Meet sick and injured sea turtles at Loggerhead Marinelife Center.

Animal Adventures Near West Palm Beach, Florida

1. Loggerhead Marinelife Center — Juno Beach

Visit with the sea-turtle "patients" at this mostly outdoor rehabilitation hospital that is sure to tug at the heart strings. Loggerhead Marinelife Center cares for sick and injured sea turtles, as well as other animals like nurse sharks, jellyfish, sea horses, and native fish. Admission is free, though a donation of $10 or more is requested.

2. Busch Wildlife Sanctuary — Jupiter

This outdoor nature center in Jupiter Farms also has its own wildlife hospital. Walk the paved trail to see creatures like alligators, bald eagles, and otters. The sanctuary offers great daily programs where visitors get to meet the animals. (Families with toddlers may want to check out the Tiny Tales storytime, held every Wednesday morning.) Admission is by donation.

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How many manatees can you see at Manatee Lagoon in West Palm Beach, Florida?

3. Manatee Lagoon — West Palm Beach

Manatees are adorable, and families have a chance to view them up close at Manatee Lagoon in Riviera Beach. During the winter months (typically November through March), the sea cows like to gather in the warm waters outside the Florida Power & Light plant. Walk around the lagoon’s observation deck to see if you can spot one! The indoor educational center also features exhibits that are all things manatee.

4. Palm Beach Zoo — West Palm Beach

This zoo boasts a variety of wildlife like lemurs, monkeys, macaws and Mardi, the zoo's resident white alligator. Plan on taking about two to three hours to see them all—or more if your kids plan on hitting the zoo's splash pad, one of our favorites in the entire city.

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Get up close to wildlife at Lion Country Safari. 

5. Lion Country Safari — Loxahatchee

It’s no surprise that Lion Country Safari is my kids' absolute favorite place in Palm Beach County. After all, this drive-through safari is home to more than 900 animals, including giraffes, lions, and zebras. And it’s got a walk-through amusement park! And a water park with a giant splash pad and water slides! Need I say more?

More Outdoor Activities Near West Palm Beach, Florida

6. Lake Trail

Quite possibly the most scenic bike trail in South Florida, the Lake Trail provides more than five miles of flat, traffic-free space for cyclists, joggers, dog walkers, and stroller striders. The trail hugs the shore of Lake Worth, offering views of passing sailboats and yachts that look straight out of a postcard.

7. Local Nature Centers

One of the best-kept secrets in West Palm Beach, Florida is its number of small nature centers that are entirely free to visit (though donations are always welcome). Many showcase live animals and provide educational material on South Florida's unique wildlife and eco-system. If you've got a kid who loves the outdoors, these centers are worth checking out!

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Don't miss the nature center at John D. MacArthur Beach State Park.

8. John D. MacArthur Beach State Park — North Palm Beach

Outdoor enthusiasts love this state park, which offers kayak and paddleboard rentals, hiking and biking trails, a playground and picnic pavilions, and a free nature center with live animal exhibits. Oh, and there’s always the two miles of pristine beach leading out to the Atlantic. (FYI: It costs $5 to park, and parents should be prepared for a long walk from the parking lot to the water.)

9. PonTiki Boat Tours — Jupiter

Cruise the beautiful Intracoastal Waterway aboard a PonTiki boat. The family tour leaves from Jupiter on Saturday mornings and select weekdays and heads to a sandbar where cruisers can get off the boat to swim, snorkel, toss a Frisbee, and enjoy the stunning scenery. FYI: Alcohol is served aboard the ship, and things can get a bit lively when the boat captain plays a catchy pop song, but it's all in good fun!

10. Mounts Botanical Garden — West Palm Beach

Get inspired by nature at this botanical garden, the oldest and largest public garden in Palm Beach County. There are more than 6,000 species of plants to view at this 14-acre outdoor space, including fresh veggies, fruit trees, roses, and cacti. My kids love getting lost in the children's maze and walking through the butterfly garden, where we always see zebra long wings, Florida's official state butterfly.

