25 Best Things to Do in Delray Beach, Florida

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The Wakodahatchee Wetlands flourish with wildlife, and visitors can observe over 150 species of birds alone in this park. Black- bellied whistling ducks paddle in the ponds. Snow egrets grace the skies. A pied-billed grebe may swim along the marshes. Turtles might pop their heads out of the water. The wetlands park consists of 50 acres of former utility land transformed into a recreation area. Guests can admire the flora and fauna while strolling along a three-quarter mile boardwalk spanning the wetlands. Gazebos and park benches invite visitors to gaze into the wilderness to spot all sorts of other creatures like alligators, birds, rabbits, frogs, and raccoons.

13026 Jog Road, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-493-6000

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Visitors need not travel all the way to the Far East to enjoy the beauty of Japanese gardens. The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens consist of a 188.5-acre park. A traditional Japanese villa houses the museum and includes three hands-on exhibits, a collection of over 7,000 artifacts, a tea room, classrooms, and a gift shop. Visitors can head outside to admire gorgeous flora that captures the history of gardening styles in Japan. Throughout the manicured flowers, trees, and plants sit Buddha statues and other sculptures. The park received its name after George Morikami, a Japanese native who donated the park to Palm Beach County.

4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-495-0233

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Downtown Delray provides the perfect way to spend the afternoon. Atlantic Avenue, affectionately referred to as “The Ave” by locals, represents the hub for shopping and cultural life. USA Today listed it as one of the top ten urban shopping areas. The Ave strikes a balance between high-end boutiques and affordable, down-to-earth shops. Galleries showcase local art. At the same time, the nearby beach gives the area a more laid-back, friendly vibe. Atlantic Avenue houses all kinds of award-winning eateries and restaurants. In between exploring the stores, visitors can take their pick of places to eat. Artisanal sandwich joints serve up cheap, delicious bites.

4723 West Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-637-8248

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No visit to Florida would be complete without a bit of salt and sand at one of the state’s many beaches. Downtown Delray Beach stands out as a festive and fun gathering on the shore. Downtown Delray has earned plenty of awards for its convivial atmosphere, and the Travel Channel listed Delray as one of Florida’s top 10 beaches. Delray also earned the distinction of placing third as the Top 10 Happiest Seaside Towns in America. Visitors can go for a day of sunbathing and shopping. Things come to life at night with a plethora of bustling bars, music venues, restaurants, and outdoor festivals.

340 South Ocean Boulevard, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-243-7250

© Putt’n Around

Friends and family can spend the afternoon and evenings playing a little “putt-putt” during a visit to Delray, Florida at Putt’n Around. This family-operated business offers a special atmosphere for mini-golf. The well-maintained grounds blossom with botanical gardens, tropical flowers, lemongrass, and other native plants. Putt’n Around contains two courses themed after plant categories: the Ocean Course and the Everglades. Those with disabilities can also enjoy the facilities as Putt’n Around is ADA accessible. The affordable courses start at $11 for 18 holes and $16 for 36 holes for adults with discounts for kids and seniors.

350 North East 5th Avenue, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-450-6162

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The Girls Strawberry U-pick gives a “berry unique experience for the entire family”. For five generations, the family-run farm has run a garden and produce business in Delray. Although the Girls Strawberry U-pick doesn’t have strawberries for picking every season, the flourishing gardens give guests a respite in a natural setting. Visitors can wander through the gardens while admiring swans, exotic birds, ponies, donkeys, and goats. The hydroponic farm grows a range of plants, and guests can come to The Girls Strawberry U-pick to observe the process of cultivating plants from water. Visitors can relax in the gardens and tour the grounds.

14466 South Military Trail Suite 3, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-496-0188

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Situated just one block north of Linton Boulevard on THE AIA, the Atlantic Dunes Park offers a peaceful beach destination away from the hustle and bustle. The park provides a place for families and friends to spend the day swimming and picnicking. Guests can spend the day enjoying the salt and sand in a park nestled in a wooded beach area. A 300-foot trail gives a chance to stroll through nature along the dunes. The parking lot accommodates over 120 cars with parking meters.

1605 South Ocean Boulevard, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-243-7000

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Visitors can access Gulfstream Park along the A1A just near the border between Delray and Boynton Beach. Kids can frolic and have fun on the playground equipment (recommended for ages 5-12). Then guests can head over to the picnic area for a chance to enjoy an afternoon lunch outdoors. The guarded beach provides a place to go for a swim, build sandcastles, and enjoy a good read. Bird watching opportunities abound, and native species appear in the skies. During peak months between November to February, Gulfstream can get crowded and run out parking. This park does not allow pets.

4489 North Ocean Beach, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-966-6600

© Saltwater Brewery

Local Floridians with a love for the salt and sea founded Delray’s first microbrewery in December 2013. The Saltwater Brewery contains a microbrewery, tasting room, and beer garden. The company brews its popular products like Screamin’ Reels IPA, Sea Cow Milk Stout, and LocAle with natural ingredients only. Visitors can come to taste all standard, seasonal, and special releases. Environmentally conscious, Saltwater Brewery has considered the dangers that six-pack rings have on wildlife. The brand uses sustainable packaging with 100% biodegradable and edible six-pack rings made of barley and wheat ribbons. The online shop sells brand merchandise like T-shirts, tank tops, and other apparel.

