Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Palm Beach Gardens, FL

Home to 12 golf courses, this location in South Florida proclaims itself as The Golf Capital of the World. This is not merely an assertion, as its credentials are well-backed.

Until recent years, the Professional Golfers’ Association of America (PGA) was headquartered in Palm Beach Gardens.

Six of these courses are situated at the PGA National Resort, where the Honda Classic occurs every February.

In addition to its golf offerings, the city is recognized for its upscale shopping, particularly at The Gardens Mall, which features a range of luxury brands.

Beyond these prestigious attractions, visitors can explore mangroves, stunning sections of the Atlantic coastline, and lush cypress swamps.

1. The Gardens Mall

Source: The Gardens Mall / Facebook

For stylish shopping directly from the latest collections, my initial recommendation is The Gardens Mall.

Established in 1988 and remaining at the forefront of retail, this expansive enclosed mall epitomizes luxury.

Within its walls, one can find a dazzling assortment of exclusive brands such as Dolce & Gabbana, Boss, Emporio Armani, Gucci, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Michael Kors.

Alongside these prestigious names, there are also several well-known retailers, including Macy’s, Sears, Victoria’s Secret, Pottery Barn, Sephora, and Banana Republic.

During my visit, the culinary options were remarkable, featuring choices that appealed to every palate, such as Shake Shack, Häagen-Dazs, Chick-Fil-A, Chipotle, and California Pizza Kitchen.

2. PGA National Resort

It is no exaggeration to state that a significant portion of the city’s landscape comprises golf courses, which underscores its title as The Golf Capital of the World.

Within Palm Beach Gardens, there are twelve courses available; however, playing a round here requires advance planning.

Six of these courses are located at the PGA National Resort, a premier destination that sets unparalleled standards for luxury.

The centerpiece is The Champion, renowned for hosting the PGA Tour’s Honda Classic each winter.

This course is acknowledged as Florida’s most challenging, boasting a formidable reputation derived from a trio of holes designed by Nicklaus, famously known as The Bear Trap.

3. The Gardens GreenMarket

The weekly farmers’ market in Palm Beach Gardens has been thriving for over 20 years and is a lively community event.

Taking place on Sunday mornings at the City Hall Municipal Campus, rain or shine, it provides a delightful experience for residents and visitors alike.

Vendors offer a diverse selection of goods, including fresh produce, pastries, honey, dairy products, flowers, spice blends, and a variety of enticing prepared foods.

Live music is a regular feature, along with themed markets and seasonal events. For instance, during my visit, there was a complimentary yoga class in the plaza, as well as a cooking demonstration by a professional chef.

4. Downtown Palm Beach Gardens

Contrary to its name, this retail area resembles a luxury outdoor mall, featuring covered walkways and palm trees providing shade.

One aspect I appreciate about Downtown Palm Beach Gardens is its focus on local businesses. Shoppers can find a range of items, from golf equipment to children’s clothing, exotic spices, pottery, apparel, and unique gifts.

For dining, there are national chain establishments like Sweetgreen and Yard House in addition to independent cafes offering coffee, Mexican fare, Southern cuisine, and frozen yogurt.

Entertainment options include the recently upgraded CMD Downtown at the Gardens 16, which had been fitted with leather recliners at the time of my visit.

5. Frenchman’s Forest Natural Area

Nestled among Palm Beach Gardens’ neighborhoods, this natural area offers a glimpse into the region’s pre-development ecosystem.

Frenchman’s Forest Natural Area spans 172 acres and encompasses seven native ecosystems, including cypress swamp, oak hammocks, pine flatwoods, and tidal swamp.

This relatively small site is home to over 200 plant species, while more than 500 different animal species have been recorded here.

Visitors can navigate several trails, enjoying views of saw palmettos and staggerbush. The highlight of my visit was the boardwalk traversing the cypress swamp, along with a platform overlooking the tidal area.

6. John D. MacArthur Beach State Park

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Moments away from Palm Beach Gardens lies a biological treasure, encompassing more than 400 acres of an Atlantic barrier island.

This venue is the only state park in Palm Beach County, safeguarding coastal and tropical hammock ecosystems as well as nearly two miles of pristine sandy beachfront.

I was captivated by the long boardwalk that stretches over the estuary, connecting the parking area to the ocean.

Guests can indulge their curiosity on short nature trails that offer opportunities to view wading birds such as terns, sandpipers, and herons. Additionally, there is a colorful variety of snakes and spiders for the more adventurous.

The park provides numerous recreational activities, including kayaking and paddleboarding amid the mangroves in the estuary, alongside swimming and snorkeling in the ocean.

7. PGA Commons

The premier arts and dining district in Palm Beach Gardens is located along a stretch of PGA Boulevard, situated between I-95 and Florida’s Turnpike.

PGA Commons is characterized by ample natural shade and landscape, making it easily navigable via a network of walkways.

Visitors can appreciate engaging public art installations and explore three galleries—Native Visions Galleries, Studio E Gallery, and Onessimo Fine Art—each specializing in various artistic expressions.

