Located between West Palm Beach and Miami, Delray Beach is home to white sandy beaches, beautiful parks, impressive galleries, and historic streets.
Delray Beach Places to Visit On Weekends: From its humble beginnings as a farming community in the 1800s, it has evolved into a beloved tourist destination. Known as Florida’s ‘village by the sea’, its charm attracts a multitude of tourists to spend the perfect beach holiday in this coastal paradise.
From swimming, golfing, and hiking to shopping and cafe hopping, this small beach town offers something for everyone.
Planning a weekend in this vibrant place?
We’ve got you covered with our list of the best places to visit in Delray beach this weekend: –
1. Enjoy wildlife spotting at Wakodahatchee Wetlands
Want a natural escape into serenity?
Head to the Wakodahatchee Wetlands.
Sprawled across 50 acres, the wetlands have thriving mangroves that are home to more than 178 species of birds.
The place abounds in a variety of wildlife including alligators, frogs, turtles, marsh rabbits, and even snakes.
The wetlands are also a part of the Great Florida Birding Trail. There’s a boardwalk that enables easy passage across the pond and is perfect for an up-close view of the habitat islands.
So, bring your binoculars and camera along and head to this exquisite place for a rejuvenating outing.
2. Relax at Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
One of the most popular attractions in the town, this place is perfect to enjoy a tranquil afternoon while you soak in some nature and history.
Learn about the rich culture of the region’s Japanese immigrants at the museum.
After the museum tour, go for a stroll as you explore six different gardens, representing designs that were popular in Japan from the 9th to 10th centuries.
These abundant gardens are home to various native and non-native plants, trees, and flowers.
You’ll also find a koi pond, turtle island, and a sparkling lake on the grounds. When hunger strikes, head to the Cornell Cafe for pan-Asian delicacies.
3. Go shopping at Atlantic Avenue
Whether you want to witness the hip social scene of the city or pamper yourself with a shopping spree, Atlantic Avenue is the place for it.
Get something from the high-end boutiques, appreciate art in local galleries, dine at popular restaurants, or groove to the beats at a lively bar, there is no dearth of activities to enjoy in the city’s most happening main street.
What’s more?
You can also find live music and open-air concert or festivals that are held throughout the year.
4. Play beach volleyball at Atlantic Dunes Park
Looking to escape the hordes of crowds for a more laid-back beach outing?
Head to Atlantic Dunes Park.
Only minutes away from downtown Delray Beach, this beautiful park is perfect to enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or playing beach volleyball for a refreshing experience.
You can get umbrellas and chairs on rent and there’s also a nature trail and a boardwalk for a pleasant walk amidst such picturesque surroundings.
5. Appreciate art at Cornell Art Museum
What used to be Delray Elementary School in the 1900s now stands as Cornell Art Museum featuring intriguing artworks by various contemporary artists from across the world.
The collection, although small is still impressive with unique creations.
The building features the Masonry Vernacular architectural style elevating the charm of the place. If you’re an art lover, this is a must-have on your itinerary.
6. Explore Pineapple Grove Arts District
True to its name, the place exudes an artsy vibe with multiple galleries, eclectic shops, and intriguing sculptures.
Take your time soaking in the creative ambiance of this place as you witness works by local artists at the Arts Warehouse, see the work of John Spec at the Gallery at Studio Five, and much more.
To satisfy your hunger pangs, you can dig into a scrumptious treat at one of the cute cafes.
7. Witness marine life at Sandoway Discovery Centre
Admire the beauty of colourful marine creatures at this facility. It features a coral reef pool that is home to sharks, rays, and other aquatic animals, an impressive shell collection, aquariums, a plant and butterfly garden as well as an observation deck to soak in the surroundings.
One of the most special experiences here is witnessing shark feeding.
There are many interesting hands-on experiences that allow you to get up close with some of the beautiful creatures.
Feel a close connection with these beautiful creations of nature?
You can also adopt one of them to cover some feeding expenses.