1701 West Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-865-5373

© Sandoway House Nature Center

The Sandoway House Nature Center strives to preserve the local ecosystem and marine life. Founded in 1998, the center consists of teachers, naturalists, and community leaders with a passion for protecting the region’s fragile marine and freshwater environments. Inside the center, students and other visitors can learn about Florida’s environment through classes, exhibits, and programs. Hands-on education programs raise awareness ensuring the conversation of the local ecosystem. Exhibits bring visitors up close to native species like sharks, reptiles, fish, and coral. A shell collection, observation deck, and plant and butterfly garden display the region’s lush coastal environment.

142 South Ocean Boulevard, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-274-7263

© Cornell Art Museum

The Cornell Art Museum sits inside a restored elementary school first built in 1913. This unique Delray discovery delights visitors with its comprehensive collection of local and internationally recognized artists. Exhibits contain avant-garde contemporary art that will awe and surprise museum guests. The museum opened in 1990 in honor of Delray Beach residents, Harriet W. and George D. Cornell. Situated in downtown Delray, the campus contains an elementary school, square campus, and several smaller buildings which serve the local arts community. In addition to housing two art galleries, the Cornell Art Museum also has a museum store selling handmade art, decor, and jewelry.

51 North Swinton Avenue, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-243-7922

© Deck 84

Deck 84 is a vibrant dining destination in Delray Beach, voted as one of America's top 100 al fresco dining spots for several years running by OpenTable. The restaurant, which is overseen by executive chef Michael Romano, offers stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway from its indoor and outdoor dining spaces, which are bordered by 150 feet of easy access dock space for boat arrivals. Seasonal locally-inspired dishes include the restaurant's Caribbean-style mahi mahi, Baja California fish tacos, and prime 10-ounce special blend Deck Burger, served up with fried eggs and truffle aioli on a challah bun. Two stylish bar spaces serve up signature frozen drinks, tiki-inspired cocktails, and craft beers throughout the day.

840 E Atlantic Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33483, Phone: 561-665-8484

© The Heart of Delray Gallery

Art enthusiasts can admire local works at the Heart of Delray Gallery. This “oasis of color” stimulates the senses with its 10,000 square foot space displaying abstract paintings, digital art, fine photography, and sculptures by over 80 different artists throughout its corridors and courtyard. The Heart of Delray Gallery also hosts monthly events for the community to gather and support local artists or admire the latest collections. Visitors in town shouldn’t miss out on the first Friday parties during the Delray Art Walk. Art buyers of all budgets can shop around as gallery prices range from affordable to expensive.

301 NE 2nd Ave., Delray Beach, FL 33444, Phone: 561-278-0074

© Burt and Max's

Burt and Max's is part of the lively Rapoport's Restaurant Group, which also oversees Delray Beach dining favorite Deck 84. The restaurant, which was opened in 2013, showcases modern New American menu options in a cozy, contemporary dining space at brunch, lunch, and dinner service throughout the week. Entrees crafted by executive chef Patrick Broadhead include brick-oven pizzas available in variants like housemade chicken sausage, summer pesto and zucchini, roasted mushroom and gruyere, or margherita with house-pulled mozzarella. Diners can also enjoy internationally-inspired fare like Korean steak bowls, Southern-fried chicken and waffles, coffee-rubbed ribeye steaks, or south-of-the-border fish tacos. Fruit-forward specialty cocktails are paired with skinny margaritas, fine whiskeys and bourbons, and Ketel One botanical liquors.

9089 W Atlantic Ave #100, Delray Beach, FL 33446, Phone: 561-638-6380

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On Saturday mornings, locals and tourists alike can gather at the Winter GreenMarket for a chance to shop around for local produce, fresh fruit and vegetables, home baked treats, floral arrangements, and gourmet eats. Locals sell handmade soaps, creative crafts, and specialty items. Community members or visitors from out of town can come to support the locals and find unique buys. The market frequently hosts live music events to liven the atmosphere. The Winter GreenMarket is located at the Old School Square just a half a block north of the famous Atlantic Avenue in downtown Delray.

51 North Swinton Avenue, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-276-7511

© Gary Rack's Farmhouse Kitchen

Gary Rack's Farmhouse Kitchen was opened in 2016, bringing farm-fresh cuisine to Delray Beach in a rustic, comfortable dining space. The restaurant, which is helmed by namesake restaurateur Gary Rack, serves up delicious fare crafted with locally-sourced ingredients, with a focus on hearty entrees like parmesan-crusted salmon, nut and seed-crusted chicken, and grilled New York strip steaks prepared with pumpkin seed chimichurri. Health-conscious options make use of Florida's rich natural bounty, ranging from shareables like buffalo cauliflower and lentil lettuce wraps to cauliflower-crusted pizzas prepared with toppings like apple, almonds, squash, and fig jam. Sandwiches are served on artisanal whole-grain bread, while tacos feature fillings like grilled shrimp, pineapple salsa, and aji amarillo.

