Things to do in Downtown Stuart, Florida

Carol Gann

April 24, 2021

Florida Excursions

Downtown Stuart, Florida, has the kind of historic, family-friendly charm that is fast disappearing from many modern cities in America. Not only did Stuart earn the honor of being named Most Beautiful City in America (2008), but the vast majority of attractions are locally owned and operated, which means you won’t find anything like them anywhere else. Most notably, people love the real estate in Stuart – no two structures are alike in a town that values artistic creativity and uniqueness.

If you are exhausted by all the sameness you see and the big chains that seem to follow you everywhere you go, then Stuart, Florida, will be a refreshing and lovely chance of scenery for you and your family. Read on to learn about some of the favorite attractions this historic and charming town has to offer you!

Yummy Stuart Restaurants
These tasty and welcoming Stuart restaurants are as individual as the town itself. Whether you are in the mood for snacking, dining, trying a new beverage or enjoying a spot of dessert, you won’t want to miss these tourist favorites!

The Pelican Cafe

This family and pet-friendly beachfront cafe has something for everyone. Set along the banks of the historic St. Lucie River, you can dine, play and enjoy your stay with the help of the Pelican Cafe’s welcoming “come as you are” hospitality.

Address: 351 SW Flagler Avenue (under the Roosevelt Bridge)
Phone: 772-283-3133
Website: www.pelicancafeandbeach.com

Hoffman’s Chocolates

This small dessert bistro earned rave reviews from the likes of Bon Appetit magazine, which called it “one of America’s best chocolate shops.” Whether you like your chocolate assorted, scooped, slurped, crunched or dipped, you will find something sweet and delicious to love at Hoffman’s. Best of all, if your schedule permits, you can sign the kids up for hands-on chocolate making classes while you’re in town! Address: 12B SW Osceola Street
Phone: 772-286-1554
Website: www.hoffmans.com

Fun Stuart Nightlife

Stuart residents and visitors alike love live music, and the town’s diverse assortment of nightlife reflects this. There is nearly always something musical going on in Stuart, including year-round outdoor festivals like Rock’ N Riverwalk. And if you’re in the mood for some cool evening tunes, check out these two locals favorite for live music!

The Stillery

If you love ferreting out locals-only hotspots, you will love The Stillery. Because it isn’t on the main drag in downtown Stuart, many visitors never discover it. And if you love beer, this is even more of a reason to visit, because The Stiller has 40+ brews in addition to their extensive menu of vintage cocktail creations. The Stillery is open nightly for drinks, dancing and relaxing.

Address: 2196 SE Ocean Blvd
Phone: 772-210-6413
Website: www.thestillerybar.com

Terra Fermata

Terra Fermata is a popular outdoor live music venue in Stuart. The venue has it all, from delicious craft brews and wines to a gift shop (The Riff Shop) filled with locally-sourced jewelry, clothing and gift items. You can enjoy relaxing in one of their outdoor hammocks or play a fun game of Jenga.

Address: 26 SE 6th Street
Phone: (772) 286-5252
Website: www.terrafermata.com

Intriguing Stuart Activities

Whether your passion is for history, education, the great outdoors or shopping and dining, you will find something to intrigue you in Stuart Florida. The town is home to an incredible diversity of activities for all to enjoy.

Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center

This beautiful coastal sanctuary offers more than a glimpse into the importance of the ocean to Stuart life. With fun and education for the whole family, you can explore miles of coastal trails, get up close and personal with sea turtles and manta rays, participate in daily feedings, enroll in evening sea turtle walks (be sure to register in advance as these fill up fast!) and much more.

Address: 890 NE Ocean Boulevard
Phone: 772-225-0505
Website: www.floridaocean.org

The House of Refuge Museum

Originally there were 9 houses of refuge nationwide. These houses were places of rescue and refuge for sailors shipwrecked off the coast. Today, the House of Refuge in Stuart Florida is the sole remaining house out of the original 9. It offers great photos, beautiful scenery (with lots of photo ops!), a comprehensive map detailing the many ships that wrecked off the Florida coastline, guided or self-guided tours and an eye-opening look at what the life of a sea traveler was like in a different time period.

Address: 301 Southeast MacArthur Boulevard
Phone: (772) 225-1875
Website: www.houseofrefugefl.org

The Downtown Stuart Riverwalk

Your visit to Stuart won’t be complete without taking in the Riverwalk. This scenic route can be strolled at your leisure as you stop to browse, buy and enjoy tasty treats along the way. One of the best perks of making time for the Riverwalk is the number of local Stuart residents you will have the opportunity to meet. You can also take the small free tram bus if you get tired of walking. The tram will give you an overview of local Stuart history while giving your feet a rest! And if your pooch needs to stretch his legs, the Riverwalk is very pet-friendly.

The Rock’ N Riverwalk event also happens here every Sunday afternoon from 1-4pm, so be sure to check it out if you are in Stuart on a Sunday!

Address: All along SW St. Lucie Ave
Email (no phone listed): www.historicdowntownstuart.com/contact/
Website: www.historicdowntownstuart.com

Whether you are in the mood to explore Florida’s legendary outdoor beauty, dine and shop, learn about Stuart’s history, take in excellent live music or just kick back and enjoy life, you will find a fabulous variety of activities in this small town with a great zest for life.

Some visitors come to visit Stuart and just never leave! These people love the real estate in Stuart as much as the scenery and they happily settle in to become “locals.” Stuart, Florida, is a great place to live and enjoy life.