What to do and see in The Palm Beaches, The Palm Beaches: The Best Things to do

May 21, 2022 Madelene Haan

Discover the best top things to do in The Palm Beaches, United States including Wakodahatchee Wetlands, McCarthy's Wildlife, Henry Morrison Flagler Museum, Atlantic Avenue, Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum, Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens, Dubois Park, Green Cay Nature Center and Wetlands, Busch Wildlife Sanctuary.
Restaurants in The Palm Beaches

1. Wakodahatchee Wetlands

13270 Jog Rd, Delray Beach, FL 33446-3801 +1 561-493-6000 http://discover.pbcgov.org/waterutilities/Pages/Wakodahatchee.aspx
Excellent
83%
Good
15%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1,697 reviews

Wakodahatchee Wetlands

Situated on 50 acres of previous wastewater utility property, Wakodahatchee is a constructed wetlands that is free to the public. The site features a three-quarter mile boardwalk that crosses between open water pond areas and islands. A part of the South section of the Great Florida Birding Trail, Wakodahatchee is home to an abundance of wildlife as more than 178 bird species have been identified along with turtles, alligators, rabbits, fish, frogs and raccooons.

Reviewed By 24annel

Beautiful wetlands, for birding can see lots of birds any time of day, but morning is best, they open at 6:30am. Nice easy boardwalk that is about a mile long. I took a bird photography class a couple years ago and the class came here for several days. I have been back many times since. We saw dozens of different types of animals, a cottonmouth snake, marsh bunny, gators big and small, great blue herons, tricolor herons, snowy egrets, great egrets, swamp hens, black bellied whistling ducks, little blue herons. In late January and February there are loads of nesting birds including blue herons, cormorants, anhingas, little blue, tricolor, common moore hens, purple gallinules, ospreys, and hundreds of endangered wood storks, it is really a fantastic place to get great photographs! But parking is limited so often wait in line for a few minutes to get a parking place. Also take water with you, it can get hot.

2. McCarthy's Wildlife

12943 61st St N, West Palm Beach, FL 33412-2017 +1 561-790-2116 [email protected] http://www.mccarthyswildlife.com
Excellent
96%
Good
3%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 3,118 reviews

McCarthy's Wildlife

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED! : Eight lush acres of endangered wildlife surrounded by a botanical garden situated in the palmetto and pine forest of West Palm Beach! Over 200 animals from White Tigers to African Lions, Black Leopards, Ligers, Lynx and Amur Leopards seen from just four feet away. You can't get any closer than this by law! Hands on experiences with alligators, snakes, tarantulas, and who knows what else. You will have to come by and experience it for yourself! We are a 501 (c) 3 non-profit wildlife rescue facility that take in injured native wildlife, orphaned babies, and unwanted exotic pets! Your experience here helps us with the tremendous expense of caring for our animals. Price is $35.00 for adults and $25.00 for children (ages 5yrs.-15yrs).

Reviewed By ehmegee

This was our second trip to McCarthy but definitely won’t be our last. Here are a few of the things that make McCarthy a must-see (in our humble opinions). STAFF: Our tour guide, Lisa, was superb. She knew the history of the animals, answered all questions asked by our group throughout the tour, and provided detailed information on each of the animals; both in terms of the species and individual creatures’ lives. The tours are well organized and they do an excellent job of keeping everything on track and groups together, without rushing everyone. We had several mobility impaired individuals in our tour group and the presence of many chairs/benches along the way offers respite to those who need it as we stop at each creature. RESPECT: There is a clear culture of mutual respect cultivated at McCarthy’s: the animals are all clearly content and enjoy their lives, and cared for by total professionals. The keepers all clearly care about the animals and speak to them like old friends, but respect their autonomy and power (big cats in particular) and treat them accordingly. There are tons of lovely animals to fall a little bit in love with, and the accompanying talks about them, occasionally delving into what makes them unsuitable as domestic pets, are as timely as they are educational. INTERACTION: We did get to interact with Snowball the boa constrictor and a little baby alligator, which was fun. These interactions were well-structured and for those who opted to participate in the interactive portion, they were given clear instructions for how and when to handle them, always under direct supervision. EXPERIENCE: In my view, the best way to approach this experience is as a privilege: it is an opportunity to come alongside & learn from a great organization. This facility is doing incredible rehabilitation & education work, and there is always something new to learn and see, as well as some long-term residents to check in with. For animal lovers, it is especially exciting to see these wonderful creatures up close and to be certain that they are being well cared for and that their quality of life is excellent (or as good as it can possibly be for some of the rescued/rehabilitated creatures - the one-winged turkey vulture that they nursed back to health after being hit by a truck is living the best life he could, even though he would be unsuitable for the wild with only one wing). My husband and I were here a year and a half ago, again today, and now intend to visit every time we’re in the area. This incredible nonprofit deserves all the support it can get.

