When you are on your vacation in Florida, certain things must be done, to have the fullest experience possible. Often overlooked when coming down to Florida for a vacation in Delray Beach – a city just to the north of Palm Beach.
The nature preserve is home to four championship tennis courts, as well as a large grassy area for picnics and relaxation.
The tennis center also serves up some of the best people-watching in the city, as there is usually plenty of action on and around the courts at all hours. The city is just one of the many things there is to do in Delray Beach.
The following are 15 things that you must do when visiting Delray Beach, regardless of how long of a stay you have. It’s one of the best beaches in America!
17+ Things To Do In Delray Beach
1. Visit the Delray Beach Farmers Market
The Delray Beach Farmers Market is one of the most beautiful markets I have ever visited. It has a very quaint, old-time feel to it, and is much more full of life than the average farmers market.
People come here not only to buy groceries but also to chat with friends and neighbors. It is known for having the best selection of locally grown fruits around. This is the place to come to Delray Beach for produce.
You will be able to shop for fresh vegetables in season, as well as pick up some spices and herbs to take home. Many of the booths that line either side of Federal Highway carry homemade jams, jellies, and other gourmet goodies.
2. Watch a Sunset at The Atlantic Hotel
The Atlantic Hotel is a boutique hotel with an unbeatable view of the ocean. Right on the Ocean, guests can sit and watch the sunset into the water in a way that is unlike any other place on earth.
This hotel is also home to the renowned Beach Bistro at The Atlantic, which serves up some of the best seafood and sushi in the area.
The hotel also features an award-winning restaurant, which serves food and drink of the highest quality. Along with its beautiful view, The Atlantic Hotel is the perfect place to end a day.
You will be able to have a quiet dinner with an amazing view out onto the water. Also, the hotel offers some of the best sunsets around.
3. Lodge at The Atlantic Hotel
The Atlantic Hotel is one of the most beautiful hotel experiences in all of Florida. This small little boutique hotel has some of the best views around. It is located right on the coast and offers beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.
The 15th story of the hotel is dedicated to one large room, which looks over the coast, and is also home to one of the best restaurants in all of Florida. The entire hotel is decorated with beautiful antiques, with many pieces of art decorating the rooms.
You will feel like you are in the lap of luxury at The Atlantic Hotel.
4. Get a Massage at The Osprey House Inn
The Osprey House Inn is located right on the beach and has one of the most relaxing ambiances in all of Delray Beach. This place is known for being much more than just a hotel, it is also famous for its world-class massage therapy.
Especially great for people who are on vacation in Florida and want to relax and unwind, but still enjoy the water.
The Osprey House Inn is home to some of the most talented massage therapists around, who are dedicated to making sure their guests have the most relaxing experience possible. If you’re looking for a place to unwind and relax, look no further than the Osprey House Inn.
5. Shop the Design District
There is one thing that you will notice about Delray Beach right away – it’s not like your average, run-of-the-mill beach town. It has its unique vibe and atmosphere, with cool shops popping up all over downtown.
The Design District is a great place to start. With tons of little boutiques that sell everything from high-end furniture and home decor to clothes, jewelry, and shoes for both men and women, there is plenty here to keep you occupied.
You can also find some great restaurants in the Design District, which are known for having amazing food. This is a fun place to hang out with friends or stop by after a long day at the beach.
6. Sample the Cuisine at Louie Bossi’s Ristorante Italiano
The restaurant is located in a historic corner building in downtown Delray and serves up classic Italian dishes with modern twists. Everything on the menu is delicious – from the calamari appetizer to any of the pasta dishes.
Check out the lasagna bolognese as well as their signature “Frutti di Mare” dish. There’s also plenty of pasta, seafood, and meat options to choose from.
The restaurant is classy and stylish, with white table cloths, a lively bar area, and a rustic wood interior – it feels like you’re eating in a little Italian cafe, not a new restaurant in Florida.
7. Stroll Along the River
Down by the river, you will find a little park with an outdoor stage. Located here are several sculptures placed by the folks at Foundry Cove Sculpture Park, which should not be missed if you have any interest in art or sculpture.
The site is easy to locate – just head down Atlantic Avenue until you see the sign.
The park with its sculptures is free to visit, but if you want to take photographs or see any of the pieces up close (and you should), then there is a small admission fee.
