thriving arts community, countless restaurants and shops, and any kind of water sport that you can imagine close at hand, it is a wonderful place to spend a weekend. Here are the best things to do in Vero Beach, Florida.

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• 1. Beaches in Vero Beach
• 2. McKee Botanical Garden
• 3. Environmental Learning Center
• 4. Places to Visit: Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge
• 5. Vero Beach Museum of Art
• 6. Museums Near Me: McLarty Treasure Museum
• 7. Things to Do in Vero Beach: Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge
• 8. Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area
• 9. Vero Beach Theatre Guild
• 10. Hallstrom Farmstead
• 11. Vero Beach Wine and Film Festival
• 12. Paleo Discoveries
• 13. Riverside Theatre
• 14. Piper Aircraft Factory Tour
• 15. Florida Cracker Airboat Rides & Guide Service
• 16. Treasure Coast Culinary Tours
• 17. Vero Beach Outlets
• 18. Laura Riding Jackson Home
• 19. Farmers Market Oceanside
• 20. Sandridge Golf Club
• 21. Round Island Beach Park
• 22. Humiston Park
• 23. Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary
• 24. Walking Tree Brewery

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Florida (FL) » 15 Best Things to Do in Vero Beach (FL)

15 Best Things to Do in Vero Beach (FL)

On the Treasure Coast, Vero Beach is a city that means a lot to me. I could go on and on about the many unique things you can get up to.

A good place to start is the Indian River Lagoon, with a degree of biodiversity unrivaled in North America. 

Put bluntly, you need to experience this environment however you can, whether on eco-tours, kayaking trips, or boardwalks at the many parks and preserves along the lagoon’s shores.

Then there’s the Atlantic shore, with its sublime white sandy beaches. These can be full of life and amenities, or a little more remote, depending on your preference.

I’m almost out of space to talk about Vero Beach as a cultural hotbed. There are big institutions here like the Vero Beach Museum of Art and Riverside Theatre. 

As well as being destinations in their own right, they contribute to the vitality of the city with a load of public events. 

1. The Vero Beach Museum of Art

In Vero Beach you can visit the Treasure Coast’s premier art museum. Sitting among exquisite sculpture gardens, these galleries kept me smitten for a couple of hours at least.

As well as having an extensive permanent collection, the Vero Beach Museum of Art hosts major traveling exhibitions. 

To give you an idea of the standard, when I was here there was an exhibition for the famed Dutch printmaker M.C. Escher. Recent shows have touched on Art Deco industrial design, and artists like Jack Towrkov and Doris Lee.

The museum has a wealth of public programs, from lectures to live performance, gallery tours and a hands-on Art Zone for kids. This institution is also behind a lot of big events in Vero Beach, like the Concerts in the Park series and Fashion Meets Art in February.

2. The Environmental Learning Center

Out on the Indian River Lagoon, this non-profit organization encourages people to become active stewards of this awesome biodiversity. 

The Environmental Learning Center is on a 64-acre island, brimming with wildlife, but also perfectly placed for eco-tours on the lagoon.

The visitor center has a variety of exhibits, with aquariums, a touch tank, and a functioning bee hive. 

Outside there’s a butterfly garden, and boardwalks through mangroves. Even if you’re doing a self-guided tour, the approachable, roaming docents are always ready to answer questions. 

What I love most about the ELC are the guided experiences, from pontoon boat tours to paddling adventures.

3. McKee Botanical Garden

On 18 acres, this sublime botanical garden harks back to an early tourist attraction. Opened in 1932, McKee Jungle Gardens was in business for more than 40 years before closing in the 1970s.

A new chapter began in the 1990s, and the McKee Botanical Garden is now a tropical wonderland. There are more than 10,000 plants growing here, including Florida’s largest collection of water lilies.  

Elements from the original Jungle Gardens remain, including the restored Spanish Kitchen and Hall of Giants, resting among creeks, ponds and waterfalls. My two tips are to bring big spray, and bathing suits for kids as there’s a great splash pad here.

