First Data Field – Outdoor Destinations
From palm trees and beaches to wetlands and ferns, Florida’s environments are quite varied, to say the least. Because of its unique environments, there are many outdoor activities to enjoy in the Sunshine State.
After catching a baseball game at First Data Field in Port St. Lucie, nature lovers may want to enjoy the lush greenery, calm waters, and colorful flowers nearby. More adventurous types may want to jump in the ocean, fish in deep Florida waters, or try and spot some animals. Luckily there are plenty of outdoorsy options for those visiting First Data Field.
Golfing
If it’s a sunny day in Port St. Lucie, spending some time on the golf course is a fantastic option. The courses surrounding First Data Field are top notch, so any golf-lover visiting First Data Field is in luck
St. Lucie Trail Golf Club, located just seven minutes from First Data Field, features impressive views around every corner. The 18-hole course is meticulously maintained and presents a variety of challenges. St. Lucie Trail Golf Club welcomes all golfers, calling itself “your home course.”
Professional golf fans will enjoy a visit to the PGA Learning Center, “a leading golf performances and instruction facility.” Here, guests can get a customized club, use state-of-the-art training technology, practice independently, or take part in lessons. From casual learners to incredible experts, all are welcome to the PGA Learning Center, located eight minutes from First Data Field.
Golfers of all skill levels can also play at The Legacy Golf and Tennis Club, located 11 minutes from First Data Field. This impressive field once held the U.S. Open, and has hosted the U.S. Senior Open qualifying rounds for almost a decade.
Kayaking
While visiting First Data Field, you may want to enjoy an activity out on the water. Florida is filled with lakes and rivers and is surrounded by the ocean, so water activities are pretty much always available. One of the popular choices for visitors is kayaking.
You can get started at St. Lucie County Canoe & Kayak Rentals, just 11 minutes from First Data Field. Simply rent a kayak and enjoy your three-hour trip around the wetlands. Paddle along the quiet waters and enjoy this family-friendly activity that suits any age.
Fishing
As we just mentioned, Florida is filled with bodies of water, and Port St. Lucie is no exception. Those interested in fishing during their visit to First Data Field can easily get a fishing charter and head out into the water.
One of the closest options is Garrett’s Reel World Charter Fishing, located six minutes from First Data Field. This charter company’s boat can fit six anglers to head out with the boat’s captain. Captain Gary has a passion for fishing, and is sure to provide an enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
An 11-minute drive from First Data Field will get you to your next closest charter, Throwdown Fishing Charters. Other options include Off The Banks Charters, 12 minutes away, and Port St. Lucie Fishing Charters, 14 minutes away.
River Lilly Cruises
For more than 17 years, River Lilly Cruises has been providing visitors with an up-close experience of Florida’s natural wonders. Passengers can spot alligators, turtles, and birds, and might get lucky enough to see manatees and otters. The cruise travels down a river so dense with greenery that a James Bond movie once used it to represent the Amazon.
River Lilly Cruises operates year-round, so no matter when you visit First Data Field, you can go for a ride. This one-and-a-half-hour tour departs from a location 15 minutes from the venue.
Oxbow Eco-Center
Oxbow Eco-Center is an expansive, 225-acre reserve located only 16 minutes from First Data Field. The organization prioritizes the conservation of its wildlife and plants, and works to sustain the natural life of the area.
The reserve features boardwalks, designated trails, and observation towers, all of which allow guests to enjoy the reserve without disturbing it. Along the trails you’ll see various species in their natural habitats and listen to the many bird species chirping above. Oxbow Eco-Center is an outdoor experience for the whole family!
Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens
One of the most photogenic places near First Data Field is Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens. This relaxing escape is 21 minutes from First Data Field and harbors a massive amount of plants and flowers.
Each room in the botanical garden has a designated species, such as succulents, bamboo, roses, or orchids. The rooms are climate-controlled, creating the ideal conditions for these plants to thrive.
In addition to plant life, Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens is home to animals, such as herons, cardinals, tortoises, rabbits, frogs, and doves. There is even a colorful butterfly garden that features various butterfly species, as well as hummingbirds.
Manatee Observation and Education Center
Manatees are a beloved species native to Florida, and visitors to First Data Field have the opportunity to learn all about them. Manatee Observation and Education Center is an interactive museum that features aquariums, a touch tank, and an educational film. It’s perfect for kids, and admission is only $1.
The biggest attraction at the Manatee Observation and Education Center is the viewing area, where guests may be able to see some of the hundreds of manatees relaxing outside. These animals have a 156-mile-long habitat, so it’s not guaranteed that they’ll be visible on any given day. Even if guests don’t get to see the manatees in person, they’ll still have a great time learning about the animals. The incredibly affordable Manatee Observation and Education Center is located just 24 minutes from First Data Field.
Beaches
There are 12 miles of sandy beaches close to Port St. Lucie, so beach lovers have plenty of options to choose from. Visitors can enjoy the turquoise water and beautiful sunsets at Pepper Park Beachside, located 30 minutes from First Data Field. Meanwhile, South Beach Park, 32 minutes away, features grills and a picnic pavilion, making it a perfect place for an all-day outing. Other nearby beaches include Jensen Beach Causeway Park and Avalon State Park, which are 33 and 34 minutes away, respectively.
Sports fans from all over visit First Data Field, especially during the Mets’ spring training. In addition to baseball fanatics, Port St. Lucie is the perfect place for adventurers, animal lovers, and those with a green thumb. After a game, be sure to explore the area and enjoy the many natural wonders surrounding the stadium. There’s so much to see!