Looking for something to do this Memorial Day? Martin County has everything from fun in the sun at one of the many beaches and parks to plenty of opportunities to learn and play while enjoying the A/C. Located on Florida’s Treasure Coast, just 45 minutes from Palm Beach International Airport, an hour from Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport, 90 minutes from Miami International Airport and two hours from Orlando International Airport – do Memorial Day right this year in easily accessible Martin County.
Memorial Day Parade and Service
A great way to start Memorial Day is to celebrate what it’s all about, honoring our armed forces and those who sacrificed everything for this country. Memorial Day Services will begin with a parade led by veterans and veteran service organizations followed by various community groups. The parade recognizes the sacrifices made in all national conflicts of war including the Civil War, WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, and the Gulf Wars.
Location: 10 a.m. – Parade starts at SE Amerigo Avenue on East Ocean Boulevard and ends at Memorial Park in Stuart, Florida. 11 a.m. – The ceremony will be held at Memorial Park on East Ocean Boulevard.
Contact: 772-288-5448 Website: www.StuartParades.com
The Reef System
With numerous thriving natural and artificial reefs along Martin County’s shores, the area truly lives up to its reputation as the Treasure Coast. Each reef offers a bounty of rich aquatic life, creating ideal locales for saltwater anglers and recreational divers. Offshore, the prevailing north current allows boaters to begin at the southern end of a one-mile long series of 14 artificial reefs that provide excellent fishing opportunities. Martin County’s Artificial Reef Program offers over 100 outstanding sites for fishing and dive exploration.
Website: www.MartinReefs.com
Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast
The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast’s (TCM) mission is to offer children and families a place to explore and learn through hands-on, interactive activities. The museum is located in the heart of Indian RiverSide Park in Jensen Beach. Make it a day at the park and visit the museum as a break from the sun. Admission is free for members, $8.50 for ages 3+ and $4.25 for ages 12 months to 2 years. Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Memorial Day.
Location: 1707 NE Indian River Drive – Jensen Beach
Contact: 772-225-7575 Website: www.ChildrensMuseumTC.org
The Parks
Halpatiokee Park is one of many Martin County parks offering tons of family fun. Whether you want to play soccer, baseball, or tennis, Halpatiokee has all the facilities you need. The park also features hiking and bike trails if you’re feeling adventurous. Pavilions are available and can be reserved, with outside grills just waiting to be fired up. Location: 8303 SW Lost River Road – Stuart
Sailfish Splash Waterpark
Imagine floating down a lazy river or launching yourself down a four-story water slide. Children of all ages will enjoy the interactive water playground, where little ones can splash around in sprays and slides. For those with athletic interests, the competitive pool is host to numerous swimming and diving meets, as well as water polo competitions. Open Monday 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $12.95 for adults and $10.95 for kids and seniors.
Location: 931 SE Ruhnke Street – Stuart
Contact: 772-320-3100 Website: www.SailfishSplash.com
Elliott Museum
The Elliott Museum aims to inspire creativity through exhibitions and programs about art, history, and technology for the people who live in and visit the Treasure Coast of Florida. It hosts a dynamic and interactive collection of antique automobiles, vintage boats, and an impressive baseball collection. The Elliott Museum is open Monday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Located at the entrance to Stuart Beach, it’s a great way to cool off and learn about Treasure Coast history. Admission is free for members, $14 for adults, $6 for children 6-12 and $12 for seniors.
Location: 825 NE Ocean Boulevard – Stuart
Contact: 772-225-1961 Website: www.ElliottMuseumFL.org