14 Must-Do Activities in West Palm Beach
Are you planning a trip to West Palm Beach and looking for some unforgettable activities to make the most of your visit? Look no further! With its beautiful beaches, vibrant arts scene, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, West Palm Beach has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll highlight 14 must-do activities in West Palm Beach that will help you create lasting memories and experience the best that this Florida gem has to offer.
Key Highlights
- Explore the vibrant Clematis Street and Rosemary Square for shopping, dining, and nightlife.
- Immerse yourself in art and culture at the Norton Museum of Art and the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts.
- Discover diverse ecosystems at the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society and Mounts Botanical Garden.
- Enjoy outdoor adventures at Okeeheelee Park, Peanut Island, or McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Take a day trip to nearby coastal cities like Delray Beach or explore the wilderness of Lion Country Safari.
Here are the top things to do in West Palm Beach:
Outdoor Activities
1. Beaches
West Palm Beach has famous beaches. They feature soft, golden sand and clear, turquoise water. You can enjoy sunny skies while relaxing outside. Spend your days relaxing in the warm sun or swimming in the cool Atlantic Ocean. You can also walk along the shore and enjoy the salty breeze.
If you want a new view, visit Palm Beach Island. This fancy island is famous for its nice shopping, tasty restaurants, and beautiful homes. Walk along Worth Avenue, check out historic sites, or take a nice bike ride by the ocean to see scenic views.
No matter if you want to relax or have fun, the beaches of West Palm Beach and nearby areas are great places to unwind and make special memories.
2. Parks and Nature Preserves
Escape the noise and rush of the city. Discover the calm of West Palm Beach’s parks and nature areas. Go kayaking or canoeing on the beautiful Loxahatchee River. Enjoy the sights of Florida’s wetlands and see wildlife along the way.
Okeeheelee Park is a great place for fun and relaxation. It has many activities like biking and walking paths, fishing spots, and picnic areas. You can walk around the park, have a family picnic by the lake, or relax under a tree. Enjoy the quiet and nice atmosphere.
For something special, visit Mounts Botanical Garden. It’s a hidden gem with many plant collections from all over the world. You can walk through unique gardens, take a peaceful stroll, and learn about plants.
3. Water Activities
Explore the fun of aquatic adventures on the beautiful waters of West Palm Beach. This place is located right on the Intracoastal Waterway and is close to the Atlantic Ocean. There are so many chances to have fun, explore, and make great memories.
If you love thrills, try:
- Water skiing
- Jet skiing
- Wakeboarding
- Parasailing
If you want a more peaceful time, think about:
- Taking a boat tour on the Intracoastal Waterway. You can see waterfront mansions and happy dolphins.
- Renting a paddleboard or kayak. Enjoy the calm waters and find quiet spots in nature.
- Going on a fishing trip and hoping for a big catch in the rich waters.
Cultural Attractions
4. Museums and Art Galleries
Discover a place full of art and creativity at the Norton Museum of Art. This treasure in West Palm Beach is known for its amazing collection of American art, European masterpieces, and modern works. You can explore galleries that feature famous artists like Georgia O’Keeffe, Pablo Picasso, and Edward Hopper. The museum also has interesting exhibitions from all over the world.
Apart from the Norton, West Palm Beach boasts a lively art scene. Many galleries show off pieces from local, national, and international artists. Walk through the charming downtown streets to find hidden gems in old buildings and trendy areas. From paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed media, there is a wide range of styles and forms that will grab your attention.
Talk to the artists, learn about how they create their work, and maybe you will find something special to take home as a memory of your visit to West Palm Beach.
5. Historical Sites
Journey back in time and discover the interesting history of West Palm Beach and nearby areas. Visit Whitehall, the grand Gilded Age home of Henry Morrison Flagler. Now, it is the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum. You can see the beautiful rooms, appreciate the stunning design, and learn about Flagler, one of Florida’s key figures.
For more local history, check out the Palm Beach County History Museum. Here, you can see amazing exhibitions that display the area’s history, from its first people to how it became a popular spot for tourists. You will find artifacts, photos, and documents that make the past come alive and show you the events and people that helped shape West Palm Beach today.
Join a guided walking tour in the city’s historic districts. You can look at the well-kept buildings, learn about important events, and understand the city’s great collection of stories better.
