21 Top-Rated Things to Do in Port St. Lucie, FL

A charming town on Florida's Treasure Coast, Port St. Lucie offers travelers the best of Florida without the massive crowds found in more popular locales. With a slew of attractions on offer, as well as sprawling green spaces, you certainly won't be at a loss for fun things to do in this East Coast gem.

Despite being mostly landlocked, this sweet town boasts easy access to some of the area's most stunning beaches (we're looking at you, Hutchinson Island beaches), as well as phenomenal state parks like Savannas Preserve and St. Lucie Inlet Preserve.

About an hour north of Palm Beach, Port St. Lucie is one of Florida's best places to visit for golf. It's home to the PGA Village, which boasts three championship golf courses and bookable lessons from PGA pros.

When it comes time to relax, head in to one of the city's top restaurants or flex your shopping muscles at the many boutique shops. The shops in The Landing at Tradition lean more towards the big chain side of things, but you'll find everything you never knew you wanted. If you're in town during spring training, head to Clover Park to catch a New York Mets game.

Not sure where to start your Port St. Lucie adventure? Narrow your options with our list of the top things to do in Port St. Lucie, Florida.

Take a Hike in Savannas Preserve State Park

Talk about a wonderful place to renew your spirit! The Savannas Preserve State Park covers a vast expanse of basin marsh so lovely and quiet, you'll forget you're in the heart of a city.

With more than 15 miles of trails winding through its tranquil grounds, theis park is a perfect place for outdoor adventurists or those craving a walk through the wilderness. Whether you love to fish, hike, bike, kayak, or ride a horse, you'll be happy you chose to visit this picturesque utopia.

This immense park boasts over 6,000 acres of preserved land, 15 miles of trails, and a diverse selection of ecosystems within its borders. You'll be able to spot everything from water lilies to marshland and bobcats to alligators during your visit.

Looking for more information about the area's natural habitat? The park is also home to a small Education Center, which is open Thursdays through Mondays. The park is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Insider's tip: Clocking in at just over one mile, the Hawk's Bluff trail in Jensen Beach is home to five different habitats. Also, try to book a guided canoe or kayak tour.

Address: 2541 South East Walton Road, Port St. Lucie, Florida

Official site: https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/savannas-preserve-state-park

Ogle the Flowers at Port St. Lucie Botanical Garden

Butterflies and faeries and orchids, oh my! There is certainly a bounty of wondrous things to behold at the Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens.

Centered around a sparkling lake (complete with a spouting fountain), this popular tourist attraction is so serene, you'll want to sit cross-legged and meditate, or at least breathe a little more deeply to appreciate its intoxicating floral scents.

You'll find multiple gardens in this lustrous nirvana, and they all feature a different species of plants. From bamboo to bromeliads to roses to cactuses, each garden is both captivating and picturesque. There's even a garden devoted to the most beautiful of winged insects: the butterfly.

This luscious landscape is also home to fabulous creatures like dart frogs, mockingbirds, great blue herons, and gopher tortoises. Be sure to pack a camera for your visit, and comfortable shoes to make walking the lovely trails more enjoyable. If you walk far enough, you'll be able to wander along the Riverwalk Boardwalk as well.

Address: 2410 South East Westmoreland Blvd., Port St. Lucie, Florida

Official site: https://www.pslbg.org/

Spot a Manatee at North Fork, St. Lucie Aquatic Preserve

Welcome to the jungle, or in this case, the North Fork, St. Lucie Aquatic Preserve. A 2,972-acre haven for state-protected animals like the American alligator, manatee, and opossum pipefish, the preserve is a magical wonderland that will soothe your soul and give your camera some serious exercise.

The best way to enjoy the preserve's breathtaking scenery is by water, so rent a canoe or kayak, or book a boat tour to get up close and personal with Florida's most impressive wildlife. The guides are extremely knowledgeable about the area's incredible ecosystems and will teach you about the importance of protecting them.

Hoping to up the adventure? Wakeboarding, waterskiing, fishing, and sailing are all permitted here. Our only advice: try not to fall in!

Wander along the Riverwalk Boardwalk

Instead of turning left when you exit the Port St. Lucie Botanical Garden, stay right and make your way to the Riverwalk Boardwalk. Park in one of the few spots straight ahead, and walk towards the river. It won't take long to spot the reason so many people enjoy this locale.

A long (we're talking 2,453 feet) boardwalk stretches above the St. Lucie River from Tom Hooper Park to the boat ramps at Veterans Park at Rivergate. It is made of recycled materials, boasts a system of solar lights, and passes through verdant mangrove forest along its way.

The boardwalk provides visitors with spectacular vistas and a perfect vantage point for spying on the wildlife that call this river home.

From here, you can spot multiple types of fish, as well as turtles and manatees, just to name a few of the fab creatures you'll find roaming these waters. Anglers love to set up on these long stretches, settling in to reel in a big one (or three).

