Exploring the Top 15 Attractions in West Palm Beach, Florida
Exploring the Top 15 Attractions in West Palm Beach, Florida
West Palm Beach, Florida, no longer feels like a shy sibling overshadowed by Palm Beach or Miami. This rapidly growing city on the east coast of Florida is now making a name for itself with plenty of attractions and activities right in its own backyard.
Whether you enjoy antiquing, golfing, kayaking, avian watching, or simply lounging on the beach and gazing at the ocean (no shame!), you'll find what you're looking for here. And let's not forget the evolving food scene, which positions West Palm Beach as a serious contender among some of the top beach towns in the state. Visit any time of year, but the Spring and Autumn seasons offer smaller crowds and milder temperatures. Discover some of our favorite things to do in West Palm Beach and must-visit locations to help plan your trip.
Shopping Destinations
Shopping Heaven at CityPlace
CityPlace is a pedestrian-friendly outdoor mall featuring popular brands like Lululemon, H&M, and a four-story Restoration Hardware complete with its in-house dining. Kids adore the pretty, shaded green space with a fountain while foodies love the variety of restaurants and food trucks.
CityPlace's website: cityplace.comAddress: 700 South Rosemary Avenue Suite 200, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Farmers' Market Gems
From CityPlace, hop on a trolley to Clematis Street to explore more shopping, dining, and drinking options. Known as the historic heart of town, Clematis Street served as the primary shopping and restaurant district prior to the opening of CityPlace. During the months of October to April, West Palm Beach GreenMarket (award-winning and lively on Saturdays) is a vibrant spot for shopping and people-watching.
GreenMarket's website: facebook.com/WPBGreenMarketAddress: 101 North Clematis Street, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Vintage Shopping Spree
Vintage enthusiasts will find delight on Antique Row on West Dixie Highway. This street is lined with approximately 40 independent shops filled with vintage furniture, home decor, and other one-of-a-kind items. Also on Dixie Highway is City Girl Consignment, a chic consignment store for women's clothing with phenomenal deals.
City Girl Consignment's website: citygirlconsignment.comAddress: 2900 South Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, FL 33405
Retail Therapy at Grandvi Public Market
Grandvi Public Market is primarily a food hall, but it also hosts a few retailers, such as Gypsy Life Surf Shop, which offers beach-themed clothing, accessories, and sunscreen for those living the beach lifestyle and of course, those who just wish they were.
Grandvi Public Market's website: cityfoodhall.com/grandviAddress: 1401 Clare Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Gypsy Life Surf Shop's website: gypsylifesurfshop.com
Outdoor Activities
Golf Adventure at The Park
The Park, West Palm Beach's stunning municipal golf course, welcomes golfers of all skill levels. Opened in 2023, this expansive 190-acre facility features an 18-hole course, a putting course, and nine challenging par 3 holes known as The Lit Nine.
The Park's website: theparkwestpalm.comAddress: 7301 Georgia Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL 33405
Croquet Challenge
West Palm Beach houses the National Croquet Center, the largest dedicated croquet facility worldwide. Non-members can attend free Saturday lessons or rent courts for a full day of play featuring all necessary equipment for just $30.
National Croquet Center's website: croquetnational.comAddress: 700 Florida Mango Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33406
Nature Connection
Birdwatchers can explore the boardwalks and trails of Grassy Waters Preserve, filled with wetlands teeming with wildlife. To see tropical foliage, fruit trees, and lush gardens, check out Mounts Botanical Garden, a local favorite often overlooked by visitors.
Grassy Waters Preserve's website: wpb.org/government/public-utilities/grassy-waters-preserveAddress: 8264 Northlake Boulevard, West Palm Beach, FL 33412
Mounts Botanical Garden's website: mounts.orgAddress: 531 North Military Trail, West Palm Beach, FL 33415
Water Adventures at Peanut Island
Spend the day at Peanut Island, where you can snorkel in clear turquoise waters, go kayaking, or simply enjoy the sun, sand, and seashells. Peanut Island's waters are best accessed from Riviera Beach Marina Village, with water taxis departing every 25 minutes.
