Enjoy the sights of Jupiter in Palm Beach County
From Jupiter Jetty to the Lighthouse and Roger Dean Stadium in downtown Abacoa, enjoy Palm Beach County’s iconic views of Jupiter.
Andrés Leiva, Palm Beach Post
Welcome to Jupiter, Florida—a vibrant coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, iconic lighthouse and rich history. Located in northern Palm Beach County, Jupiter features a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions and recreational activities that make it a true gem on Florida’s Treasure Coast.
This guide dives into everything you need to know, from population statistics and dining options to must-see attractions and historical sites. Whether you’re a resident or visitor, discover Jupiter’s unique charm, discover hidden gems and experience all this captivating 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 has some of the wealthiest people in area code 561 outside of Palm Beach, along with a highly educated population. But do you know how many residents have moved there? Jupiter in the past year? Or that thousands of residents have a disability?
Read on for some interesting data trivia about this city of 61,126, based on the American Community Survey (ACS) 2018-2022 US Census Bureau that you can share with neighbors and friends. That compares with a population of 55,156 in 2010, according to the ACS.
Click here for the full story: Jupiter facts that might surprise you: travel time, education, wealth, residents’ occupations and more
The best things to do in Jupiter
If you enjoy outdoor adventure, Jupiter is a paradise 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 iconic Jupiter Lighthouse or enjoying the relaxing atmosphere at Square Grouper Tiki Bar, there’s always something unique to experience .
Jupiter also offers family-friendly spots like the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, and sports fans can attend spring training games at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. Whether it’s beach days, dog-friendly parks or live shows at the Maltz Jupiter Theater, Jupiter invites everyone to get outside and explore.
Here are some popular activities in Jupiter:
- Walking and cycling at Jonathan Dickinson State Park and Riverbend Park
- Kayaking and canoeing on the Loxahatchee River
- Climbing the Jupiter Lighthouse and exploring the museum
- Pisces aboard charters such as the Black Dog
- Relaxing at the Square Grouper Tiki Bar overlooking the beach
- Wildlife encounters at the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary
- Attend baseball games at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium
- See performances at the Maltz Jupiter Theater
- Exploring the Blowing Rocks Reserve and witnessing plumes of water
- Bring pets to the dog-friendly beach of Carlin Park
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Best waterfront restaurants in Jupiter
If you’re craving delicious waterfront dining with spectacular views, the Tequesta-Jupiter area has a great selection of places to try. Here are some top picks:
- Tap 52 – Enjoy live music, tiki huts and a Caribbean atmosphere on the Intracoastal Waterway. (18487 SE Federal Highway, Tequesta)
- Blue Pointe bar and grill – Family-owned business with an extensive seafood and grill menu and views of the Intracoastal. (18701 Federal Highway, Tequesta)
- 1000 North – Luxury American dining with views of the Jupiter Lighthouse, Inlet and Intracoastal. (1000 US 1, Jupiter)
- Steiger’s – A casual spot with views of the Jupiter Lighthouse and a menu of fresh seafood and Angus steaks. (1075 N.A1A, Jupiter)
- U-Tiki Beach – Family-friendly outdoor dining with lighthouse views and a seafood-centric menu. (1095 N.A1A, Jupiter)
- Beacon – A contemporary American grill inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, with front row seats to the chef. (1107 Lighthouse Boardwalk, Jupiter)
- Topside at Beacon – Rooftop dining with Beacon’s menu and tiki cocktails with views of the Jupiter Lighthouse. (1107 Lighthouse Boardwalk, Jupiter)
- Happy Shock – 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 – Open-air tropical 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 guacamole at the table in Harborside Place. (125 Dockside Circle, Jupiter)
- The Jupiter Grill – Creative dishes from chef Paul Niedermann with premium meat and seafood at Harborside Place. (149 Polls Ave., Jupiter)
- Dive bar – Asian-American fusion with sushi and aquarium views, located in 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 dishes and an extensive wine list at Jupiter Yacht Club Marina. (318 SUS 1, Jupiter)
Whether you’re looking for seafood, vibrant cocktails or an elegant dinner, there’s a waterfront spot here that’s perfect for you.