Address: 2200 SE Veterans Memorial Parkway, Port St. Lucie, Florida

Catch Some Rays at St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park

This barrier island preserve offers visitors a unique, peaceful, and overall remarkable experience. Wooden boardwalks dot the forests, allowing safe passage for visitors through land that's peppered with mangroves, oaks, and cabbage palms. A sandy beach beckons those who cherish quiet time relaxing on a soft strand.

Those who prefer a bit more action can jump into the waves about a half-mile from shore. That's where you'll find a bright coral reef teeming with marine life. Grab a snorkel and mask or descend on a scuba diving adventure. You're sure to see creatures that will capture your heart–and your waterproof camera's lens.

Kayaking is another popular activity for families at St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park. A 4.2-mile kayak trail snakes its way through the lush mangroves, taking you on a three-hour adventure filled with beauty, phenomenal wildlife, and utter tranquility.

Official site: https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/st-lucie-inlet-preserve-state-park

Catch a Game at Clover Park

Clover Park is by far the best place for sports fanatics in Port St Lucie. A baseball stadium with room for over 7,000 fans, this fun venue serves as the spring training home for the New York Mets. Die-hard fans travel to Port St. Lucie from across the globe, just to watch them train during this time.

When the Mets aren't in training, baseball lovers are well-placated by watching the St. Lucie Mets minor league team play. These games are just as exciting and usually less crowded, which makes it an extra enjoyable experience, especially if you're there with kids.

Looking for team merch? The Fan Shop opens at 4pm on game days as well as from 10am to 4pm Tuesdays through Fridays. Not a fan of baseball? No problem. Many fun events are held here as well, including concerts and festivals.

Insider Tip: Avoid the fee and get out quickly after games by parking across the street instead of at the stadium.

Address: 31 Piazza Drive, Port St. Lucie, Florida

Hit the Water with River Lilly Cruises

River Lilly Cruises offers passengers a fun and intimate look at many of Florida's wildest creatures in their natural habitat. After climbing aboard a large pontoon boat, guests set sail down the mangrove-lined river for a jungle adventure they'll never forget.

Every trip is different and offers passengers an intimate view of incredible animals like vultures, blue herons, turtles, and of course, alligators.

While puttering along the North Fork of the St. Lucie Aquatic Preserve, guests are treated to informative commentary by Steph Hamrick, a former flight attendant who started the company over 24 years ago with her husband, and the boat's captain, Eddie.

A bonus: the boat offers soft seat cushions and is covered to provide shade from the hot sun. Hop on at River Park Marina.

Address: River Park Marina, 500 E Prima Vista Boulevard, Port St. Lucie, Florida

Official site: http://riverlillycruises.com/index.html

Become One with Nature at Oxbow Eco-Center

If you're hunting for a slice of serenity, you'll find it at the Oxbow Eco-Center. Boasting 225 acres of lush preserve, this is one of the best places to visit in Port St. Lucie.

For starters, you'll find a wide assortment of some of Florida's most treasured creatures–from gopher tortoises to otters to armadillos. Most can be spotted while hiking along the center's seven trails, which vary in length from 0.35 miles to 1.15 miles and offer differing terrain. Informative signs are posted sporadically throughout.

For a bird's-eye view, climb to the top of the observation towers, which are spread out along the Blue Heron Trail.

The Eco-Center building itself consists of a small exhibit hall and discovery room. They both contain interactive exhibits and a few live creatures. It's only open if you have a reservation between 12pm and 4pm Tuesday through Saturday, so plan your visit accordingly.

Insider's tip: The Orange Scrub Jay Trail can get quite muddy, especially after a big rainstorm, so pack proper footwear.

Address: 5400 North East Saint James Drive, Port St. Lucie, Florida

Official site: https://www.stlucieco.gov/departments-services/a-z/oxbow-eco-center

Build a Sandcastle at Jensen Beach

About 11 miles east of downtown, Jensen Beach is a lovely place to escape for a day. Once dubbed the "pineapple capital of the world," this divine spot is bursting with character. From delectable restaurants to eclectic boutiques to a fun children's museum, there's plenty to do inland. Or, take advantage of the area's best asset: the beach.

Some of the softest, whitest sand greets travelers hoping to soak up rays by the azure water. A perfect spot for sunning, surfing, scuba diving, sailing, fishing, and water skiing, you'll be hard-pressed to find fault with this lovely locale.

Indian Riverside Park is a must-visit, complete with a children's splash pad, as well as a three-quarter-mile walking trail, boardwalk, fishing pier, and pavilion. You won't be bored for even a second.

Shop 'til You Drop at Tradition

Tradition is more than just a neighborhood; actually, it's technically a collection of neighborhoods so pristine, you'll expect a Stepford wife to creep around the corner at any moment. Boasting more than 500 acres of lakes and another 300 acres devoted to verdant parkland and nature preserves, this sparkling community is one worth visiting.

