"Let's go to the beach, each, let's go get away"
Located on the east coast of Florida, just 86 miles from the popular tourist destination of Orlando, Vero Beach is a charming city filled with peaceful beaches, 5-star restaurants, gorgeous wildlife and an overall sense of welcome that makes anyone feel right at home. Whether you are staying for a short duration of time or you are a full-time resident who calls Vero home, there is no place quite like what many refer to as Florida's hidden gem.
Established in 1925 alongside the creation of Indian River county, Vero Beach has always been a city filled with history, culture, entertainment and gorgeous wildlife.
Barbara Kaplan, who has lived in Vero Beach for 11 years says, "I love Vero Beach for many reasons. It's filled with wonderful people, wonderful restaurants. It is home to numerous Publix stores, there's no traffic and it is surrounded by lots of beautiful beaches."
Indeed it is. With 26 miles of oceanfront shore in Indian River County, the beaches of Vero Beach are a popular go to destination for both tourists and residents alike. Vero's three main beaches — South Beach, Humiston Park and Jaycee Beach — are part of what is known as Florida's Treasure Coast and each are perfect for either a relaxing day with a book or a day for some fun in the sun. Vero Beach is also home to other exciting water related activities such as fishing, boating, kayaking, diving, paddle boarding, water skiing and snorkeling.
"Vero Beach is a place unlike any other," said Howard Rice who resides in New York but owns a vacation home in Vero Beach. "Vero is full of warm, friendly people who each enjoy all the great things Vero Beach has to offer. Being in Vero feels like being on vacation every single day. Who wouldn't want that?"
Along with heading to the beach, there are so many other various attractions and things to do in Vero. From snapping some pictures of alligators on an air boat tour or laughing until it hurts at one of the hilarious shows at the Riverside Theatre, there is something for everyone to enjoy, so having a good time will never be an issue.
There are also numerous restaurants that both tourists and residents alike have to try. From the outrageously delicious burgers fromBobby's Restaurant & Lounge to the fantastic wine and chocolate of Grind + Grape, there is also something for everyone to eat and enjoy here.
Numerous events also happen in Vero Beach that both residents and non-residents alike enjoy partaking in. Vero Beach is very serious when it comes to football so stop by and check out a Vero Beach High School's Fighting Indians football game or unwind early in the morning and catch a gorgeous sunrise.Composed here are 5 things todo, 5 places to eat and 5 experiences to have when in Vero Beach.
Things to do:
1. Vero Beach Museum of Art
The Vero Beach Museum of Art is currently celebrating its 30th anniversary with numerous collections and 3 fascinating exhibits: Selections from the Vera Bluemner Kouba Collection, John Baeder's American Roadside and Landscapes and Still Lifes.
2. Take a boat tour
There are countless ways to experience and view the wildlife when visiting Vero Beach, but Captian Bob's Airboat Adventure Tours is quite possibly the best. On your tour, you will see nature at its finest, but watch out, alligators await your arrival at every turn.
3. Go shopping
Shop till you drop at the Vero Beach Outlets where you can find anything you need. From clothing at Nike, Ann Taylor and Tommy Hilfiger to housewares and home furnishings at stores such as Kitchen Collection or William-Sonoma, the sales and bargains are never-ending!
4. Catch a show or event at the Riverside Theatre
One of the premiere professional regional theatres in the United States, the Riverside Theatre is home to many shows and events such as The Comedy Zone, the lecturer series and the free outdoor concert series, Live in the Loop. Sit back, relax and enjoy the show.
5. McKee Botanical Garden
McKee Botanical Garden is where a plant and nature lovers dreams come true. Come explore 18 acres of pure bliss where you will discover various trees, plants, flowers and waterfalls. Make sure you bring a camera to capture all of the beauty that the nature here holds.
Places to eat:
1. Grind + Grape
Grind + Grape is a coffee, dessert and wine bar that is both casual and comfortable and also perfect to visit during any time of the day. This unique blend of a restaurant is perfect for all, especially those with a sweet tooth. It is also home to live music every night so make sure you make it a priority to check this exciting place out.
P.S. Ask for their best server/barista Alex, she is the Beyoncé of the food service world.
2. Waldos
Located right on the beach (talk about an exciting dining experience) and attached to the Driftwood Resort, Waldo's is a great place to munch on some delicious food, watch the waves crash along the shore and to enjoy some live music while kicking back with a margarita in hand.
3. Bobby's Restaurant & Lounge
Known for their burgers, Bobby's Restaurant & Lounge is the perfect place to get dinner for any occasion. This hangout spot for locals has been serving community members for over 30 years and it is a top choice for local’s looking for great food in a casual atmosphere. Call ahead — this place gets busy fast!
4. Kilwins
Located right across from Humiston Park, Kilwin's is filled with loads of tasty treats. Fudge, caramel apples, brittles and hand-dipped chocolate confections are hand-made each day and their original recipe ice cream is unlike any other out there. Boxed chocolates and platters are also available to take home for those late night cravings. Make sure you check this tasty spot out but don't be surprised if you find yourself buying one of every delicious treat.
5. Scampi Grill
The Scampi Grill describes itself as "a multi-regional Italian Cuisine Bistro that is located in the heart of downtown Vero Beach. The Scampi Grill starts with the freshest ingredients possible then with the perfect touch, they add their own secret ingredients. ensuring each delicious dish is truly a one-of-a-kind work of art." Enjoy the delicious food that is offered here as you enjoy your time in Vero Beach.
Things to experience
1. The sunrise
Start your day off in the best way possible — with the sun! There is nothing more peaceful than sitting in silence and watching the sun slowly appear across the ocean. With all the different beaches to choose from in Vero, make sure you partake in this peaceful activity frequently. Bring a book, eat breakfast, do some yoga, but whatever you do, just relax.
2. Downtown Friday
Downtown Friday is held on the last Friday of every month (With the exception of December and April) from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in Historic Downtown Vero Beach. So head on down one Friday and hang with residents and discover all that Vero has to offer. Come for the food, stay for the strong sense of community that is established here.
3. Fighting Indians Football Game
"HUT! HUT! HIKE!" Vero Beach's Fighting Indians football team may not currently have any games to see, but when their season is in session, make sure you stop by to check out all of the hard work and dedication put in by all involved — the football players, the band, parents, faculty or really anyone who has some Fighting Indians pride.
4. Disney's Vero Beach Resort
Enjoy Disney, without the hassle of being in Disney. Disney's Vero Beach Resort allows an opportunity to enjoy all things Mickey Mouse in a beach style getaway. You can stay for a day or however long you please, just know that the hardest decision you'll have to make during your stay is whether to relax by the pool or to relax by the beach.
5. The Sunset
Like the sunrise, watching the sunset is an experience you must partake in. Watch as the sunset paints the evening sky with magnificent colors before heading off to enjoy the rest of your night. It is a relaxing way to unwind and to reflect upon the current day and those that lie ahead.
Vero Beach is unlike any other vacation destination out there. There is so much to see, so much to eat and so much to do. So call your travel agent now and book a trip to this magnificent part of the Sunshine State.
