The Heritage Center
and
Indian River Citrus Museum
A Legacy of Community and Connection
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The story of the Heritage Center began in 1935 when the Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) funded labor costs, and the City of Vero Beach covered materials to build the first Community Building. Constructed in just three months, this historic landmark has been a centerpiece of community life ever since.
During WWII, the Heritage Center transformed into the Servicemen’s Center, hosting elegant USO-era dances with live music and romance in the air. Many locals share fond stories of grandparents who met at these iconic events.
After the war, the building became a true community hub, hosting dances, gatherings, and art classes. Later, it served as the Physical Arts Center, with a ballet studio and art spaces. After a new community center was built in the 1960s, the building fell into such disuse and disrepair that some say the only thing holding it together was the termites. The City was ready to demolish the building. Concerned citizens, led by the Indian River County Historical Society and Millie Bunnell fought to save it. In 1993, the Heritage Center was fully restored and placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Today, the Heritage Center is stewarded by Vero Heritage, Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit that operates and maintains this historic gem at no cost to the City. The venue hosts weddings, fundraisers, community events, and houses the unique Indian River Citrus Museum, a tribute to the region's citrus legacy.
With its rich history and lasting significance, the Heritage Center continues to be a cherished gathering place where people create meaningful memories—because this place truly matters.
Make a lasting impact and DONATE today.
Museum Displays
The Indian River Citrus Museum features attractive, informative, easy-to-access displays.
Citrus-Related Items For Sale
Our gift shop features exclusive FL-made items. For a preview of gift shop items, such as original citrus crate labels, citrus products and other souvenirs, Click Here.
Vero Heritage Citrus Label Tour
Vero Heritage is establishing the “Vero Heritage Citrus Label Tour” (modeled after what has been successfully done in Polk and Manatee Counties). This art in public places heritage tour explores the historic marketing portion of citrus though artistic labels that once adorned the wooden shipping crates. As of Summer 2022, we have three signs in Historic Downtown Vero Beach. Look for more signs throughout Indian River County soon!
Download a family-friendly scavenger hunt here.
If you have trouble accessing this file, please contact us.
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Promoting and Preserving Our Local Heritage
Thanks in part to CARES Act and ARP Act funding through Florida Humanities, Vero Heritage Inc was able to continue to offer important programs to our community. We are deeply appreciative of the support.