3. Henry Morrison Flagler Museum

1 Whitehall Way, Palm Beach, FL 33480-4065 +1 561-655-2833 [email protected] http://flaglermuseum.us
Excellent
79%
Good
17%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,478 reviews

Henry Morrison Flagler Museum

When it was completed in 1902, the New York Herald proclaimed that Whitehall, Henry Flagler's Gilded Age estate in Palm Beach, was "more wonderful than any palace in Europe, grander and more magnificent than any other private dwelling in the world." Today, Whitehall is a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public as the Flagler Museum, featuring changing exhibitions and special programs. The 75-room mansion contains many of the original furnishings as well as an art collection. Adjacent to Whitehall, the Flagler Kenan Pavilion houses Henry Flagler's private Railcar No. 91 as well as a seasonal restaurant, the Cafe des Beaux-Arts, which offers a Gilded Age-themed tea service. The Museum Store offers for sale a wonderful collection of books, gifts and memorabilia with a focus on Florida history. Open Tuesday through Sunday.

Reviewed By 155astridk - Ranchos De Taos, United States

Well worth a visit despite the fact that the entrance is currently being renovated. This home reminds me of American royalty, if we had such a thing. The admission price includes a self-guided tour you can listen to and also includes Flagler's personal train car. Impressive, especially the dishes used, the enormity of the home, and the numerous decorated/named bedrooms.

4. Atlantic Avenue

Delray Beach, FL +1 561-666-0512 http://downtowndelraybeach.com
Excellent
68%
Good
27%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,457 reviews

Atlantic Avenue

Considered the main street of Delray Beach, this busy thoroughfare offers a mélange of antique shops, galleries, clothing boutiques, jewelry and gift selections, in addition to a number of fine restaurants and clubs.

Reviewed By rip51 - Parkland, United States

A great street maybe the best in fla goes all the way to the ocean. Loaded with shops, you name it Atlantic ave has it. Many great restaurants and cafes line both sides of the Ave, it's a foodies delight. Italian, steak houses, Japanese, Chinese, coffee houses, ice cream parlors, this street has it all. Walk all the way to the water and there are many great spots to dine facing the water.

5. Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum

500 Captain Armours Way, Jupiter, FL 33469-3508 +1 561-747-8380 [email protected] http://www.jupiterlighthouse.org
Excellent
63%
Good
28%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,113 reviews

Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum

Located in Lighthouse Park, Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum offers climbing tours of the landmark 1860 lighthouse. The Museum (restored WWII building) exhibits Five Thousand Years on the Loxahatchee and outdoor exhibits include the Oil House & Keepers Workshop Exhibit, Tindall Pioneer Homestead, and Seminole Chickee. Enjoy shopping our nautical Museum gift shop and check online for our adult and children’s programs, sunset & moonrise tours, weddings & proposals, and special events. Waterfront venue is perfect for nature and boat watching and a picnic lunch! Hiking trails and observation tower are located on the north & south side of Beach Road. Beaches, restaurants, shopping, playground & watersports are located nearby. The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is part of the 120-acre federally designated, Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area.

Reviewed By 261wsl - Orlando, United States

Great stop for history and sightseeing! This lighthouse has been there since 1870. When you climb the stairs to the top, you have a great view of the city of Tequesta, Jupiter, and parts of Palm Beach. On a great clear day you can see the beauty of the ocean and the inlet. The small museum provides a great overview of the Native Americans who lived there before the arrival of European sailing ships and the history the place has to offer.

6. Gumbo Limbo Nature Center

1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton, FL 33432-1946 +1 561-544-8605 [email protected] http://www.gumbolimbo.org
Excellent
69%
Good
25%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,885 reviews

Gumbo Limbo Nature Center

This 20 acre coastal preserve is a destination you don’t want to miss! Gumbo Limbo Nature Center is surrounded by a rare remnant of tropical hardwood hammock, located on a barrier island in Boca Raton. Take a stroll through the butterfly garden, where many species of wild butterflies can be seen year-round. Walk the Ashley Trail and relax in the authentic Chiki overlooking the Intracoastal. A variety of native fish and other marine animals reside in marine aquariums. Visit the Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Facility to learn about our sea turtle patients. Indoor displays feature wildlife indigenous to South Florida and a series of stained glass windows depicting the coastal island as it may have appeared in the 1500s. Florida Atlantic University has an onsite marine biology laboratory with a gallery for viewing research projects conducted by university scientists. Purchase imaginative and environmentally friendly gifts from our nature-themed gift shop.

