What to Expect, What to Do

Jewels of the Treasure Coast:
The Indian River Lagoon and Fort Pierce Area

What can you see and do on your visit?

Welcome seekers and explorers!
Manatee Center is located on Moore’s Creek, a lagoon inlet and marina just steps from the heart of downtown Fort Pierce. Our indoor exhibits and gift shop are surrounded by green spaces, outdoor educational displays, and plenty of covered spaces for viewing the water and marine life.

Here’s more of what to expect on your visit.

Exhibit and Program Center

Experience the magic of manatees and their world with indoor exhibits, aquariums, children’s activities, and inspiring environmental education. You can also plan your visit to catch an exciting scheduled program including ManaTales story time for pre-K kids, Creekside Chats, and our Lunch & Learn Lecture Series.

Manatee Sightings

Florida manatees frequent the Center year-round, but they are creatures living in the wild. There’s no telling when they’ll swim by! If you see a manatee, please let our staff know. We collect data of manatee sightings to share with our science partners working to track the number and health of our local manatee population.

Explore Outdoors

Winding your way outside, you’ll find an accessible garden and observation deck with information about local plants and marine life, including seagrass habitats and mangrove trees. Discover your part in protecting Florida’s special wildlife. Don’t forget to stroll through our very own butterfly garden!

Manatee Center Gift Shop

Don’t forget to save plenty of time to browse the most unique and inspiring gifts Fort Pierce has to offer. Each item is chosen to offer something special in keepsakes, housewares, toys, clothing, and sundries. Every dollar spent directly supports the ongoing programs of the Manatee Center.

Ready to explore more?

Downtown Fort Pierce and the surrounding area are a true treasure trove, offering a vibrant mix of Florida’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Here, you can savor a variety of culinary delights, from fresh local seafood to international cuisine, all while exploring the vibrant arts and crafts scene. Stroll through charming boutiques offering unique finds and handmade treasures, and take in picturesque views of the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean. The area is also home to historic sites that tell the story of Florida’s past, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience both the beauty and history of the Sunshine State.

Here is our Not-to-be-Missed List in the Sunrise City:

Family-friendly Neighborhood Restaurants & Waterfront Dining

  • Cobb’s Landing
  • Crabby’s Dockside

Very Special Sites

  • A.E. Backus Museum & Gallery (located next to Manatee Center)
  • Fort Pierce Inlet State Park
  • Heathcote Botanical Garden
  • Highwaymen Heritage Trail
  • Smithsonian Marine Station
  • UDT/SEAL Museum
  • Zora Neale Hurston Dust Tracks Heritage Trail

Charming Strolls & Shopping

  • Main Street Fort Pierce
  • Downtown Roundabout

Fun on the Marina

  • Fort Pierce City Marina
  • Purchase Food and Feed the Fish
  • Downtown Fort Pierce Farmers Market, Saturdays 8 to Noon, rain or shine
  • Wednesday Green Market, 11 to 6
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