West Palm Beach, Florida: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Imagine a place where the sun meets the sea and city life thrives. Welcome to West Palm Beach, Florida. It's the biggest city in The Palm Beaches and a top spot for those looking for a memorable trip. But what secrets and sights are waiting for you in this coastal gem? Let's explore the best things to do in West Palm Beach.

Key Takeaways

• West Palm Beach offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, from water sports to world-class beaches.
• The city's vibrant downtown areas, like Clematis Street and Rosemary Square, provide a lively mix of dining, nightlife, and entertainment options.
• West Palm Beach is home to renowned cultural institutions, such as the Norton Museum of Art, showcasing exceptional art collections.
• Unique neighborhoods like Antique Row and Northwood Village offer specialized shopping and dining experiences.
• Families can explore educational and interactive attractions like the Cox Science Center and Aquarium, as well as the Palm Beach Zoo.

Explore Clematis Street and Rosemary Square

Discover the vibrant heart of downtown West Palm Beach along Clematis Street. This historic street is full of colorful boutiques, lively nightclubs, acclaimed restaurants, and live music venues. Enjoy wood-fired pizza at Lynora's, gourmet burgers at Grease, or fresh Mexican at Rocco's Tacos & Tequila Bar. For a fancy meal, try Sourbon Kitchen and The Lab, a speakeasy-style spot.

Dining, Nightlife, and Entertainment

Clematis Street is the go-to spot for dining, nightlife, and entertainment. You'll find everything from casual spots to trendy places. The area is known for its bars, music venues, and social scene, making it a top spot to visit.

Clematis by Night

Every Thursday from 6 to 9 pm, Clematis by Night lights up Clematis Street. This event features live music, food, and drink specials. It's a fun atmosphere in downtown West Palm Beach. Rosemary Square is nearby, offering more shopping, dining, and entertainment.

"Clematis by Night is the heartbeat of downtown West Palm Beach, where locals and visitors alike come together to enjoy live music, delicious food, and a vibrant social scene."

Experience CityPlace

CityPlace is a short walk or trolley ride from Clematis Street in West Palm Beach. It's a top spot for shopping, dining, and fun. You'll find old-world architecture, beautiful fountains, and sidewalk cafes. This gives it a European-inspired feel.

There are many retail stores like H&M, Lululemon, and Natuzzi Italia. You can also enjoy dining options such as Planta for plant-based food and Angie's Epicurean for gluten-free and dairy-free treats.

Shopping, Dining, and Architecture

CityPlace in West Palm Beach has a wide range of shops and services. You can find everything from arts & culture to beauty & health. There are stores for men, women, and kids, as well as financial services and gifts.

There are also grocery stores, home furnishings, hotels, and jewelry shops. Nightlife and entertainment venues add to the fun. You can grab pastries, coffee, or desserts at various shops.

The fashion scene is strong with stores like H&M, Lucky Brand, and Anthropologie. You'll also find Tommy Bahama and Victoria's Secret. Dining options include Italian, Mexican, health food, steakhouse, vegan, American, Mediterranean, and tapas.

"CityPlace is a truly captivating destination, blending European-inspired architecture, world-class shopping, and a vibrant dining scene - all within the heart of West Palm Beach."

CityPlace is known for its beautiful architecture and design. The buildings and spaces have a European-inspired style. You'll see fountains, cobblestone walkways, and tree-lined streets.

This makes CityPlace a unique and enchanting place. It's a must-see for both locals and visitors.

Visit the Norton Museum of Art

In the heart of West Palm Beach lies the Norton Museum of Art. Founded in 1941 by Ralph Hubbard Norton and his wife Elizabeth Calhoun Norton, it has become a key art spot in Florida. It's known for its vast collection of art.

The museum showcases 19th- and 20th-century paintings and sculptures from Europe and America. It also has a great selection of Chinese jade and bronze artifacts. You can see works by famous artists like Cézanne, Miró, Picasso, Monet, and Gauguin.

The "Nuestra Cultura" event celebrates Hispanic Heritage. It highlights the art and culture of Latin America. The "Art After Dark" event is another highlight, happening every Friday night. Here, you can enjoy live shows, movies, and art workshops in a fun atmosphere.

Getting into the museum costs $18, and parking is $5. The museum has three floors designed by Foster. They feature art from the Renaissance to the late 20th century, including works by Dürer, Rembrandt, and Picasso.

If you love art or just want to explore culture, the Norton Museum of Art is a top spot in West Palm Beach. Dive into the world of European and American art, and discover the beauty of Chinese artifacts inside.

West Palm Beach, Florida: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Antique Row and Northwood Village

Explore the lively Antique Row and the unique Northwood Village in West Palm Beach. This area is famous for its Antique Row, with over 50 shops offering antiques and special items. You'll find everything from 17th- to 20th-century antiques to modern furniture here.

Just a short drive from downtown, Northwood Village is a treasure trove of dining, art, and shopping. It's known for its wine stroll every month. This lets you soak in the area's bohemian atmosphere.