204 E Atlantic Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33444, Phone: 561-266-3642

© Cason Cottage Museum

Just north of the Old School Square in Delray, Florida, the Cason Cottage Museum provides an homage to the local history and culture. Visitors can learn about South Florida lifestyle in this humble, yet informative museum. The historic furnished cottage served as a home between 1915 to 1935. Guests who walk in take a step back in time. Guided tours teach about local history. The museum charges $6 for adults with free admission for children 16 and under. The nearby 1926 Florida Bungalow and Ethel Sterling Williams Archive also tell the story of South Florida’s past.

5 North East 1st Street, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-274-9578

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Visitors in Florida can get a taste of the Big Apple in this shopping center and flea market. The Big Apple Shopping Bazaar recreates the look and feel of New York City, complete with street lamps and iconic NYC buildings. The center even has replicas of the Statue of Liberty and Central Park. Of course, this shopping center has no shortage of boutiques and contains over 65 specialty stores. Visitors can escape from the Florida heat as the bazaar is enclosed with air conditioning. The “Big Apple Jewelry Exchange” specializes in selling fine diamonds, sterling silver, bracelets, earrings, high-end costume jewelry, and more.

5283 West Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-499-9578

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Visitors in Delray looking for a quiet getaway should head over to the Leon M. Weekes Environmental Preserve. This nature reserve protects Florida’s native ecosystems and endangered subtropical forest ecoregions. The park sits in southwestern Delray Beach and contains nature trails, a pavllion, playground, and parking lot. The preserve consists of many rare plant species of the Florida Scrub Pinelands that only exist in the region. Guests may also spot a Florida scrub jay, a species of bird endemic to the region. The local fire department maintains the area through controlled fires.

2800 Albatross Road, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-243-7250

© Spady Cultural Heritage Museum

The Spady Cultural Heritage Museum honors the history of the African-American community in Delray Beach and Palm Beach County, Florida. The late Solomon David Spady’s former residence houses the museum. Spady rose to prominence as a local educator and community leader from 1922 to 1957. As a student of George Washington Carver (Booker T. Washington), Spady emphasized the importance of educating children. The non-profit organization keeps that dream alive by sponsoring community events, historical tours, and youth empowerment programs. The Spady Cultural Heritage Museum sits at 170 NW Fifth Avenue in the historical West Settlers District of Delray.

170 North West 5th Avenue, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-279-8883

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The Delray Beach Playhouse first entertained the public in 1947. Today, the playhouse continues to excite the community with Broadway musicals, comedic performances, nostalgic concerts, children’s theater, and cabaret. Youth classes and camps give kids a chance to develop their acting skills. Thousands of community members help support the theater, but those in Delray for a visit can also get tickets for a show. Patrons can purchase tickets for the latest performances on the Delray Beach Playhouse website. From the Book of Mormon to modern takes on Romeo and Juliet, the playhouse has no shortage of variety running all year round.

950 Lake Shore Drive, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-272-1281

© Blue Gallery

Tel Aviv native, Rami Rotkopf, grew up in the art business. He later moved to Delray, Florida, where he then founded the Blue Gallery. Thanks to his lifelong experience working in the art industry, the Blue Gallery presents a beautiful collection of talented contemporary artists like Avi Ben Simhon, Harry Guttman, Calman Shemi, Iris Eshet Cohen, and many more. The gallery hosts rotating exhibitions giving locals and visitors an introduction to emerging artists. In addition to having two galleries on Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach, the Blue Gallery also has a location on East Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale.

600 East Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-265-0020

© Cabana El Rey

Living by the phrase, "Be our Guest, Dine with us at Cabana for a truly Legendary experience," Cabana El Rey gives a Latin flair to Florida dining. This authentic Cuban restaurant cooks up plenty of menu options. Diners can fill their bellies with ceviche, traditional curry meals made with chicken, rice, and black beans, fish of the day, steak, black bean soup, and more. Cabana El Rey also has a lunch buffet available. Patrons taut the restaurant for its phenomenal service and festive atmosphere with a Miami vibe. Sitting outside gives the perfect opportunity for sipping banana mojitos while doing a bit of people watching.

105 East Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-274-9090

© Caffe Luna Rosa

Visitors in Delray Beach looking for a taste of Italy should book a table at Caffe Luna Rosa. The waterfront location gives diners a chance to sit outside and enjoy the fresh air during a delectable meal. Chefs cook up freshly made pasta made in-house daily. Caffe Luna Rosa also has a lounge and bar area with a casual setting. The restaurant boasts one of the largest selections of Italian wines in Florida and won the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for many consecutive years. The Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce gave Caffe Luna Rosa the Restaurant of the Year Award in 2014 and 2015.

34 South Ocean Boulevard, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-274-9404