VERO BEACH, FLORIDA

Vero Beach, Florida is on the Atlantic Ocean about 8 miles east of I-95 on State Road 60. It's about an hour and a half north of West Palm Beach and 15 miles north of Fort Pierce.  

Driftwood Inn in Vero Beach, View North

The population of the City of Vero Beach is 16,354 and it is a great place to live or vacation.  It is located on the long coastline known as Florida's Treasure Coast.

INDIAN RIVER PRESS JOURNAL FRONT PAGE TODAY

The modern history of Vero Beach, Florida begins with its establishment as a citrus shipping point.  

Henry T. Gifford started the first post office in the area in 1891 and used the name Vero.  

Vintage Postcard Driftwood Inn, Vero Beach

Most people think the name came from his wife, Sarah. 

She suggested the new town be named Vero from the Latin word for "to speak the truth."

Liberty Park Downtown Vero Beach in 1925

Vero Beach was founded in 1919 and its slogan back then was "Where The Tropics Begin." 

It's not officially true, but the vegetation certainly looks different here than it does in the towns just to the north.

Vero Beach Vintage Postcard

Read about the early families, Vero Beach Man, the Brooklyn Dodgers, Piper Aircraft, Johns Island, and more at our page at:

  HISTORY OF VERO BEACH, FLORIDA

Travelers on Interstate 95 think the intersection of that superhighway with State Road 60 is Vero Beach.

Someone driving on US Highway 1 comes to what they believe is Vero Beach.

People who stay along the ocean on State Road A1A come to what they believe is Vero Beach.

They are all correct, all of these places are Vero Beach.

Wall Mural in Vero Beach
Facebook/Visit Indian River County

VERO BEACH,  FLORIDA:  THREE NEIGHBORHOODS

The city has three distinct areas:

• Beach Side Vero on the oceanfront barrier island across the Intracoastal Waterway from the mainland.  This has some of the most expensive homes and resort properties that enjoy the beautiful beaches and tree canopied streets.  
  
  
• Old Downtown Vero on the west side of the Indian River Lagoon.  This area is concentrated around the intersection of US-1 and State Road 60.  Many of the older homes and businesses are located in this neighborhood.
  
  
• West of Downtown all the way out to I-95.  This is a newer commercial area that includes a large regional mall and a factory outlet mall.

BEACHSIDE VERO BEACH, FLORIDA

The motto today is "Sunrises, Not High Rises", a sentiment that reflects the zoning laws and community attitudes against the mega oceanfront development so typical of much of the rest of Florida.

Atlantic Ocean at Vero Beach, Florida

The only high rise on the ocean I know of in Vero Beach is the Village Spires. 

It was built in 1973 against the protests of much of the Vero Beach population.  They passed ordinances to limit the height of future buildings.

Village Spires, the first and last of its kind in Vero Beach

Although the project was extremely unpopular with Vero Beach residents back when it was built, today it is a well maintained complex of upscale condominiums.

The beach side area of Vero Beach looks subtropical, with abundant lush vegetation and fine Florida mansions.

Sea turtles love to make their nests in the beach dunes along the Vero Beach coast.

There is a nice small shopping district with restaurants and art galleries.  A recent luxury hotel addition is the Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel.

Vero Beach has wonderful beaches. The main beach is accessible from the Central Beach Business District.  It is an excellent place to soak up the sun and enjoy the ocean.

The Narrows on the Indian River at Vero Beach

You will find the beach area of Vero Beach to be more laid back and not as touristy or junky as many other Florida beach side towns.

The major tourist attraction is several miles north of downtown: Disney's Vero Beach Resort.  It is a family vacation destination on the ocean.

The beach neighborhood is on the barrier island separated from the mainland by a section of the Indian River Lagoon called "The Narrows."

The crime rates in Vero Beach are lower than the state average, and the beach neighborhoods are even safer.

Real estate prices are much higher in the beach side than others in the Vero Beach area.

DOWNTOWN VERO BEACH, FLORIDA

This historic downtown neighborhood is around the intersection of US Highway 1 and State Road 60.  These were the historic main north-south and east-west roads into Vero Beach.

Mural in Downtown Vero Beach

The downtown area of Vero Beach, on the mainland, is more typical of small Florida towns with the old railroad station and a lot of small retail businesses and antique shops.

This is where the old Indian River County Courthouse and Vero Beach City Hall are located.

Historic Vero Beach Train Depot

There is a large park in the heart of downtown and many historic businesses and apartment buildings.

Pocahontas Apartments, Downtown Vero Beach, Florida

The area west of Vero Beach straddling State Road 60 has a large regional mall and an outlet mall and many new sprawling subdivisions.

