Explore The Area

NASA’s launch headquarters features exhibits and hands-on experiences, including guided tours of the launch area and facility and IMAX movies. Meet veteran astronauts, train in spaceflight simulators and visit the Apollo/Saturn V Center.

Located at Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute at Florida Atlantic University, the Center houses interactive exhibits, small aquaria, a video theater and other displays exploring the marine environment and research efforts of the Institute.

The Indian River Citrus Museum tells the story of the area’s grove culture and displays the artifacts, photographs and memorabilia of the pioneers who established the most distinguished citrus fruit in the world, Indian River grapefruit.

This historic home was built by Axel Hallstrom, a Swedish horticulturist who emigrated to the United States in 1898. In 2000, his daughter willed the main house and the surrounding five acres to the county. Open by appointment.

Also known as Ruck’s Fossil Pit, the Fort Drum Crystal Mine is a site where enthusiasts can search for fossils and minerals, including ancient calcified marine clam shells with large amber crystals. Bring your own bucket, hand shovel and rock hammer. Open by appointment.

The ELC is located on a 51-acre campus of natural surroundings, from hammocks to salt marshes and mangrove forests. Multiple species of birds, fish, crustaceans and mammals are on display, as well as various indigenous plants. There are also boardwalks, paths, pavilions and indoor labs. The Center offers special programs, classes and workshops.

This 50-acre community zoo features animals from Florida and around the world. Zoo staff demonstrate feeding of alligators and crocodiles at 3PM on Wed., Fri. and Sun; river otter demos are at 2PM on Tues. and Sat. The “Cape to Cairo Express” train ride is perfect for young children, while teens and older guests may prefer the new zipline, paddle boats or kayaking.

The Visitor Center features exhibits on sea turtles and the barrier island; environmental education programs and tours; an auditorium with orientation movies, and a ¾-mile foot trail and lagoon kayak launch. Closed on Mondays.

We all think Vero Beach is the center of the Universe and in a way we’re right. While there is plenty to do to keep residents and visitors happy right here, a short drive in any direction expands your possibilities.

Felix Fajardo spent 20 minutes outside a storefront on 43rd Avenue in Vero Beach debating whether to go in or forget it.

When The Nature Conservancy was founded in 1951, its primary focus was on protecting rare and endangered species.

If you’ve just moved to the area it would be hard to imagine what Easter Lily Lane looked like up until four years ago.