In Northwood Village, you'll find art galleries, restaurants, and shops full of character. Make sure to see the vibrant murals at Harold's Coffee House and the unique items at Herbs & Earth. These spots capture the area's bohemian spirit perfectly.

Discover the Cox Science Center and Aquarium

Step into the world of hands-on science and immersive experiences at the Cox Science Center and Aquarium in West Palm Beach, Florida. It has over 100 interactive exhibits, a huge 10,000-gallon aquarium, and a modern digital planetarium. This place is perfect for the whole family.

Educational Exhibits and Activities

Explore the wonders of science and nature at the Cox Science Center. See how the human body works, learn about physics, and be amazed by nature's complexity. There's also a digital planetarium that takes you on amazing space journeys.

• Hands-on science exhibits
• 10,000-gallon aquarium with marine life
• Digital planetarium with laser light shows
• Science laboratory and theater
• Quarter-mile-long science trail
• 18-hole miniature golf Conservation Course

The Cox Science Center also has a fun 18-hole miniature golf course. It was designed by Gary Nicklaus and Jim Fazio. This course is one of the "Top Thirteen Miniature Golf Courses in the Nation" by Travel Magazine.

"The Cox Science Center and Aquarium is a truly remarkable place, where learning and exploration come alive. The hands-on exhibits and immersive experiences make science and nature captivating for visitors of all ages."

Looking for a place to spark your curiosity or have a fun day with the family? The Cox Science Center and Aquarium in West Palm Beach is the perfect spot. It offers an unforgettable adventure in learning.

Explore the Palm Beach Zoo

In the heart of West Palm Beach, the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society awaits. It's a top spot for connecting with over 550 animals across 23 tropical acres. It's not just a zoo; it's a place where you can learn about animal conservation and wildlife.

Walking through the zoo, you'll see many species, like the Florida panther, playful otters, and beautiful birds of prey. There are interactive exhibits and shows that teach you about animal conservation. You'll learn how the zoo helps protect endangered animals worldwide.

The Palm Beach Zoo has a special spot called the Conservation Station. Here, you can check out interactive exhibits and take a ride on the Safari Train. Don't miss the Wildlife Carousel, where you can ride on your favorite animal sculptures.

At the Palm Beach Zoo, you can see the Florida panther up close or get hands-on with wildlife presentations. It's a fun and educational place for the whole family. With its focus on animal conservation and beautiful setting, it's a top spot in West Palm Beach.

Shop at Tanger Outlets Palm Beach

Discover a shopping oasis at Tanger Outlets Palm Beach. Over 100 brand-name stores are waiting for you. You'll find your favorite brands like Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, Ann Taylor Factory Store, and Banana Republic Factory Store.

Other brands include Brooks Brothers Factory Store, J.Crew | crewcuts Factory, Kenneth Cole, Nike Factory Store, Tommy Hilfiger, and Under Armour.

Brand Outlets and Amenities

Tanger Outlets Palm Beach offers a great shopping experience. You'll find free Wi-Fi, ATMs, electric vehicle charging stations, and a visitors center. These amenities make your visit comfortable and easy.

The friendly staff is always ready to help. They ensure your shopping trip is a joy.

Experience the ultimate shopping destination at Tanger Outlets Palm Beach. You'll find a wide selection of brand-name stores and great amenities. Your visit will be truly exceptional.

Relax at Mounts Botanical Garden

Near Palm Beach International Airport, Mounts Botanical Garden is a lush oasis. It covers 14 acres and has over 6,000 tropical and subtropical plants. You'll find everything from vibrant trees to fragrant herbs and a peaceful pond.

Mounts Botanical Garden has fun, educational events and workshops all year. You can learn about sustainable gardening, tropical plants, or just enjoy a walk. There's something for everyone.

• Explore the stunning Rose Garden, with its array of colorful blooms.
• Wander through the serene Butterfly Garden, where you can witness the graceful dance of these delicate creatures.
• Discover the hidden gems of the Vegetable Garden, showcasing the diverse array of edible plants that thrive in the local climate.

Mounts Botanical Garden is a peaceful place to escape the city. It's perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature. Make sure to visit if you're in West Palm Beach and want to unwind.

"Mounts Botanical Garden is a true oasis of tranquility, offering visitors a chance to disconnect from the everyday and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature."

Conclusion

West Palm Beach, Florida, is full of attractions and activities for visitors. You can enjoy the lively Clematis Street and Rosemary Square. Or visit the Norton Museum of Art and the Cox Science Center and Aquarium. There's also Antique Row, Northwood Village, the Palm Beach Zoo, Tanger Outlets, and Mounts Botanical Garden.

This city has something for everyone. It's known for its beautiful waterfront, entertainment districts, and scenic neighborhoods. West Palm Beach is perfect for fun and adventure all year round.

Looking for culture, outdoor fun, or great food? This city on Florida's east coast has it all. You can explore Worth Avenue and The Breakers Palm Beach. Or enjoy Clematis by Night and the Cox Science Center. Experience the arts, try local food, and enjoy the tropical weather.

West Palm Beach is a true treasure of Florida. It offers stunning nature and a vibrant cultural scene. It's ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers. This place will make a big impact on you.