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Calling all mini ninja warriors to play at Shark Wave Park!

11. Shark Wake Park — West Palm Beach

Channel your inner American Ninja Warrior at this water sports complex located in Okeeheelee Park. Kids ages 7 and up (and their brave parents!) can test their skills on Obstacle Island, a massive floating playground with climbing towers and slides that looks straight out of the TV show Wipeout. Teens also love the cable park where they can go kneeboarding, wakeboarding, water skiing, and wake skating. Gear is available for rent, and families can pay for on-site lessons.

12. Clematis By Night — West Palm Beach

Enjoy a free, family-friendly concert along the West Palm Beach, Florida waterfront every Thursday night. The live entertainment kicks off at 6pm on the Great Lawn in Centennial Square. Food and drink vendors are also on the scene (picture children running around barefoot while their parents sip wine and enjoy the music). Come back to the same location for Screen on the Green, an alfresco family movie experience that takes place every second Friday of the month.

13. Baseball at Roger Dean Stadium — Jupiter

Young sports fans love taking in a baseball game at this clean and comfortable stadium in the Abacoa neighborhood of Jupiter. Both the Miami Marlins and the St. Louis Cardinals have spring training here, plus the stadium is home to four minor-league teams. Bonus: The baseball games are very family-friendly, with bouncy houses, giveaways, and a block-party atmosphere.

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The West Palm Beach, Florida area offers amazing snorkeling opportunities.

14. Snorkeling

Greater Palm Beach is famous for its amazing snorkel and scuba-dive sites. My family’s favorite spot is the underwater trail at Phil Foster Park, where snorkelers can follow an 800-foot-long man-made reef that attracts a diverse collection of sea life, from starfish to manatees. My daughters were delighted to swim next to a stingray on a recent outing! Other popular snorkeling sites include Red Reef Park in Boca Raton and DuBois Park in Jupiter. Check local tide charts before heading out, and remember—parking lots fill up quickly, so the earlier you can leave, the better!

15. Peanut Island

Take a shuttle boat out to this 79-acre man-made island that's another favorite spot for snorkeling, camping, and all-around beach frolicking. Boats depart every 20 minutes from Riviera Beach. Peanut Island has a cool historic element to it, too: an underground bunker was once built there for John F. Kennedy in case of a nuclear attack (the county is currently restoring the bunker and plans to reopen it to the public soon).

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Rapids Water Park in West Palm Beach, Florida is the perfect place to cool off.

16. Rapids Water Park — West Palm Beach

Take your little thrill seekers to Rapids Water Park in Riviera Beach to check out over 40 water slides and attractions. Toddlers and young children will enjoy the wave pool and lengthy lazy river. Big kids can test their nerves on rides like Black Thunder, a giant two-person slide that twists and turns in complete darkness, or Mega Mayhem, an 873-foot water coaster that is a refreshing blast.

17. Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens — Boca Raton

Stroll the gorgeous grounds and take in thought-provoking art exhibits at this Japanese garden. The landscaping is downright magical, with ponds, waterfalls, stepping stones, and wildlife like iguanas and turtles. My daughters really love the bonsai garden. Morikami hosts regular craft activities and workshops where kids can learn about Japanese culture. Bonus: the on-site restaurant, Cornell Cafe, is downright delicious.

18. Sugar Sand Park — Boca Raton

Hands down one of the best parks I've ever visited, Sugar Sand Park is a local gem. With a giant, all-inclusive playground, an ocean-themed splash pad, a carousel, a family theater, and a free science museum, this park is guaranteed to keep your kids entertained for hours. Plus, it's conveniently located right off of I-95 between West Palm Beach and Miami.

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Pet a kangaroo at Bedner's Farm.

19. Bedner's Farm — Boynton Beach

Pick your own strawberries, peppers, and cucumbers at this family-owned farm. Open September through May, Bedner's features weekend tractor rides and a noteworthy animal park (my daughters were delighted to pet baby kangaroos on a recent visit). The on-site market offers even more exceptional produce and local products, and the farm's fall festival is a must-visit, with perennial favorites like a corn maze and a pumpkin patch.

