West Palm Beach Outdoor Attractions Showcase Nature and Style
West Palm Beach is a tropical destination located on the Intracoastal Waterway on Florida’s eastern coast. Its location near Palm Beach and other bodies of water, such as the Atlantic Ocean, make this area an ideal destination for recreational activities. To learn why, read about these West Palm Beach outdoor attractions.
Fun West Palm Beach Outdoor Attractions for Different Adventures
Downtown West Palm Beach
Visitors can spend all day or all week in downtown West Palm Beach. As the main district for entertainment, this area often hosts outdoor events such as festivals, holiday events, and community parties. When there is not an event, visitors browse boutiques, try local food and explore art galleries.
Downtown West Palm Beach also has historical sites, including the Comeau and Harvey homes, which date to the 1920s. For more outdoor fun, the area has Segway and food tours and the Green Market, which features fresh food and local goods.
Mounts Botanical Garden
Mounts Botanical Garden is the oldest botanical garden in Palm Beach County and a tropical haven for more than 6,000 species of plants. The garden measures 16 acres and includes 25 gardens. Examples range from native Florida plants to roses, succulents and herbs.
Those traveling with children can’t miss the butterfly garden and children’s maze, which have interactive activities. Other favorites include garden of tranquility, rose and fragrance garden, tropical cottage, and tropical forest. Group and self-guided tours are available.
McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary
This wildlife sanctuary is one of the best West Palm Beach outdoor attractions for families. All ages enjoy guided tours of the facilities, but reservations are required. McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates animals from harmful situations.
On the tour, expect to see tigers, birds of prey, large snakes, lions, lizards and hundreds more animals. Some live at McCarthy’s, while others are released into the wild once healthy enough to survive on their own.
Panther Ridge Conservation Center
Located in nearby Loxahatchee, west of West Palm Beach, animal lovers find Panther Ridge Conservation Center. The center provides a home to more than 20 large cats representing nine species. Tours are available such as an all ages guided option, head keeper, cheetah walk, and twilight. Each vary in time from 30 minutes to a few hours.
While exploring, guests see caracals, cheetahs, jaguars, leopards and other large cats. In addition, the center offers experiences where visitors learn about each animal.
Lion Country Safari
Lion Country Safari is located near Panther Ridge. It ranks among the top West Palm Beach outdoor attractions for adventure. The safari includes 600 acres of land where exotic animals roam. Plus, visitors see more than 900 animals during their 4-mile drive-through experience.
Lion Country Safari features seven main habitats. While driving, guests may see alpaca, ostrich, wildebeest, lion, chimpanzee, giraffes and rhinos. After the safari, head to the adventure park where guests find rides, a small water park, mini golf, a petting zoo, and other things to do.
Palm Beach Zoo
Palm Beach Zoo also provides a home to animals. The zoo has more than 190 species and provides a safe way for all ages to see them. Guests can take the self-guided tour to explore Florida wetlands, islands, Asia and Tropical Americas.
At the zoo, guests watch alligators, flamingos, bears, birds, koalas, monkeys, large cats, otters, sloths, tigers and dozens more. In addition to animals, the zoo has play fountains, climbing areas and a carousel.
Manatee Lagoon
Great for travelers on a budget, Manatee Lagoon is a free attraction where guests celebrate manatees. The center includes indoor and outdoor spaces with hands-on exhibits and an observation deck. During peak season, guests may see them playing or basking in the sun.
During their visit, guests learn about Lake Worth Lagoon, ecosystems and environmental protection efforts. In addition, Manatee Lagoon hosts lagoon-side chats, waterfront walks and manatee story times. Those visiting in spring should check dates for Manateefest, an annual event with family-friendly activities, local food, and arts and crafts.
Rapids Water Park
Located north of West Palm Beach sits Rapids Water Park. Not only is it a great place to cool off, but it’s also a top attraction for travelers who want a break from the beach. The park has rides catered to different age groups, so everyone can stay safe and play.
Older children and adults enjoy thrill rides with giant rafts and slides. Family rides include chutes, slides, rapids and loops. Those with younger children have access to water play structures, gentle slides, a wave pool and floating features.
Start exploring! Book a West Palm Beach vacation home today.