Nestled on Florida’s picturesque Treasure Coast, Port St. Lucie offers a unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking variety.
As the largest city in St. Lucie County, it boasts a diverse range of attractions, from championship golf courses to pristine nature preserves, ensuring an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, sports fan, or family looking for fun activities, Port St. Lucie has something to enhance your vacation. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the top attractions and activities, helping you plan an unforgettable visit to this Florida gem.
Discovering Port St. Lucie’s Natural Beauty
Discover the unspoiled natural beauty of Port St. Lucie, where the city’s scenic landscapes and preserves await your visit.
Port St. Lucie is home to numerous natural attractions that showcase its commitment to conservation and the preservation of its native ecosystem. One of the city’s crown jewels is the Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens, a 21-acre oasis along the St. Lucie River.
Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens
The Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens is celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2025, solidifying its position as a bedrock of the community. This beautiful garden welcomes visitors to enjoy its shaded walkways, flowering native gardens, and acres of wetlands and mangrove forests.
As you explore the gardens, you’ll discover a variety of specialized areas, including a colorful hibiscus garden, an orchid room, a serene palm walk, and a vibrant butterfly garden that’s also a haven for hummingbirds.
- The Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens spans 21 beautiful acres along the St. Lucie River, offering visitors a tranquil escape into nature with diverse plant collections and scenic walking trails.
- You’ll be enchanted by the specialized garden areas that showcase Florida’s botanical diversity.
- The gardens serve as both a recreational space and an educational resource, helping visitors understand the importance of native plants and conservation efforts in Port St. Lucie’s ecosystem.
Beyond the botanical gardens, Port St. Lucie offers other natural preserves that highlight the city’s beauty. The Spruce Bluff Preserve is another dimension of natural beauty, featuring self-guided interpretive trails that lead through pristine Florida wilderness and past a prehistoric Native American mound.
The preserve’s untouched landscape provides excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting and bird watching in a peaceful setting away from the bustle of city life.
For a more educational outdoor experience, the Oxbow Eco-Center combines beautiful nature trails with interactive exhibits that explain the delicate balance of Port St. Lucie’s natural environment.
These natural preserves collectively highlight the commitment to conservation that makes Port St. Lucie a standout destination for eco-conscious travelers and nature enthusiasts.
Explore the Waterways of Port St. Lucie
The waterways of Port St. Lucie offer a unique perspective on the city’s natural beauty. With numerous opportunities to explore, you’ll find that the city’s aquatic heart is just as captivating as its land-based attractions.
St. Lucie River Cruises
Join Eddie and Steph Hamrick on a cruise around the North Fork of the St. Lucie River Aquatic Preserve on their 36-passenger boat, The River Lilly II. They offer both jungle-eco and relaxation cruises year-round, providing a chance to see native wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and numerous bird species.
The St. Lucie River forms the aquatic heart of Port St. Lucie, offering visitors spectacular water-based experiences. You can enjoy wildlife viewing cruises, peaceful paddling adventures, or explore the river’s many wonders.
Some of the top experiences on the waterways include:
- River Lilly Cruises provides daily eco-tours where you can spot alligators, turtles, and numerous bird species while learning about the delicate ecosystem of the St. Lucie River Aquatic Preserve.
- Fishing enthusiasts will find the St. Lucie River a paradise with abundant opportunities to catch snook, tarpon, redfish, and other prized Florida game fish.
- The RiverWalk Boardwalk extends nearly 1,000 feet along the St. Lucie River, providing stunning views and a perfect spot for sunset strolls.
- Kayak and paddleboard rentals are readily available, allowing you to navigate the peaceful tributaries and discover hidden corners of the waterway system.
- Sunset cruises offer a romantic perspective of Port St. Lucie, with the evening light creating breathtaking views across the water.
Whether you’re interested in exploring the waterways or simply relaxing with a cruise, Port St. Lucie’s aquatic offerings have something for everyone.