20. Yesteryear Village — West Palm Beach

Step back in time at Yesteryear Village, a living-history park located at the South Florida Fairgrounds. Visitors can check out buildings and artifacts dating back to the 1890s. Ring a bell inside a historic church, or show your kids what a rural schoolhouse from the 1930s was really like. A highlight for our family is going through the Southern Bell telephone exhibit, where kids can try out relics of the recent past like landline phones and phone booths.

21. Riverbend Park — Jupiter

Riverbend Park is my favorite place to ride bikes with my kids! Surrounded by a lush canopy of trees, the park is shady and a great place to spot animals (I have seen more alligators here than anywhere else in West Palm Beach). Along with the trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, the park is a historical site. It was the location of two battles during the Second Seminole War, and visitors can watch battlefield reenactments that take place on weekends throughout the year.

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Indulge your fancy side at the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum.

Interactive Museums Near West Palm Beach, Florida

22. Henry Morrison Flagler Museum — Palm Beach

If your kids take a shine to the highbrow, the Flagler Museum is sure to delight. When it was completed in 1902, newspapers described this 100,000-square-foot, 75-room mansion as “more wonderful than any palace in Europe.” Families enjoy seeing the opulent decor and gold-encrusted details, all of it straight out of a Downton Abbey episode. Be sure to pick up a kids' activity guide at the entrance.

23. Richard and Pat Johnson Palm Beach County History Museum — West Palm Beach

Learn about local history at this museum located inside the 1916 downtown courthouse. Find out how West Palm Beach, Florida got all of its iconic palm trees, get familiar with the area's animals and natural environment, and study up on local legends like Trapper Nelson and the mysterious "barefoot mailman." Admission is free, though donations are appreciated.

24. Schoolhouse Children's Museum — Boynton Beach

There are plenty of opportunities for pretend play at this children's museum. Visitors can sort mail in the post office, milk a replica cow at the family farm, stock the shelves at the general store, or gather passengers at the train depot, just to name a few. Fun fact: the museum is located in a restored school house from the early 1910s.

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Cool off at the Cox Science Center and Aquarium's awesome splash pad.

25. Cox Science Center and Aquarium — West Palm Beach

A family can easily spend the whole day at this West Palm Beach, Florida museum, which features more than 50 hands-on exhibits for kids of all ages. There's an aquarium, a room full of brain teasers, a planetarium, an outdoor physics forest, a splash pad, and an early-childhood play area for kids 6 and under. The Cox also hosts fun seasonal exhibits.

26. The Palm Beach Museum of Natural History — Wellington

This museum inside the Mall at Wellington Green is small, but what it lacks in space it makes up for in fossils. That includes Cheryll the Triceratops, south Florida’s only real dinosaur skeleton available for viewing. Visitors can also check out bones from giant ground sloths, saber-toothed cats, and mammoths. My daughters love to dig for shark teeth in the museum’s fossil pit. (And yes, they get to keep them!)

27. Norton Museum of Art — West Palm Beach

Bring young art lovers to the Norton Museum in downtown West Palm Beach, Florida, where they can see more than 8,000 works of art and a sculpture garden. A highlight for kids is the family room, which features art books, a giant magnet wall, and colored pencils and paper for those that feel inspired by what they see. The museum also has an excellent restaurant that's open every day for lunch (and dinner on Fridays).

28. Boca Raton Museum of Art — Boca Raton

View stunning pieces by Degas, Matisse, Picasso, and others at this 44,000-square foot museum. We especially love the Creation Station family program, a regular event where kids can learn about the artwork at the museum and then make their own masterpiece. Check the facility's website for info on other cool events, and to see which traveling exhibitions are currently on display. 

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Climb to the top of the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse.

29. Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse — Jupiter

Check out the oldest structure in Palm Beach County, the 1860 Jupiter Lighthouse. The property features a museum spotlighting 5,000 years of local history, as well as an old pioneer house that was home to a family in the 1890s. Of course, the biggest draw is the lighthouse itself, and agile visitors can climb the 105 steps inside. The stunning views at the top are worth the strenuous price. FYI: Kids must be 48 inches tall to do the climb.

