22 Best & Fun Things To Do In Stuart (Florida)

The town of Stuart, Florida is a small town in Florida. It doesn’t have the name recognition of some of its neighbors, however; it is known as the Sailfish Capital of the world.

This town in South Florida was generally not on the tourist radar. It however recently became popular, making it a recent favorite hotspot for local tourism.

Stuart is located on the section of the state’s Atlantic Coast called ‘The Treasure Coast.

It offers a wide range of activities, such as outdoor concerts, and has beautiful beaches and many other attractions.

Here are the 21 best and most fun things to do in this beautiful town:

Things To Do In Stuart

1. Stuart Airshow

Visitors may only see the Stuart airshow if they are chanced to be in Stuart in November, when the town is at its most picturesque.

This three-day event, where they display a variety of airplanes and military vehicles, is not to be missed.

The Air Force puts on a show that is nothing short of spectacular.

They drew attention to the importance of aviation and veterans’ service.

It is a non-profit fundraiser.

They provide thousands of dollars to local nonprofits and veteran organizations every year. Stuart has hosted a combined airshow and Fourth of July event for more than three decades, and it’s a tremendous favorite with aviation aficionados and patriotic revelers.

A live airshow is an astonishing display, complete with high and low-altitude maneuvers, smoke trails, and roaring engines. The event becomes a true icon when it is paired with a world-class fireworks show.

Live entertainment, arts & crafts, delectable food and drink, and a variety of family-friendly activities are among the event’s highlights.

Flagler Park, just a few minutes from downtown, hosts the airshow and Fourth of July festivities.

Address: 1895 SE Flying Fortress Lane, Stuart, FL 34996, United States

2. The Elliott Museum

Elliot museum has many displays that reflect the region’s economic history. As well as its connections to art, aviation, and sports.

The museum is a delight for visitors of all ages, with its unique display features.

The Treasure Coast legends and the history associated with them would be particularly appealing to children.

Because it is located in a seaside community, this museum focuses a substantial percentage of its collection to Florida’s marine history.

The museum also conducts a number of events aimed at providing visitors with a one-of-a-kind experience. This is a fantastic location. There’s a lot to see and learn about history.

You’ll enjoy the automobile exhibit! It’s really fascinating how they bring the precise car around for you to look at.

Address: 825 NE Ocean Blvd, Stuart, FL 34996, United States

3. The Stuart Heritage Museum

This museum’s name tells you everything you need to know about it.

The Stuart Heritage Museum is dedicated to preserving Stuart’s history, culture, and heritage.

It is housed in the town’s and Martin County’s oldest commercial structure, and it introduces visitors to intriguing locations, events, and people from the past.

The structure dates from 1901 and is one of the town’s finest examples of historical relics.

The Treasure Coast is documented by a good collection of images, maps, and vintage household items. The knowledgeable and friendly staff will show you around their collections and share their firsthand knowledge of the region’s history.

Except for certain holidays, the museum is open to the public every day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Address: 161 SW Flagler Ave, Stuart, FL 34994, United States

4. Halpatiokee Regional Park

Halpatiokee Regional Park is Martin County’s largest park. It has a five-hundred-acre footprint that includes both conserved and wild territory.

This is the ideal location for anyone looking for a quiet retreat away from the throng. it offers biking, paddling, and hiking activities.

The park also includes huge pavilions and covered seating spaces, as well as various natural campsites and wonderful picnic locations.

In addition, the Halpatiokee Regional Park is notable for its sports activities, including soccer and football fields.

Tennis courts, softball/baseball fields, a disc golf course, and an open-air roller-hockey rink are among the other amenities available. The park also has a playground and picnic pavilions that can be reserved.

You can Kayak on the South Fork of the St. Lucie River, which runs through the park for 4 miles. Pine flatwoods, oak hammock, scrub, and river land are among the park’s ecosystems.

Hundreds of species of natural flora and wildlife, including 13 species listed as endangered or threatened by the state of Florida, benefit from these environments.

A mile-long hiking track developed by Tropical Trekkers runs through the preserve. The South Fork Nature Trail joins two previous paths established by the Tropical Trekkers along the St. Lucie River’s South Fork. The Airborne Mountain Bike Club has also created a second mountain bike track.

