Wildlife Encounters & Manatee Viewing in West Palm Beach
Tips on renting in West Palm Beach
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Welcome to West Palm Beach, a vibrant destination where families can craft unforgettable memories in style. Immerse yourselves in the lush beauty of Mounts Botanical Garden, home to over 7,000 species of tropical and subtropical plants—a true oasis for all ages. Ignite your children’s curiosity at the Cox Science Center and Aquarium, where interactive exhibits and a captivating planetarium promise hours of discovery. Experience the city’s creative spirit at the Canvas Outdoor Museum Show, where breathtaking murals by both international and local artists transform the streets into an open-air gallery.
Embark on an adventure at Lion Country Safari, a drive-through wildlife park where the wonders of the animal kingdom come to life. The Palm Beach Zoo and Conservation Society houses over 500 animals and offers enriching educational programs and hands-on experiences for young explorers. For a truly memorable encounter, visit the Manatee Lagoon to observe these gentle giants in their natural environment. Each January, the South Florida Fair delights visitors with more than 100 rides, games, and agricultural exhibits, drawing families from near and far.
Discover the charm of Northwood Village, an artistic neighborhood brimming with unique boutiques, eclectic galleries, and vibrant street art. Animal enthusiasts will enjoy events at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center, which features a variety of horse and dog shows throughout the year. For a leisurely afternoon, Grandview Public Market beckons with gourmet food vendors and live music, creating the perfect setting for families to relax and reconnect. With its blend of world-class attractions and welcoming ambiance, West Palm Beach promises a family getaway filled with luxury, discovery, and joy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what West Palm Beach has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary in West Palm Beach, book a guided tour by calling 561-790-2116, available on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 11AM, 12PM, and 1PM. The 1.5-hour tour, priced at $50 for adults and $40 for children, allows you to encounter over 200 animals in a unique and thrilling setting. Arrive 15 minutes early and wear comfortable clothing, as you’ll be outdoors for nearly two hours exploring the sanctuary’s extensive and well-shaded grounds.
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For a seamless boat launch experience near the Lake Worth Lagoon in West Palm Beach, head to the Lake Mangonia Boat Ramp. This ramp, located in a scenic area, offers easy access to the Intracoastal Waterway and is part of the city’s waterfront amenities. The nearby Franklin Sailing Camp adds an extra layer of convenience for those seeking sailing instructions or additional boating resources.
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In West Palm Beach, you can rent kayaks or paddleboards from several convenient and scenic locations. Visit the Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront, where companies like Visit Palm Beach and Paddle Boarding Palm Beach offer single and double sit-on-top kayaks and stable lightweight paddleboards, with options for guided tours or self-guided adventures. For a more natural setting, head to John D. MacArthur Beach State Park, where you can rent kayaks and standup paddle boards at the Beach Outfitters Gift Shop, exploring the park’s pristine waters at rates starting from $15 per hour.
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For wheelchair and stroller users near West Palm Beach, the Okeeheelee Nature Center offers a network of 2.5 miles of wheelchair-accessible paved trails and hardpacked limestone walkways, winding through 90 acres of pine flatwoods, oak hammocks, and dense palm hammocks. Another excellent option is the Daggerwing Nature Center, featuring a 0.6-mile boardwalk that is wheelchair and stroller accessible, allowing a relaxing journey through natural swampland with abundant plant and animal life. Both trails are free to access and open from sunrise to sunset.
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For a relaxing hiking trail with scenic views in West Palm Beach, consider the Apoxee Wilderness Trail, a 4.7-mile day hike through the wet prairies and tropical hammocks of Grassy Waters Preserve. This urban wilderness area offers a serene walk with diverse habitats and abundant wildlife. Alternatively, the Palm Beach Lake Trail, an 11-mile paved path, provides beautiful views of Lake Worth Lagoon and is suitable for all ages, with the added convenience of nearby restaurants and shops.