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Fun facts about Jupiter
1. Jupiter is not named after the planet
Contrary to popular belief, Jupiter, Florida, is not named after the planet. The name comes from the British, who controlled the area from 1763 to 1783 and adapted the Spanish name “Rio Jobe” (named after the Jobe tribe) to “Jove”, then anglicized it to Jupiter, the name of the Roman god .
2. Birthday of Jupiter Lighthouse
The iconic Jupiter Lighthouse was first lit on July 10, 1860. Each year the Jupiter Lighthouse and Museum celebrate the anniversary with a special event where children receive gift bags.
3. The Prohibition-era smuggling center
During Prohibition, Jupiter was a prime spot for alcohol smuggling, just 50 miles from the Bahamas. Trucks transported liquor from private docks over the Intracoastal Waterway and over Dixie Highway. A large boiler, with a capacity of 1,000 gallons, was seized in 1928 after a shootout with Prohibition agents.
4. Famous residents
Celebrities have long been attracted to Jupiter, with famous names such as Burt Reynolds, Celine Dion, Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods owning homes here. Perry Como, known for his Christmas specials, 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 features six bedrooms, seven and a half bathrooms and two outdoor hot tubs, and was quickly relisted for $30 million.
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Historical monuments of Jupiter
1. Jupiter Lighthouse
Located at the U.S. Coast Guard Station at Lighthouse Park (500 Capt. Armour’s Way), this lighthouse was designed by George G. Meade and first illuminated on July 10, 1860. During the Civil War, its light was hidden by Confederate sympathizers. It was relit on June 28, 1866, and has been in continuous operation for over a century. Operated by the US Coast Guard since 1939, one of the first guards was James A. Armor.
2. Fort Jupiter
Marked for the Northern Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce (800 NUS 1), this site commemorates Fort Jupiter, established in January 1838 along the Loxahatchee River as a base during the Seminole Wars.
3. “Dive into history” (Año 1659)
Located in Lighthouse Park (500 Capt. Armour’s Way), this marker highlights the discovery of iron cannons and an anchor from the Spanish ship San Miguel the Archangelwrecked in 1659. Survivors were rescued by a ship from St. Augustine after living with the Jeaga Native Americans.
4. World War II US Navy residential building
During World War II, this building in Lighthouse Park (500 Capt. Armour’s Way) served as a shelter for Navy personnel monitoring German submarines off the coast of Florida. Originally built in 1939, most of the timber frame structures were demolished from 1958 onwards.
5. Tennessee volunteers and militia camp
Located near 6264 Winding Lake Drive, this site marks where Tennessee Volunteers camped after the Second Battle of the Loxahatchee River on January 24, 1838, during the Seminole Wars.
6. Sawfish Bay
This historic site, found in Sawfish Bay Park (1133 N. Alternate A1A), dates back 5,000 years. It was a vital transportation hub for Native Americans and later became a commercial center in the late 19th century. The site contains the 200-year-old “Cabot Oak.”
7. Jupiter Inlet Middle I
Located in the DuBois House in DuBois Park (19075 DuBois Road), this ancient shell mound was built by the Jeaga Indians. It is also where Jonathan Dickinson and his crew were held captive by the Jeaga in 1696.
8. American Jupiter Lifesaving Post
This station, marked Carlin Park (400 SR A1A), operated from 1886 to 1896. Some crew members remained in Jupiter and became local settlers.
9. Powell’s Struggle
Located in Riverbend Park (9060 Indiantown Road), this marker commemorates the First Battle of the Loxahatchee on January 15, 1838, where Seminoles defeated American forces. Navy Lieutenant Levin Powell’s expedition suffered heavy casualties but managed to escape.
10. Military route
This marker near the intersection of Military Trail and Indiantown Road honors the trail cut by Major William Lauderdale’s troops after the Second Battle of the Loxahatchee in 1838. Known as “Military Trail,” it connected Fort Jupiter to Fort Dallas (now Miami) and later became a major thoroughfare.
The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum offers a glimpse into 5,000 years of local history along the Jupiter Inlet. Operated by the Loxahatchee River Historical Society, this historic site includes the iconic 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 highlight history.
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Diamond Walker is a journalist at The Palm Beach Postpart of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach her at [email protected]. Support our journalism. Subscribe today