It's no wonder that tourists flock to West Palm Beach, as it is known for its resorts, beaches, nightlife, and scuba diving & snorkeling.
If you are looking to truly embrace the subtropical splendor of Florida, sit back and smell the roses at one of West Palm Beach's major sights, Mounts Botanical Garden. Built in 1925 in honor of Marvin U. "Red" Mounts, who served Palm Beach County Extension and Palm Beach County farmers for over 40 years, Mounts works as one of the oldest and largest public botanical gardens in the Palm Beaches. While gazing within the seemingly never-ending garden, Mounts also provides a wide array of programs for individuals to learn about the enviornment. Mounts holds guided tours for both individuals and groups, educating people on the biological diversity within this garden. Be sure to donate when leaving this unmistakably gorgeous garden to help it grow!
In the heart of downtown West Palm Beach lays an ever popular district that will surely satisfy all your shopping and dining needs. Though the list of stores downtown is nearly endless, some include Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Banana Republic Factory Store, Kenneth Cole, and DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse. Besides its plethora of shops, the downtown area also offers daytime activities like laser tag, mini golf, movies, and go-karting. However, when the sun sets, the party is far from over when you're downtown! Bars, restaurants, and clubs light up the night to sustain the thriving nightlife the city holds. No matter your tastes, you'll find something to do downtown.
The subtropical wilderness does not compare to its wildlife! McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary houses hundreds of native Floridian animals that are either sick or wounded. Foxes, bobcats, cranes, pelicans, hawks, owls--the refuge works to nurse these animals back to health, so they may return to the wild. With over 170 permanent resident animals at the sanctuary, the wildlife exhibits McCarthy's has is nearly endless. Though closed Sunday and Monday, McCarthy's tour hours last from 11:00am to 1:00pm. The tour cost is $35 per adult and $25 per child. If you are looking to get a thrilling adventure out of Florida's wild side, McCarthy's is the place to be.
Besides its lions, tigers, and bears, Dorothy can still have fun under the sun in West Palm Beach as well. Okeeheelee Park allows individuals to swim and sit under the hot Floridian sun. Besides its blue waters, Okeeheelee Park also provides three 9 holes golf courses, a dog park, baseball, softball and soccer fields. Okeeheelee Park also houses a wildlife preserve for many species of migrating birds. There are also a plethora of lake activities you can explore, including water skiing, paddle boats, kayaks and RC boating. Okeeheelee Park is proud to hold both national water skiing championships and BMX bike competitions in its county park, making it a gem for sports fans all around the world.
Scuba Diving & Snorkeling:
Many people visit West Palm Beach specifically for its incredible scuba diving. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.
Beaches:
Many vacationers come to West Palm Beach to soak up the sun on the beach. From bustling beaches with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing beaches surrounded by parkland, there are are number of options in the area.
A nice way to explore destinations in West Palm Beach is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Paddle Boarding Eco Adventure Tour Jupiter Florida - Singer Island for $77 details
- Clear Kayak Eco Tour in Jupiter, Florida for $75 details
- Parasailing Adventure in West Palm Beach for $109 details