At the time of my compilation, the dining venues featured a range of options, including Thai-tapas-sushi fusion, gourmet tacos, pizza, and an elegant seafood establishment.

8. Catch a Game at Roger Dean Stadium

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The spring training season for baseball in Florida is referred to as the Grapefruit League. It offers a wealth of baseball events for enthusiasts.

Roger Dean Stadium serves as the home ground for the St. Louis Cardinals during the off-season. It presents an excellent opportunity to witness some of MLB’s prominent stars in February and March.

Throughout the regular season, baseball fans can enjoy even more action, courtesy of four different minor league teams, notably the Palm Beach Cardinals and Jupiter Hammerheads of the Jupiter State League.

9. Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum

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For some of the most breathtaking views in Palm Beach County, I recommend a brief drive north to this remarkable lighthouse.

As a historic landmark, the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse (1860) stands over 100 feet tall, set against a backdrop of dense woods.

I thoroughly enjoyed my experience climbing the 100+ steps to the summit, collecting fascinating insights from the guides along the way.

Although I visited during the day, I have seen stunning photos capturing the sunset view, where the low sun beautifully illuminates the Loxahatchee River.

The grounds surrounding the lighthouse are equally picturesque, featuring a magnificent banyan tree that has thrived here for centuries.

10. Rapids Waterpark

The largest waterpark in South Florida is located just five minutes from Palm Beach Gardens and offers over 40 water attractions.

Rides at Rapids Waterpark cater to varying thrill levels, from mild to wild. Among the more adrenaline-inducing options are Black Thunder, featuring a dark vortex funnel, and Brain Drain, a set of twin slides that plunge 75 feet at speeds of up to 35 MPH.

For those preferring a more leisurely experience, the lazy river offers a relaxing quarter-mile float. On my last visit, my little one was delighted with the interactive play structure at Barefootin Bay, complete with sprays and a tipping bucket.

Given Florida’s frequent weather disruptions, I recommend staying informed about forecasts to ensure an enjoyable visit.

11. Historic Flagler Museum

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For a touch of Gilded Age elegance, I recommend visiting Whitehall in Palm Beach.

This opulent Beaux-Arts mansion, comprising 75 rooms, was constructed for the third wife of Standard Oil co-founder Henry Flagler.

Completed in 1902 and meticulously restored to its near-original condition, it offers visitors an intriguing glimpse into the luxurious lifestyles of the wealthy in bygone eras.

The estate is filled with original artwork, furniture, and fixtures that epitomized luxury during its time, making it an essential stop for history enthusiasts.

With an overwhelming array of ornate features to observe, I recommend utilizing the audio tour if visiting without a guide.

12. Loggerhead Marinelife Center

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Named for the renowned loggerhead sea turtles, the Loggerhead Marinelife Center welcomes visitors free of charge, although donations are encouraged.

This rehabilitation center is an essential stop for families traveling with children who have a passion for animals.

I experienced an emotional moment during my tour, learning about the stories and treatments surrounding the turtles. Some are on the path to recovery and release, while others will remain at the center permanently.

Additionally, my child was thrilled by an interactive station where they could draw a fish on a screen and watch it come to life in 3D.

13. Blowing Rocks Preserve

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In Palm Beach Gardens, visitors are merely ten minutes away from a stretch of coastline that is unlike any other in Florida.

At Blowing Rocks Preserve, you will encounter the largest Anastasia limestone outcropping on the East Coast, shaped into unique formations by the relentless ocean waves.

It becomes clear how the preserve acquired its name when visiting at high tide during rough seas; the waves crash against the shore, sending seawater surging through openings and shooting up in spectacular sprays reaching heights of up to 50 feet.

The preserve also boasts a variety of ecosystems, including dunes, maritime hammocks, and mangroves.

A highlight of my visit was the picturesque walk to the shoreline, creating a memorable experience among the dense seagrape tree tunnel.

14. Busch Wildlife Sanctuary

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For over 40 years, the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary has offered essential care for injured and ill native wildlife.

Visitors can explore the grounds of this non-profit organization for unique animal encounters. During my visit, I observed foxes, turtles, snakes, eagles, bears, and even a panther and a crocodile.

The enclosures are nestled within a beautiful natural setting featuring cypress wetlands, pine flatwoods, and oak hammocks.

Daily programs showcase various wildlife topics, ranging from alligator talks on Mondays to birds of prey demonstrations on Thursdays.

15. Cox Science Center and Aquarium

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Located in West Palm Beach, the Cox Science Center and Aquarium has been serving the community since 1961. The facility was undergoing significant expansion during my visit.

This $45 million project will house one of the largest aquariums in Florida, making it a venue worth monitoring for progress.

During my time there, the science center featured over 100 interactive exhibits, a conservation-themed mini-golf course, and engaging planetarium shows.

Children especially enjoy activities such as controlling a robotic arm, observing the underwater root system of a mangrove, and experiencing life-size dinosaur models.

Be sure to check their calendar, as a variety of events are frequently scheduled, ranging from food trucks to laser concerts and Nights at the Museum.