Think about the Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous. Think about Palm Beach. This very trendy, chic city is an extraordinary destination for your next vacation holiday. Luxury neighborhoods, stunning beaches, galleries, shops, boutiques – all inviting you to enjoy everything Palm Beach has to offer. Watch the classic cars drive by, enjoy fantastic cuisine, dance the night away at a local club. Spread your wings and fly – maybe to the Bahamas – just a short hop away. Connect with nature like never before. Enjoy million dollar sunrises and spectacular fireworks. The Palm Beach attractions are calling; it’s time to answer the call. You will soon discover there is an abundance of things to do in West Palm Beach.
Florida is a large peninsula on the southeast corner of the U.S. It has miles and miles of shoreline and beaches. It has various ecosystems hosting exotic animals, birds and trees. The parklands and gardens that have been set aside for all to enjoy are extensive. It has a rich history of sea life conservation, of space exploration, of history and architecture modeled after grand European palaces. It has a love for the arts with splendid influences from Spain, Italy, China, and more. It has a pop culture that stems from today’s celebrities, music and film. There are theme parks that call to kids everywhere. The things to do in south Florida are vast. The state is so diverse it is difficult to put it all in words. You must see it to enjoy all of its pleasures. It’s a modern day Garden of Eden.
There has always been a bit of intrigue around Florida, going back to the days when Ponce de Leon sailed the oceans and landed in Florida in search of the mysterious Fountain of Youth. The guilty pleasures that surround Palm Beach are the modern day Fountain of Youth. The Palm Beach attractions are many and reach out to everyone.
Florida is a large peninsula on the southeast corner of the U.S. It has miles and miles of shoreline and beaches. It has various ecosystems hosting exotic animals, birds and trees. The parklands and gardens that have been set aside for all to enjoy are extensive. It has a rich history of sea life conservation, of space exploration, of history and architecture modeled after grand European palaces. It has a love for the arts with splendid influences from Spain, Italy, China, and more. It has a pop culture that stems from today’s celebrities, music and film. There are theme parks that call to kids everywhere. The things to do in south Florida are vast. The state is so diverse it is difficult to put it all in words. You must see it to enjoy all of its pleasures. It’s a modern day Garden of Eden.
There has always been a bit of intrigue around Florida, going back to the days when Ponce de Leon sailed the oceans and landed in Florida in search of the mysterious Fountain of Youth. The guilty pleasures that surround Palm Beach are the modern day Fountain of Youth. The Palm Beach attractions are many and reach out to everyone.
1. Flagler Museum; The Great Whitehall
At number one of the list of things to do in West Palm Beach should be the Flagler Museum. Henry Flagler is one of the founding fathers of Palm Beach and in fact, a great deal of Florida itself. When you think of things to do in south Florida much of it has been touched by Henry Flagler, especially the infrastructure of Palm Beach, Miami, the Florida East Coast Railway, Gilded Age buildings, resorts and hotels.
Flagler built the famed Whitehall in Palm Beach on the shores of Lake Worth as a wedding gift to his third wife, Mary Lily Kenan. This home was described as the most opulent, lavish private dwelling known to man.
Today, Whitehall serves as the Flagler Museum and pays homage to a man who gave so much of himself to the state of Florida and the Palm Beach and Miami areas in particular. After a 30+ year history as a hotel, the granddaughter of Henry Flagler, Jean Flagler Matthews, formed a non-profit corporation to re-purpose Whitehall into the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum. In 1960, Whitehall opened to the public with a grand Restoration Ball. Southern Florida was being developed and so were the things to do in south Florida.
One of the great Palm Beach attractions, the Flagler Museum showcases the Gilded Age with pomp and circumstance.
Of note, the Flagler Museum was the first museum in Florida and one of several “house” museums. There are events held at the museum all throughout the year. The museum is also available for private and corporate events as well as weddings. When planning your trip to Southern Florida, make sure Whitehall is on your list of things to do in West Palm Beach.
The Flagler Museum is located at 1 Whitehall Way and can be found at #1 on our Map of things to do in West Palm Beach.
2. Day Trip to the Bahamas
Perhaps one of the most unique things to do in West Palm Beach is take the World’s first Day Trips and Island Hopping Tours to the Bahamas with Bahamas Air Tours. With flights available from nearby West Palm Beach Airport, access to the stunning Bahamas Out Islands has never been easier!
