Vero Beach and Indian River County is located on what is known as The Treasure Coast. While the municipalities were largely developed in the 1900s, the history surrounding the area dates back centuries. The area was home to Native Americans for centuries. Europeans first discovered the area in 1715 when a flotilla of Spanish Galleons (ranging from a fleet of 11 to 14 ships, depending on which Tiki Tour Guide you talk to) sunk in a raging hurricane. The ships were laden with treasure that was due to be transported back Spain. But when the ships went down, the booty was scattered for miles along the coastline. Remnants of the treasure can still be found today. Hence: The Treasure Coast. Vero Beach was founded in the 1920s. Vero Beach has long been a strong-hold of the citrus industry. It is citrus that virtually built the city. Since then, Vero Beach has grown into its own cultural identity featuring many facets of a growing community. Vero Beach features developing families as well as a cultivated retirement community. The downtown area of Vero Beach, developed largely in the mid-1920s, has been revitalized by historic preservationists. It remains the heart of the city on the mainland and features "Downtown Friday Fest," a party that celebrates the city on the last Friday of every month and serves to pull the community together. The beaches area, of course, offers the greatest lure of all... The beach. Nautical interests have always been a driving force for Vero Beach but not the only interest. Riverside Park hosts the sites for the Center for the Arts, a stunning artmuseum. Riverside Theater also is located at Riverside Park and features professional productions and musical performances. The Vero Beach Theater Guild offers an alternative for those who wish toperform for the thrill of the stage and the Theater Guild's facility islocated a short distance from downtown.