6. Performing Arts
Experience the magic of live shows at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. It is one of the best performing arts centers in South Florida. This beautiful venue has many types of performances. You can watch Broadway shows, ballets, operas, concerts, and comedy acts. There is something exciting for everyone.
The Kravis Center brings in top talent from all over the world. You will see famous orchestras, world-class dancers, and award-winning actors and musicians. The performers show great skill, passion, and creativity. You will enjoy unforgettable performances that you won’t forget.
Visit the Kravis Center’s calendar to find out about upcoming shows. Be sure to book your tickets early so you don’t miss out. A night at the theater is a great way to add culture and fun to your time in West Palm Beach.
Shopping and Dining
7. Shopping Districts
For a great shopping experience in West Palm Beach, visit Clematis Street. This walkable street has many colorful boutiques, specialty shops, art galleries, and restaurants. It creates a fun vibe for browsing and exploring. You can find unique souvenirs, gifts, and fashion pieces while enjoying the lively feel of downtown.
Another popular spot is Rosemary Square, which was once named CityPlace. Here, you’ll find upscale boutiques, department stores, and lively restaurants. The charming outdoor area, with fountains and public art, makes shopping feel special and enjoyable.
Don’t forget to check out nearby neighborhoods too. Places like Northwood Village and the Antique Row Art & Design District offer unique vintage items, antiques, and one-of-a-kind home furnishings.
8. Dining Options
Downtown West Palm Beach is a great place for food lovers. It has many restaurants that offer a wide variety of tastes and settings. From small cafes to fancy dining near the water, there is something for everyone’s appetite and budget.
You can enjoy fresh seafood with beautiful views of the water. You could also try real Italian meals or taste the Caribbean dishes at popular spots in the city. If you want a more relaxed meal, consider a trendy gastropub, a busy food hall, or a sidewalk cafe where you can enjoy the lively city scene.
Many places in downtown West Palm Beach have live music, making your dining experience fun and exciting. You might hear smooth jazz while sipping drinks, enjoy local bands while you eat, or dance to a DJ at a cool rooftop bar.
9. Nightlife
As the sun goes down, West Palm Beach becomes a lively place for nightlife. There are many fun activities and entertainment options to enjoy after dark.
Clematis St. bursts with energy, filled with bars, clubs, and live music spots. This makes it a great place for bar hopping and dancing. You can try handcrafted cocktails, craft beers, or dance the night away under the stars at a popular nightclub.
If you want something more relaxed, check out the bars and lounges in Rosemary Square. Here, you can enjoy a nice cocktail while listening to live music or a DJ. With its stylish vibe and fancy settings, Rosemary Square is perfect for a romantic date or a fun night with friends.
Family-Friendly Activities
10. Zoo and Aquariums
Calling all animal lovers! The Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society is a great place for families. You can see many animals from all around the world.
Walk through nice habitats and meet amazing animals like tigers, playful monkeys, and beautiful flamingos. You can learn about the animals, where they live, and what the Palm Beach Zoo is doing for conservation and teaching.
The zoo has fun areas for kids, interactive shows, and a splash pad too. It makes the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society a fun and educational place for everyone.
11. Interactive Experiences
Spark your curiosity and join in some hands-on learning at the Cox Science Center and Aquarium. This fun museum takes you on an exciting trip into science and technology. You can explore space, the human body, the natural world, and more with the wide variety of exhibits.
Kids of all ages will love the interactive exhibits. They can do experiments and learn about physics. They can also explore the ocean’s wonders and uncover the universe’s mysteries. The Cox Science Center is a great place to start a love for STEM and inspire young minds.
If you want to see animals in a new way, head to McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary. This is a special place for rescued animals. You can get close to alligators, snakes, birds of prey, and other wildlife from Florida. You will also learn about why conservation is important and how the sanctuary helps rescue and care for animals.
12. Seasonal Events
Throughout the year, West Palm Beach is full of special events and festivals for everyone. You can feel the lively atmosphere and enjoy the local culture by joining in on these unique celebrations.
If you want to enjoy local products and crafts, visit the West Palm Beach Greenmarket. It is held every Saturday during the season. You can explore stalls filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, local honey, baked goods, and handmade crafts. It’s a perfect place to meet locals, find special souvenirs, and enjoy live music and entertainment.
Make sure to check the city’s event calendar for festivals, concerts, art walks, and holiday celebrations while you are there. These seasonal events give you a chance to feel the exciting energy of West Palm Beach and make great memories.
