Sunshine and Style: Discovering the Best of West Palm Beach, FL

From Gardens to Galleries: Discover the Heart of West Palm Beach, FL

While the waters of the Atlantic are the main draw for many, West Palm Beach offers a wealth of land-based activities that make it a premier destination for families and travelers. From world-class art to lush tropical escapes, this city provides a perfect balance of relaxation and culture. At Island Time Sport Fishing, we want your entire stay in West Palm Beach to be as memorable as your time on our boat.

Explore some of our favorite local gems below to round out your Florida itinerary.

1. Immerse Yourself in Culture at the Norton Museum of Art

The Norton Museum of Art is a cornerstone of the West Palm Beach cultural scene. Founded in 1941, it has grown into one of the most significant art museums in Florida, featuring a permanent collection of over 8,200 works. You can spend hours wandering through galleries dedicated to American, European, Chinese, and Contemporary art.

The museum’s recent expansion, designed by Lord Norman Foster, includes a stunning sculpture garden that is a must-see. The lush greenery and masterworks offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets. After exploring the exhibits, grab a bite at the onsite restaurant, which overlooks the gardens and provides a chic, artistic atmosphere for lunch.

2. Walk Through the Tropics at Mounts Botanical Garden

For a dose of natural beauty in West Palm Beach, a visit to Mounts Botanical Garden is essential. As the oldest and largest botanical garden in the county, this 20-acre tropical oasis features more than 7,000 species of plants. It’s a hidden gem located right behind the airport, offering themed gardens that range from a butterfly garden to a tranquil wetland area.

Walking the paved paths is an easy-going experience for all ages, making it a top family-friendly choice in West Palm Beach. The "Windows on the Floating World" exhibit is particularly popular, allowing you to walk across a wetland area to see koi fish and turtles. It’s a great way to learn about Florida's native flora while enjoying a quiet morning in the sun.

3. Experience Wildlife at Lion Country Safari

If you are looking for a unique adventure just a short drive from downtown West Palm Beach, head over to Lion Country Safari. This award-winning attraction features a four-mile drive-through preserve where you can see rhinos, zebras, and giraffes roaming freely from the comfort of your own vehicle. It’s a fantastic way to see exotic animals without the barriers of a traditional zoo.

After the drive, the "Safari World" walk-through park offers amusement rides, a sprayground for the kids, and animal feeding encounters. It is one of the most popular things to do for families visiting West Palm Beach because it combines education with fun. We highly recommend dedicating a full afternoon to explore everything this safari has to offer.

4. Shop and Dine at The Square (formerly Rosemary Square)

The Square is the heart of the shopping and dining district in West Palm Beach. This Mediterranean-style plaza is a vibrant hub where you can find high-end retail, local boutiques, and some of the best culinary experiences in the city. With its open-air design and lush landscaping, it’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a romantic dinner.

Be sure to visit Harry’s, a local favorite for its upscale American fare and lively atmosphere. Whether you’re grabbing a cocktail at the bar or enjoying a full dinner, the energy of The Square is infectious. During the winter months, you’ll often find live music and seasonal events that showcase the community spirit of West Palm Beach.

5. Explore the Historic Clematis Street Entertainment District

No trip to West Palm Beach is complete without a walk down Clematis Street. This historic district stretches from the waterfront into the heart of the city, lined with colorful boutiques, art galleries, and nightclubs. It’s the soul of the city’s nightlife, but it’s just as charming during the day for a bit of window shopping and people-watching.

On Thursday nights, the waterfront comes alive with "Clematis by Night," a weekly event featuring live bands and local food vendors. You can sit by the interactive fountains at Downtown Waterfront Commons and take in the views of the Lake Worth Lagoon. It’s a friendly, upbeat area that perfectly captures the relaxed yet sophisticated vibe of West Palm Beach.

Whether you’re exploring the sculpture gardens or dining at The Square, we hope you enjoy every moment in our beautiful city. After you've explored the best of what West Palm Beach has to offer on land, we’d love to welcome you aboard our 52' Viking for a professional day on the water.