Modern Vero Beach is home to some of the most exclusive golf courses and marina oriented residential developments in Florida including Johns Island, The Moorings and Grand Harbor.

Vero Beach is reportedly home to more retired Fortune 500 CEO's than any other location in the world and has the fourth highest concentration of wealthy households in the U.S.

Most of these residents live in Indian River Shores or Johns Island on the exclusive barrier island that is divided from the mainland by the Indian River Lagoon.

Many of them refer to Vero Beach as "The Village". This designation as "Villagers" does not please some of the old time Vero Beach natives.

These wealthy transplants have helped to finance and create many cultural opportunities in Vero Beach.

Yesterdays Antiques, Vero Beach, Florida

The Vero Beach Theatre Guild started in 1958. The Vero Beach Concert Association began presenting concerts in 1966. Riverside Theatre opened in 1974, and the Center for the Arts in 1986.

Vero also has several entries in the National Register of Historic Places including the Vero Railroad Station, Driftwood Inn, McKee Jungle Gardens and the Old Palmetto Hotel.

Piper Aircraft Inc. has been building Piper airplanes in Vero Beach since 1957 in a plant at the municipal airport. Piper is the largest private employer in Indian River County.

Most business activity other than Piper is tourism or citrus based. Vero Beach's busiest tourist season is from December through April.

SOME VERO BEACH ATTRACTIONS

McKee Botanical Garden, 350 US Highway 1, Vero Beach FL 32962. 772-794-0601. This place is famous for its 18 acre subtropical jungle hammock.

This dense and diverse botanical garden also includes several restored architectural treasures.

The garden is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a historic Florida landmark.  Nature loves enjoy visiting this unique park.

Indian River Citrus Museum and Heritage Center.  Though citrus certainly grows well in Florida, its journey to reach Florida began in southeast Asia.

Thanks to a Spanish law requiring that Spanish sailors bring orange seeds with them to plant in the new world, citrus arrived first in the Caribbean and then Florida. 

Early settlers recognized the ideal local growing conditions surrounding the Indian River Lagoon.

Today, only fruit grown in this thin 200 mile stretch of land may be legally referred to as “Indian River Fruit” - just like champagne can only come from the Champagne region of France. Our fruit is that special! 

To learn more, come visit the Indian River Citrus Museum – just inside the Heritage Center, in historic Downtown Vero at 2140 14^th Ave. It is one of many great museums in Vero Beach.

It’s refreshingly interesting! More info at veroheritage.org. 

The Ocean Drive Farmer's Market is held every Saturday from 8am until noon on Ocean Drive at Humiston Park.

Vero Beach Original Community Building.  In 1935 the Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) paid the labor costs while the City paid the material costs, and Vero Beach’s first Community Building was built. 

During WWII, Vero Beach was home to 27,000 men and 900 women involved in the war effort and the Community Building became the Servicemen’s Center.

After the war, the building became more of a true community center for all ages, hosting teen dances and adult gatherings. 

In the 1980s, the building fell into such disuse and disrepair that some say the only thing holding it together was the termites.  The Indian River County Historical Society led by Millie Bunnell fought to save it from demolition.

In 1993, the Heritage Center was fully restored and placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Later that same year, the Indian River Citrus Museum opened its doors inside the former WWII servicemen’s lounge.

Vero Beach Museum of Art, 3001 Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach FL 32963. 772-231-0707. This museum is the main visual arts venue in the entire Indian River region.

Its neoclassical structure is located in beautiful Riverside Park on the Indian River Lagoon.

It has numerous exhibitions, collections, gallery tours, studio and classroom art and humanities education for youth and adults, cinema, community events, lectures, seminars, concerts, dramatic performances and cultural celebrations.

Vero Beach Museum of Art

OUR FAVORITE VERO BEACH RESTAURANTS

Italian Grill, 2180 58th Avenue, Vero Beach FL 32966. 772-567-6640.

Out west between downtown and I-95 near the big regional mall. Great pasta and other Italian dishes, fine Italian dining, good wine selection, nice ambience.

I love their grilled chicken and sausage. Pizza appetizers are good too.

Ocean Grill, 1050 Sexton Plaza, Vero Beach Florida 32963. 772-231-5409.

This restaurant has beautiful views of the ocean and the food is better than average but not quite great.

I have eaten there for 40 years and never had a bad meal. It is a must place to visit in beachside Vero.

OUR FAVORITE VERO BEACH HOTELS

The area round the I-95 interchange at State Road 60 has several decent chain motels, including Country Inn & Suites, Holiday Inn Express, and Howard Johnson Express.

These motels are 8 miles away from downtown Vero Beach, however, and I prefer the places below closer to town. 

