Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Boca Raton, FL

  • Published 2022/05/02

The emerald waters of the Atlantic Ocean, pristine beaches, stunning wildlife, and lush greenery are some of the best things to see and experience in Boca Raton.

In a word, a vacation in this city in Florida can only be described as perfect.

It’s filled with some fine examples of splendid beauty that people search for everywhere.

That being said, this city deserves to be your next holiday destination.

Need a little more convincing?

Check out this list of the best things to do in Boca Raton, Florida:

Have a Fun-Filled Day at Sugar Sand Park

Sugar Sand Park's carousel

YES Market Media / Shutterstock.com

Sugar Sand Park is the perfect amalgamation of all things beautiful.

At first, it might be hard to believe that such a place exists because it has everything one looks for in the ultimate vacation spot.

Spread across 132 acres, this attraction comprises hiking trails, playgrounds, beautiful open spaces, and an indoor theater, all for visitors to enjoy.

There’s not a shortage of things to do here, regardless of your age.

It’s a great place to visit with the whole family.

Visit the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center

Sea turtle at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center

eporourke / Shutterstock.com

When you look at Florida from a natural point of view, there is nothing to complain about.

The Gumbo Limbo Nature Center is one place to enjoy this sort of perspective.

This sanctuary is built on more than 20 acres and attracts tourists from all over the world.

A boardwalk at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center

Infrogmation of New Orleans, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

There are mangrove forests all around, and kayaking in their midst is a heavenly experience.

The Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Facility is situated inside as well.

Get the chance to spot stunning marine life at this Boca Raton attraction.

Mangroves near the waters of Gumbo Limbo Nature Center

Infrogmation of New Orleans, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Enjoy a Day of Family Fun at Red Reef Park

Landscape of Red Reef Park

YES Market Media / Shutterstock.com

Want to enjoy a nice beach day with your family?

The oceanfront Red Reef Park is the place for you.

Spanning 67 acres, this public beach has access to the beautiful Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway.

Red rocks on Red Reef Park's shore

Margaret.Wiktor / Shutterstock.com

The sun shines brightly with the emerald waters, challenging you to have fun.

You can go swimming, snorkeling, and surfing here.

The Red Reef Park is one of the best beaches in the city and the top enjoyable spot in Boca Raton.

Boardwalk leading to Red Reef Park's beach

Margaret.Wiktor / Shutterstock.com

Get to Know the City’s History at the Boca Raton History Museum

Entryway of Boca Raton History Museum

YES Market Media / Shutterstock.com

When walking around downtown Boca Raton, you’ll very likely spot a golden dome.

It’s visible even from far away.

That golden dome belongs to the Boca Raton History Museum.

Side view of Boca Raton History Museum's exterior

Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The structure itself was built in 1927 and is listed among other famous names on the National Register of Historic Places.

A tour around the Boca Raton History Museum usually lasts for 40 minutes.

It’s the best way to get to know the city’s history.

Take a Break in the Tranquil Daggerwing Nature Center

A butterfly on a leaf at Daggerwing Nature Center

J Londeree / Shutterstock.com

Daggerwing Nature Center has one of the calmest auras in Boca Raton.

Head to this beautiful landscape if you want to catch a breather.

The center was named after a butterfly that goes by the same name, Daggerwing.

A boardwalk at Daggerwing Nature Center

J Londeree / Shutterstock.com

When you enter the Daggerwing Nature Center, the first thing you’ll see is a boardwalk.

Wetlands and swamps surround the area and are home to Florida’s wildlife.

You can even spot alligators if you look closely.

Possum grape plant at Daggerwing Nature Center

J Londeree / Shutterstock.com

Shop and Dine at the Famous Mizner Park

Daytime view of the beautiful Mizner Park

Lacey Lin Photography / Shutterstock.com

Shopaholics have this habit of searching for great shopping locations no matter where they are.

In Boca Raton, Mizner Park is considered the ultimate shopping destination.

Aerial view of Mizner Park

HomeDrone / Shutterstock.com

If you want to indulge in some retail therapy, this is the place to go.

It’s also an excellent place to kick back and relax, as it’s both aesthetically pleasing and studded with must-try restaurants.

The Boca Raton Museum of Art is also located here.

Shops along Mizner Park

YES Market Media / Shutterstock.com

Pop by the Stunning Boca Raton Museum of Art

A cube sculpture in front of Boca Raton Museum of Art

Bowiet44, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Boca Raton Museum of Art is a visual treat.

Not only is the inside of the museum filled with mind-blowing pieces—even the outside is aesthetically pleasing.

Exterior of Boca Raton Museum of Art

Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

When you head over to the museum from Mizner Park, you’ll be greeted by a luxurious garden covered with mesmerizing sculptures.

The museum exhibits work by some of the most notable artists, including Picasso, Degas, and Warhol.