Fly straight to the amazing Pink Sands beach on the picturesque Harbour Island. Once the original capital of the Bahamas, Dunmore Town, is now home to beautiful New England architecture with small lanes which you can explore on foot or by golf cart. Sample the local cuisine of the Bahamas on these unique day trips. Head to the local fish fry and try their Conch dishes, a local delicacy in the Bahamas.
Perhaps you’ve heard of the famous Swimming Pigs of the Bahamas? Well now you can visit them in a day trip to Bahamas from West Palm Beach! Book the Miami to Bahamas day tour with Bahamas Air Tours and you’ll be swimming with the Exuma Pigs and snorkelling with Sharks. Or head to the Abacos Cays and swim with turtles at Green Turtle Cay. The Bahamas adventures are boundless!
Day trips to Bahamas operate from West Palm Beach Airport located at #2 on our Map of things to do in West Palm Beach.
Read more about my Miami to Bahamas Day Trip adventure here.
3. World Class Turtle Sanctuary: Loggerhead Marinelife Center
The Loggerhead Marinelife Center is one of many conservation sites along the Florida shores that fight for endangered sea turtles and one of our top things to do in West Palm Beach. This center was started several decades ago by local resident who noticed turtles nesting near her home. She took up the cause to teach local children about turtles. And the fight for turtles grew over the years to the fantastic Loggerhead Marinelife Center we have today, one of most popular Palm Beach attractions.
One of the activities is to rescue and rehabilitate injured or unhealthy turtles. The turtles seen at Loggerhead Marinelife Center include the Loggerhead, Leatherback, Green, Kemp’s Ridley and Hawksbill. All of these turtles are on the endangered species list. Florida’s beaches have the densest turtle nests in the world; so we can see why turtle conservation is important in Florida. A common injury typically comes from a boat propeller; the carapace (shell) is cracked, a fin is severed, and other such injuries. At the Loggerhead Marinelife Center you can see these turtles being rehabilitated and eventually returned to the sea. They are fitted with monitors so their activities and locations can be tracked.
Another one of the remarkable things to do in West Palm Beach is join in on an Evening Turtle Walk. A trained guide will take you to a section of beach to witness a sea turtle nesting. Be prepared to walk a mile or two in the sand. For most people this is a once in a lifetime opportunity, make sure it is at the top of your list of things to do in West Palm Beach. The prime nesting period is May through September. Reservations are required. There is also a Biologist Beach Walk that takes place in the early mornings where a biologist will give interesting details as you walk the beach in hopes of witnessing a live excavation and hatchlings. These walks take place in August and September. Also in the month of August you can join a group that will watch hatchlings being released to the sea.
There are special events and eco-adventures that take place all through the year. Check their website and plan your vacation so you can take part in one of these great events. The Loggerhead Marine life Center has many projects going on and it is a great place to visit.
The Loggerhead Marinelife Center is located at 14200 U.S. Hwy 1, Juno Beach and can be found at #3 on our Map of things to do in West Palm Beach.
4. Society of Four Arts Botanical Gardens
Originally designed in 1938, the Society of the Four Arts was founded as a place to display certain palm trees and tropical plants. Its mission is also to provide cultural programming such as music, speakers, films, art exhibitions and other educational programs. The site includes a library with over 70,000 publications and a Children’s Library which invites children in for story time, songs, crafts and games.
The Esther B. O’Keeffe Gallery Building houses traveling art exhibits. There is also a 700-seat auditorium for concerts and live broadcasts of the Metropolitan Opera and National Theatre of London productions.
The Philip Hulitar Sculpture Garden is situated at the corner of Royal Palm Way and Cocoanut Row. The landscaping and natural beauty invite you to a respite to enjoy the sculptures, gardens and fountains. The garden is named after Palm Beach visionary who was instrumental in restoring several historic properties in the area. Hulitar designed the garden space and it was completed in 1980.
The Society of Four Arts offers so much. When planning your vacation trip and looking for things to do in West Palm Beach, don’t forget to check out some of these hidden gems. You will be pleasantly surprised.
The Society of Four Arts is located at 2 4 Arts Plaza, Palm Beach and can be found at #4 on our Map of things to do in West Palm Beach.