The trailheads are located past all the ball fields, at the park’s far end, where the park road ends.

Halpatiokee, the park’s name, is derived from a Seminole Indian word that means “Alligator Water.” It’s important to know that although alligator attacks are extremely rare in Florida, they do happen.

Address: 8303 SW Lost River Rd, Stuart, FL 34997, United States

5. The Tropical Ranch Botanical Gardens

Jim Haines and Diane Rexroad founded the Tropical Ranch Botanical Gardens in 2006.

They desired beautiful gardens to surround the neighborhood in order to inspire residents to learn how to plant the correct plant in the right spot.

It is Martin County’s only botanical garden, and it is located along Ranch Trail.

A variety of themed gardens are available for visitors to explore.

Because of the natural aura that surrounds the location, it is also a favorite wedding venue.

Tropical Ranch Botanical Gardens is located in a residential area and is a great place to visit. They are only open to the public on certain weekends, but when they are, visitors flock to see the grounds. Many of the unusual plants on display are also for sale.

The gardens are also beautiful for any events and any sort of outside gathering!

Address: 1905 SW Ranch Trail, Stuart, FL 34997, United States

Want to see more of Florida cities? Check out the list of things to do in Alachua, Melbourne, Fort Myers, Marianna, and Destin!

6. Stuart Seabranch Preserve State Park

The Seabranch preserve state park is a lovely park that can be explored in a variety of ways.

The views from the top of Hobe Mountain Tower in the park are nothing short of spectacular.

Visitors can also spend some quality time with nature by taking a guided tour boat.

Children also enjoy the park’s playground, which, interestingly, has a beautiful backdrop of water. Biking along the trails or rowing in the Loxahatchee River are also options for visitors. It is, however, critical to be wary of alligators and turtles.

In fact, locals consider this park to be a treasure. Because most of South Florida has been developed, free public parks of this scale are uncommon. Nature in its purest form in Florida (minus panthers & bears).

The Everglades is more of a full-scale Florida habitat, but no FREE nature park on the east side of South Florida compares to this.

It’s recommended that you don’t wear fragrances. Just wear a long sleeve shirt, pants made for hot weather, trail shoes, and also bring your water.

Address: 1895 SE Flying Fortress Lane, Stuart, FL 34996, United States

7. Florida Oceanographic Society

The Florida Oceanographic Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to the

This organization has a national reputation for environmental research, education, and advocacy.

This aquatic life nature center, which spans 57 acres, features a stingray touch tank (both with regular feeding arrangements) and a 750,000-gallon game fish lagoon.

It also features nature walks with guided tours and educational programs for people of all ages.

It also oversees research and rehabilitation projects aimed at preserving healthy coastal habitats.

Nearly 60 acres of rich marine and coastal environments make up the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center. It’s on adjacent Hutchinson Island, and it’s a favorite spot for animal and wildlife enthusiasts. Many visitors come to see the wonderful Florida ecosystems and the numerous species that dwell there up close and personal.

The center lies between the Indian River and Atlantic Ocean. And it offers several staff-led programs and activities aimed at engaging and educating visitors. For many guests, it’s one of the most memorable experiences of their vacation.

Nature walks and sea turtle breeding and hatchery tours are among the most popular activities.

However, these activities are seasonal, so check online before heading out.

Address: 890 NE Ocean Blvd, Stuart, FL 34996, United States

8. The Barn Theatre

The Barn Theatre is a venue that hosts a variety of shows

This theater is noteworthy because it is Martin County’s oldest non-profit community theater.

Every year, the theater performs five main stage shows with the goal of involving the local community and beyond in theatrical arts.

It’s a 169-seat community theater that serves as the only theater option between Jupiter and Fort Pierce.

Every year, in addition to the main productions, it also hosts a showcase series of one-act plays.

The Barn Theatre is celebrating its 51st season. It has won the Readers Choice Award for Best Community Theatre in Martin County on several occasions, as well as the mARTies Special Recognition Award. They put on large stage productions, musicals, comedies, and unique concerts.