8. Relish candies at The Girls Strawberry U-Pick
Visiting with kids?
Head to this unique place for a fun family outing.
It has a hydroponic farm and a zoo where you can see exotic birds, reptiles, and many more beautiful creatures.
You can pick strawberries, feed the ducks and goats at the farm and even get the chance to hold a lizard or a snake.
Don’t forget to relish the delicious candies and ice creams served here. The whole experience will have the little ones delighted.
9. Play a friendly match at Putt ‘n Around
How about golfing with the kids?
Head to Putt ‘n Around. Featuring 18-hole mini putt courses, this place exudes a fun vibe.
Its various interesting elements such as waterfalls, bridges, and lagoons make for a fun challenge.
In the evening, the beautiful lights and upbeat music of the place make for a romantic ambiance, perfect for spending some fun time before dinner in the nearby Atlantic Avenue restaurants.
10. Enjoy a picnic at Gulfstream Park
Sprawled across approximately seven acres, this park is set on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and is a popular family-friendly destination.
With its sandy beach, playground, picnic tables, BBQ grills, restroom facilities, swimming area, and ample green space, the park offers an array of activities to indulge in from swimming, picnicking, or lounging.
Craving some adventure?
Get your snorkelling gear along and witness beautiful marine creatures that swim around the coral reefs just offshore. Make sure you bring your water shoes for protection.
11. Go sailing at Delray Municipal Beach
Dig your toes into the soft sands of this picturesque beach as you enjoy a fun outing. Surf, swim, or set sail at this beautiful place. The beach allows you to store your boat for an annual fee.
How cool is that! Even if you’re not an avid boater, you can soak up the sun, make sandcastles or play games for a fun and relaxing time on this picturesque spot.
Umbrellas and chairs are available for rent. The beach is also safe with lifeguards on duty. So, get your swimsuits out and get ready for frolicking in the sand.
A visit to this beautiful beach is one of the best things to do in Delray Beach.
12. Groove to the beats at Arts Garage
Want to dance the night away after a day at the beach? Attend a concert at the funky Arts Garage.
Located in a garage, this place is home to Stuart & Shelby Theatre and Grassroots Gallery and offers a fun night out with some exciting jazz and blues.
While you’re there, you can also catch a theatre production or explore the visual arts exhibit.
13. Take the kids to Veterans Park
Want to have a fun outing with the kids away from the beach? Head to Veterans Park.
Kids can play around in the playground while you enjoy cooking on a grill or enjoy a picnic on the grass.
The park also provides views of the bridge raising and lowering every half hour to let boats cross the Intracoastal.
Play games or lounge about for a relaxed afternoon at this beautiful place. There are also various memorials where you can pay your respects to those who have sacrificed their lives.
14. Go golfing at Delray Beach Golf Club
Golfing is one of the favourite pastimes in this coastal city. Enjoy a game at Delray Beach Golf Club which also offers training programs for kids and adults alike.
You can also catch a tournament and enjoy watching pro golfers play at this vast course.
15. Take a stroll at Old School Square
Known as the ‘beating heart’ of the city, Old School Square is a lively hub, perfect to enjoy the vibrant music and arts scene of the city.
From town hall meetings to free concerts and events, this happening area is a venue for it all.
It is also home to some of the most popular attractions of the area including Cornell Art Museum, Crest Theatre, The Pavilion as well as a Creative Arts School amongst others. So, wander around this area to soak in the culture of this beautiful city.
Begin with the one that speaks to you and head to this incredible coastal paradise for an unforgettable holiday.
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FAQs:
Q. What is Delray Beach known for?
It is popularly known as a quaint beach town with historic streets, a vibrant arts and entertainment scene as well as its beautiful sandy beaches and parks.
Q. Is Delray Beach worth a visit?
Offering a host of outdoor activities, sublime natural beauty, historic sites, and impressive museums, it is well worth visiting.
Q. Is Delray Beach a party beach?
Downtown Delray Beach offers plenty of nightlife options with a plethora of nightclubs, bars, and live music.