Fort Pierce, Florida

One of the oldest communities on Florida's east coast, Fort Pierce has embraced its rich heritage while encouraging the revitalization of its old Florida charm. With gorgeous weather and plenty of things to do on sea and on land, it's quickly clear why Fort Pierce has been one of Florida's favorite communities for more than 175 years.

Fort Pierce was founded in 1837 as a headquarters for the U.S. Army during the Seminole Indian War. Since then, it has seen the shipping and fishing industries along the Atlantic Coast boom. Explore the town's multilayered history at the St. Lucie County Historical Museum, or check out one of the many other unique museums, such as the nation's only U.S. Navy Seal Museum and downtown's A.E. Backus Museum & Gallery, which features the work of a beloved local landscape artist. The landmark Sunrise Theatre which first opened its doors in 1923 as the largest performing arts space on Florida's east coast is a major attraction in Fort Pierce and has a full lineup of popular acts ranging from Tony Bennett to the Cuban National Symphony.

Outdoor enthusiasts will not be disappointed. Golfers shouldn't miss the 18-hole Indian Hills Golf Course, about a mile from downtown. If you're an angler, book a charter to sample the tremendous deep-sea fishing around the Fort Pierce Inlet and Hutchinson Island. To enjoy the region's wildlife (including dolphins), clamber aboard the Florida Dolphin Watch's pontoon boats and explore the secluded mangroves.

There's a lively spirit to Main Street's Friday Fest, the most popular, family friendly celebration on the Treasure Coast, held the first Friday of every month. The Downtown Farmers Market, held every Wednesday and Saturday morning, has a wealth of baked goods, fresh produce, artisanal condiments and outstanding seafood.

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Where to Dock

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• Fort Pierce City Marina (fortpiercecity marina.com, 772-464-1245) is located in the heart of the historic downtown waterfront. The marina has embarked on a unique waterfront project that includes the construction of 12 man-made islands to serve as a green break wall.

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Where to Eat and Drink

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• For an early morning bite, try Importico's Bakery Café (134 S. Indian River Drive, 772- 429-3435), where all the pastries are made in-house and there's a cozy dining area.
• Cobb's Landing has a full menu of burgers, pastas and flatbreads, plus a mojito bar”try the pineapple one (200 N. Indian River Drive, 772-460-9014).
• Yellowtail Grill & Raw Bar is the best place in town for fresh seafood (101 N. 2nd St., 772-466-5474).
• For dessert, head to Uncle Carlo's Gelato (141 Melody Lane, 772-672-4401).
• And it's never a bad call to grab a cocktail at the original Tiki Bar (2 Ave. A, 772-461-0880), located at the Fort Pierce City Marina.