Port St. Lucie, Florida: Best Things to Do for Sports Enthusiasts
Port St. Lucie is a haven for sports enthusiasts, with top-notch facilities and events throughout the year. Whether you’re a golf aficionado or a baseball fan, the city offers a range of exciting experiences.
PGA Golf Club at PGA Village
The PGA Golf Club at PGA Village is a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts. With 54 championship holes designed by legendary architects Tom Fazio and Pete Dye, this course offers a unique golfing experience. You can book a tee time or opt for a Stay and Play package, making it an ideal spot for both locals and tourists.
The PGA Golf Club welcomes public play, allowing you to experience world-class golf on courses ranked among the “75 Best Golf Resorts” by Golf Digest. Additionally, golf enthusiasts can enhance their skills with top-tier instruction from PGA Professionals and explore the PGA Gallery, which displays fascinating memorabilia tracing the history of the game.
New York Mets Spring Training at Clover Park
Baseball fans flock to Clover Park during February and March to watch the New York Mets during their spring training season. This intimate setting allows you to see major league stars at affordable prices, making it an exciting experience for fans of all ages. If you visit during summer, you can catch the St. Lucie Mets minor league team in action, providing family-friendly entertainment and a glimpse of tomorrow’s baseball stars.
The sports facilities in Port St. Lucie cater to enthusiasts of all levels, with options for beginners and professionals alike to enjoy their favorite activities in world-class venues. Many visitors plan their Port St. Lucie trips around specific sporting events or tournaments, making the city a year-round destination for active travelers and sports fans.
Family-Friendly Activities in Port St. Lucie
Port St. Lucie is a haven for families, offering a diverse range of activities that cater to all ages. Whether you’re looking for indoor entertainment or outdoor adventures, Port St. Lucie has something for everyone.
SuperPlay USA Entertainment Center
SuperPlay USA Entertainment Center is a premier destination for family fun in Port St. Lucie. With 48 bowling lanes, arcade games, a mini-golf course, and batting cages, it offers a comprehensive entertainment experience. The center’s Premium Sports Grill ensures that families can enjoy delicious meals between games and activities in a comfortable, energetic atmosphere.
It’s an ideal spot for family bonding and friendly competition, making it a must-visit during your stay in Port St. Lucie, especially on a hot summer day.
Oak Hammock Park
For a more relaxed, outdoor experience, Oak Hammock Park is a beautiful place to visit. The park features 3 miles of walking trails that wind through majestic oak and palm hammocks, providing a natural playground for exploration. The two fishing piers are a perfect spot for introducing children to fishing, with the C-24 Canal offering good catches for anglers of all experience levels.
This park is an excellent choice for families looking to enjoy nature together, making it a great addition to your family itinerary in Port St. Lucie.
In Port St. Lucie, you can enjoy a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, allowing for flexibility depending on weather conditions. The city’s family attractions are designed to be enjoyable for multiple generations, making Port St. Lucie an excellent choice for extended family vacations and reunions. Whether you’re engaging in a fun game at SuperPlay USA or exploring the natural beauty of Oak Hammock Park, Port St. Lucie is sure to provide a memorable experience.
Community Hotspots and Gathering Places
As you explore Port St. Lucie, you’ll discover vibrant community hotspots that bring people together. The city’s commitment to creating engaging public spaces is evident in its well-designed parks and gathering places.
Tradition Square
Tradition Square is the vibrant heart of Port St. Lucie’s community life, offering a beautiful green space surrounded by shops and restaurants. You’ll find a constant stream of activities here, from fitness classes and art workshops to the popular Sunday Tradition Neighborhood Market featuring local farmers, artisans, and food vendors.
The design of Tradition Square reflects the city’s commitment to creating walkable, community-oriented spaces where people can connect and enjoy Port St. Lucie’s pleasant climate year-round.
Veterans Park
Veterans Park provides a more contemplative community space, honoring the service and sacrifice of military veterans with meaningful memorials and a peaceful atmosphere for reflection. The park’s Ceremonial Pentagon, with its arrangement of 12 benches, creates a symbolic gathering place for commemorative events and quiet contemplation.
