Why wait for winter to head South? Florida has perfect weather all year round, especially in West Palm Beach.
For a real vacation, skip the lines in Orlando and crowds in Miami.
Besides epic beaches, West Palm Beach has its own unique culture. You can explore nearby islands, national parks, and museums. Go where the locals go and you won’t be disappointed.
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Ready to plan an amazing summer vacation to the Sunshine State? Here are the West Palm Beach attractions you need to check out.
1. Shop on Worth Avenue
One doesn’t simply go to West Palm Beach without walking down Worth Avenue. It’s the Rodeo Drive of the East Coast.
You’ll find every luxurious fashion store you could dream of here. Gucci, Jimmy Choo, Chanel, and Dior all live here. Neiman Marcus and Saks wait for you in the eastern end of the street.
Even if you can’t afford a pair of shoelaces on this street, Worth Ave is still fun to see. Marvel at the Mediterranean architecture designed by Addison Mizner. For the first time, window shopping is fun.
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2. Check out the Farmer’s Markets
In Rome, do as the Romans do. In West Palm Beach, the locals go to farmer’s markets. Often.
The first notable market is West Palm Beach Green Market. Located at the waterfront near Clematis Street, Green Market happens every Saturday.
Take a stroll down the promenade as you shop for local produce. If you’ve only had imported oranges before, you must buy some locally sourced ones here. There are also lots of pastries and pantry goods to sample.
Another market worth checking out is the Grandview Public Market. Housed inside a renovated warehouse, you’ll find a diverse group of food stalls. From espresso beans to Mexican food, make sure you come hungry.
3. Snorkel at Peanut Island
If you’re bringing kids on your vacation to West Palm Beach, check out Peanut Island. This man-made island is accessible by water taxi or boat. Simply dock your ride and start exploring.
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Some of the most popular activities on Peanut Island are snorkeling, swimming, and camping. There are designated areas for fishing and reserving campsites.
Make sure you pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the pavilions. It’s the perfect nature spot to spend some relaxing quality time with family.
4. Browse Antique Row
When you think of antiques, you might imagine dusty old dressers and smelly frocks. Those are not the kind of antiques you’ll find in West Palm Beach. At least, not the only antiques you’ll find here.
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Antique Row is nestled along the South Dixie Highway. It’s not until you pull over and start exploring do you notice all the gems here.
You can find antiques from nearly every era in every style. From French textiles to jewels from Louis XIV’s time. You might find your new favorite necklace or a Belgian bookshelf for your home.
5. Sunbathe at the National Park
John A. MacArthur State Park is a postcard in real life. It has two miles of pristine, quiet beaches and bright blue waters.
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Visitors often take the day to soak in every aspect of this park. Go swimming, sunbathing, and trekking.
Check out the oyster beds or go on a guided tour of the butterflies in the park. Rent a kayak or snorkeling gear to explore the coastline.
The park has a bustling calendar of community events. There are summer camps for kids and live bluegrass music. You can even sign up for sea turtle conservation training.
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6. Explore the Norton Museum of Art
One of Florida’s biggest museums sits in West Palm Beach. The Norton Museum of Art has some fantastic collections spanning countries and eras.
This summer check out the “Small Worlds: Five Centuries of Prints and Drawings” exhibit. Or, the fascinating photos of 19th-century celebrities at the “See and Be Seen” exhibit.
Friday nights at the museum are extra fun because it hosts the Art After Dark series. Watch a live performance, attend a lecture, join a workshop, or see a movie. The activity changes each week, but there are always cocktails.
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7. The Palm Beach Zoo
Zoos and sanctuaries make it possible for endangered species to survive. The Palm Beach Zoo is home to dozens of them and participates in the Species Survival Plan.
The Zoo is divided into four geographical locations. Some of the animals you can observe are:
– Tigers of Asia
– Koalas of the Islands
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– Alligators in the Florida Wetlands
– Spider monkeys in the Tropics
Sign up for an educational tour to learn about each species and their habitats. There’s also splash pad pavilion in the zoo for little ones to cool off in. Phew!
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8. Experience the Everglades
Tourists come to Florida expecting to see some ‘gators. While seeing one in the backyard might seem cool, it’s much safer to view them on a tour.
Take a day trip from West Palm Beach and drive two hours South. At the Everglades National Park, you can explore from the safety of a boat with an experienced guide.
There are more than just alligators to see here. Learn about the flora and other wildlife in the Everglades. You can even go camping in the backcountry.
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9. Dance Down Clematis Street
Looking for a city with epic nightlife for your summer vacation? West Palm Beach has you covered with Clematis Street.
Here you’ll find plenty of bars, restaurants, clubs, and entertainment. You don’t even have to worry about transportation; this limo service will take you from point A to B.
Enjoy a stroll along the water before going to the next hotspot. Summer nights on Clematis are the best; it’s full of good energy and good people.
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Ready to Check Out These West Palm Beach Attractions?
While Miami and Orlando are cool, the best vacation destination in Florida is West Palm Beach. You’ll find things to do for every style here.
Lounge on the beach, shop, and explore nature. Check out the West Palm Beach attractions listed above.
When you’re done planning, browse our online magazine for more healthy lifestyle tips!
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