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Want your children to enjoy the same magic when visiting your favorite boating destinations as you do? Of course, you do – after all, happy children make happy parents! Marriott Hutchinson Island Marina knows this, and has lots of kid-friendly ideas for you and your entire crew.
The marina is located on 200 acres of beautifully landscaped resort property. Marina guests have access to all facilities and amenities at the resort. There’s so much for the whole family to love on-site, including wide, sandy beach, a swimming pool, watersport, paddleboard and kayak rentals, snack shop, tennis courts, and daily events for kids and adults alike – all perfect for family fun.
When you’re ready to leave the resort and do some exploring, the quaint town of Stuart is right in your backyard. Here you’ll find miles of impeccably clean and calm beaches, an historic downtown and fun, eats and entertainment sure to earn rave reviews. There’s so much to see and do that we thought we’d share some of our all-time favorites:
Best ways to spend a day at Marriott Hutchinson Island Marina
The Main Street of Historic Downtown Stuart has been named “America’s Happiest Seaside Town” by Coastal Living Magazine for good reason. Because residents and visitors alike are glad to be there. Its charm is undeniable, but it’s the over 50 locally-owned shops, restaurants and galleries that give the town it’s energy. And, of course, there’s history around every corner as you stroll past turn-of-the-century buildings and historic homes. Downtown is straight over the bridge on SE Ocean Boulevard, just 10 minutes through town from the marina!
The Riverwalk in Stuart is an iconic boardwalk along the St. Lucie River, where you can amble between the water’s edge and tons of houses, restaurants, and businesses. Part of the Riverwalk even takes guests under the stunning Stuart bridge. You’ll find a mix of things that will draw you in, from restaurants along the street nearby, to parks and grassy spots to gather for a picnic. Every Sunday, there’s a market along the Riverwalk where people can enjoy fresh coffee, authentic French baguettes, fruits and vegetables, and so much more.
Also on Sundays, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, is Rock’n Riverwalk, free live music on the Waterfront Stage.
Right downtown, the whole family will enjoy the Stuart Heritage Museum, famously known as the Feed Store Museum. It’s a colorful piece of Stuart history. Inside an authentic turn-of-the-century feed store are countless relics that bring the history of the people, businesses, agriculture and community spirit of the City of Stuart to life. And there’s a gift shop so you can bring a piece of Stuart, and your great vacation, home with you.
A fun way to tour downtown, and all of Stuart, is on Stuart’s own open-air, solar-powered tram. It’s FREE and looks as fun as the ride itself – designed to look like an elongated golf cart. To just pass the time, you can ride the entire route in about 45 minutes. Or you can use it to get to any destination in and around downtown.
The locals are fiercely proud of their Stuart Green Market in the downtown district. It’s free and open from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm on Sundays. Famous for its generous selection of food vendors, artisans, fresh flowers and more, we suggest you bring a large shopping bag and go hungry! Also right on the mainland side of the bridge, this market is a breeze to get to by boat or automobile!
Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast is not just for kids! It’s a place for children and families to think, play, create and explore. It offers hands-on activities, educational programs and cultural experiences. Spend a little time there and you’ll feel like you’re part of Florida’s unique culture. Located under 4 miles away, this is an easy destination to hit while in town.
Located at the entrance to the Manatee Pocket, Sandsprit Park is a peninsula at the crossroads of the St Lucie River, Indian River, and the inlet – with beautiful views all around. There’s a boardwalk that circles the perimeter of the park where you can fish, walk, run, and bike. There’s also a playground for children, and pavilions for relaxing in the shade. It’s the perfect location for the family to relax and enjoy an afternoon, and sits only 5 miles from the marina.
Straight down SE Ocean Boulevard, across from downtown, in Memorial Park is the Road to Victory Military Museum, which collects and displays veteran memorabilia, military artifacts, weapons, and vehicles. This small museum offers a big experience. It’s open on Saturdays from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm and is literally packed with all things military. Give yourself 45 to 90 minutes to see everything. The friendly staff make it even more special, and admission is free – although donations are always appreciated.
It’s not just for daredevils! Treasure Coast Bungee is an indoor happening for kids and grandparents alike. It’s a “fun-oriented environment that ensures everyone enjoys an experience they can’t find anywhere else.” Here you can jump and flip, all with the helpful instruction and encouragement of dedicated staff. It’s a stop guaranteed to create memories and have you leaving with a smile on your face. Oh, and be sure to take pictures! There are also tons of shopping opportunities right next door at Treasure Coast Square Mall, so don’t worry if you need a breather.
Take a private horse-drawn carriage tour through downtown Stuart on the Carriage Tour With Wind Chase Farm. This may be a bit of a splurge, at $120 for four passengers for 30 minutes, but worth every penny. It will give you a view of Stuart you won’t get any other way. The Clydesdales will enchant you, and the well-versed drivers will share interesting historical facts all along the way. Still within five miles of the marina and resort, you will not need to travel far to see experience this Stuart fun.
There’s always something fun and exciting happening in the coastal community of Stuart. Oh, and if you are traveling with your pet, you’ll be happy to know that Stuart Beach is dog friendly!
For all of these reasons and more, it’s easy to see that there are endless ways to spend a Day at Marriott Hutchinson Island Marina with children – of all ages! The historic downtown, waterfront Riverwalk, and unique venues throughout, mean every season is filled with fun for all. And before you go, check out Stuart’s calendar of annual festivals and holiday events. We think you’ll agree, there’s a little something for everyone!
Written by: Jo Montgomery