As one of the oldest communities on the east coast of Florida, Fort Pierce has borne witness to the changing tides of history - as well as the changing tides of the Atlantic Ocean - for over 104 years. The days of one-room log houses and quiet river commerce has given way to diverse possibilities as the city has grown to over 39,000 residents, but the echoes of the rural past can still be felt in the peaceful quality of the lives the residents lead just a short distance from the hustle and bustle of both West Palm Beach and Orlando. Fort Pierce is a diverse yet neighborly community, embracing both the richness of its heritage and the promise of the future in St. Lucie County. Downtown within sight of the timeless waters of the Indian River Lagoon, affords its residents contemporary shopping, dining and a range of entertainment and activities.