The Palm Beaches is renowned for its equestrian activities such as show jumping, dressage competitions, and polo matches, all showcased at the world-famous International Polo Club Palm Beach. From family-friendly attractions to luxurious events like the Sunday-Champs Brunch, this eminent destination in Wellington and its surroundings has something for everyone to enjoy.
The Palm Beach International Equestrian Center
The western portion of The Palm Beaches is renowned for its equestrian activities and beyond, offering something for everyone. From family-friendly attractions to dog parks and world-class polo matches, the area of Wellington and its surroundings have it all. In particular, the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center is a must-see event with hunter-jumper riders and horses competing weekly from January to March. During this time, Saturday Night Lights feature show jumping and children’s events such as face painting, a petting zoo, and a Venetian Carousel. In addition, dressage competitions and many special equestrian events are held. Truly, The Palm Beaches is the perfect place to experience the best of horse country!
Of course, the Calypso Bay Waterpark is not to be missed either. It’s a great spot for families, with its thrilling water slides, 897-foot river ride, and lap pool!
World-Class Polo at the International Polo Club Palm Beach
Wellington is renowned for its equestrian scene, boasting one of the top polo destinations in the world. The International Polo Club Palm Beach (IPC) proudly hosts two prestigious tournaments during March and April; the USPA Gold Cup® and the U.S. Open Polo Championship®. An exciting social scene is also a major draw, with international jet-setters, corporate giants, celebrities, and trendsetting fashionistas attending the Sunday Champagne brunch. Spectators can witness the thrilling polo matches from a range of hospitality options, including elegant grandstand viewing, field tailgating, lawn seating, field-side champagne brunch at The Pavilion, and exclusive sponsor boxes – all starting at an affordable $10.
Wellington is home to the renowned Winter Equestrian Festival, managed by Equestrian Sport Productions (ESP), where the world’s best horses and riders in every hunter/jumper discipline gather to compete over twelve weeks. Each Saturday also brings plenty of activities for spectators to enjoy, such as the Kid’s Fair and a variety of food vendors. To top off the night, The Gallery Night Club at PBIEC offers a stylish modern lounge with table seating, VIP bottle service, great DJs, and dancing – open to the public every Saturday night.
But the Mall at Wellington Green is equally as exciting! This two-level Mediterranean-style shopping center boasts over 180 retailers and a number of restaurants, offering an exceptional shopping experience with customer amenities such as a children’s play area, family restrooms, comfortable seating areas, free WiFi, valet parking, complimentary wheelchairs, and stroller rentals. It truly is the premier year-round shopping destination in The Palm Beaches!
With a range of dining options, from fine dining to casual eateries, visitors are spoilt for choice. The World of Beer features an impressive selection of over 500 bottles from around the world, 50 taps, craft spirits, and live music. There’s also Bonefish Mac’s Sports Grill, renowned for its fresh seafood. For Asian fusion fare, Kontiki Wine & Raw Bar delivers authentic flavors from Europe, Asia Minor, and the Americas in an exotic yet cozy atmosphere. Agliolio Fresh Pasta & Wine Bar offers homemade pasta, sauces, dressings, soups, and bread. And La Fogata is legendary for its Mexican cuisine.
Outdoor Recreation
Royal Palm Beach boasts a plethora of amenities and attractions that residents can be proud of. With its six parks, including Veterans Park and Commons Park with its 2.6-acre dog park, Royal Palm Beach is an ideal place for outdoor recreation. For those looking for other activities, the village features a state-of-the-art cultural center, recreational center, and two golf courses. The 747-acre pristine nature preserve offers hiking and an equestrian trail to explore, while Royal Palm Beach Pines in the northwest corner of the village has been named Tree City USA by the National Arbor Day Foundation since 1990. As a result of its commitment to conservation, the entire village is designated as a bird sanctuary.
When it comes to dining, Royal Palm Beach has something for everyone. Bimini Twist is a local favorite that serves fresh food and specialty drinks in a tropical ambiance. It’s consistently rated in the Top Ten Restaurants in South Florida on OpenTable.com. For a more exotic flair, India Grill and Bar offer a delectable lunch buffet with Continental and Indian cuisine. If you’re looking for healthier options, Bolay restaurant serves nutrient-rich superfoods with flame-kissed proteins, as well as infused teas, cold-pressed juices, beer, and wine.
Lion Country Safari – America’s First Cageless Zoo
Loxahatchee Groves is a proud hallmark of the suburban Florida lifestyle, with wide-open spaces and a slower-paced life, located just a short distance from the urban bustle of The Palm Beaches. It is also home to Lion Country Safari, America’s first “cageless” zoo, where visitors can experience an unforgettable day out with over 900 animals, including giraffes, lions, and the world’s oldest living chimpanzee, Little Mama. Guests can also partake in animal displays and encounters, as well as animal feeding experiences, five rides, food, shopping, and more.
For a unique eco-adventure, Mangrove Mamas Kayak & Ecotours offers guided kayaking tours through the serene and beautiful waterways of South Florida. Paddlers of all ages can observe wildlife up close in their natural habitats and marvel at the area’s incredible beauty. After a peaceful exploration along the rivers, canals, and estuaries, visitors can end their day with a delectable treat at Loxahatchee Ice Cream & Coffee. This top-rated TripAdvisor eatery is home to delicious desserts like Super S’mores Sundaes and Ice Cream Cannolis.
The Palm Beaches offer an unparalleled equestrian and polo experience, not to mention the recreational gem that is Calypso Bay Waterpark. Whether you’re interested in family-friendly attractions, experiencing world-class horsemanship and sportsmanship at a polo match, or watching your children explore the numerous activities, Wellington in The Palm Beaches truly has it all. From award-winning seasonal events at the equestrian center to the largest arena of tree house water slides and exhilarating river rides, the Palm Beaches offers the best blend of family leisure and entertainment. Come and see for yourself why this area in Florida remains one of the most sought-after tourist destinations today!