It is worth it though – great for when you need some time away from the beach and wants to get in touch with your inner art lover.
8. Check Out the Art at Brenton Plaza
If you are an art connoisseur, then be sure to check out one of Delray’s newest additions – a museum called The Society of the Four Arts. Located in Brenton Plaza, this is a great place to visit if you love modern and contemporary artwork.
This is a nonprofit institution that opened up in 2015 and features a wide range of pieces from local artists.
They have art classes available, which are great if you want to learn more about the beautiful world of art. For those with an appreciation for it, Delray Beach is the place to be for anything artistic.
9. Explore the Nature Preserve at Delray Beach Tennis Center
The nature preserve at Delray Beach Tennis Center is full of history – this was where Althea Gibson trained in preparation to become the first black player to compete at Wimbledon.
The nature preserve is home to four championship tennis courts, as well as a large grassy area for picnics and relaxation.
The tennis center also serves up some of the best people-watching in Delray Beach, especially during major events like Fed Cup or Davis Cup.
10. Explore Downtown at Night
Did you know that downtown Delray is home to the only casino in Palm Beach County? This place, called The Atlantic Club, has all of your favorite table games, slot machines, and poker tables.
It’s a great place to spend some time if you’re into gambling or nightlife. They also let you go to the spa and get a massage if you want – which is pretty awesome. The Atlantic Club offers food and drinks, as well as entertainment. Don’t miss this one if you’re in Delray!
11. Sample the Nightlife at Karma Sushi Lounge & Martini Bar
Also located in downtown Delray Beach is Karma Sushi Lounge & Martini Bar, one of the newest hot spots in town. This chic lounge has a spectacular interior that changes color, and a dance floor that packs out on any given night.
There are also several dining options available at Karma – sushi, nachos, chicken wings, and more – so you won’t go hungry. If you’re not the dancing type, the bar is a great place to sit and sip on a martini.
12. Check Out the Art & Culture at Center for the Arts
The arts and culture scene in Delray Beach is thriving and is full of great events that take place throughout the year. Be sure to check out events put on by the Center for the Arts, a non-profit that organizes art exhibits, workshops, and more.
The center also offers music lessons too. So if you want to pick up a new skill and meet some like-minded people in the process, it’s a great place to start. You can also pick up some interesting gift items here, including handmade wine bottle stoppers and other gift baskets.
13. Go Kayaking at Delray Beach Kayak Center
The kayak center is a great way to see the city from a different vantage point. Tours last about two hours and cover around 9 miles, with some going out into the ocean for an up-close encounter with dolphins or manatees – depending on who is in the mood that day.
The kayak center has a large selection of equipment and kayaks, so you can rent one or bring your own. They also offer lessons if you want to brush up on your kayaking skills.
14. Check Out the Surfers at Linton and Ocean
Walking along the main strip (Atlantic Avenue) is a great way to see some of Delray’s iconic buildings and stores. One thing you can’t miss if you are walking down this street is the iconic Linton and Ocean.
If you are interested in something with a bit more history, then check out the other buildings on this street. Linton and Ocean was the first liquor store in Delray and has been holding it down since the 1930s. So it’s worth a visit for any history buffs!
15. Learn About Local History at Delray Beach Historical Museum
For those who are interested in learning more about Delray Beach’s history, then be sure to check out the Historical Museum. Located on Atlantic Avenue, the museum has a range of exhibits from fossils to historical photos, so there is something for everyone.
The museum is open from noon to 4 pm on Saturdays, and admission is free. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon learning some new things about Delray. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, so you can’t go wrong.
Conclusion
Delray Beach is a great place to live, work, and play. With so many opportunities for satisfaction and entertainment, you will quickly see why this is one of the top places to live in Florida.
So, if you are considering a move, or just want to spend some time in your new home-town, consider doing some of the things mentioned above. The places are all great spots for vacation-goers – just be sure to book your hotel in advance, as they are often pretty busy during peak seasons. Stay safe out there!
Hi, I’m Ryan Nelson! I live in the Hamptons, out on Long Island, near Ponquogue Beach. The beach is a place where I can find peace and serenity. It’s a place where I can sit and clear my head. The waves crashing on the shore somehow helps me to relax, while also reminding me that I am far from the stressors of daily life.