5. Downtown West Palm Beach, Clematis Street
It is enjoyable to visit the downtown city center of most cities. This is the pulse, the heart. The urban lifestyle of Palm Beach’s Clematis Street is exciting and eclectic. The downtown area offers much including art Palm Beach style, history, the social scene and more – so any things to do in West Palm Beach. The shops and establishments are vibrant and an ideal sampling of Palm Beach life. Check out the large mural art work featuring Albert Einstein on the corner of Clematis Street and Rosemary Street. There are many unique things to do in West Palm Beach.
Clematis Street comes to a Y at Flagler Drive overlooking the Worth Lake Lagoon. One of the romantic things to do in West Palm Beach is an event called Clematis by Night. For over 22 years, this has been the place to hang out. Enjoy the free concert series. There is a waterfront happy hour and a fabulous social scene up and down Clematis Street.
If you are interested in architecture and history, join in on the walking tour that starts at the PBC History Museum. Tours are free and begin at 4:00 p.m. Come early and visit the museum.
For a taste of art Palm Beach style, visit the Arts & Entertainment District. Home to galleries, performing arts companies and arts schools, the downtown area is filled with talent and creativity.
The Einstein Mural is located at 509 Cleamtis Street (next to Subculture Coffee) and can be found at #5 on our Map of things to do in West Palm Beach.
6. Royal Palm Way, the gateway to Palm Beach Island
The main route to get to Palm Beach Island is via Royal Palm Way. You cross over the Royal Park Bridge from the mainland. As you can imagine, the roadway is flanked by palm trees and the median section is filled with a variety of manicured gardens on each block.
One of the things to do in West Palm Beach is cross from the mainland to Palm Beach Island. The main route to get to Palm Beach Island is via Royal Palm Way. You cross over the Royal Park Bridge from the mainland. As you can imagine, the roadway is flanked by palm trees and the median section is filled with a variety of manicured gardens on each block. Riding the avenues with the beautiful landscaping and palm trees is a great thing to do in south Florida.
A point of interest along the way is the Elisha Newton Dimmick statue. He was one of the founding fathers and first mayor of Palm Beach. This statue can be seen at the 400 block of Royal Palm Way. Dimmick had moved his family to the area in 1876. He built the first hotel in Palm Beach, the Cocoanut Grove House. He also developed Royal Park, a residential housing area on about 100 acres just north of Royal Palm Way. Dimmick served in the Florida House and Senate as well as on the Dade County School Board. He also brought with his family Millie Gildersleeve, a freed slave and family cook. She later went on to become the midwife for the entire Palm Beach area working under the direction of Dr. Richer Potter, the area’s first doctor. There are fascinating stories to absorb and historical things to do in south Florida.
Royal Palm Way ends at South Ocean Blvd. facing Palm Beach Island Resort and the Atlantic Ocean beyond it. If you spend much time in Palm Beach, this is one of the Palm Beach attractions you will definitely encounter.
The Royal Palm Way can be found at #6 on our Map of things to do in West Palm Beach.
7. Memorial Fountain, the Vanderbilt Connection
Southern Florida is described as a paradise, but not only that, there is a treasure trove of things to do in South Florida. History, beaches, nature and parks find themselves on everyone’s list of must-see Palm Beach attractions. One such attraction is the Memorial Fountain. Located south of Royal Palm Way, the Memorial Fountain Park was given to Palm Beach by none other than Harold S. Vanderbilt.
Memorial Fountain represented a gift from the residents of Palm Beach to the city. It was designed and built by Addison Mizner (who also designed the Vanderbilt mansion). His favored Mediterranean Revival style was the basis for this fountain. The plaza contains a narrow reflecting pool and an upper terrace where the fountain is designed after Fountain of the Sea Horses, a piece done in the 18th century by Unterberger.
The fountain plaza is lined by palm trees and neatly designed and manicured hedge rows. There are benches, alcoves and decorative urns. It is an ideal place to visit for a quiet meditation; a chance to get away from the rush of the world.
Memorial Fountain is located at at #7 on our Map of things to do in West Palm Beach.