Peanut Island Water Taxi's website: peanutislandshuttleboat.comAddress: 200 East 13th Street, Riviera Beach, FL 33404
Animal Encounters at Palm Beach Zoo
Spend an afternoon at the Palm Beach Zoo and Conservation Society, where you can have exclusive, no-contact experiences with animals like panthers, koalas, sloths, and Aldabra tortoises. At the Cox Science Center and Aquarium, visitors can explore coral reef species, view live alligator petting sessions, and discover exhibits like Journey Through the Human Brain.
Palm Beach Zoo's website: palmbeachzoo.orgAddress: 1301 Summit Boulevard, West Palm Beach, FL 33405
coxsciencecenter.org, 4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach, FL 33405
Thrills at Shark Wave Park
Adventure-seekers will enjoy the water activities at Shark Wave Park. Navigate Obstacle Island, an inflatable playground filled with towers, monkey bars, slides, and more. Don't worry about falling into the water, it's half the fun! At the Cable Park, both beginners and experienced water lovers can learn to wakeboard, kneeboard, wake skate, and water ski. Want to upgrade your skills or learn some new tricks? Lessons are available.
sharkwakepark.com/561, 1440 Eshleman Trail, West Palm Beach, FL 33413
Unveiling Art
Witness the Art Scene
After an impressive renovation in 2019, The Norton Museum of Art has become one of the city's gems. It houses over 8,000 art pieces and features a serene courtyard in the center. The museum's airy restaurant boasts views of the sculpture garden and serves delightful lunches.
norton.org, 1450 South Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, FL 3340
Walk Through Sculpture Gardens
Just a short 10-minute drive away, the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens offers a tropical retreat with palm trees, orchids, and large-scale sculptures. Formerly the home of sculptor Ann Weaver Norton, the historic two-acre property also features 250 tropical plant species and over 100 works by the artist.
ansg.org, 253 Barcelona Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Witness a Performance
The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts regularly welcomes nationally touring musicians, Broadway shows, comedians, and various performance series. This center also offers community arts education programs. Check the schedule for an array of captivating performances.
kravis.org, 701 Okeechobee Boulevard, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Dining Delights
Indulge at Harry's West Palm Beach
Harry's, a New York City icon, opened its doors fifty years ago in the Financial District. The West Palm Beach menu reflects its roots while incorporating local flavors. Relax at the bar with a craft cocktail, or indulge in an elegant meal featuring pasta, steaks, seafood, and specialties like beef Wellington, whole branzino, and dry-aged porterhouse steak for two.
harrysbarrestaurant.com/harrys-west-palm-beach, 384 South Rosemary Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Visit the Hive Bakery and Cafe
The Hive Bakery and Cafe offers imperfect pastries and coffee to go or enjoy your meal on their outdoor patio. Savor artisanal breads, wood-fired rotisserie cooking, and unique offerings like Southwest Caesar Salad, Lentil Soup, Jam-Filled Cruffins, and Dark Chocolate Honeycomb Candy.
hivebakeryandcafe.com, 1603 South Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is West Palm Beach popular for? West Palm Beach is well-known for shopping, dining, fishing, and attractions like the popular Norton Museum of Art. Known for its palm trees, the city thrives in Florida's sunny, humid climate.
- Is West Palm Beach and Palm Beach the same place? West Palm Beach is situated on the mainland, while Palm Beach is a barrier island located across the Intracoastal Waterway from West Palm Beach. They are connected by bridges.
For art enthusiasts, the renovated Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach showcases over 8,000 art pieces and offers a serene courtyard and airy restaurant with picturesque views. (SouthernLiving, Art Scene)
Visit the National Croquet Center for a day of play, whether you're a member or renting a court for a full day of croquet enjoyment. (SouthernLiving, Outdoor Activities)