Indian River Drive scenic drive

Indian River Drive connects Jensen Beach with Fort Pierce and runs along the beautiful slate-blue Indian River. From downtown Fort Pierce, start at Orange Ave and then drive south on Indian River Drive. You will see mansions and sweet cottages with fig trees and plumeria in their yards on your right, and private wooden docks jutting out into the dreamy Indian River on your left. Palms sway in the breeze as you let the breeze blow in your windows, turn the stereo up, and enjoy a long, lazy weekend drive. After 15 miles, you will come to Jensen Beach Blvd where you can stop for a drink at one of the bars or sidewalk cafes. These are modest towns with not much sophistication, but plenty of sweet breezes off the water.

For a place to eat in Fort Pierce, try Uncle Carlo's Gelato at the eastern end of Orange Ave across from the river. It has fairly yummy panini sandwiches, gelato, and coffees, all in an attractive, clean setting. This is one of the few cafes open on a Sunday in Fort Pierce.
When you get to Jensen Beach, drive a little further and Indian River Dr becomes Sewalls Point Rd. Cross the bridge on the left (Ocean Blvd) to Hutchinson Island and check out the super fun Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center, where you can hand-feed sting rays and go on a walk through the jungle to the Indian River on a boardwalk. Or have a swim with lovely shells beneath your feet in the clear water at Chastain Beach.

Directions

To get to downtown Fort Pierce, exit Highway 95 at Orange Ave and head toward the ocean for five miles. To start the drive, turn right on Indian River Dr.
Uncle Carlo's Gelato, 141 Melody Lane, Fort Pierce, FL 34950, call  (772) 672-4401.

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