8. Luxury Shopping: Worth Avenue
Palm Beach attractions include Worth Avenue a sophisticated, elegant shopping plaza that runs four blocks from Lake Worth to the Atlantic Ocean. This short section is filled with over 200 high-end boutiques and restaurants that appeal to the locals and tourists alike. Luxury shopping is one of the things to do in West Palm Beach – live like the celebs! There are also eight hotel/resorts on Worth Avenue. You will find jewelry, apparel, gifts, books, antiquities, home furnishings, salons, spas and so much more.
William Jenkins Worth, an Army officer during the War of 1812, Second Seminole War and the American-Mexican War has been honored across the nation in places such as Ft. Worth and other “worthy” places. It also includes none other than Lake Worth Lagoon, Palm Beach.
Because parking is limited, the best way to experience Worth Avenue is to walk it. It’s only four blocks but may take hours after you stop in various shops and boutiques along the way. As you walk, take note of the sports cars parked along the way. Brands such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes are the norm. You will not see many Fords or Chevrolet’s. There will be restored classic cars as well, such as a 1967 Cadillac or a stylish Rolls-Royce, truly Palm Beach attractions. There are many inspiring things to do in south Florida.
Worth Avenue is located at #8 on our Map of things to do in West Palm Beach.
9. Worth Avenue Clock Tower
The entrance to famous Worth Avenue is marked by a spectacular clock, the Worth Avenue Clock Tower. The setting, with the Atlantic Ocean as the backdrop, is absolutely gorgeous and picturesque. One of charming things to do in West Palm Beach is catch the morning sunrise with the clock tower.
A relatively new fixture at the start of Worth Avenue, the clock tower was built in 2010 as part of a major restoration project of Worth Avenue. The clock tower has now become a symbol of Palm Beach and is recognized the world over. As you begin your stroll down Worth Avenue, stop for a photo opportunity at the clock tower, it’s one of the things to do in West Palm Beach.
The Worth Avenue Clock tower is located at #9 on our Map of things to do in West Palm Beach.
10. Historic Resort: The Breakers Palm Beach Hotel
Palm Beach is filled with exciting adventures and historical landmarks that call out majestic buildings and resorts as part of the great history of Palm Beach. The Breakers Resort is one such location. This is one of the Gilded Age things to do in south Florida.
As you step into the historic Breakers Palm Beach hotel you will realize this was built during the infamous Gilded Age. The luxurious, opulent interior, along with the architectural features are breathtaking and beautiful. The high arched ceilings with fresco painted ceilings, the stunning chandeliers, the plush carpets and furnishings represent that nothing was spared in building this hotel.
Today, Breakers Palm Beach still attracts the rich and famous. People watching is one of the great things to do in south Florida; who knows, you might see that celebrity. The Beach Club at the Breakers Resort is a popular hangout. Facing the Atlantic Ocean, the Breakers Resort has a private beach and four ocean-side swimming pools. There are 25 day-time bungalows placed around the pools that are available for guests. There is also an ocean-side indoor/outdoor fitness center. The grounds also include an indoor/outdoor family entertainment center with spaces for toddlers through teens including a video arcade and outdoor basketball court. Another of many Palm Beach attractions is the two championship golf courses and ten lighted tennis courts, with golf and tennis instruction available. Breakers Palm Beach has nine on-site restaurants and eleven boutiques. You can see they have thought of everything at the famous historical Breakers Hotel.
The Breakers Palm Beach attractions don’t end there. The resort has a stunning on-site, full-service spa where you can continue to be pampered and receive the rest and relaxation you deserve. Every vacationer should make time for a spa treatment; it is one o f the guilty pleasure things to do in south Florida. For the kids in your group, there is Camp Breakers, a day camp for children ages 3-12. Kids will learn how to paddle board and in the meantime make new friends and discover new things about the ocean environment. The resort offers daily tours and activities including historical bike tours, banana boat rides, bracelet making, tie die, science lab, shark tooth creations, and much more. It is easy to see why Breakers Palm Beach is a desirable destination resort.
There are gardens, terraces, outdoor cafés, and walkways lined with palm trees. The resort is free to visit, but the beach club is open for paying guests only. For destination weddings, receptions or galas there are ample spaces including large lavish ballrooms and stunning outdoor spaces. Breakers Palm Beach is where history and modern day collide to bring you one of the best vacation spots the world around; definitely one of many stunning things to do in West Palm Beach.
