Your ultimate travel guide to Jupiter: food, adventure and sights

Welcome to Jupiter, Florida –a vibrant coastal town known for its stunning beaches, famous lighthouse and rich history. Located in northern Palm Beach County, Jupiter offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions and recreational activities that make it a true gem on Florida’s Treasure Coast.

This guide covers everything you need to know, from population stats and dining hotspots to must-see attractions and historic sites. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, explore Jupiter’s unique charm, discover hidden gems and experience everything this fascinating city has to offer. Dive in and start planning your Jupiter adventure!

Jupiter Facts: Population, Income, Housing and More

You may know that the largest city in the northernmost part of Palm Beach County is home to some of the wealthiest people in the 561 area code outside of Palm Beach, as well as a well-educated population. But do you know how many residents have moved in? Jupiter last year? Or that thousands of residents have disabilities?

Read on to learn fun facts about this city of 61,126 residents, based on the 2018-2022 American Community Survey (ACS). US Census Bureau which you can share with neighbors and friends. According to the ACS, the population in 2010 was 55,156.

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The best things to do in Jupiter

If you love outdoor adventure, Jupiter is a paradise full of natural beauty and recreational fun. From hiking the scenic trails of Jonathan Dickinson State Park and kayaking along the historic Loxahatchee River in Riverbend Park to climbing the famous Jupiter Lighthouse or enjoying the laid-back atmosphere at the Square Grouper Tiki Bar, there’s always something unique to do.

Jupiter also offers family-friendly spots like the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, and sports fans can catch spring training games at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. From beach days to dog-friendly parks to live shows at the Maltz Jupiter Theater, Jupiter invites everyone to get outside and explore.

Here are some popular things to do in Jupiter:

Hiking and cycling at Jonathan Dickinson State Park and Riverbend Park
Kayaking and canoeing on the Loxahatchee River
Climbing the Jupiter Lighthouse and explore the museum
fishing on board charter ships like the Black Dog
Relaxing at the Square Grouper Tiki Bar overlooking the beach
Encounters with wild animals at the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary
Attending baseball games at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium
See performances at the Maltz Jupiter Theater
Exploring Blowing Rocks Preserve and witnessing plumes of water
Bringing pets to the dog-friendly beach at Carlin Park

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The best waterfront restaurants in Jupiter

If you’re looking for a delicious meal right on the water with spectacular views, the Tequesta-Jupiter area has a wide variety of places to try. Here are some top tips:

Tiki 52 – Enjoy live music, tiki huts and Caribbean flair on the Intracoastal Waterway. (18487 SE Federal Highway, Tequesta)
Blue Pointe Bar and Grill – Family owned and operated with an extensive seafood and grill menu and views of the Intracoastal. (18701 Federal Street, Tequesta)
1000 north – Fine American cuisine with Jupiter Lighthouse, Inlet and Intracoastal views. (1000 US 1, Jupiter)
Jetty – A casual spot with views of Jupiter Lighthouse and a selection of fresh seafood and Angus steaks. (1075 N. A1A, Jupiter)
U-Tiki Beach – Family-friendly alfresco dining with lighthouse views and a seafood-focused menu. (1095 N. A1A, Jupiter)
beacon – A modern American grill inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, with front row seating at the chef’s counter. (1107 Lighthouse Promenade, Jupiter)
Top at Beacon – Rooftop dining with Beacon’s menu and tiki cocktails overlooking the Jupiter Lighthouse. (1107 Lighthouse Promenade, Jupiter)
Lucky Shuck – Southern-inspired Gulf Coast seafood with a raw bar and over 45 beers to choose from. (1116 Love St., Jupiter)
Square grouper – Relaxed spot on Love Street with live music and water views. (1111 Love St., Jupiter)
Guanabanas – Tropical outdoor dining with tiki huts, banyan trees and a seafood-heavy menu along the Intracoastal. (960 N. A1A, Jupiter)
Calaveras Cantina – Mexican-inspired cuisine with fresh margaritas and tableside guacamole at Harborside Place. (125 Dockside Circle, Jupiter)
The Jupiter Grill – Chef Paul Niedermann’s creative dishes featuring premium meats and seafood at Harborside Place. (149 Soundings Ave., Jupiter)
Bar – Asian-American fusion with sushi and aquarium views, at Jupiter Yacht Club Marina. (318 SUS 1, Jupiter)
Latitudes – Coastal-inspired dining with ocean views at Jupiter Beach Resort. (5 N. Hwy A1A, Jupiter)
Café des Artistes – French bistro dining with classic cuisine and an extensive wine list at Jupiter Yacht Club Marina. (318 SUS 1, Jupiter)

Whether you’re looking for seafood, bold cocktails or an elegant dinner, there’s a waterfront spot that’s perfect for you.