Address: 2400 SE Ocean Blvd #3312, Stuart, FL 34996, United States

9. Stuart Lyric Theatre

The Lyric Theatre was built in 1926 as a silent movie theater and remained that way until the Great Depression.

Then it was shuttered, sold, and changed again.

It is now used as a concert and arts venue.

The theater is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

It currently features a full bar and a high-quality sound system after various modifications over the years.

It is a historic theater in downtown Stuart, Florida, located at 59 Southwest Flagler Avenue. On its north side, the structure faces Southwest Osceola Street. Originally built to be a movie theater, it is now mostly used as a stage and concert venue in a high-end, first-class setting.

Address: 59 SW Flagler Ave, Stuart, FL 34994, United States

10. The Geoffrey C. Smith Galleries

This museum, named after Geoffery C Smith, houses many of his works, including the Stuart Sailfish, a notable bronze sculpture.

This sculpture, which is seen as a symbol of Stuart, was placed in the town’s Sailfish Circle in 2003.

As a photographer, painter, sculptor, and naturalist, Geoffery Smith has been creating award-winning works of art for over forty years.

His paintings represent a wide range of wildlife and leave the observer with a sense of movement and emotion.

His works can also be found in numerous galleries across the country.

We were on a tour and went into the Galleries, not expecting to encounter such beautiful bronze sculptures! Geoffrey’s appreciation for nature, as well as his exceptional powers of observation, are represented in his lifelike animal sculptures, and his imagination shines through in fantasy pieces like mermaids.

The gallery is large, allowing visitors to see each piece from all sides. Several assistants are on hand to assist visitors and are both friendly and knowledgeable.

If you have the opportunity, pay a visit to the Geoffrey Smith Galleries!

Address: 4545 SE Dixie Hwy, Stuart, FL 34997, United States

11. Fine Photography at Gallery 36

This gallery specializes in fine art photography and has quickly become a popular hangout in Stuart.

The exhibitions evoke the feel of the Treasure Coast and Florida.

Tourists and residents can visit the gallery from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.

Visitors can also schedule an appointment to view the stunning images.

The gallery is one-of-a-kind because it successfully combines small-town charm with the cosmopolitan elegance found in big cities.

A large collection of stunning close-up nature photographs. I adore the macro view of all the lovely plants and animals. Looking through Lisa’s eyes, you can observe nature in action. At Gallery 36, you’ll find a collection of Lisa’s photographs demonstrating various methods of displaying her incredible work.

It’s undoubtedly a wonderful gallery.

Address: 36 SE Ocean Blvd, Stuart, FL 34994, United States

Planning a road trip outside of Stuart? Check out the list of things to do in Tampa, things to do in Davenport, things to do in Tallahassee, and things to do in Clermont!

12. Italian Cuisine at La Forchetta

This location is for those who want a taste of Italy while in Stuart, Florida.

The menu includes a variety of pasta meals as well as seafood, poultry, and veal entrees.

The restaurant is run by a local family and serves traditional Italian meals with a modern twist.

To give guests a true sense of Italy, the foods they utilize are authentic and imported from Italy.

This charming family eatery is warm and inviting. The cuisine, on the other hand, is out of this world!

La Forchetta stands out among other superb Italian restaurants; it is not an exaggeration to suggest that it is the best of all time.

Visitors will feel at home here with the attentive personal service and the effort they put in to make every meal exceptional.

The waitstaff is friendly, and they’re also incredibly pleasant, attentive and funny!.

You should definitely visit here .

Your taste buds would be in heaven! And you’ll be grateful to Francesca for serving you!

Address: 7820 SW Lost River Rd, Stuart, FL 34997, United States

13. The House of Refuge Museum

The US Treasury Department built ten cottages along the coast in 1876 as a safe haven for shipwreck victims.

The house of refuge museum is one of the ten houses that remain, making it Martin County’s oldest structure.

Visitors can learn about the rich maritime history of the United States and recreate the traditional coastal lifestyle.

Guests can take advantage of guided tours. They can, however, explore the area on their own with the assistance of well-designed signage.