Day Trips and Nearby Attractions
13. Exploring the Surrounding Areas
Just a short drive from West Palm Beach, you will find a line of lovely coastal cities. Each city has its own charm and attractions.
Head south to Boca Raton. It is known for its upscale shopping, great golf courses, beautiful beaches, and the lively Mizner Park. Further south, check out Fort Lauderdale. It is often called the “Venice of America” because of its many canals.
If you want to see old Florida charm, visit Lake Worth. This fun and artistic town has a historic downtown area with colorful murals, antique shops, and unique restaurants. Delray Beach is just south of West Palm Beach. It is famous for its active arts scene, award-winning beaches, and a charming downtown area filled with special boutiques and restaurants.
14. Nature Excursions
For amazing nature trips, go beyond the city and see the different ecosystems that make South Florida special.
Start your adventure at Lion Country Safari. Here, you can drive through a wildlife park. You can see animals from all over the world. Watch lions, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and many other incredible animals up close. This will create memories for you that last a lifetime.
You can also relax on the beautiful beaches and trails at Macarthur Beach State Park. It is a peaceful place where you can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, kayak, and walk along nature paths. For a special experience, you can kayak on the calm waters of the Loxahatchee River. It is one of Florida’s last wild rivers.
Here’s a quick look at these three top nature spots nearby:
| Attraction | Description |
| Lion Country Safari | Drive-through wildlife park with many exotic animals |
| Macarthur Beach State Park | Clean beaches, nature paths, and fun activities like swimming and kayaking |
| Loxahatchee River | One of Florida’s last wild rivers, great for kayaking, canoeing, and seeing wildlife. |
Tips for Visiting West Palm Beach
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit West Palm Beach depends on what you like and what you want to do.
West Palm Beach has sunny skies and warm weather all year. This makes it a great place for outdoor activities and water sports. From November to April, it’s often called the “dry season.” This is when the weather is most enjoyable. Average highs are in the 70s, and the humidity is low.
If you want to avoid crowds and save some money, try visiting in spring or fall (April-May and September-October). It may rain a bit more during these months, but the temperatures are still nice. Plus, there are fewer people at attractions.
Transportation Options
Getting to and getting around West Palm Beach is easy. The city has a good transportation system and is close to major airports.
Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) is only a few minutes from downtown West Palm Beach. This makes it easy to reach your hotel or resort as soon as you arrive. At the airport, you can find many ways to get around. These include taxis, ride-sharing services, and car rentals.
Once in downtown West Palm Beach, you can walk to many attractions, restaurants, and shops since they are all close together. If you want to explore more, the city has a good bus system that runs throughout the area. You might also think about renting a car for more freedom, especially if you want to visit beach areas, nature parks, or nearby towns. Another option is to use the water taxis on the Intracoastal Waterway. This can be a fun way to travel while enjoying the scenic waterfront views.
Accommodation Suggestions
West Palm Beach has many places to stay for every budget and taste. You can find everything from fancy beachfront resorts to stylish hotels with modern furnishings, as well as cozy vacation rentals.
If you want to be close to all the fun, pick a hotel in the downtown area. This way, you can easily walk to places like Clematis Street, Rosemary Square, and other main attractions in the city. If you prefer a calm and private vibe, consider a nice beachfront resort on Palm Beach Island. These stunning places offer great ocean views, top-notch amenities, and easy beach access for a perfect getaway.
For those who want to save money or feel like they are at home, there are many vacation rentals available in West Palm Beach. You can choose from apartments, condos, or houses. Many of these options come with fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, and private outdoor spaces.
Wrapping Up
As you visit the lively city of West Palm Beach, get ready for many outdoor fun activities, cultural events, and things for families to enjoy. There are beautiful beaches, interesting museums, and art galleries for everyone to experience. Savor the different dining choices and enjoy the lively nightlife. Each moment can be special.
Make sure to plan your visit well with our tips on the best time to go, how to get around, and where to stay. Get involved in the local culture and create memories that will last forever. Feel free to share your favorite activities or ask questions in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any free activities in West Palm Beach?
West Palm Beach has many free things to do. You can take a nice walk by the water and enjoy the views. At Green Cay Wetlands, you can see sandhill cranes in their natural habitat. In the downtown area, you can hear live music and be part of events at Centennial Square. You can also visit the Mandel Public Library, where you can admire its beautiful architecture.