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Interesting facts about Jupiter

1. Jupiter was not named after the planet

Contrary to popular belief, Jupiter in Florida is not named after the planet. The name comes from the British, who controlled the area from 1763 to 1783, changing the Spanish name “Rio Jobe” (named after the Jobe tribe) to “Jove” and then anglicizing it to Jupiter, the name of the Roman god.

2. Jupiter Lighthouse Birthday Party

The iconic Jupiter Lighthouse was first lit on July 10, 1860. Every year, the Jupiter Lighthouse and Museum celebrates the anniversary with a special event where children receive gift bags.

3. Hub for pirated copies from the Prohibition era

During Prohibition, Jupiter was a major alcohol smuggling location, just 50 miles from the Bahamas. Trucks transported alcohol from private docks across the Intracoastal Waterway and down Dixie Highway. A large 1,000-gallon still was confiscated in 1928 after a shootout with Prohibition officials.

4. Prominent residents

Celebrities have long been drawn to Jupiter, with famous names like Burt Reynolds, Celine Dion, Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods owning homes here. Perry Como, known for his Christmas specialties, also called Jupiter his “little piece of heaven.”

7. The most expensive house on the mainland

In June 2021, a mansion in Jupiter’s Admiral’s Cove sold for $24 million, setting a county record. The 17,000-square-foot home has six bedrooms, seven and a half bathrooms, and two outdoor hot tubs and was soon listed for sale again for $30 million.

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Jupiter’s Historical Landmarks

1. Jupiter lighthouse

Located at the U.S. Coast Guard Station in Lighthouse Park (500 Capt. Armour’s Way), this lighthouse was designed by George G. Meade and first lit on July 10, 1860. During the Civil War, his light was hidden by Southern sympathizers. It was dedicated on June 28, 1866 and has been in continuous operation for over a century. Operated by the US Coast Guard since 1939, James A. Armor was one of the first owners.

2. Fort Jove

Marked in front of the Northern Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce (800 NUS 1), this site commemorates Fort Jupiter, built on the Loxahatchee River in January 1838 as a base during the Seminole Wars.

3. “Immerse yourself in history” (Año 1659)

Located in Lighthouse Park (500 Capt. Armour’s Way), this marker indicates the discovery of iron cannons and a Spanish ship anchor San Miguel de ArchangelDestroyed in 1659. Survivors were rescued by a ship from St. Augustine after living with the Jeaga Indians.

4. US Navy residential buildings from World War II

This building in Lighthouse Park (500 Capt. Armour’s Way) served as quarters for naval personnel monitoring German submarines off the coast of Florida during World War II. Originally built in 1939, most of the wood frame structures were demolished starting in 1958.

5. Tennessee Volunteer and Militia Camp

Located near 6264 Winding Lake Drive, this site marks the spot where Tennessee volunteers camped after the Second Battle of the Loxahatchee River on January 24, 1838 during the Seminole Wars.

6. Sawfish Bay

Located in Sawfish Bay Park (1133 N. Alternate A1A), this historic site is 5,000 years old. It was an important transportation hub for Native Americans and later became a trading center in the late 19th century. The 200-year-old “Cabot Oak” is also located on the site.

7. Jupiter Inlet Midden I

Located at the DuBois House in DuBois Park (19075 DuBois Road), this ancient shell mound was built by the Jeaga Indians. It is also the place where Jonathan Dickinson and his crew were held captive by the Jeaga in 1696.

8. US rescue station Jupiter

Marked at Carlin Park (400 SR A1A), this station operated from 1886 to 1896. Some crew members remained in Jupiter and became local settlers.

9. Powell’s Battle

Located in Riverbend Park (9060 Indiantown Road), this marker commemorates the First Battle of the Loxahatchee on January 15, 1838, in which the Seminoles defeated U.S. forces. Marine Lieutenant Levin Powell’s expedition suffered heavy casualties but managed to escape.

10. Military path

This marker, near the intersection of Military Trail and Indiantown Road, commemorates the path laid by Maj. William Lauderdale’s troops after the Second Battle of the Loxahatchee in 1838. Known as the “Military Trail,” it connected Fort Jupiter with Fort Dallas (now Miami) and later became a major highway.

The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum offers a glimpse into 5,000 years of local history along Jupiter Inlet. Operated by the Loxahatchee River Historical Society, this historic site includes the famous 1860 lighthouse, museum exhibits, and the 1892 Tindall Pioneer Homestead. Visitors can explore self-guided tours and exhibits that explore Native American history, pioneer life,… Lighthouse keeping and military history.

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Diamond Walker is a journalist at The Palm Beach PostPart of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach them at [email protected]. Support our journalism. Subscribe today