Part of Florida’s Treasure Coast, Indian River County has 26 miles of unspoiled beaches, the serene waterscapes of the Sebastian and Indian Rivers, and miles of pristine woodlands and fields providing an endless array of recreational adventures.
Vero Beach, the county seat, is a city of beaches, chic shops, art galleries, night spots and a variety of music, dance and art venues. It hosts the Dodgers baseball club for spring training and, among other attractions, a historic Florida landmark, McKee Botanical Garden, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmDtZQdNYDM
Vero Beach Museum of Art
Vero Beach Museum of Art is accredited by the American Association of Museums with an exceptional focus on education and cultural adventures. Indian River County has a long history with arts and cultural offerings. Early settlers in this area valued the richness of cultural experiences. In fact, this county broke away from another because the local theatre was not open on Sundays when patrons wanted to attend. Many of the local theatre, art and nature groups have roots that date back to the early settlement of this area.
Attractions
As time has marched on, these groups have managed to maintain a sanctuary of natural, cultural and historical attractions. These deep roots have taken hold and many cultural organizations have emerged to make this an attractive area to visitors. Visitors lured by beaches are pleasantly surprised to find an art museum, a professional theatre, symphonic concerts, botanical gardens, historical sites and nature preserves all around them. Indian River County is off the beaten path, a safe haven from crowds and congestion.
Events
Events are planned year round. Local organizations offer concerts and plays. Nature activities such as guided walks, kayaking and pontoon boat rides are offered to visitors at botanical gardens and nature preserves. Artist Studios and galleries are available for all to enjoy. Local museums offer a wide range of interests, places where visitors can explore and learn more about fine art, Indian River County citrus and history, fishing in the county or how this area came to be known as the “Treasure Coast.”
Vero Beach Train Station
Vero Beach Train Station built in 1903 houses the Indian River County Historical Society which provides directions to these and other historic sites: the Heritage Center/Citrus Museum which preserves the artifacts, photographs and memorabilia of the citrus pioneers of Indian River County; Breconshire Marker at Humiston Park which provides a historic account of the 1894 sunken ship, the Breconshire; Jungle Trail Greenway, a scenic drive along the Indian River; Paul Kroegel Statue which honors the first warden, appointed in 1903 to protect Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge; Hallstrom House, a Swedish farmstead pineapple and citrus plantation; Moore’s Point, the site of an Ais Indian settlement; Laura Riding Jackson House, an original Cracker – style house, built in 1910; and The Sebastian Fishing Museum
Art galleries to antiques, shopping centers to outlet malls, beach side boutiques featuring designer linens, jewelry, fine fashions and footwear …. there are plenty of shopping opportunities.
Indian River County is home to six public golf courses, including Sandridge Municipal Golf Course which has received national acclaim as one of the finest public courses in the country. With twelve private courses rounding out the offerings, golf is a serious sport throughout the county.