Palm Beach is a lovely island community on the southeastern tip of Florida. It’s a fantastic vacation destination for visitors of all ages, thanks to a wide variety of indoor and outdoor attractions. Whether you’re browsing the world-class shops in the Worth Avenue shopping district or sunbathing on the tranquil beaches, you and your family are sure to love this slice of paradise. There is a huge selection of vacation rentals in Palm Beach, many that are just a quick walk or drive from scenic nature and must-visit hot spots. Here are nine of the best kid-friendly activities for your family to enjoy while you’re in town.
1. Rapids Water Park
Cool off from the hot Florida sun at the family-friendly Rapids Water Park. This awesome park is packed with rides and slides for vacationers of all ages and experience levels. Younger children will have a blast at Splish Splash Lagoon frolicking on the zone’s fort, three water slides, water-shooting cannons, shipwreck, and other play structures. There are plenty of bigger slides for older thrill-seekers, including Brain Drain, Black Thunder and Big Thunder. There are plenty of rides that the whole family can enjoy together, including Riptide Raftin’ and the Raging Rapids.
2. McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary
Located just a quick drive away in West Palm Beach, McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary is similar to a zoo. The difference is that it’s more intimate, as you get to enjoy guided tours and hands-on experiences with the rescued animals. The kids will be thrilled to get up close and personal with exotic creatures such as alligators, tortoises, parrots, tarantulas, and snakes. You’ll also get to see some more cuddly creatures, including lions, tigers, leopards, and monkeys.
3. South Florida Science Center and Aquarium
The South Florida Science Center and Aquarium is conveniently located just minutes west from Palm Beach’s vacation rentals. There are fascinating exhibits that will appeal to all ages, including 10,000-gallon aquariums that feature local Atlantic Ocean marine life such as seahorses, stingrays, moray eels, and many species of fish. Visit the space planetarium for an out-of-this-world experience, and then explore exhibits on space, technology, nature, and so much more. There’s even an 18-hole miniature golf course. Children six years and under can visit the Discovery Center and Early Childhood Playground, where there’s a water table, Lite Brite wall, a playground, and other kid-friendly activities, as well as a viewing lounge for the parents.
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4. Palm Beach Ice Works
In Palm Beach, you’re going to spend a significant amount of time in the sun. Palm Beach Ice Works is a fantastic place for the whole family to enjoy a nice change of temperature. It’s an indoor Olympic-sized ice skating rink. Check the schedule, and come in for the public skate that’s open for families. If you really want to make your time special, the facility offers party packages that include rentals, private rooms, balloons, pizza, and other fun amenities.
5. Verdes Tropicana Bowl
You can’t go wrong with an old-school bowling alley, and Verdes Tropicana Bowl is exactly that. The location is tucked away, so it’s not usually too crowded. The alleys and balls are well-maintained, and the digital scorekeepers make keeping track of points a breeze. The rates are very reasonable, and there’s a full food counter available. If the kids get bored of bowling, there are also arcade games to keep them entertained. This bowling alley is old-fashioned bowling at its best.
6. Cool Beans Indoor Playground & Cafe
If you’re traveling with a young child (6 months to 6 years old), Cool Beans is the perfect place for you. Clean and safe, this indoor playground has a whole lot to offer kids, including a huge foam pit, trampolines, a costume area, a story time nook, and so much more. Spanning over 6,000 square feet, there’s so much to do that your kids won’t have time to get bored. There’s also a separate area for babies and toddlers, as well as a cozy gourmet cafe where the parents can unwind while their little ones frolic. When you’re done, be sure to check out the in-house boutique toy store to pick up a souvenir.
7. PLAYMOBIL FunPark
If your children love playing with PLAYMOBIL toys, this is a must-visit destination. Even if they’ve never tried PLAYMOBIL, they’re sure to love this magical destination. The toys are divided throughout the massive 13,000-square-foot facility into categories, such as farms, pirates, knights, dollhouses, and many others. Of course, you can buy PLAYMOBIL toys there, but there’s no obligation. The low entrance fee gives your child unlimited time to play. There are also snacks and refreshments available.
8. Palm Beach Zoo
Palm Beach Zoo is a fantastic family-friendly destination where you can see a wide variety of exotic wildlife. The zoo offers many intimate exhibits where you can see animals such as tigers, jaguars, bears, various reptiles and birds, and countless other critters from all over the world. You can also reserve the chance to meet anteaters, sloths, capybaras, and other animals up close. There are also various age-specific activities and classes if you want to give your little one a learning experience.
9. Lake Trail
If you want to get a glimpse at some of Florida’s fanciest homes, take a stroll or bicycle ride on the Lake Trail. It weaves through the backyards of many extravagant mansions, providing a picturesque journey that you and your children won’t soon forget. The trail is paved, and it tends to be traffic-free, so it’s easy cycling for all age and skill levels, or you can enjoy a leisurely walk if you prefer. If you don’t have bicycles ready to go at your vacation rental, head to Palm Beach Bicycle Trail Shop, where you can rent standard or tandem bikes, as well as baby joggers if your little one isn’t old enough to ride.
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