The pavilion at Veterans Park hosts community events throughout the year, bringing residents together for celebrations and commemorations that strengthen Port St. Lucie’s sense of shared identity. Both Tradition Square and Veterans Park feature well-maintained walking paths that connect to the broader network of trails throughout the city.
Culinary Experiences in Port St. Lucie
Port St. Lucie’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors, offering a diverse range of dining experiences that cater to every palate and budget. You can enjoy a perfect morning at a local breakfast spot, savor fresh seafood at an upscale restaurant, or explore international cuisines that reflect the city’s cultural diversity.
Breakfast and Brunch Spots
Berry Fresh Café is a popular breakfast and lunch spot in Port St. Lucie, known for its commitment to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. You can start your day with their signature cinnamon-sugar dusted blueberry fritters and choose from a variety of sweet and savory dishes. The café is open for breakfast seven days a week, making it a great spot to begin your day.
Local Seafood Destinations
If you’re a seafood enthusiast, Kyle G’s Oyster and Wine Bar is a must-visit destination. This elegant restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced seafood. You can enjoy chilled oysters with a martini or indulge in elaborate seafood entrees featuring the freshest catches from Florida waters.
International Cuisine
Port St. Lucie’s international dining options reflect the city’s diverse community. You can savor authentic Cuban cuisine at Babablu’s Cuban Café or enjoy Greek specialties at Think Greek. These restaurants offer a taste of global flavors, allowing you to explore different cultures through their culinary traditions.
Many restaurants in Port St. Lucie feature outdoor seating areas where you can enjoy a leisurely afternoon meal while soaking in the city’s pleasant weather and scenic views. The Meating Street Seafood & Steakhouse is another notable mention, offering an upscale dining experience overlooking Tradition Lake. With early bird specials and a sophisticated bar, it’s a great spot for various dining preferences.
The culinary experience in Port St. Lucie is further enhanced by the city’s commitment to using local ingredients and showcasing Florida flavors. As you explore the city’s dining scene, you’ll discover that many restaurants incorporate fresh, locally-sourced produce into their dishes, giving you an authentic taste of the region’s culinary traditions.
Where to Stay in Port St. Lucie
Your stay in Port St. Lucie can be made memorable with the right choice of accommodation. With a range of options available, you can choose between hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals that suit your preferences.
Hotels and Resorts
For a comfortable stay, consider the Courtyard Port St. Lucie Tradition, conveniently located near shops, restaurants, and parks. If you’re looking for waterfront views, Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa or The Lucie are excellent choices, offering upscale amenities and a relaxing atmosphere.
Many hotels and resorts in Port St. Lucie are designed to take advantage of the city’s natural beauty, offering stunning views of water features or golf courses from your room.
Vacation Rentals
Vacation rentals are ideal for families or larger groups, providing the space and amenities of a private home. Companies like Right Direction Rentals offer a range of properties, often with private pools and fully equipped kitchens.
These rentals allow you to feel at home while enjoying the beauty of Port St. Lucie. With many rentals situated near the city’s attractions and beaches, you can easily explore all that Port St. Lucie has to offer.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Port St. Lucie Visit
Whether you’re a nature lover, a sports enthusiast, or a foodie, Port St. Lucie has a wealth of attractions to explore. The city’s perfect balance of natural beauty, recreational activities, cultural experiences, and culinary delights makes it an ideal Florida destination for travelers seeking variety.
To enhance your experience in Port St. Lucie, plan your visit around the city’s seasonal events, such as spring training baseball, winter festivals, and summer outdoor concerts. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore both the inland attractions and nearby beaches, providing a comprehensive taste of Florida’s diverse appeal.
The things to do in Port St. Lucie cater to all ages and interests, making it an excellent choice for multi-generational family trips. Consider the weather when planning your itinerary, and enjoy the city’s relaxed pace and friendly community atmosphere. With its diverse things Port St. Lucie offers, you’ll leave with memorable experiences and likely plans to return.