Visit our Miami Beach article to read about the Biltmore Hotel built during the same era and offering similar accommodations, activities and amenities. There are so many things to do in south Florida.
The Breakers Palm Beach hotels is located at 1 S County Rd, Palm Beach and can be found at #10 on our Map of things to do in West Palm Beach.
11. Singer Island
North of Palm Beach lays Singer Island Florida. It is part of Riviera Beach where there are pristine beaches and urban hotels and fantastic resorts, and many other inviting things to see in south Florida including the Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort and Spa. In fact, there is a string of Palm Beach Resorts all along the Atlantic Coast as well as a few Palm Beach Resorts on the inland side of Singer Island. Along with resorts you will find condominiums and some residential neighborhoods with palatial homes.
Wondering where Singer Island got its name? You guessed it! Paris Singer, son of Singer Sewing Machines tycoon, Isaac Singer. Paris was a Palm Beach developer who worked with famed architect Addison Mizner in the 1920s. Mizner’s signature Mediterranean Rival style can be seen throughout Palm Beach today.
The Marriott Singer Island is a popular Palm Beach resort that has taken up the conservation cause of saving sea turtles, particularly Loggerheads. Because of its close proximity to turtle nesting areas, the theme at the resort is all about turtles. While the high rise building seems antithetical to a conservation theme, the hotel offers inspiring vistas of the ocean and the beach. It helps you connect to the water and be drawn to the shore. The rooms are keenly appointed with tropical décor and a focus on turtles. In fact, there are cute, plush stuffed turtles in every room available for purchase. The proceeds go directly to the Loggerhead Marinelife Center. This is just one conservation activity sponsored by the Marriott Singer Island. Other conservation activities on Singer Island Florida include a monthly beach cleanup – a time when locals and visitors alike comb the beach for trash and items that are harmful to the wildlife. Conservation activities are neat things to in south Florida because it has meaning for our environment and ultimately the whole world.
The resort itself is all about turtles. The theme extends throughout the resort, in the rooms you will find bright tropical colors and turtle decor including accent pillows and cute plush turtle toys that are available for sale with the proceeds going to turtle conservation. They sponsor conservation activities such as turtle walks where you have a chance to witness nesting turtles. Adventurous Palm Beach attractions start here. There several activities in which your children can participate. If they loved the “Build a Bear” workshops, the resort sponsors the “Build a Turtle” workshop; make your own plush, stuffed turtle. There is also a beading class where you make a beaded necklace starting with a turtle charm. There are lots of beads from which to choose. Again, the proceeds go toward sea turtle conservation.
Other cool features at the Marriott Singer Island are a beach fire pit, perfect for a romantic evening or family night making s’mores. There is a beautiful waterfall outdoor seating area complete with fire pits for a cozy ending to your day. The enticing SiSpa is a great place to get a massage or other body treatment to sooth away the aches of a very active day. The full service spa has an outdoor patio and whirlpool. The private beach has cabanas to rent, and prime snorkeling at the reef just offshore. Even with all these top shelf amenities, Marriott is committed to conservation efforts including reducing the carbon footprint, water conservation, using renewable energy, and supporting the Amazon Rain Forest. When you stay at Marriott, you are participating in conservation.
Singer Island can be found at #11 on our Map of things to do in West Palm Beach.
12. Norton Museum of Art
The Norton Museum of Art is all about art Palm Beach. The galleries focus on American, Chinese and European art forms. Contemporary and modern art has also found a place at the Norton Museum of Art. Colorful designs, cultural themes, 2-D and 3-D representations that encompass art Palm Beach are on display at the galleries. There are many things to do in West Palm Beach that are all about art. It is an ideal place for artists and those who love art.
The Palm Beach art community is very active and generous. Things to do in West Palm Beach include viewing the many pieces have been donated to the galleries. Substantial financial gifts have made the growth of art Palm Beach possible. Ralph Hubbard Norton and his wife Elizabeth founded the Norton Museum of Art. Norton, the head of Acme Steel out of Chicago, and his wife started wintering in the Palm Beach area in 1935. They determine their own private collection of paintings and sculptures needed to be shared with the public. In 1940, they opened the Norton Art Gallery and School of Art.