4. Main Street Vero Beach

For several blocks around the intersection of 20th Street and 14th Avenue, Vero Beach has a stylish and creative downtown. To illustrate, I counted five independent art galleries when I was here.

Be here on the first Friday of the month for the first Friday Gallery Stroll. Along 14th Avenue, a lineup of galleries and other local businesses open up to the public with exciting new artwork.

Then on the last Friday of the month, Downtown Friday is a joyous street party, with food vendors, outdoor concerts, and live demonstrations. 

Vero Beach’s artsy side is also reflected by a new and growing mural trail, while there’s a wide choice of places to shop and dine. On the menu are tacos, sushi, bagels, New York-style pizza, burgers, exotic teas, and much more than I can list here.

5. Round Island Beach Park

Something that really appeals to me about Vero Beach is the amount of natural shoreline. Up and down the coast are beaches with little more than dunes and mangroves behind.

In that vein, one of the easiest spots to get to is Round Island. This spot is interesting because it has a beach park (Oceanside) on the Atlantic shore and a sprawling Riverside Park on the Indian River Lagoon.

At the beach, there’s almost 400 feet of guarded area, with pristine white sands, an ADA crossover, a playground, restrooms, showers and picnic tables.

Across the road, the Round Island Riverside Park is yet another wonderful spot to launch a boat or kayak/canoe on the lagoon. My favorite part here is the 400-foot boardwalk, with manatees and dolphins often coming into view.

6. Seagrape Trail Beach Access

While Vero Beach has plenty of developed municipal beaches, there are several more remote and less-visited options too. These are ideal for those who prefer a bit more seclusion and nature.

In the true spirit of the Treasure Coast, Seagrape Trail Beach has long been the haunt of treasure hunters. Among other items, silver coins from the 1715 Spanish treasure fleet have been discovered on this beach. 

Like other beaches nearby this is a vital sea turtle hatchery April through October. A boardwalk takes you across the dune habitat to the unguarded beach. On many days you’ll be sharing this beach with very few people.

7. McLarty Treasure Museum

In 1715, the event that gave the Treasure Coast its name took place, when a fleet of 11 Spanish ships laden with treasure was lost in a storm. 

The McLarty Treasure Museum is on part of the site where the survivors gathered after the disaster. Later this camp became the base for salvage efforts.

In these display cases you can see some of the many items recovered from local beaches. There are silver coins, bottles, pottery fragments, ships tools, medals, weapons, and much more.

I was captivated by the Asian items, illustrating how widespread maritime trade was more than 300 years ago. There are also interesting details about archaeological processes, and you can survey the coastline from an observation deck.

8. South Beach Park

For some unfussy beachtime, I don’t think you can do better than South Beach Park at the east end of 17th Street. 

Cherished by locals and tourists alike, South Beach Park stands out for being ADA accessible. On the other side of the low dunes here is a welcoming spread of spotless sand.

Lifeguards are on duty every day, and among the many amenities are showers, covered pavilions, restrooms, and plentiful paved parking.

If you want to catch the sunrise, this is an easy, centrally located place to do it.

9. The Hallstrom Farmstead

The Indian River County Historical Society maintains this historic pineapple plantation, worked by Scandinavian immigrants at the turn of the 20th century.

The Hallstrom Farmstead is one of the area’s best-preserved examples of a pioneer-era home and farm. Looking around this intimate living history museum, I was fascinated by the many insights into a now alien way of life.

The farmstead has a large collection comprising furniture, housewares, photographs, personal memorabilia, and first-hand accounts of the family who worked the plot.

When I visited, Indian River County had just purchased another 100 acres around the property, and a conservation area was about to be opened to the public.

10. Vero Beach Farmers’ Market

When I browsed this lively farmers’ market it had just been ranked 11th in the nation for green markets. The Vero Beach Farmers’ Market started in 2007, and takes place on Saturdays, 08:00 am to Noon. 

In addition to fresh and seasonal Florida produce, vendors sell meat and dairy products, arts, crafts, and health and body products, as well as a number of prepared food items. 