When you aren't moseying around the many trails, head to the Town Center, which is located in Tradition Square. Concerts, dance performances, and other fun gatherings, including a weekly farmers market, take place in this central hub. The restaurants are divine, especially Pastaio, where they serve the most delicious pizza!

Hit The Landing at Tradition to flex your shopping muscles. You'll find everything from boutique shops to big box stores like DSW, Target, and Old Navy, as well as a slew of restaurants to help quash those hunger pangs.

Address: 10807 SW Tradition Square, Port St. Lucie, Florida

Enjoy the View at Spruce Bluff Preserve

Step back in time at the Spruce Bluff Preserve. Home to over 97 acres of historic landscape, this picturesque spot can be reached by car, foot, bike, or canoe (from the North Fork of the St. Lucie River). This preserve was once the site of a tiny pioneer village settled in the late 1800s.

The preserve's two main trails wind through the tropical forest, providing visitors with a welcome breath of fresh air and an intimate look at the area's bird and plant life, including various flatwoods, scrub, and freshwater marsh.

The South AIS Indian Mount Trail covers about one mile of ground and winds visitors around the baygall, mesic flatwoods, and marsh areas to an AIS Indian Mound. This route can get a bit slippery when wet, and it's uneven, so be cautious.

The North Pioneer Interpretive Trail also passes through lush flora, such as scrub and scrubby flatwoods. It takes visitors to the remains of a pioneer settlement including homes, a school, post office, cemetery, and sawmill.

Walkers can venture even farther to St. Lucie River North Fork if they choose to stay on the extension. Stop along the boardwalk to see what creatures you can spot in the river below.

Address: 611 South East Dar Lane, Port St. Lucie, Florida

Walk through the Wilds of Bluefield Ranch Preserve

When you're sick of picking sand from your bathing suit, head to the beautiful Bluefield Ranch Preserve. With over 3,200 acres of land and more than 20 miles of trails, this spectacular preserve is an outdoor-lover's paradise. There are many ways to explore the vast landscape, including by bike, foot, or on horseback.

Once used as a cattle ranch, you'll find plenty of animals to admire, including bald eagles, alligators, hogs, and quail. An observation tower and wildlife blind make observing them even more exciting.

The area prides itself on being the "largest stand of scrub in St. Lucie County." It's also home to other ecosystems, such as pine flatwoods, swamps, and prairie hammock.

Insider's tip: Contact the preserve before you go to be sure it's open, as it closes periodically.

Address: 30501 Bluefield Road, Port St. Lucie, Florida

Take Photos at Paleo Hammock Preserve

Paleo Hammock Preserve is a perfect place to get lost for a while. Don't worry, it's easy to find your way out.

Offering 80 acres of tropical forest, walkers can enjoy a secluded one-mile walk along a quiet trail flanked by tall elm, oak, palm, and hickory trees, as well as lush hammocks. The highlight: an observation tower proffering wonderful views over the marsh.

If you're super silent during your hike (which is easy to do since you'll likely be alone), you may bump into some incredible creatures, including a barred owl, deer, or ibis. All trails are well-marked, and some waterside paths offer views of more water-based animals like alligators.

Insider's tip: This area can get buggy, so don insect repellant.

Address: 8551 Carlton Road, Port St. Lucie, Florida

Aim for Par at PGA Village

Fore! A mecca for golf lovers, PGA Village boasts 54 championship holes across three first-class courses. As if that wasn't enough to entice you to dust off your clubs, this phenomenal setup offers lessons by PGA pros. Who knows, they could turn you into the next Rory McIlroy.

Traveling with kids? Book a tee time on the PGA six-hole Family Short Course.

When you aren't hitting a massive line drive, visit the PGS Gallery. You'll find a wide array of golf paraphernalia and memorabilia that includes the first Wanamaker Trophy.

Staying at the Hilton Garden Inn at PGA Village allows access to all of this and more, although it's not a necessity to book a tee time. The courses are open to the public and are, surprisingly, "reasonably" priced.

Address: 1916 Perfect Drive, Port St. Lucie, Florida

Official site: https://www.pgavillage.com/

Hit the Beach on Hutchinson Island

A mere 12 miles east of Port Lucie lies the best place to be on a sunny day in Port St. Lucie. Technically two barrier islands, North and South Hutchinson Islands are separated by the Fort Pierce Inlet, and they run along the coast from Fort Pierce in the north to Stuart in the south.

If you're looking to spend a day shelling, you'll hit the jackpot on these islands' fabulous beaches. Miles of sandy beaches welcome visitors looking for natural treasures or a soft, quiet place to lounge by the ocean. A great place for couples, these isles offer plenty of secluded and romantic places to get away from it all.