A Closer Look is a lively discussion about a particular piece of art. Book & Art is a program where you read a book in advance that has been paired with a specific art piece. What follows is an active discussion of both the book and the artwork. These intellectual things to do in West Palm Beach will stimulate your mind. For the family there is the DIY Art Projects that takes place on Thursday evenings. It is a chance to tour the museum and then participate in creating some art of your own that you can bring home with you. On Saturdays there is the Family Studio which includes a special tour followed up by artwork. The Norton Museum of Art loves to encourage art exploration – who knows, the next great artist could be right in your family! The museum also has a student exhibition of artwork of students from three local high schools. All of these art programs find themselves on the growing list of things to do in West Palm Beach.
The Art After Dark program at the Norton Museum of Art takes place on Thursdays. This is a chance for locals and tourists alike to visit the museum and enjoy live music, happy hour, and discussions of art at the Norton.
Norton Museum of Art offers public guided tours that are free and take place at 2:00 p.m. daily, except Mondays, just one of many things to do in West Palm Beach. The Norton Museum of Art is located at 1451 S Olive Ave, West Palm Beach and can be found at #12 on our Map of things to do in West Palm Beach.
13. Ann Norton Sculpture Garden
Art Palm Beach is found virtually everywhere in the Palm Beach communities. It is easy to tell that art was important to those of the Gilded Age and it flowed down generation to generation. Ann Norton, 2nd wife to Ralph Norton, has art credentials a mile long. Her work has been featured in the Museum of Modern Art and the Whitney Museum of American Art. Her work was also presented in many places throughout Europe. This is another of the outstanding art exhibits and things to do in West Palm Beach.
It was in 1977 that she formed the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens with the goal of preserving significant art Palm Beach including the gardens, her studio and home. They have been listed on the National Register of Historic Places and are a “must-see” on the list of things to do in West Palm Beach.
Not only are the gardens and sculptures beauty alone, but there are also the endangered bright red Atala caterpillars, native to Florida, and the Polydamus Swallow Tail. These vibrantly colored creatures add to the art Palm Beach experience where we find art occurring naturally in their natural habitat.
While visiting the Norton Museum of Art also take in the Ann Norton Sculpture Garden; just one of many artsy things to do in South Florida. The Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens is located at 2051 S Flagler Dr, West Palm Beach and can be found at #13 on our Map of things to do in West Palm Beach.
14. Free Trolley Bus Service
A touch of old world charm is the free trolley system in West Palm Beach. It’s more than just a mode of transportation, but it is also a great Palm Beach attraction. This trolley system would be an ideal way to see Palm Beach if you need some downtime and want to ride and observe. Or, if you have a special place you need to be, you can take the trolley and not have to worry about parking. There are three lines, yellow, green and blue, each of them have their specific routes and all touch Clematis Street at several points. These lines start at 11:00 a.m. and run to late evening, depending on the route.
The Blue Line runs a large route that goes through downtown West Palm Beach and also to Northwood Village and the Palm Beach Outlets. It crosses Clematis Street near the Public Library.
The Green Line runs a loop that follows Clematis Street between Tamarind Avenue and Olive Avenue. There are several stops along Clematis Street so you can get off and on at several locations along the route.
The Yellow Line follows sections of Clematis Street and along the waterfront.
Take a ride on the free trolley system and you may spot some more things to do in West Palm Beach!
15. The Richard and Pat Johnson Palm Beach County Museum
Operated by the Historical Society of Palm Beach County, the Richard & Pat Johnson Palm Beach County Museum features the artifacts, art, and history of Palm Beach going back as far as 12,000 years! There are two permanent collections: The People and The Place. There is also a rotating exhibit. The museum was named after Richard Johnson whose father had a job in the County Courthouse, now the site of the museum. Johnson set up an endowment for the museum so children could have free access and learn about their community and heritage. The museum is another example of historical things to do in West Palm Beach.
The Richard & Pat Johnson Palm Beach County Museum can be found at #15 on our Map of things to do in West Palm Beach.
16. Artsy Northwood Village
If art is your “thing”, then Northwood Village is worth a visit. One of many popular West Palm Beach attractions, this neighborhood is all about art Palm Beach. Some of the favored events in this art Palm Beach village are the Art Walk (2nd Saturday of the month), Food Truck Roll-in (3rd Wednesday of the month, where are many tasty things to do in West Palm Beach) and Art Night Out (3rd Fridays of the month).