When I took a look, there was kombucha, gourmet popcorn, artisanal bread, nut butters, custom woodworking, grass-fed meat, and even all-natural mosquito repellent. 

Like many farmers markets, this is as much a social event as it is a shopping opportunity, and it’s dog-friendly too.

11. Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge

In 1903, an executive order by Theodore Roosevelt designated this small island in the Indian River Lagoon as the nation’s first National Wildlife Refuge.

At that time plume hunting was decimating birdlife, and the refuge was created to protect egrets and other birds. 

Naturally these include pelicans, but also a variety of herons, egrets, anhingas, cormorants, and ibises. You can see them from a handful of trails on the neighboring barrier island, weaving through mangroves and salt marsh.

If you have limited time, my pick would be the light ¾-mile Centennial Trail. This has a 500-foot ADA-accessible boardwalk and an accessible observation tower, with views to the protected island.

12. Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area

I can’t get enough of the natural splendor on the Indian River Lagoon. So I’m naturally drawn to this undeveloped waterfront property with a kayak launch in the south of Vero Beach. 

The conservation area includes habitats like estuarine wetlands, mature coastal hammock, and scrubby flatwoods. 

There are several trails that give visitors relatively complete access, and due to its sheer size, it’s common to find long stretches of empty trail.

The best part for me is the coastal hammock, with magnificent live oaks that have been growing for centuries. This environment is teeming with wildlife from songbirds to hawks, squirrels, and occasional opossums and armadillos.

13. Riverside Theatre

At Riverside Park by the Vero Beach Museum of Art, is the area’s only professional, not-for-profit theater. 

With three stages, this ever-expanding center hosts as many as 300 performances a year, to more than 100,000 patrons 

Head here for musicals, comedies, and dramas, as well as live comedy, lectures, concerts, and up to eight yearly productions specifically for children. 

The core of the Riverside Theatre is the Mainstage, seating 633 and opened in 1973. This has since been accompanied by an intimate second stage, and the 300-seat Anne Morton Theatre. The latter hosts all of the Children’s Theatre productions. 

If you’re wondering what to do on a weekend evening, I’d recommend the Live in the Loop, outdoor concert series, with free shows on Fridays and Saturdays.

14. Piper Aircraft Factory Tour

Vero Beach is home to the largest private employer in Indian River County. This is Piper Aircraft, based at Vero Beach Regional Airport.

Manufacturing general aviation aircraft, the company dates back to 1927, and moved to the city in the 1950s. 

Since then, the factory in Vero Beach has produced more than 120,000 planes, while the company was purchased by the Government of Brunei in 2009. 

Complimentary factory tours take place Tuesday and Thursday at 10:00 am and 1:00 pm. These last for an hour, and require a release form to be filled out in advance. 

On my tour, I was intrigued by the story of the Henry Ford-esque founder, William T. Piper (1881-1970), and got to see a range of M-Class aircraft being built.

15. Vero Beach Outlets

For a change of scene from the beaches and Indian River Lagoon, I’d point you towards this outlet mall. Out in the very west Vero Beach Outlets has close to 40 stores, mostly for premium brands. 

On my last visit a few of these included Polo Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Calvin Klein, Ann Taylor, Columbia, and Tommy Hilfiger. 

My pro tip is to check online for specific sales and promotions if you’d like to get the best deals. Unusually for an outlet mall, there are no dining options here, but you will find plenty of restaurant chains further east along SR 60.

15 Best Things to Do in Vero Beach (FL):

• The Vero Beach Museum of Art
• The Environmental Learning Center
• McKee Botanical Garden
• Main Street Vero Beach
• Round Island Beach Park
• Seagrape Trail Beach Access
• McLarty Treasure Museum
• South Beach Park
• The Hallstrom Farmstead
• Vero Beach Farmers' Market
• Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge
• Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area
• Riverside Theatre
• Piper Aircraft Factory Tour
• Vero Beach Outlets

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Discover the Best Things to Do in Vero Beach, Florida

R. C. Staab

Welcome to Vero Beach – the most sophisticated beachside vacation town between Palm Beach and Amelia Island on Florida’s Treasure Coast. Rather than giant condos sandwiched together, Vero Beach residents live in gated communities on this barrier island. Water views abound of either the Indian River Lagoon or the Atlantic Ocean.

