FAU Harbor Branch Ocean Discovery Visitors Center - Fort Pierce, Florida

FAU Harbor Branch Ocean Discovery Visitors Center: A Treasure Trove of Marine wonders in Fort Pierce, FL

The FAU Harbor Branch Ocean Discovery Visitors Center, nestled at 5600 US-1, Fort Pierce, FL 34946, United States, is a captivating marine life museum and aquarium that offers an immersive and educational experience for visitors of all ages. This vibrant attraction, operated by Florida Atlantic University's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, is a must-visit for anyone interested in marine science, wildlife, and conservation.

Main Services

• Aquarium and Museum Exhibits: Explore a fascinating array of marine life through interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and aquariums housing over 1,000 species.
• Boat Tours: Embark on guided boat tours to discover the local waterways, mangroves, and estuaries, spotting various wildlife such as dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species.
• Educational Programs: Participate in educational workshops, lectures, and camps led by expert researchers and educators, delving into the fascinating world of marine science.
• Special Events: Attend special events, seasonal activities, and live performances, creating unforgettable memories with family and friends.
• Gift Shop and Dining: Browse a unique selection of marine-themed gifts, souvenirs, and educational materials in the gift shop, and enjoy a meal at the on-site café.

Location and Access

The Visitors Center is situated along the picturesque Indian River Lagoon, offering stunning views and easy access to local waterways. The center is located in the historic downtown area of Fort Pierce, close to the Fort Pierce Inlet State Park and the Environmental Learning Center.

• By Car: The center is easily accessible via US-1, with ample parking available on-site.
• By Public Transportation: Take the Sunshine Bus Route 26 from the Fort Pierce Transit Center, which stops near the Visitors Center.

Featured Characteristics

• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Enjoy cutting-edge technology, such as interactive touch screens and digital displays, enhancing your learning experience.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: The center is fully wheelchair-accessible, with designated parking, entrance, and toilet facilities to ensure all visitors can enjoy the attraction.
• Outdoor Learning Spaces: Explore the scenic nature trails, picnic areas, and outdoor learning spaces, providing ample opportunities for hands-on exploration and discovery.
• Research Vessel: Board the R/V Suncoaster, a 93-foot research vessel, for an immersive educational journey into the world of marine research.

Practical Information

• Admission: Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance. Prices vary depending on age, with discounts available for seniors, military, and students.
• Hours: The Visitors Center is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. boat tours and special events may have specific schedules and availability.
• Tips: Arrive early to secure your spot for boat tours, as tickets can sell out quickly. Dress comfortably, wear sunscreen, and bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during your visit.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

Visitors consistently praise the FAU Harbor Branch Ocean Discovery Visitors Center for its engaging and informative exhibits, knowledgeable staff, and the unique opportunity to encounter diverse marine life up close. The relaxed and peaceful boat tours, along with the beautiful surroundings, have left many guests feeling rejuvenated and inspired. The center's commitment to conservation, education, and accessibility has also been widely commended, making it an excellent choice for families, schools, and nature enthusiasts alike.

With an average rating of 4.9/5 from over 120 reviews on Google My Business, the FAU Harbor Branch Ocean Discovery Visitors Center stands as a shining example of an immersive, educational, and enjoyable marine attraction. Its dedication to showcasing the wonders of the ocean and promoting environmental stewardship ensures that every visitor leaves with a newfound appreciation for the incredible world beneath the waves.

👍 Reviews of FAU Harbor Branch Ocean Discovery Visitors Center

Judith M.

5/5

Super cool tour! Very relaxing boat ride with lots of nature sightings: manatees, dolphins!, different birds and more. Very impressive technology with screens at every seat and an ROV underwater drone which allowed us to see under the water in high definition. Our tour guide Sam was very knowledgeable, friendly and entertaining!

Tara M.

5/5

This eco pontoon tour was a real treat for my high schooler and me! Our tour guide Sam was the real deal — very knowledgeable but also explained all the science really well and patiently answered our questions. The underwater drone was so cute! And we felt lucky to see dolphins and a great variety of birds in their natural habitat. I was also
impressed with the quality of the exhibits in the discovery center, and it was small enough to go through quickly. We did the pontoon tour then sandwiches and then the discovery center, but other passengers from our pontoon tour were in and out of the discovery center before we had finished our sandwiches.

May B.

5/5

It's very informative and the staff is very nice and friendly. They have tram and boat tours too.

DONATION : $5

Chris P.

5/5

Had a great time today on the boat tour. Sam was a great tour guide! Highly recommend doing this if you’re in Fort Pierce, Vero Beach or surrounding towns. Definitely worth it!

Diane C.

5/5

What a fabulous tour and educational journey out on the Indian River Lagoon! Sam is so knowledgeable and fun to learn from. Hands on demos and lots of great wildlife views!

Lisa D.

5/5

We have gone by Harbor Branch many times by boat and never once visited until today. The Boat Tour was amazing and our Tour Guide, Sam, was phenomenal. The best compliment is when my teen son said to me, “you can tell she really loves her job.”

Mary A. K.

5/5

Excellent tour. Very informative and just the right length. Staff is friendly and knows a lot about the facility. Accommodations are great. Hope to be back soon for lecture series.

Shawn G.

5/5

A great little detour to add in with other stops in the area, the Ocean Discovery Center is an enlightening display of the University's efforts in the area. Free to the public (donations suggested), the Center provides an introduction to the prevalent species of the IRL and the challenges that they currently face. The displays and aquariums provide a nice 60 - 90 minute reprieve from the road, and the Center is excellently paired with the DJ Wilcox Preserve located nearby.