The village is a collection of unique shops and boutiques featuring original art. There are many options for fine dining as well. There is a trolley that will take you through the village, or you may enjoy a stroll through the shops. No matter how you see it, this is a great collection of art Palm Beach and it is ready for you to enjoy day or night. One of many artsy things to do in south Florida.
Northwood Village can be found at #16 on our Map of things to do in West Palm Beach.
17. Manatee Lagoon
We’ve talked a lot about historical sites but Florida also has some of the greatest natural sights in the country. The nature related things to do in south Florida include wildlife, ecosystems and conservation. The Manatee Lagoon is one of the West Palm Beach attractions you will not find anywhere else in the U.S. Cherish this opportunity. Manatee Lagoon is all about the wonderfully mysterious manatee in Florida.
Sometimes referred to as the “gentle giant” of the sea, the manatee is a threatened species that loves the warmer waters of Florida during the winter months. They are vegetarians that dine on sea grasses and other plant life. Related to the elephant, the manatee has a large bulbous snout. Its tail is a large fan-shaped fin. There are also two front flippers. Although this animal is typically slow moving, it can swim up to 20 mph when needed.
Where can I see manatees in Florida? The season to spot manatees in Florida is usually mid-November through March. They make their home at Manatee Lagoon and other places around Florida on both the east and west coasts. The best place to see manatees in Florida is one of several manatee conservation areas. This is one of several conservationist Palm Beach attractions in which you can participate. In West Palm Beach, the Florida Power & Light Riviera Beach Next Generation Clean Energy Center is such a place. FPL generates warm water from its clean outflow. The warmth attracts the manatees and this is where they show up for their winter season. In fact, the manatees have located warm water locations around the state and these areas have been designated as a manatee sanctuary. Each one has a manatee viewing platform. If you have never observed manatees, this one of many fantastic things to do in West Palm Beach!
Depending on the season, manatee can be seen as far north as Massachusetts and south around Florida west to the eastern Gulf side of Texas. This has been their documented range, but for the most part Florida is the favored hangout spot.
Manatee Lagoon has a free visitor center with everything you would want to know about manatee in Florida. Watching the manatee glide through the water is one of the amazing things to do in West Palm Beach. With advanced registration you and your family can have a guided tour of Manatee Lagoon and all it has to offer. These public tours take off at 2:00 p.m. There are a lot of activities going on at Manatee Lagoon including an aqua lab, story time, lectures, Pilates/yoga classes, face painting and a manatee museum. A great way to get involved in conservation is to join in one of these naturalist things to do in south Florida
When encountering the manatees in the wild, please observe them from a safe distance. If boating, stay away from manatee areas; obey posted signs. If you see a wounded manatee, report it. If swimming or diving and you see a manatee, stay a good distance away and observe them from the top of the water. Do not feed manatees, do not touch manatees, and discard your trash responsibly and not in the waterways.
Manatee Lagoon can be found at #17 on our Map of things to do in West Palm Beach.
West Palm Beach Attractions
You don’t have to look very hard to find things to do in West Palm Beach. On almost every street you will find something of interest. We’ve gone into some depth of some of the better known Palm Beach attractions, but there are lesser known gems as well. These are places to experience wildlife up close and personal. Learn about their habitats and habits.
18.Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society
For instance, the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society provides animal experiences with some less likely candidates such as sloths, anteaters, capybaras, Aldabra tortoise, koala bears, and more – one of the unique things to do in West Palm Beach! They also have bears, big cats, and birds. There is plenty of room to roam at the zoo with interactive play areas and onsite dining options.
19. McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary
Another great Palm Beach attraction is McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary. Their mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and provide sanctuary to wild animals indigenous to Florida, exotic animals that typically start out as pets and retired animal actors. McCarthy’s offers tours daily at 11:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 1:00 p.m. You must have reservations.
20. South Florida Science Center & Aquarium
The South Florida Science Center & Aquarium is a great option of things to do in south Florida. There is an aquarium that is home to many Atlantic Ocean creatures. There is also a planetarium to help you understand space, stars and planets. There are displays featuring the Florida Everglades, Florida conservation station, a science lab and many other exhibits about science and biology.