While much of the so-called Treasure Coast is flip-flop and fishing country, Vero Beach residents prefer a more sophisticated approach. They dress up in Lilly Pulitzer attire purchased from fashionable shops on Ocean Drive. They dine at oceanfront restaurants where the daily catch is savored with a chilled glass of rosé.

While Vero Beach is hardly “the best kept secret,” its location in Indian River County south of Melbourne Beach and north of Fort Pierce on the east coast of Florida requires a two-plus-hour trek from airports in Orlando and West Palm Beach.  That’s fine with the people of Vero Beach . Once there for the winter, why would they want to leave?

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1. Visit a Tropical Paradise at the McKee Botanical Garden

Surprisingly, Vero Beach’s most treasured attraction was almost bulldozed for bland condos in the 1970s. Originally developed in 1932 by Waldo Sexton and Arthur McKee as a tourist attraction called the McKee Jungle Gardens , the site was closed in 1976.  Thankfully, the Indian River Trust fought long and hard to purchase the land. It’s now a  180-acre tropical wonder. The gardens are cleverly laid out with diverse plant collections including water lilies, bromeliads, cycads, and palms amidst the Royal Palm Grove, the Bamboo Pavilion, and a clever floral kaleidoscope. Stop in the gift shop or an interesting array of local crafts.

SheBuysTravel Tip : Kids or no kids, the children’s garden is a must-see stop to marvel at the cleverness of the monkey bridge, water lily fountain, music maze, fairy forest, and pirate ship.

2. Launch from Wabasso Island and the Environmental Learning Center

What better place for a nature center than at Wabasso Island in the middle of the Indian River Lagoon just north of Vero Beach ? Discover the area through interactive exhibits, aquariums, and outdoor trails over lush mangroves to a lookout tower, dock, and a blind perched over the river. To see manatees, sea turtles, and dolphins, charter a pontoon boat or rent a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard. After selecting the date of a kayak trip, there is the option to arrange for a guided kayak tour.

SheBuysTravel Tip : A kayak or canoe rental includes access to nature trails and admission to the rest of the Center’s exhibits at no additional cost.

3. Shop with Style on Ocean Drive

The always-busy shops along Ocean Drive  offer a delightful shopping escape, blending coastal charm with unique finds that are particularly geared to the female shopper. Boutiques like Lazy Daisy burst with vibrant Lilly Pulitzer prints. Patchington tempts with contemporary classics. Pick up a bottle of wine at Happy Girl Wine. Don’t miss The Beached Whale for Vero Beach souvenirs and gifts. Art galleries feature local and national artists.

SheBuysTravel Tip : If visiting on a Saturday morning, stop by the Vero Beach Farmers Market at Humiston Beach Park for fresh produce, artisan goods and horticultural products.

4. Catch the Sunrise along the Boardwalk

Starting at Jaycee Park , there’s a popular half-mile boardwalk extending south toward the heart of Vero Beach . Join locals who start their day watching the sun rise over the Atlantic Ocean or spying on surfers out in the ocean. There’s plenty of free parking at the park along with restrooms.

SheBuysTravel Tip : Other beautiful beaches with parking, restrooms, and on-site lifeguards include Humiston Beach Park  and South Beach Park .

5. Whiz on the Water with an Airboat Tour

Just west of I-95 is the headwaters of the St. Johns River, where it begins its journey north through small and large lakes for 300 miles to Jacksonville. Looking for alligators with a knowledgeable guide at a safe distance? After making sure all his passengers are wearing their life jackets, Captain Bob takes his passengers on an airboat adventure  tour for a fully narrated tour of the Blue Cypress Conservation Marshland. Listen over headsets. Everyone can speak in a normal voice. He seems to know every osprey personally and their mating habits.  