We have included a link to Booking.com at the end of this page, but we also have a couple of favorites we recommend.

The two places I recommend below are both in beachside Vero.

The Caribbean Court, 1601 S. Ocean Drive, Vero Beach, Florida 32963. 772-231-7211. This 18 room place has beach access and a heated pool.

It is located in the choice beach area of Vero Beach known as South Beach. Antique furnishings, hand-painted tiles and original artwork give the room a Caribbean feel.

Enjoy live music, tapas and spirits at Havana Nights Piano Bar and the extraordinary cuisine of Maison Martinique Restaurant. 

Caribbean Court, Vero Beach, Florida

The Driftwood Inn, 3150 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach, Florida 32963. 772-231-0550. This is a time share resort with rooms available to rent and is a Florida Heritage Site.

It is built entirely from ocean-washed timbers and planks, housing some of the world's most beautiful art objects, antiques, and artifacts.

It's located in the central beach district, directly on the Atlantic Ocean.

The Driftwood offers casual dining either inside or poolside at Waldo's Open Air Deck, named after Waldo Sexton, the unique pioneer responsible for building and furnishing the place.

Driftwood Inn, Vero Beach, Florida

Disney's Vero Beach Resort

North of Vero Beach on the barrier island near Wabasso is Disney's Vero Beach Resort.  

It is directly on the ocean and offers Disney's guests visiting Florida an authentic beach experience.

 It opened in 1995 and has been successful from its earliest days.

Disney's Vero Beach Resort

Some other local history is at these links:   

Old Wabasso Bridge is now at Walt Disney World

Winter Beach:  Boom Time Town Lost to History

THINGS TO DO IN VERO BEACH, FLORIDA

The Historic Driftwood Resort, 3150 Ocean Dr, Vero Beach, FL 32963. Telephone: (772) 231-0550. For a blend of Old Florida rustic charm with modern amenities, this oceanfront resort is an excellent choice. You'll discover a unique, authentic Floridian experience here at the Driftwood Inn, which is also a designated historic place. It's beautifully nestled among giant aged live oaks and palms on the Atlantic Ocean, making the views truly fantastic.

Riverside Theatre, 3250 Riverside Park Dr, Vero Beach, FL 32963. Telephone: (772) 231-6990. If you appreciate live performances, you'll enjoy Riverside Theatre, one of Vero Beach's hidden gems. It's the only professional theater on the Treasure Coast, offering Broadway-style shows, comedy nights, and special events throughout the year.

Vero Beach Museum of Art, 3001 Riverside Park Dr, Vero Beach, FL 32963. Telephone: (772) 231-0707. For the cultural enthusiast, the Vero Beach Museum of Art is a must-visit. As the leading cultural arts facility in the region, the museum features changing exhibitions, an impressive studio art and humanities catalog, and an array of events and programs that make it an interesting stop on any itinerary.

McKee Botanical Garden, 350 US-1, Vero Beach, FL 32962. Telephone: (772) 794-0601. As one of the 'Garden Capitals of the World', McKee Botanical Garden is a tropical paradise with an extensive collection of water lilies and orchids. It's an exceedingly pleasant and serene location that'll let you connect with nature in all its bounty.

Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge, 4055 Wildlife Way, Vero Beach, FL 32963. Telephone: (772) 581-5557. Situated on the Indian River Lagoon just off the Atlantic Ocean, this is a wildlife enthusiast's ultimate delight. Home to over 140 species of birds, it's also the location of the first national wildlife refuge in the United States.

Costa d'Este Beach Resort & Spa, 3244 Ocean Dr, Vero Beach, FL 32963. Telephone: (772) 562-9919. If you're looking to enjoy a luxurious vacation without forfeiting that homey atmosphere, Costa d'Este is the place. Owned by Gloria & Emilio Estefan, this oceanfront resort offers top-tier accommodations and world-class dining.

South Beach Park, 1702 Ocean Dr, Vero Beach, FL 32963. Telephone: (772) 567-2144. Definitely one of Vero Beach's gems, South Beach Park offers clean, serene beaches and beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean. It's an excellent choice for a family picnic, casual volleyball match, or simply a peaceful stroll along the shore.

Vero Beach Wine + Film Festival, Various Locations, Vero Beach, FL. Looking for the combination of good films and great wine? Then the Vero Beach Wine and Film Festival is for you. Showcasing a mix of independent cinema and world-class wines, it's an elegant event in the Florida cultural calendar.

Environmental Learning Center, 255 Live Oak Dr, Vero Beach, FL 32963. Telephone: (772) 589-5050. Delve into the world of marine ecology at this hands-on nature center. With its walking trails, kayaking, and interactive exhibits, the Environmental Learning Center makes learning about the local flora and fauna truly fun.

