McKee Botanical Garden
McKee Botanical Gardens was formed in 1929 as the McKee Jungle Gardens. During those early years, landscape architect William Lyman Phillips began the work of designing the site into a diverse tropical landscape featuring the region's unique flora. Plant seeds from around the world were brought in and planted. The gardens flourished as a tourist attraction until the 1970's when the doors closed. In 2001 the gardens were refurbished, and the doors opened again to the public. Because of its long standing as a unique garden that has flourished for almost a hundred years it has been added to the National Register of Historic places. The Garden Conservancy has endorsed the project as one of National Significance because so many of the plants that grow within its boundaries are rare. The grounds consist of an 18-acre subtropical jungle hammock through which guests can stroll. There is an on-site gift store, book store and the Garden Cafe, which serves sandwiches and salads. Admission is charged.
McKee Botanical Garden
350 US Highway 1
Vero Beach, FL 32962
(772) 794-0601
mckeegarden.org
Environmental Learning Center
The Environmental Learning Center offers visitors the chance to stroll through 64 acres of trails, including boardwalks through a salt marsh and mangrove forest. Tourists can view diverse bird, fish and crustacean species as well as the wildlife that often congregates around the Indian River Lagoon. Guests are also welcome to canoe the lagoon. The area is well marked with signs to direct visitors along the numerous pathways and trails. There are several pavilions along the way to enjoy. A toddler learning exhibit offers hands-on attractions. The Learning Center offers numerous classes and field trips for those interested in learning more about Florida. There is an on-site gift shop. Swamp buggy tours are available for those who do not wish to walk or hike. Admission is free.
Environmental Learning Center
255 Live Oak Drive
Vero Beach FL 32963
(772) 589-5050
discoverelc.org
The Indian River Citrus Museum
The Indian River Citrus Museum traces the history of citrus in Florida back to the 1880s through photographs, artifacts and memorabilia of the early pioneer families in the region. Visitors can stroll through the museum and learn why Florida citrus is famous throughout the world. The museum features numerous model displays that depict the harvest and processing of the citrus crops. An on-site gift store features a variety of citrus products and souvenirs.
The Indian River Citrus Museum
2140 14th Avenue,
Vero Beach, FL 32960
(772) 770-2263
veroheritage.org
Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge
The Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge is located 21 miles north of Vero Beach. The refuge runs for 20 miles between Melbourne Beach and Wabasso Beach. The area protects the loggerhead turtles of the region. The Barrier Island Sanctuary Management and Education Center is open to the public to learn about the region and the conservation of the loggerhead turtles. The refuge offers a chance to view wildlife and photographic opportunities abound. Beach access and trails are located within the refuge.
Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge And Barrier Island Sanctuary Visitors and Education Center
8395 S Highway A1A
Melbourne Beach, Florida
(321) 723-3556
(772) 562 3909
fws.gov
Article Written By Kimberly Sharpe
Based in Oregon, Kimberly Sharpe has been a freelance writer since 2006. She writes for numerous online publications. Her writing has a strong focus on home improvement, gardening, parenting, pets and travel. She has spent most of her life working as a veterinarian technician, landscape adviser and owned a pet boarding, training and grooming facility in Florida