He’ll spot alligators, exotic birds, plants, and turtles, allowing passengers to take photographs.  This is not a kids’ thrill ride for speed. Even in the summer, he recommends passengers bring a windbreaker or jacket because it can be chilly on the water. Dispense hats of any kind. Prepare your hair in advance!

SheBuysTravel Tip : Planning a friend trip?  Ask about private guided tours starting at $800.

6. See New Exhibits at the Vero Beach Museum of Art

The Vero Beach Museum of Art  opened its doors in early 1986 with the enhancement of a handsome neoclassical exterior amidst a sculpture garden. With a limited permanent collection on display, the museum mostly features traveling exhibits. Locals and visitors are welcome to join art classes and attend an international lecture series and music events.

7. Attend Florida’s Large Professional Theater

Catch a Broadway-caliber performance at the historic Riverside Theatre,  showcasing professional productions with Equity actors from New York City and beyond throughout the year. Over the years, it has grown to become one of the largest producing professional theaters in the state, with multiple additions and renovations to its facilities. In 2007, a new Riverside Theatre was opened, featuring the Stark Stage with almost 700 seats, the smaller, more versatile 250-seat Waxlax Stage and a dynamic Orchid Lobby Bar and Concessions.

SheBuysTravel Tip:  The theater hosts the popular Live in the Loop event, a twice-weekly outdoor concert series featuring alfresco dining and live music.

8. Play Ball (or Watch It) at the Jackie Robinson Training Complex

The Major League Baseball Jackie Robinson Training Complex  was formerly known as Historic Dodgertown where the Brooklyn Dodgers/Los Angeles Dodgers came for spring training. The complex is a year-round hub for amateur baseball and softball tournaments and events. It features the 6,500-seat Holman Stadium, four full-sized baseball fields, a half-field, four softball and youth baseball fields. Its historical significance lies in its role as the first fully integrated Major League Baseball spring training site in the South, making it a Florida Heritage Landmark and an inclusion on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail.

9. Walk the Trails at Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge

Witness a haven for over 300 species of birds at the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge , the nation’s first national wildlife refuge. It’s also on the National Register of Historic Places. Created in 1903 to protect egrets and other birds from extinction, the riverside park and refuge have expanded to include two 3-mile loop trails, a butterfly garden, and a Centennial walking trail. Hike up to a 500-foot observation tower of the 500-acre refuge. Enjoy watching pelicans, herons, egrets, and shorebirds in their natural habitat along the Indian River Lagoon. Entry to the refuge is free, ample parking is available, and the area is open early for locals who often walk the trails.

SheBuysTravel Tip : Bring bug spray just in case.

10. Hike the Historic Jungle Trail

From the Pelican Island Refuge’s north end, drive a 7.8-mile road/trail–a remnant of the barrier island’s maritime hammock. Explore the natural beauty and diverse plant life along the scenic Historic Jungle Trail  which winds through gated communities and past a golf course. The trail dates back to a time when it was the original path for early settlers to reach their fishing shacks along the river.

11. See Manatees at Round Island Park

There are two parks in one at Round Island, one of the best places to enjoy the ocean and the river and avoid busy Vero beaches. At Round Island Oceanside Park , visitors can enjoy a pristine beach with covered pavilions, a playground, and restrooms. Across Route A1A along the Indian River Lagoon, at Round Island Beach Park you can partake in kayaking, paddleboarding, and wildlife observation. Available in this area are a 400-foot-long boardwalk, nature trails, a fishing pier, and an observation tower for birdwatching and spotting manatees.

SheBuysTravel Tip : For those taking a long oceanside walk, grab a small plastic basket, like the ones you find at a supermarket, to pick up trash and return it to recycling containers and trash cans. A nifty idea!

12. See Spanish Treasures at the McLarty Treasure Museum

Long before America was born, the Spanish spent decades in Florida, using it as a stopping point between Europe and Carribean for trade. The relatively small McLarty Treasure Museum  features shipwreck artifacts and pirate legends and offers an observation deck with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The museum occupies a portion of the historical site of the Survivors’ and Salvagers’ Camp of the 1715 Spanish Fleet which ran aground nearby with treasures of gold and silver. Unfortunately, the Spanish salvaged 80% of the wreckage, and others followed to scoop up the rest.