Insider's tip: Keep your eyes peeled on the water. You just might see some of the area's most captivating residents–manatees, dolphins, wales, and turtles.

Take a Moment to Reflect at Veteran's Memorial Park

At 2.5 acres, Veteran's Memorial Park isn't large. What it lacks in size, however, the park makes up for in both beauty and heart. Multiple memorials lie in this perfectly manicured park, set serenely against towering trees.

Wandering along the park's paved pathways is a tranquil experience that forces visitors to enjoy a peaceful moment of reflection. Many branches of the military are represented here, as are fallen heroes from WWII, the Vietnam War, and Korean War. There's also a memorial to those who've won the Purple Heart.

The park is also host to a lovely boardwalk and fishing pier, which is often spotted with anglers hoping to reel in a good catch. The on-site boat launch is another draw, as are the picnic areas, benches, and restrooms.

Address: 2200 South East Veterans Memorial Parkway, Port St. Lucie, Florida

Share a Picnic at River Park Marina

Twelve acres of lush tropical forest greet visitors to this enchanting park. Whether you're hoping to run the kids ragged at the on-site playground, try your hand at fishing, or launch a boat onto the St. Lucie River, this lovely spot offers plenty of ways to stay active and engaged.

Picnic tables, a pavilion, and restrooms are on hand, making this a wonderful place to dine alfresco. Rent a kayak to explore the wildlife up close, walk along the trail, or merely sit back and watch the boats and animals travel along the water.

You can also climb aboard a pontoon boat to enjoy a serene River Lilly Cruise. Keep your eyes peeled, you might spot an alligator.

Address: 500 East Prima Vista Boulevard, Port Saint Lucie, Florida

Find Serenity at Woodstork Trail in Hillmoor Lake Park

Not too many people seem to know about Woodstork Trail, which is a good thing since we'd rather it stay a quiet, local secret. This 1.27-mile paved trail runs around the 75-acre Hillmoor Lake Park, welcoming visitors to walk, run, or bike their way around this pretty property.

Two observation decks make it easy to spot some of the area's best wildlife or to fish, if that's something you enjoy. You can fish off the shore here, too. If working out is more your thing, you've come to the right place. The fitness area includes multiple devices to help you tone all of your jiggly bits.

Benches line the trail, making it easy to take a load off and enjoy the serene lake views. Another plus, there are restrooms on-site.

Address: 1957 S.E. Hillmoor Drive, Port Saint Lucie, Florida

Ogle Vintage Cars at Elliott Museum

Although not technically in Port St. Lucie, the intriguing Elliott Museum lies very close by, in Stuart.

Inside, you'll find a variety of collectibles so expansive, you'll wish you had more time to explore. From bicycles, classic cars, trucks, and boats to baseball memorabilia and local history, there's no end to the exciting finds on display in the Elliot Museum.

The museum is named after Sterling Elliott, an inventor from south Florida. Originally built in 1962, today finds a brand-new, modern, eco-friendly building filled with local history exhibits, galleries filled with art, a vast collection of vintage cars, and temporary exhibits showcasing a variety of topics and talents.

Address: 825 NE Ocean Boulevard, Stuart, Florida

Official site: https://hsmc-fl.com/

Unleash Your Inner Child at Treasure Coast Model Railroad Club

Looking for a way to amuse the kiddos or entertain yourselves on a rainy evening? The unique Treasure Coast Model Railroad Club is an interesting place to spend a bit of time. Plus, it will make you appreciate a couple of skills many of us lack: patience and attention to detail.

Inside what was once the town's fire station, you'll find perfect replicas of gas stations, grocery stores, homes, and, of course, trains of all types. Modeled after trains and stations that existed between the 1940s and 1970s, this remarkable set up includes working lights and railway crossings, as well as moving cars and locomotives.

Insider's tip: Technically a private "club," the establishment's doors only open to the public on Saturdays between 10am and noon. Admission is free, but a donation is encouraged.

Address: 273 South West Becker Road, Port St. Lucie, Florida

Official site: http://tcmrr.org/

Bowl a Strike at Superplay USA

It's easy to feel down on a dreary day in Florida. After all, when planning a trip to the Sunshine State, you're expecting well, sunshine. A trip to Superplay USA can help bust those rainy-day blues, especially for families. The only thing you'll have to worry about is the tantrum your kids will throw when you tell them it's time to leave!

A 70,000-square-foot fun zone, Superplay USA boasts everything you'd dream of in an entertainment center. Want to bowl? They've got multiple lanes. Crave a laser tag battle? You can do that, too. How about a place to practice your swing? Their batting cages will more than suffice!

Did we mention the giant arcade? Told you there'd be trouble when it comes time to leave.

Address: 1600 North West Courtyard Circle, Port St. Lucie, Florida

Map of Things to Do in Port St. Lucie, FL