Welcome to Manatee Center

Conserving the Beauty and Wild Wonder of the Indian River Lagoon

VISIT THE CENTER

Learn at the Lagoon! Experience the magic of manatees and their world through engaging exhibits and environmental education.

GROUP VISITS

We welcome groups of all sizes to enjoy and explore the Manatee Center. Our staff is ready to help you plan an unforgettable and enjoyable visit customized for your group.

GUEST ACCESSIBILITY

Accommodations for visitors requiring accessible entrance and parking will find them located at the Manatee Center’s entrance. Parking spaces are reserved and designated.

Will I See Manatees on My Visit?

There’s nothing more thrilling than a manatee sighting!
Florida manatees frequent the Center year-round, but they
are creatures living in the wild. There’s no telling when they’ll swim by!
All the more reason to visit frequently.

LEARN MORE

What Manatee Center Visitors Are Saying

Came in here because I love nature (former park ranger). The center is small, but really well done. Admission was only a dollar! Great selection of fish and aquatic life. There’s hands-on stuff for the kids, including touching animals. Of course, adults can do that, too! I loved the tour so much, I filled out a volunteer application on the spot! Great gift shop, too. Really nice selection of things…all the proceeds go to the educational programs at the center.

Anne R.Florida Keys

The Manatee Center leads environmental education, tourism and conservation of the Indian River Lagoon through inspiring visitor experiences. Sharing scientific study of the Treasure Coast marine ecology, we are an inclusive space to enjoy, explore and advance environmental knowledge and advocacy together.

Conserving

Conservation is our thing. We are creating water-keepers everywhere who protect the natural waterways and marine habitats all living things depend on, including us.

Educating

Manatees have a lot to teach us. Learn in wild wonder about the secret life of the lagoon and what keeps this unique ecosystem healthy — from seagrass to mangrove snapper.

Volunteering

Fun and rewarding! We offer the most inspiring and engaging ways to champion our special community. Join our passionate volunteer crew — the heart and soul of our mission.

Partnering for Better Outcomes for Manatees in Fort Pierce and Beyond

The Manatee Center is a dedicated partner in sharing the scientific study, knowledge and protection of the Treasure Coast marine ecology. Learn how you can take part, too.

LEARN MORE

Witness the wonder of science and nature with your family. The Manatee Center offers hands-on fun for children of all ages from field-trips to animal encounters.

ManaTales

Our outdoor classroom comes alive every third Thursday with tales from our favorite nature-themed books. Join us at 10:30 a.m. for story time and a fun activity. Admission to the Manatee Center and ManaTales are free for this special pre-K event.

Lunch & Learn Lecture Series

Listen to the lagoon. It has a lot to say! Each second Friday of the month we meet at noon for fascinating lectures and presentations by guest speakers from biologists to artists. Pack a lunch, bring a friend and learn something new at the lagoon!

Creekside Chats

Join us on the first Wednesday of every month at 3 PM for Creekside Chats on the Manatee Center Observation Deck. This casual series features conversations with our partners about the Indian River Lagoon, covering conservation, wildlife, and more. Come to learn, connect, and be inspired!