SheBuysTravel Tip : Although part of the Florida State Park system, a statewide park pass is not honored nor is it included in admission to nearby Sebastian Inlet State Park.

13. Fish off the Pier at Sebastian Inlet

One of the most popular and exhilarating views of the area is the bridge over Sebastian Inlet, one of the few waterways that connects the Indian River Lagoon to the Atlantic Ocean. Fishermen, surfers, and dolphin watchers head to Sebastian Inlet State Park from all over the area, and it can be packed in the summer. The park features beaches for shell collecting, sea turtle nest observation, and fishing from the jetties. The park is also a surfer’s paradise, with renowned surf spots such  as “First Peak” and “Monster Hole.” Calmer waters in the Indian River Lagoon are ideal for kayaking and provide a large bay with calm waters for swimmers on the northern side of the inlet. Water sports are abundant.

14. Discover Home Bargains at the Vero Beach Outlets

Seemingly there is an abundance of outlet malls along the main highways in Florida, offering many of the same stores. Shoppers looking to furnish a home shop head to the Vero Beach Outlets  to find upscale furniture and home stores such as Design With Reach store and RH Outlet. There are about another 30 designer and brand-name stores featuring clothing, shoes, and accessories.

15. Explore Vero’s Consignment Galleries

While shops near the ocean tend to mostly new and upscale items, in downtown Vero across the Indian River and further inland are several notable  consignment stores . The Consignment Gallery has gently used brand-name home furnishings, Born Again Too Consignments has furniture, artwork, and home decor, and Interiors on Consignment claims to be The Premier Consignment Furniture Store in the area. Threads Boutique & Consignment features a curated selection of high-quality pre-owned clothing and accessories such as Chanel, Tory Burch, Gucci, and Lily Pulitzer. Elizabeth’s Fine Consignments offers women’s quality clothing and accessories.

16. Learn the Area’s History at the Indian River Citrus Museum

Housed in a historic building, the Indian River Citrus Museum museum tells the story of how early Florida settlers pioneered the commercial cultivation of citrus, leading to the birth of a thriving industry. A small one-room space displays artifacts, photographs, memorabilia, and original crate labels related to the area’s citrus fruit heritage.

SheBuysTravel Tip : The suggested donation is $5 per person but feel free to take a quick look inside before deciding whether to commit time to fully explore the museum.

Where to Stay in Vero Beach

While there are plenty of well-known brand hotels along I-95 from Titusville to Melbourne, why choose a view of the concrete when Vero Beach offers an opportunity to stay on the ocean in an upscale hotel? Among the choices are:

• The Hi storic Driftwood Resort  is known for its wacky history and its conglomeration of rustic beachcomber rooms spread across several buildings. There are 100 motel-like rooms with interior and ocean views and cottages assembled by Waldo Sexton, one of Vero Beach’s most colorful characters. Some of the buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places. Definitely eat at Waldo’s Restaurant and Bar, the so-called Last of the Great American Hangouts.
• The  Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa  is a luxurious beachfront retreat offering 94 rooms, suites, and penthouse options. The resort offers exquisite dining, a fully equipped spa, and an oceanfront infinity pool.
• The Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Sp a is an oceanfront oasis, offering a beachfront sanctuary with luxurious accommodations. Hang out at the heated oceanside pool, dine at one of two restaurants, or enjoy a day at the spa.
• The former Holiday Inn & Suites Vero Beach-Oceanside is now the Ocean Breeze Inn  which provides a beachfront experience with many of the 104 rooms directly facing the beach. All rooms offer a mini-fridge. This is a pet-friendly property.
• Disney’s Vero Beach Resort is only for Disney Vacation Club members but Disney fans are welcome to stop by to eat at the Wind & Waves Grill .  But the Grill is often booked so best to book weeks ahead through Open Table.