Here’s a report by one of the visitors here

What an amazing spot! I have captured some of my best selling images here over the years! On the east side its a beautiful beach scene laden with stunning coral rock formations that are literally out of this world. On the west side there an extremely photogenic pier set withing the backdrop of the inter coastal waterway!

Justin Kelefas

This beach region is popular with visitors because it is unusual to locate such reef beaches in southern Florida. The entrance to the beach is just next to the museum.

Address: 301 SE MacArthur Blvd, Stuart, FL 34996, United States

14. The Berry Fresh Cafe

Tim Timoteo founded this café in Port St. Lucie, Florida, in 2009.

The Berry Fresh Cafe is a family-owned eatery, and it has opened more café sites in Stuart and Jupiter.

Many healthy, gluten-free vegetarian dishes are also available on the menu.

The seasonal delicacies on the What’s Fresh menu highlight their chefs’ abilities.

This place is everything it claims and promises; there’s no over-hype about it at all.

The beach here is wonderful! The corned beef hash and the rest of the cuisine are fantastic. Make sure to get the blueberry fritters! They also have a fantastic dipping sauce and a variety of delicious dishes that you should definitely try.

The café stays true to its core principles: service with a genuine smile, a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere, reasonable prices, and great food.

The ambiance and vibe are good energies here. Coupled with that are the amazing staffs that attend to visitors.

Other favorite dishes many visitors rave about is the Butcher Shop Omelet, which is usually chocked full of meat. And the coffee is excellent.

Address: 1429 SE Federal Hwy, Stuart, FL 34994, United States

15. Stuart Tiki Taxi and Cruises

This river tour is a new addition to the Riverwalk.

It’s a tiki bar-themed boat, basically.

This is available to visitors for only ten bucks.

The dock behind Mulligan’s Restaurant and the Tide House Restaurant is the starting point.

Visitors can unwind and enjoy a peaceful time while listening to live music and sipping island cocktails from the full bar.

It’s especially advantageous if you have a large company because you can charter the boat for three hours for $55.00 per person, which includes an open bar.

Address: 715 NW Flagler Ave #403, Stuart, FL 34994, United States

16. Tour Florida Waters with Stuart Water Taxi

Driving a Catarman and exploring the region is a great way for visitors to see the beauty of Florida’s seas.

Naturalists lead the visitors around the park, explaining the plants and animals of the area.

There are several tour alternatives, including a 60-minute, 90-minute, or 2.5-hour eco-trip.

In addition, you can take a 3.5-hour twilight coastline trip to appreciate the splendor of the shore.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to get off the boat and explore the seas.

The boats are safe, and you can easily bring your kids with you.

The design gives it the perfect maneuverability of an airboat. Overall, you experience a great Dolphin tour!

If you’re lucky enough, you’ll get to see momma dolphins with their calves! It’s usually a fantastic tour, and we can bet you’d be so eager to come back here again.

Not to mention the absolutely beautiful scenery and informative tour.

The tour is usually fully narrative and provides the history of the Treasure Coast as well as the local ecosystems.

Then there’s also the nice views of wildlife, you simply have to visit this place.

Address: 955 NW Flagler Ave, Stuart, FL 34994, United States

17. Shop at B&A Flea Market

It’s in charming Martin County, where you can discover everything from antiques and treasures to fun beach gear.

It’s a shopping adventure with over 400 vendors offering a diverse assortment of merchandise.

On the streets, visitors may enjoy fantastic live entertainment.

At times, the B&A also provides fantastic live entertainment.

Delicious kettle corn, funnel cakes, and sandwiches will also entice your taste senses.

The market is open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday.

The scale of the B & A Flea Market, as well as the number of professional sellers and those “ordinary individuals” in Garage Sale Alley, will astound you.

There is a good mix of products to buy from T-shirts to jewelry.

They also have a booth there that sells ice cream cones that contain the soft serve ice cream, just like you used to get as a child from the “Mr. Softy” ice cream truck.

A good way to trigger the memories of childhood back into your mind.

You’ll enjoy your time here.

Address: 2885 US-1, Stuart, FL 34994, United States

See also the list of things to do in Siesta Key!

18. Bathtub Reef Beach

Over 500 marine creatures can be found surrounding the fragile reef, making it a fantastic spot to connect with marine life.

