Discover the wonders of the Palm Beaches on any family-friendly getaway with Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, small-scale theme parks, Loggerhead Marinelife Center, Sandoway Discovery Center, Manatee Lagoon, and Gumbo Limbo Nature Center all waiting to be explored in their unique ways. From rescuing and rehabilitating sea turtles to discovering Florida’s fragile marine and freshwater environments, you can find something exciting for the whole family no matter what type of vacation you choose!
Family-Friendly Attractions in the Palm Beaches
The Palm Beaches offer a wealth of family-friendly attractions that will make any staycation or getaway extraordinary. From Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can observe Florida’s native wildlife in their natural habitats, to small-scale theme parks and outdoor adventures, you’ll find something to keep everyone entertained. Experience the joy of discovery as you explore palm beach county and uncover all it has to offer!
Take a Stroll on the Beach
Visitors to the Loggerhead Marinelife Center (LMC) in Juno Beach are in for a special treat. The center is home to rescued sea turtles, as well as stimulating exhibits about the marine environment. With the mission of conserving ocean ecosystems with an emphasis on rescuing and rehabilitating sea turtles, LMC is only a few steps away from some of the most densely nested loggerhead sea turtle beaches in the world. So, don’t forget to take a stroll on the beach before or after you visit!
Sandoway Discovery Center, Delray Beach
Discover the wonders of Florida’s fragile marine and freshwater environments at the Sandoway Discovery Center, Delray Beach. Since 1998, visitors have enjoyed educational outdoor and indoor animal encounters, such as shark, stingray, and alligator feedings, as well as Southeast Florida’s largest private shell collection. At Manatee Lagoon, Riviera Beach, guests can observe Florida’s beloved manatees for free in an educational facility devoted to inspiring communities to preserve and protect wildlife. Finally, Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, Boca Raton offers a variety of sea turtle-themed activities and events, such as summer camps, turtle walks, hatchling releases, and free outdoor marine feedings.
Educational Programs for Kids
Discover the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum in The Palm Beaches, a beacon of light since 1860. Enjoy audio tours available in English, French, or Spanish via the Jupiter Lighthouse Tours smartphone app and take in the breathtaking views from the top after climbing its 105 steps. Families can also find plenty of educational programs for kids, such as the Lighthouse Explorers’ Club and Lighthouse Story Time & Crafts. Kids must be a minimum of 48″ tall to climb the Lighthouse.
Boomers Boca Raton
Discover the excitement and attractions of Boomers, Boca Raton’s mini amusement park. Enjoy the thrilling rides, such as the disco-themed bumper cars, go-karts, a climbing wall, mini golf, bumper boats, and batting cages. For a unique experience, visit Drive Shack in West Palm Beach. This facility offers golfers of all levels a chance to virtually play courses from around the world while indulging in delicious food and drinks.
Explore Fun Depot and Rapids Water Park
Experience the thrill of a half-mile go-kart track or an exciting black-lit laser tag adventure at Fun Depot in Lake Worth. With a wide variety of arcade games, from modern favorites to classic hits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Satisfy your cravings with the on-site café, or head over to Rapids Water Park in West Palm Beach for some fun in the sun. Founded in 1979, this local staple offers dozens of water attractions, such as slides, a FlowRider wave machine, and a lazy river. Make it easy for your family by purchasing tickets and parking passes online.
Ice & Fine Arts Center, Boca Raton
Boca Ice & Fine Arts Center, Boca Raton offers an amazing combination of activities to enjoy. With two NHL-size Hockey rinks, elite figure skating, NHL coaching, top-notch Hockey Programs, professional ice shows, real snow, and performing arts dance, music, and ballet, it is a fantastic destination for people of all ages. Hosting kids’ birthday parties is also available. Meanwhile, Riverbend Park in Jupiter provides a stunning outdoor experience. This natural oasis boasts nearly 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, 7 miles of equestrian trails, and 5 miles of canoeing and kayaking trails, as well as the Loxahatchee Battlefield and the Loxahatchee River, one of only two nationally designated Wild and Scenic Rivers in Florida. Wild & Scenic Loxahatchee River Tours can be booked through the Jupiter Outdoor Center, offering canoe, kayak, and bicycle rentals.
A Unique Experience
John D. MacArthur Beach State Park, North Palm Beach offers a truly unique and special experience. Located in Palm Beach County, it is the only state park in the area and boasts nearly 2 miles of beautiful beaches and warm waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. Visitors may also explore the park’s estuary waters by kayak or paddleboard and have the added benefit of potential sightings of dolphins, manatees, mullet, and various bird species. For those who prefer to keep their feet on dry land, nature trails through the preserved subtropical coastal habitat offer an exciting journey.
Exploring Marine Life
Phil Foster Park in Riviera Beach is an ideal spot to explore the fascinating marine life of the area. Snorkelers can witness a variety of species, including sea turtles, tropical fish, sailfish, goliath grouper, and dolphins while discovering the 800-foot stretch of limestone boulders and artificial reefs. Winter months often bring manatee sightings, while sea turtle sightings are common year-round.
Outdoor Activities in Palm Beach County
Experience all the fantastic outdoor activities that Palm Beach County’s park facilities have to offer. With more than 80 parks, there is something for everyone! From kayak and canoe rentals to disc golf, basketball, volleyball, racquetball, tennis, water skiing, dog parks, and equestrian trails – the possibilities are endless. Don’t miss out on John Prince Golf Learning Center, Okeeheelee Golf Course, Osprey Point Golf Course, and Shark Wake Park – they are some of the best spots in town.
The Palm Beaches offer guests an unforgettable experience with its wide variety of family-oriented attractions and outdoor activities. Whether you are exploring Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, the Loggerhead Marinelife Center (LMC) in Juno Beach, enjoying animal encounters at the Sandoway Nature Discovery Center, learning about animal documentaries aboard Manatee Lagoon, or joining in the fun-filled turtle-themed events of Gumbo Limbo Nature Center; The Palm Beaches make for the perfect staycation or getaway.