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Top Things to Do in Vero Beach, FL - Vero Beach Must-See Attractions

Things to do in vero beach, explore popular experiences, tours in and around vero beach.

Vero Beach Inshore Fishing Charters

2- Hour Jungle Tour at Prehistoric Preserve Site in Fort Pierce

Clear Kayak Tours in Fort Pierce

4-Hour Mangrove Island and Dolphin Watch Sandbar in Fort Pierce

6-Hr Tropical Mangroves, Coastal River and Ocean Wildlife Watch

Dolphin Tours along and near the beautiful Indian River Lagoon

GLOW Clear Kayak Tour

2 hour Dolphin Sightseeing Tour in Melbourne Florida

Mangrove Tunnel, Manatee and Dolphin Kayak Tour of Cocoa Beach

Florida Everglades Airboat Tour and Wild Florida Admission with Optional Lunch

Top attractions in vero beach.

Other Top Attractions around Vero Beach

What travellers are saying

• McKee Botanical Garden
• Round Island Beach Park
• McLarty Treasure Museum
• VBMA-Vero Beach Museum of Art
• Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge
• Environmental Learning Center
• Humiston Park
• Captain Ken's Airboat Tours
• Capt. Bob's Airboat Adventure Tours
• Florida Airboat Excursions
• Florida Cracker Airboat Rides
• Marsh Beast Airboat Tours

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Vero Beach

Things to do in vero beach, explore popular experiences, tours in and around vero beach.

Vero Beach Inshore Fishing Charters

2- Hour Jungle Tour at Prehistoric Preserve Site in Fort Pierce

Clear Kayak Tours in Fort Pierce

4-Hour Mangrove Island and Dolphin Watch Sandbar in Fort Pierce

6-Hr Tropical Mangroves, Coastal River and Ocean Wildlife Watch

Dolphin Tours along and near the beautiful Indian River Lagoon

GLOW Clear Kayak Tour

2 hour Dolphin Sightseeing Tour in Melbourne Florida

Mangrove Tunnel, Manatee and Dolphin Kayak Tour of Cocoa Beach

Florida Everglades Airboat Tour and Wild Florida Admission with Optional Lunch

Top attractions in vero beach.

Other Top Attractions around Vero Beach

What travellers are saying

• McKee Botanical Garden
• Round Island Beach Park
• McLarty Treasure Museum
• VBMA-Vero Beach Museum of Art
• Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge
• Environmental Learning Center
• Humiston Park
• Captain Ken's Airboat Tours
• Capt. Bob's Airboat Adventure Tours
• Florida Airboat Excursions
• Florida Cracker Airboat Rides
• Marsh Beast Airboat Tours

Vero Beach - One of the Best Places to Retire in FL

Tyler Fox is a Multi-Million Dollar Top Producing Realtor & expert marketer focused on fetching top-dollar for his Seller clients and finding the perfect home, at the best negotiated price, for his Buyer clients. Born in Sebastian and raised in Vero Beach, Fox is a Realtor with the area's leader - Dale Sorensen Real Estate with 200 agents in 12 locations in three counties - Indian River, Brevard & St. Lucie.

Tyler Fox, Realtor phone or text  (772) 538-3733 [email protected]

Looking for a new friend? These pets are looking for their forever home!

Attractions

Indian River Hauntings

Indian River Hauntings offers the opportunity for guests to participate in a paranormal adventure. Combining historical facts and haunted stories, Indian River Hauntings takes a hands on approach by using investigative methods where guests can use equipment to see for themselves what can and cannot be explained.

Vero Beach Museum of Art

The Vero Beach Museum of Art, the largest cultural arts facility of its kind on Florida's Treasure Coast, that is admired and appreciated by residents and tourists alike. This nationally accredited art museum offers something for all ages and interests. From galleries featuring national and international exhibitions to sculpture parks with large-scale works from its permanent collection. Families with children can enjoy the new interactive Art Zone space, take a tour with one of our trained docents, shop the store or take a break in our Cafe.  This hands-on cultural and educational experience is one of the true "gems" of the Treasure Coast.