The reef is built by Sabellariidae, which are very little tuna-building sea worms.

They build the reef by cementing sand grains together to form an extensive network of tubes.

It is also safe for children because the reef breaks the waves, protecting the beach.

This place is also absolutely beautiful. Life guards are available to protect visitors, which is a good thing. Sometimes sharks are spotted and the life guards swing into action when this happens.

There are also nice bathrooms here.

The management also provides a shallow area for young ones to play in the water perfect for small children.

The rocks break the waves and create like a pool of shallow water. It is absolutely perfect for young children to play in less than a foot of water.

Address: 1585 SE MacArthur Blvd, Stuart, FL 34996, United States

19. Santa Lucea Beach, Stuart

It’s no wonder that beaches are popular tourist destinations in this coastal area.

Santa Lucea Beach is one of Stuart’s Hutchinson Island’s most beautiful beaches.

There are plenty of free parking places and showers for visitors to rinse off the water.

The beach is unguarded and uncommercial.

Pets are also not subject to any limitations.

You should, however, keep them leashed and clean up after them.

There is also a park on the beach that is spread out over 5 acres and is a fun addition for kids.

This location will also appeal to history lovers, as it has a prehistoric Native American settlement.

The Ais lived there for up to 2,000 years until it was abandoned in 1,000 AD.

Also, the parking lot is sandy, but guess what? You are at the beach (smiles). It is not so sandy that it’s difficult to drive on.

There is also a handicap parking provided here. There are no restrooms, but there is a shower to rinse off before getting into your car.

The beach is also very nice but you should beware of the rocks.

You can snorkel around the rocks and enjoy seeing fish, crabs, and pretty shells. Also, it is a free attraction and there are no parking meters.

Address: Santa Lucea Beach, 55 NE MacArthur Blvd, Stuart, FL 34996, United States

20. Sailfish Splash Waterpark

The water park has modern amenities intended at a wide range of ages; while it is primarily a children’s attraction, adults frequently have a great time as well.

There are a variety of covered seating spaces close enough to observe what’s going on without getting wet for parents who like to watch the action from a dry and shaded vantage point.

You can take advantage of this location and use it as a place for the youngsters to unwind and forget about their worries. It also has a few of great shaded areas.

Definitely a less expensive way to visit a water park.

Address: 931 SE Ruhnke St, Stuart, FL 34994, United States

21. Stuart Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast

Especially if you’re traveling with little children who require constant entertainment, it’s a good idea to keep a few indoor activity options in your back pocket during the summer months when the combination whammy of high heat and high humidity makes it difficult to be outside.

The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast is open every day except Monday and is located on NE Indian River Drive on Jensen Beach.

The mission of The Children’s Museum is to offer children and families a safe place to explore and learn through hands-on activities, educational programs and cultural experiences.

It is a family-friendly place that features bright, creative, and hands-on exhibits designed to spark discovery and creative thinking.

The museum’s interactive exhibits cover science and the natural world, as well as history and technology, and it’s one of the few sites that both educate and entertain.

The Children’s Museum welcomes over 80,000 visitors annually and over 20,000 students engage in classroom-based hands-on educational programs every year.

They also offer 3 Fully Interactive Play Spaces; Our Town Wing, Explorer’s Gallery, and Children’s Garden Learning Landscape.

The Museum houses 16 interactive stations and outdoor educational play spaces, so your kids will love and adore this place.

Address: 1707 NE Indian River Dr, Jensen Beach, FL 34957, United States

22. Stuart Horse & Carriage Tours

Wind Chase Farms offers a private horse-drawn carriage ride around downtown Stuart for visitors.

The magnificent horses that pull the carriages would be a hit with the kids.

The driver also serves as a guide, telling the passengers about various historical facts.

They also describe the murals that can be found all across town and convey historical stories.

Many architectural details can be seen along the way by architecture enthusiasts.

This thirty-minute tour costs $120 for up to four passengers. And it gives you an insider’s perspective on Stuart that you won’t find anywhere else.

Address: 22 SE Osceola St, Stuart, FL 34994, United States

 

Safe Travels!