Known as the "Sailfish Capital of the World," Stuart is a city full of charm, history, and endless opportunities to enjoy the south Florida lifestyle. Home to about 16,000 residents, Stuart is the county seat of Martin County, located along Florida's Treasure Coast on the Atlantic Ocean. It was named "America's Most Beautiful City" in 2008 by America in Bloom. Picturesque un-crowded beaches and miles of wide waterways surround Stuart, making it an ideal location for water sports such as boating and fishing. The St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park, along with dozens of other local parks, affords residents the opportunity to take in the exceptional natural beauty of the area while hiking, biking, canoeing, bird-watching, or simply relaxing and enjoying the scenery.
Stuart's bustling downtown district offers an appealing collection of sidewalk cafés, specialty stores, art galleries, antique shops, and fine restaurants. The downtown corridor is also the backdrop to various annual festivals and parades, as well as the landmark Lyric Theater. Built in 1926 as a silent movie house, the theater today serves as a popular venue for concerts and other performing arts shows.