Reviewed By VBTRJD - Guilderland, United States

This is a must see.. turtle rehab, FAU grad student with tons of information, well informed and enthusiastic volunteers, lovely gift shop, and nature trails. I loved the butterfly garden and walking in the woods. This is a,”pay as you will” venue. I am so happy to be able to recommend this gem.

7. Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens

4000 Morikami Park Rd, Delray Beach, FL 33446-2305 +1 561-495-0233 [email protected] http://www.morikami.org
Excellent
72%
Good
20%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
1%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 2,088 reviews

Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens

A Japanese cultural history museum.

Reviewed By 429bonniel - Hollywood, United States

These gardens are well maintained and beautiful in all seasons of the year. The museum has a authentic replica of a Japanese Tea room and if you’re there when the tea ceremony is done you’re in for a wonderful learning experience. The museum has different exhibitions so there is something new when you return. The bonsai garden is spectacular- don’t miss it. After you’ve walked through the gardens and worked up an appetite, have a bite to eat at the Cornell Cafe. The food is delicious. It can be very hot in summer, so bring your sunscreen and hat and maybe and go early in the day. They host festivals on some weekends during the year that are a lot of fun for the kids. Check their website for the exact dates. There is an self guided audio tour that you can purchase at the gift shop that explains the different style of Japanese gardens that are within the park. Listening to it as you walk through definitely enhances your visit.

8. Dubois Park

19075 Dubois Rd, Jupiter, FL 33477-9509 +1 561-966-6600 http://www.pbcgov.com/parks/locations/dubois.htm
Excellent
64%
Good
27%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
1%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 459 reviews

Dubois Park

AMENITIES beach frontage - Intracoastal (1,200 feet), guarded in snorkeling area only beach frontage - lagoon area, guarded (100 feet) saltwater fishing and surfing not permitted in guarded swimming area boat ramp (non motorized boats only) boat slips, day use only (17) canoeing/kayaking access fishing (saltwater) jetty parking picnic areas with grills, single table picnic pavilion, reserved group (1) playground, including playground safety play structure (ages 5-12 years) restroom facilities showers, outdoor snorkeling lagoon LOCATION OF: DuBois Pioneer Home -National Register of Historical Places (Currently NOT open for tours) indian mound historical/archaeological site

Reviewed By 657jpd

Nice little hidden park in Jupiter Kind of like a inlet to the ocean, lots of boaters ... not like the beach, but has area you can swim, picnic areas, has a old home you can explore to see what it was like to live in Florida back in the day before AC and the convenience we take for granted. A great place to relax and watch the boats go out to the ocean, I saw some even fishing!

9. Green Cay Nature Center and Wetlands

12800 Hagen Ranch Rd, Boynton Beach, FL 33437-4130 +1 561-966-7000 http://www.pbcgov.com/parks/nature/green_cay_nature_center/
Excellent
77%
Good
19%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,071 reviews

Green Cay Nature Center and Wetlands

Reviewed By DiverM - Jupiter, United States

We enjoyed this park and it's 1.5 miles of board walks. You may want to bring masks as you are on a board walk and sometimes people come from the opposite direction. They also close these parks earlier then sunset so arrive early. Wakodahatcheee is nearby and also very nice. I would recommend doing both the same day. They close Wakodahatcheee about 6:50 the night we went so arrive early. Both parks have very good views of birds and water.

10. Busch Wildlife Sanctuary

2500 Jupiter Park Dr, Jupiter, FL 33458 +1 561-575-3399 [email protected] http://www.buschwildlife.org
Excellent
74%
Good
22%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 757 reviews

Busch Wildlife Sanctuary

The Busch Wildlife Sanctuary is a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and conservation of Florida's wildlife and natural resources. Our goal is to rescue, rehab, release, & educate! Open all holidays except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day.

Reviewed By ElBee007 - Durango, United States

Very well done! Non profit helping injured animals. Donations accepted, and so affordable! You should definitely check it out.

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