Things to Do in West Palm Beach

The first thing to do in West Palm Beach, FL, that we recommend is to explore the heart of the downtown area, Clematis Street. The street is synonymous with a fun-loving atmosphere. Beginning at the street's intersection with Flagler Drive on the Intracoastal Waterway and stretching about a mile west, all sorts of bars, shops, and restaurants welcome tourists. Travelers praise Clematis Street's abundance of dining and shopping options, plus its waterfront views near Flagler Drive. The eastern end of Clematis Street also hosts the seasonal West Palm Beach Green Market, which features more than 100 food, plant, and produce vendors on Saturday mornings between October and April. Thursday nights come alive from 6 to 9 p.m. when the popular event Clematis By Night features live music by the area's best bands and food and drink specials. 

Ralph H. Norton created the Norton Museum of Art in West Plam Beach to hold his impressive art collection at the time of his retirement from the steel industry. Since its opening, it now houses more than 8,200 pieces. The museum's art is mainly separated by several aspects, like geography, with exhibits dedicated to European, American, and Chinese art. There are two additional exhibits for photography and contemporary art. Noteworthy pieces in the museum's collection include paintings by Picasso, Monet, Gauguin, and Georgia O'Keeffe and sculptures by Theodore Roszak and William Zorach. Art lovers will likely appreciate the variety of artists represented. The permanent collections and Chihuly glass ceiling consistently wow guests, and they praise the museum's temporary exhibits, which have focused on everything from photographs of the Black Panthers to iconic toys to Frida Kahlo paintings. 

Another fun thing to do with your kids in West Palm Beach is to spend your day at Plam Beach Zoo and Conservation Society. It offers various animal exhibits, including multiple interactive experiences with koalas, sloths, and panthers. Special events like the Zoo Lights holiday celebration are also hosted annually. To fully enjoy your time at the zoo, it is recommended that you visit on weekdays. The lush grounds include an interactive play fountain, a Conservation Station with a Wildlife Carousel and Safari Train for children to ride, and interactive wildlife presentations. Check out the John and Carole Moran Panther Prowl habitat and meet Sassy, the zoo's Florida panther. 

With 25 different gardens and landscaped spaces that include everything from begonias and rose bushes to various herb plants and fruit trees, the Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County offers all sorts of flora to explore. Themed areas include a butterfly garden, a Mediterranean garden, and a tropical forest. It features 14 acres of gardens with more than 6,000 tropical and subtropical plants from around the world, including bromeliads, palms, herbs, a vegetable garden, a rose garden, and a reflection pond. A nursery sells various herbs, butterfly plants, and shrubs on the property grounds. Visitors loved the garden's flora and special events such as a Lego exhibit, origami, and Patrick Dougherty's Stickwork projects. 

If you are looking for a place away from the downtown area, you can visit Peanut Island, a tropical paradise in the heart of the Palm Beaches. The park is popular among visitors and locals for its various activities in West Plam Beach, FL, like tent campgrounds, hiking trails, fishing, swimming, and boating. The island even has a protected snorkeling lagoon that has clear water and is popular among manatees in the winter. Travelers compare Peanut Island to a "mini Bahamas" due to the turquoise, fish-filled waters and abundance of palm trees. It is the best place to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere along with the calmness. Don't forget to create impressive sand castles with your kids! 

West Palm Beach, Florida, is also known as the golfer's paradise – a meticulously crafted haven for sports enthusiasts. This idyllic destination boasts a collection of world-class golf courses, each promising an unforgettable experience amidst the stunning backdrop of South Florida's natural beauty. Designed to challenge and inspire players of all skill levels, the golf courses in West Palm Beach offer an array of layouts that cater to both seasoned pros and casual enthusiasts. Beyond the exceptional golfing experience, visitors to West Palm Beach's golf courses can also indulge in other things to do in West Palm Beach, FL. Whether enjoying a post-round cocktail at the clubhouse overlooking panoramic views or refining their swing at state-of-the-art practice facilities, every aspect of the golfing experience is crafted to exceed expectations. 

Lion Country Safari is a testament to the majesty and wonder of the animal kingdom. Renowned as one of the premier wildlife attractions in the United States, this safari adventure park offers visitors a rare opportunity to embark on a thrilling journey through sprawling landscapes teeming with exotic creatures. From the comfort of their vehicles, guests can explore the park's lush habitats, encountering an impressive array of wildlife along the way. From towering giraffes gracefully grazing to majestic lions basking in the sun, there are fun things to do in West Palm Beach. Every turn of the safari road promises an encounter with nature's most awe-inspiring creatures. But Lion Country Safari is more than just a drive-through wildlife experience. With a host of interactive exhibits, animal feeding opportunities, and educational presentations, you can learn a lot about animals. 

Home to a diverse array of rescued and rehabilitated animals, McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary provides a haven for creatures. From majestic big cats to playful primates and captivating reptiles, each sanctuary resident has a story to tell, offering visitors a glimpse into their lives and the importance of conservation efforts. But McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary is more than just a refuge for needy animals. Through engaging educational programs, interactive exhibits, and guided tours, visitors are invited to learn about the challenges facing wildlife and their vital role in protecting our planet's biodiversity. Whether meeting an ambassador animal up close or participating in a hands-on learning experience, every sanctuary visit is enlightening and inspiring for your kids. 

The Henry Morrison Flagler Museum is a timeless tribute to its namesake's Gilded Age opulence and visionary spirit. Hailed as one of the nation's most magnificent historic landmarks, this majestic estate offers visitors a captivating journey through the life and legacy of Henry Flagler, a pioneering figure whose vision transformed Florida's landscape and shaped its future. Originally built as a winter retreat for Henry Flagler in the late 19th century, the museum, also known as Whitehall, boasts stunning architecture and luxurious interiors reflecting the era's grandeur and elegance. From its gleaming marble floors to its intricate woodwork and exquisite furnishings, every detail of the mansion evokes the wealth and sophistication of America's Gilded Age elite, making it one of the best activities in FL. 

Manatee Lagoon stands as a tranquil sanctuary, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty and serenity of nature. This hidden gem offers a unique opportunity to witness the grace and wonder of one of Florida's most beloved marine mammals, the gentle manatee, in its natural habitat. Manatee Lagoon's pristine waters and lush mangrove forests provide a clean backdrop for observing magnificent creatures like sea turtles navigating the tranquil channels and warm shallows. It offers various activities, such as embarking on guided eco-tours or simply strolling along the scenic boardwalks. Watch for sightings of manatees, dolphins, and diverse bird species that call this coastal paradise home.