Land-scapes
Nature
The Nurturer
With thousands and thousands of acres of
parks and preserves and miles and miles of
pristine waterways, outdoor and nature lovers
find it easy to linger in St. Lucie.
Environmental educational centers abound
in St. Lucie — each offering a glimpse into
the area’s unique eco-systems. In Port St.
Lucie, nature lovers will find an education
center at the Savannas Preserve State
Park — America’s largest and most intact
remnant of Florida’s East Coast Savannas.
Learn about the importance of this unique
and endangered natural system. Canoeing,
kayaking, and fishing in the wetlands are
popular activities. Wildlife enthusiasts, birders
and photographers can enjoy the diversity
of habitats that this undisturbed area offers.
Over eight miles of multi-use trails provide
opportunities for hiking, bicycling, and
horseback riding. Guided walks and canoe
trips are available by reservation.
Also in Port St. Lucie, the Oxbow Eco-
Center will keep the kids entertained
while the adults hike or launch a canoe.
In Fort Pierce, visit the famed Harbor
Branch Oceanographic Institute at
Florida Atlantic’s University’s Ocean
Discovery Center and learn about the
marine science research being done
right here in St. Lucie. Take a trip across
South Bridge to South Hutchinson Island
and visit the St. Lucie County Aquarium.
Here, the Smithsonian Ecosystems Exhibit
will amaze the whole family with its large
aquariums of living underwater habitats. The
highlight is a 3,300-gallon tank containing a
living coral reef.
Watch your kids be awed at the sight of
manatees, nicknamed sea cows, and their
calves swimming just under the surface of
the water. You can see them in lots of places,
but a good place to start is the Manatee
Observation and Education Center in
downtown Fort Pierce.
If you love botanical gardens, you’ll find two
in the St. Lucie — one in Fort Pierce and
one in Port St. Lucie. Heathcote Botanical
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