21. Lion Country Safari
Celebrating 50 years, Lion Country Safari is Florida’s only drive through safari/zoo. The drive through zoo is divided into seven districts with each one featuring different animals. The Serengeti Plains exhibit showcases animals with hooves and ostriches. The Gorongosa Reserve is home to the king of beasts – the lions. If you would rather walk through the zoo, there is a walking tour as well with plenty to see and do such as miniature golf, a water park, paddle boats, and a petting zoo. There are a lot of things to do in West Palm Beach and family fun at Lion Country Safari is just one of them.
22. Peanut Island
Peanut Island is situated at the mouth of Lake Worth Lagoon and was aptly named because it was envisioned as a peanut oil shipping center. Unfortunately peanut oil failed on the island and it sat dormant for many years. Finally, in 2005 the island was renovated and Peanut Island Park was born. The park offers camping sites, a pier and man made reef. It is also home to the Detachment Hotel which was originally a secret shelter for President John F. Kennedy. It is now a museum that features Cold War era artifacts and information.
23. Jupiter Lighthouse and Museum
Lighthouse enthusiasts unite! One of the great Palm Beach attractions is the Jupiter Lighthouse and Museum. With the advancements in technology, lighthouses are almost a thing of the past. Many, many are being restored all around the world and this one is no different. It will be great to check this off of your list of lighthouses you have visited and one of the great things to do in West Palm Beach.
From atop the lighthouse you will enjoy a splendid perspective of the Jupiter Inlet where two rivers converge; the Indian and Loxahatchee Rivers. The lighthouse was built in 1853 and its light could reach 24 miles. It was first lit in July, 1860 and is still in service today.
For a fantastic day trip to see other lighthouses, sign up for a day trip to Bahamas from West Palm Beach. With several tours from which to choose, this is an ideal add-on to your Florida experience. For more information, see our article Island Hopping the Bahamas Cays in the Abacos and visit the Hope Town Lighthouse on Elbow Cay.
The museum is located in the last remaining World War II building which was the married men’s quarters at the U.S. Naval Supplementary Radio Station. It had a secret code called Station J. There is significant exhibits on WWII and the surrounding area including life on the Loxahatchee River. This is an impressive place for WWII buffs to visit – another one of those hidden gems on the list of things to do in south Florida.
One of only three in the nation, the area was appointed an Outstanding Natural Area by Congress; the region is home to 25 special status species. There is a hiking trail that leads to an observation tower which overlooks a manatee refuge. A playground is situated in Lighthouse Park which also has water activities. This is an ideal area for nature photographers and outdoors enthusiasts.
There are plenty of things to do in West Palm Beach and this attraction has several top hitters – something for everyone in the family!
Things to do in West Palm Beach
Palm Beach is stunning. As the name portrays, the city is lined with signature palm trees. The gardens, parks and outdoor spaces are manicured to perfection. This place is home to many of the rich and famous from around the world, and the luxury and opulence show. Yet, it is inviting and accommodating to all. The Gilded Age mansions have been restored and are now galleries showcasing days gone by, and the temple-like homes they built to pay homage to their wealth. The visionaries of the past who could see into the future all that Palm Beach could be invested themselves into the community with remarkable results. Artists and art collections were attracted to the area; galleries and museums established. All that was good from mankind came to Palm Beach. Don’t miss out on things to do in south Florida!
Now take a turn to nature and how all that was good is here in Palm Beach; aquamarine water, pristine beaches, exotic wildlife from caterpillars to sea turtles to manatees. Each creature is unique and beautiful in their own right. Parks with hiking and biking trails; an active lighthouse; turtle and manatee conservation activities and the peaceful, solitude of the beach are just some of the Palm Beach attractions. The beach life is inviting and out Florida’s front door is the Bahamas. It is just a short 80 minute flight to true paradise – practically deserted islands, turtles, stingrays and swimming pigs, white and pink sand beaches – they are calling your name. What are you waiting for? Book your trip to Palm Beach today and add on a Day Trip to the Bahamas – it’s the thing to do!
For more exciting details on Florida and the Bahamas, check out our USA Travel Guide
Things to do in West Palm Beach Map
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