You’ll plunge that Port St. Lucie offers an impressive array of family-friendly activities that combine education with entertainment. From getting up close with Highland cows at Eastside Acres Ranch to exploring interactive exhibits at the Oxbow Eco-Center, this Florida destination caters to diverse interests and age groups. Whether your kids prefer outdoor expeditions or indoor excitements, these eight carefully selected attractions pledge to metamorphose your family outing into a memorable experience.
Animal Adventures at Eastside Acres Ranch
Nestled on 20 acres of scenic Florida land, Eastside Acres Ranch and its neighbor Peace.Love.Goat offer families an immersive farm animal experience. At this Port St. Lucie destination, visitors can engage with Highland cows, alpacas, miniature horses, and donkeys through guided tours and educational programs.
The ranch’s diverse activities include goat yoga, line dancing, and scheduled animal encounters, with glamping experiences coming in Fall 2024. Like Davie’s petting farms and rides, the ranch provides authentic western-style experiences perfect for curious children.
Splash and Play at Banyan Basin Water Park
When the Florida heat becomes unbearable, Banyan Basin Splash Pad at Pioneer Park offers families an invigorating escape without any admission costs. Located in Port St. Lucie’s Treasure Coast region, this popular water playground features interactive jets, sprinklers, and a creek. Similar to exciting Hialeah destinations, this park provides refreshing entertainment for local families and visitors alike.
You’ll find shaded seating areas and grassy spaces perfect for picnics, while kids enjoy the enclosed playground and cooling water features from 9 AM until dusk.
Nature Exploration at Oxbow Eco-Center
The magnificent Oxbow Eco-Center stands as Port St. Lucie County’s hidden treasure for nature enthusiasts. This 200-acre preserve offers free admission and over 3 miles of nature trails where you’ll explore diverse local wildlife.
It’s a fun activity destination featuring live animal exhibits, educational crafts, and specialized programs like birdwatching. Like Spring Hill’s nature centers, this location provides the perfect mix of relaxation and hands-on activities for families. The gardens are open Tuesday through Saturday, making it perfect for family exploration.
Family Fun at MIDFLORIDA Event Center
Cooling off has never been easier than at MIDFLORIDA Event Center, where families can enjoy a modern splash pad facility completely free of charge. Located in Port St. Lucie, this community hub offers shaded areas and picnic spots perfect for a relaxing family day out.
You’ll find the splash pad operating Monday through Saturday, complemented by adjacent sports fields and recreational programs that make it an ideal destination for both locals and visitors. Similar to Palm Coast’s scenic outdoor trails, the area around MIDFLORIDA Event Center provides plenty of opportunities for family exploration and adventure.
Adventure Time at Urban Air and Defy Parks
Looking for indoor excitement? Port St. Lucie offers two premier destinations: Urban Air expedition and Defy trampoline park.
At Urban Air, you’ll find go-karts, laser tag, virtual reality experiences, and climbing walls. Defy Parks features trampolines, slides, foam pits, and ninja obstacle courses. These fun places provide year-round entertainment in climate-controlled environments, making them ideal for birthday parties and family outings. Like St. Petersburg’s hands-on museums, these indoor attractions help develop creative and curious young minds through active play and exploration.
Botanical Discovery at Port St. Lucie Gardens
Nestled in the heart of Port St. Lucie offers an enchanting escape at the Saint Lucie Botanical Gardens, where 20 acres of Florida’s Treasure Coast beauty awaits.
Open Monday through Saturday, the gardens provide a tranquil environment perfect for little ones to immerse themselves in diverse plant collections, seasonal Christmas displays, and educational guided tours.
While miniature horses aren’t present, children can investigate the charming artificial lake and well-stocked garden shop.
Tee off With Kids at Popstroke
For golf enthusiasts and novices alike, PopStroke offers an exciting twist on traditional mini-golf with its Tiger Woods-designed putting courses that feature synthetic turf and modern amenities. Located near the New York Mets Spring Training facility, this family-friendly destination includes an on-site restaurant, homemade ice cream, and milkshakes.
Every Saturday, the MIDFLORIDA Event Center hosts special activities, making PopStroke a perfect complement to your Vero Beach Resort visit.
Train Fascination at Treasure Coast Model Railroad Club
While many Port St. Lucie attractions cater to families, the Treasure Coast Model Railroad Club offers a unique educational experience. Their expansive HO layout welcomes train enthusiasts of all ages, letting visitors watch and operate model trains.
Open on Saturdays, this interactive destination provides children and adults the opportunity to learn about railroading while engaging with intricate train displays under expert guidance.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for outdoor plunges or indoor exhilaration, Port St. Lucie offers diverse activities for families with children. From interacting with farm animals at Eastside Acres Ranch to exploring nature trails at the Oxbow Eco-Center, you’ll find educational and entertaining options throughout the city. With water parks, thrill centers, gardens, and unique attractions like Popstroke and the model railroad club, Port St. Lucie provides year-round opportunities for family bonding.