More Things To Do Near West Palm Beach, Florida with Kids

30. Kravis Center — West Palm Beach

See Broadway shows and unforgettable concerts at this downtown West Palm Beach, Florida performing arts center. While young kids may not be ready for lengthy nighttime shows, the Kravis offers wholesome Family Fare performances throughout the year that usually take place at 10am on Saturdays (recommended for ages 4 and up). Bonus: Tickets for Family Fare events cost under $20 apiece.

31. Bouncing

Though it may be hard to believe, the weather isn't always nice in West Palm Beach! On those humid or soggy days, there are several trampoline parks to choose from. Urban Air Adventure Park in Wellington features a high-flying Sky Rider, a ropes course, and climbing walls among its attractions. Meanwhile, visitors can hit the dodgeball court or jump off a high board into a pit of foam blocks at Adrenaline in Lake Worth. My girls also love to flex their acrobatic skills in the aerial silks at DEFY Palm Springs.

32. Indoor Playgrounds

Let the kiddos burn off some energy at a local indoor playground. Among our favorites is the recently opened Kids Empire. It has a multi-level play structure that is bound to entertain children of all ages with its big slides, climbing nets, and small soccer arena (there's a babies-only area too). We also love Candy Wonderland, which has locations in Delray Beach and Boca Raton. The play center is—you guessed it—candy-themed, and that means colorful murals and bright attractions like spinners, ball pits, and soft blocks.

33. Mini Golf

Palm Beach may be known for its premier golf courses, but with kids, mini golf is probably more your speed. Practice your short game at Lighthouse Cove Adventure Golf in Jupiter, which features two 18-hole courses, an ice cream shop, and a burger shack. Adventure Mini Golf in Lake Worth also has two 18-hole courses set around water features, fountains, and rolling hills.

34. Bowling

Get some family competition going at one of Palm Beach’s bowling alleys. Sleekly designed Bowlero in Jupiter and Boca Raton has more than 60 lanes, plus an arcade and a billiards area. For more of a classic vibe, head to Greenacres Bowl, which also has 60 lanes and a nostalgic feel. Meanwhile, Fun Depot is a one-stop amusement center in Lake Worth with a bowling alley, a two-room arcade, a laser tag arena, and a go-kart track.

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Even American Girl dolls can ice skate at Palm Beach Skate Zone!

35. Ice Skating

Who knew that sunny Palm Beach was home to two excellent ice skating rinks? Take the kids for a spin around the ice at Palm Beach Skate Zone in Lake Worth or Palm Beach Ice Works in West Palm Beach, Florida. Both centers offer lessons for skaters of all abilities, as well as public sessions. My daughters love the themed events on Saturdays at Palm Beach Skate Zone. They once brought their dolls for an American Girl skating party, complete with hot cocoa for all guests!

36. Roller Skating

Lace up those skates and hit the rink at Astro Skate in Greenacres (previously the home of Atlantis Skateway). This spot hits all the right nostalgia notes, from the disco ball to the colorful wall mural and soundtrack that includes plenty of throwback hits. There's also a snack counter, a small arcade, and rink games like the limbo. Rent skates and blades or bring your own. Check the calendar for info on themed sessions like Tiny Tot mornings and Hip Hop nights.

37. Resource Depot — West Palm Beach

This downtown non-profit center's goal is to turn "waste into wonder." That means a shop where recycled items can be purchased at a discount for creative new uses. Old tile squares, magazines, and beads get a second life as crafting supplies, for example. We really like the family workshops offered at Resource Depot. Recently, my girls had a great time turning materials like coffee cans and Easter eggs into animal figurines.

38. Poppet Project — El Portal

This clean and colorful studio is an excellent art center designed specifically for kids! Open studio is an unstructured time where children can make art at various stations such as painting on easels, designing jewelry, playing with clay, and using supplies like pipe cleaners and cardboard for new creations. Visitors always get to make slime, which they can bring home or use to decorate the studio's "slime chair." I recommend booking a one-hour open studio session in advance, especially on weekends.