Jackie Robinson Training Complex, 3901 26th St, Vero Beach, FL 32960. Telephone: (772) 569-4900. For the sports enthusiasts, Jackie Robinsons Training Complex should be a sure hit. This former spring training site of the Los Angeles Dodgers (Dodgertown) now serves as a multi-sport complex, taking you on a trip down memory lane to the golden years of baseball in Vero Beach.

The Heritage Center and Citrus Museum, 2140 14th Ave, Vero Beach, FL 32960. Telephone: (772) 770-2263. Are you looking for an interesting thing to do in Vero Beach, Florida which will teach you about Vero's past? Learn about the town's rich citrus industry heritage at The Heritage Center and Citrus Museum. Enjoy the exhibits and informative sessions on the history of this fruitful industry.

Ocean Grill, 1050 Beachland Blvd, Vero Beach, FL 32963. Telephone: (772) 231-5409. For a delightful dining experience, the Ocean Grill is a must-visit. Its historic look and tropical seascape make it one of our favorites. The food selection, which offers a mix of fresh seafood and classic dishes, combined with the restaurant's old-world charm is certainly enticing.

Round Island Beach Park, 2200 South Highway A1A, Vero Beach, FL 32963. Telephone: (772) 492-2412. For those who love the outdoors, Round Island Beach Park comprises two parts, beach and river, creating a fantastic blend of natural beauty. Activities such as fishing in the Atlantic Ocean, kayaking, picnics and wildlife viewing are the order of the day here.

Barrier Island Center, 8385 South Highway A1A, Melbourne Beach, FL 32951. Telephone:  (321) 723-3556. Take a trip from Vero Beach to the nearby Barrier Island Center. This educational facility offers a great way to learn about local wildlife and the barrier island's ecosystem, plus it provides access to stunning, unspoiled beaches.

Royal Palm Pointe Park, 2 Royal Palm Pointe, Vero Beach, FL 32960. Telephone: (772) 567-2144. Royal Palm Pointe is less traditional in its appeal but nonetheless fun-filled. It features an interactive fountain kids will adore, park spaces for leisurely strolling, and a collection of restaurants ensuring every palate has options aplenty.

Captain Hirams Resort, 1580 U.S. Highway 1, Sebastian, FL 32958. Telephone: (772) 388-8588. Just a short drive away from Vero Beach is Captain Hiram’s Resort. This waterfront property is a hot spot for entertainment, with live music, good food, a sandbar, and even adventure sports like diving and fishing.

Indian River Charter High School, 6055 College Lane, Vero Beach, FL 32966. Telephone: (772) 567-6600. For a touch of the local culture, the Indian River Charter High School presents student-produced music, theater, and art exhibitions, and gives you a glimpse into the vibrant, creative force within Vero Beach.

The Beach Shop, 3328 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach, FL 32963. Telephone: (772) 231-6228. Get a taste of local shopping at the oceanfront Beach Shop, known for unique beachwear and gifts. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs that capture the essence of Vero Beach.

Vero Beach Outlets, 1824 94th Dr, Vero Beach, FL 32966. Telephone: (772) 770-6097. For the shopaholic, the Vero Beach Outlets feature over 50 brand name stores. Here, you can get your retail therapy, enjoy good food, and have a grand time.

Florida Cracker Airboat Tours, 20060 Highway 60, Vero Beach, FL 32966. Telephone: (772) 563-0001. That uniquely Floridian adventure, the airboat tour, can be enjoyed at Florida Cracker Airboat Tours. It's exciting, fun, and offers a chance to see Florida's alligators, birds, and other wildlife up close.

Sebastian Inlet State Park, 9700 South A1A, Melbourne Beach, FL 32951. Telephone: (321) 984-4852. A slight detour from Vero is Sebastian Inlet State Park, a haven for fishing, sunbathing, birdwatching, and surfing. Its expansive beaches and tranquil waters make it an ideal place for outdoor recreation.

Walking Tree Brewery, 3209 Dodger Rd, Vero Beach, FL 32960. Telephone: (772) 217-3502. Cap off your Vero Beach visit by sipping locally-brewed beers at Walking Tree Brewery. Their menu of crafted offerings is sure to have something for every beer enthusiast, making it a fun, laid-back way to end a day of sightseeing.

Main Street Vero Beach
Main Street is on 14th Avenue, between 17th and 26th Streets.

This Florida Heritage site is accessible from U.S. Highway 1. The district is open daily, with most shops and restaurants operating from 10 am to 6 pm.