Map for Vero Beach Museum of Art

St. Lucie County Aquarium

Even though the IRL is an everyday sight for many of us, few have ever experienced the unsurpassed biological diversity that lies below these waters. The Smithsonian Marine Ecosystems Exhibit provides a window into this underwater world.  Make no mistake, this are not a typical public aquarium. Their focus is on displaying ecosystems as complex communities of organisms interacting in their environment. With the help of our dynamic displays they strive to provide the public with a better understanding of the fragile marine ecosystems of the Indian River Lagoon and surrounding area and the impact humans are having on these fragile environments.

Map for St. Lucie County Aquarium

The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum

The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum is the only museum dedicated solely to preserving the history of the U.S. Navy SEALs and their predecessors. Located in Fort Pierce, Florida, the Museum resides on the training grounds of the original Navy combat divers. The Museum promotes public education by providing hands-on opportunities for all ages to explore the history of the Navy SEALs through interactive exhibits.

Map for The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum

Manatee Observation and Education Center

The Manatee Observation and Education Center is a waterfront wildlife observation and nature education center located on Florida's east coast in downtown Fort Pierce. The endangered Florida manatee, also called sea cow, is the main attraction. Manatees can be viewed at The Center year-round! Stand along the covered observation walkway or climb the second story observation tower to see Florida's "Gentle Giants" resting or playing in Moore's Creek. These are wild, not captive manatees, so one never knows when they might swim by.

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Top Things to Do in Vero Beach, FL

Things to do in vero beach, explore popular experiences, tours in and around vero beach.

Vero Beach Inshore Fishing Charters

2- Hour Jungle Tour at Prehistoric Preserve Site in Fort Pierce

Clear Kayak Tours in Fort Pierce

4-Hour Mangrove Island and Dolphin Watch Sandbar in Fort Pierce

6-Hr Tropical Mangroves, Coastal River and Ocean Wildlife Watch

Dolphin Tours along and near the beautiful Indian River Lagoon

GLOW Clear Kayak Tour

2 hour Dolphin Sightseeing Tour in Melbourne Florida

Mangrove Tunnel, Manatee and Dolphin Kayak Tour of Cocoa Beach

Florida Everglades Airboat Tour and Wild Florida Admission with Optional Lunch

Top attractions in vero beach.

Other Top Attractions around Vero Beach

What travellers are saying

• McKee Botanical Garden
• Round Island Beach Park
• McLarty Treasure Museum
• VBMA-Vero Beach Museum of Art
• Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge
• Environmental Learning Center
• Humiston Park
• Captain Ken's Airboat Tours
• Capt. Bob's Airboat Adventure Tours
• Florida Airboat Excursions
• Florida Cracker Airboat Rides
• Marsh Beast Airboat Tours

Top Things to Do in Vero Beach

Things to do in vero beach, explore popular experiences, tours in and around vero beach.

Vero Beach Inshore Fishing Charters

2- Hour Jungle Tour at Prehistoric Preserve Site in Fort Pierce

Clear Kayak Tours in Fort Pierce

4-Hour Mangrove Island and Dolphin Watch Sandbar in Fort Pierce

6-Hr Tropical Mangroves, Coastal River and Ocean Wildlife Watch

Dolphin Tours along and near the beautiful Indian River Lagoon

GLOW Clear Kayak Tour

2 hour Dolphin Sightseeing Tour in Melbourne Florida

Mangrove Tunnel, Manatee and Dolphin Kayak Tour of Cocoa Beach

Florida Everglades Airboat Tour and Wild Florida Admission with Optional Lunch

Top attractions in vero beach.

Other Top Attractions around Vero Beach

What travellers are saying

• McKee Botanical Garden
• Round Island Beach Park
• McLarty Treasure Museum
• VBMA-Vero Beach Museum of Art
• Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge
• Environmental Learning Center
• Humiston Park
• Captain Ken's Airboat Tours
• Capt. Bob's Airboat Adventure Tours
• Florida Airboat Excursions
• Florida Cracker Airboat Rides
• Marsh Beast Airboat Tours