39. Lighthouse Candle Bar — Jupiter

This small business offers custom candle-making, as well as bath bombs, soaps, and room sprays, with more than 100 organic scents to choose from. Some of the aromas have silly names, including Monkey Farts and Cowboy. My daughters enjoy sitting at the candle bar, mixing scents and adding glitter and sequins to their concoctions.

40. Pottery Painting

Take your little artists to paint their own pottery at one of the area's ceramics shops. We especially love Craft Haus in North Palm Beach and Picasso's Creative Workshop in Lake Worth. Both offer special events, including family programs, so be sure to check their calendars. Meanwhile, older kids who want to get behind the pottery wheel themselves can try it out at Clay Haus, the sister studio of Craft Haus.

41. The Slime Factory — Wellington

When all else fails to entertain, there is always slime. Take your family for the ultimate oozy experience at The Slime Factory, where kids can make a gooey creation to take home complete with glitter, scents, beads, and special charms. Plus, visitors get time to play in the slime pool, a large tub of extra-colorful goo.

West Palm Beach, Florida Restaurants Kids Love

42. Elisabetta's Ristorante — West Palm Beach & Delray Beach

West Palm Beach, Florida has an abundance of great Italian restaurants. One of our favorites is Elisabetta's, with locations downtown and in Delray Beach. Fresh salads, homemade pastas, and plenty of meat choices—what's not to love? Plus, the kids' menu is like a full-on activity book, which always pleases my daughters.

43. Hive Bakery & Cafe — West Palm Beach

Known for its fresh baked breads and pastries, this chic cafe across from the Norton Museum is a great spot for grabbing breakfast and lunch (though it just expanded its offerings to include dinner). Soups, salads, sandwiches, and omelettes are among the menu highlights.

44. Rocco's Tacos — Palm Beach Gardens, Boca Raton, & West Palm Beach

Locals love this casual Mexican eatery that has locations throughout South Florida including in Palm Beach Gardens, Boca Raton, and downtown West Palm Beach, Florida. On the adult menu, find a variety of tacos and enchiladas. On the carta de ninos, there's a hot dog, a mini burrito, and chicken fingers.

45. Leila Restaurant — West Palm Beach

If your family is into Middle Eastern food, Leila in downtown West Palm Beach, Florida serves up delicious hummus, falafels, tabbouleh, and meat kebabs. Eat outside on the restaurant's spirited patio, where belly dancers often perform on weekend nights.

46. Teapots & Treasures Cafe — Juno Beach

Channel your inner English royal at this  tea house that offers traditional afternoon tea service as well as lunch items, homemade desserts, and a variety of both caffeinated and non-caffeinated beverages. The decor is elegant and quaint. My daughters love to get dressed up for the experience.

West Palm Beach, Florida Hotels and Resorts for Families

47. Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island

This oceanfront hotel with gorgeous views of the coast has a family-friendly pool with a water slide, a kids' club with daily activities, and an on-site spa. Mommy Poppins has crowned it one of the 10 best Florida beach vacation destinations for families.

48. Delray Sands Resort — Highland Beach

Another Mommy Poppins favorite, the Delray Sands Resort has 115 guest rooms and suites that will put you steps from the sand and waves. Visitors love the resort's bright and airy decor and its two oceanside pools.

49. Wyndham Grand Jupiter — Jupiter

Located within the Harbourside Place shopping center, this luxury hotel benefits from a super convenient location. Take the kids in a stroller for dinner at one of the many nearby restaurants. A walk along the Intracoastal Waterway after your meal adds the perfect touch.

50. Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa — Manalapan

If you are feeling the urge to splurge, the Eau Palm Beach has got it all. An exclusive beachfront property, complimentary bike rentals, and four on-site dining options (plus an ice cream shop) are just a few of the amenities offered. The kids' club features a light-up wall, a playground, and a movie theater.

All photos by the author