There is also a section that displays modern and contemporary artwork.

Have a Fun Day with the Kids at Coconut Cove Waterpark

Treat your little ones to a day of fun and take them to Coconut Cove Waterpark.

The outdoor park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Kids will shout with glee once they see the 986-foot lazy river.

If you aren’t a big fan of water slides or complicated rides, the lazy river will be your favorite attraction at the waterpark.

There is an entire water playground here, and it will surely be one of the highlights of your kid’s time in Boca Raton.

Go on a Food Tour and Sample Boca Raton’s Local Cuisine

It’s vital to sample the local delicacies when visiting a new place.

Boca Raton’s local cuisine features mouth-watering flavors you shouldn’t miss out on.

Moreover, you can book a local food trip to experience the best dishes the city offers.

Such trips are curated to take you around the city and its top-rated restaurants.

There are also brewery tours that can be combined along with these food trips.

Spend the Day at the Gorgeous Spanish River Park

Person walking on a trail leading to Spanish River Park beach

Mike Kuhlman / Shutterstock.com

Spanish River Park will easily be one of your favorite places in Boca Raton.

The stunning public park is located on the beach, making it the perfect place to spend the whole day with your family.

Scenic sunrise over Spanish River Park

Shackleford Photography / Shutterstock.com

Countless tourists are drawn to this stunning tourist location, which is a lovely hangout spot for visitors of all ages.

Spanning almost 95 acres, the spacious Spanish River Park features facilities for surfing, kayaking, picnicking, and more.

You can enjoy the perfect beach day here—even your pets are invited!

Lifeguard station at Spanish River Park beach

Mike Kuhlman / Shutterstock.com

Go Hiking around Yamato Scrub Natural Area

A type of plant along Yamato Scrub Natural Area

scott.zona, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Yamato Scrub, a 217-acre natural reserve in Boca Raton on top of the Atlantic Coastal Ridge, protects the most significant piece of native scrub habitat in this part of Florida.

If you’re looking for a tranquil place to unwind, the Yamato Scrub Natural Area is an exceptional choice.

This natural region provides an unforgettable hiking experience because of its picture-perfect pathways and fauna.

Trees lining a path at Yamato Scrub Natural Area

scott.zona, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Skyblue Lupine Hiking Trail is 2.8 miles long.

You may also take the Cicada Nature Trail and El Rio Trail if you want a shorter nature outing.

In addition to several cross-trails that allow for shorter or longer hiking loops, there are five district ecosystems to select from.

A type of plant along Yamato Scrub Natural Area

scott.zona, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Catch a Play at the Wick Theatre and Costume Museum

Since its inception, this museum has amassed one of Broadway’s most impressive costume collections.

You may see a live performance at the theater and the museum.

Take a guided tour of the museum’s $20 million-worth collection to learn more about it.

In addition, the Tavern, the on-site restaurant, delivers excellent meals in an upscale atmosphere.

After exploring the museum or watching a concert at the theater, head over to Tavern and treat yourself to a delicious supper.

Bring Your Kids to the Children’s Science Explorium

Visiting the Children’s Science Explorium is an excellent way to spend time with your kids.

Located in Sugar Sand Park, this interactive science center offers students the opportunity to learn about physical science via interactive displays.

The museum brings in touring exhibits for four months annually in the fall and spring to allow kids to learn about exciting science and technology themes.

On the first Saturday of each month, the Explorium hosts Sensory-Friendly Saturdays, which provide guests with an improved sensory experience.

Shop Till You Drop at the Town Center at Boca Raton

Interior of Town Center

Catalina Villegas / Shutterstock.com

In business since 1980, this 1.7 million-square-foot shopping center offers fantastic bargains.

Shopaholics and fashionistas alike will enjoy the Town Center.

Exterior of Forever 21 shop in Town Center

Catalina Villegas / Shutterstock.com

Located in downtown Boca Raton, it comprises a variety of high-end shops and boutiques.

Shop till you drop at stores like Bloomingdale’s Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Neiman Marcus.

You can refuel after your shopping spree at one of the many on-site eateries.

Escalator in Town Center

Catalina Villegas / Shutterstock.com

Taste the Local Brews at Barrel of Monks Brewing

This Belgian-style brewery was the idea of four pals who wanted to start something special.

The 2017 Father Christmas, an aromatic Belgian dark lager, is one of several Belgian beers available in the tasting area.

The brewery also offers a tour that lasts roughly 30 minutes.

Guests will understand the brewing procedure, the Belgian brewing heritage, and the cutting-edge brewing methods that go into creating an excellent beer.

Additionally, the Monk Shop sells Barrel of Monks Brewery-branded apparel and memorabilia.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Surround Yourself with Beauty at the World-Famous Butterfly World

Welcome sign of Butterfly World

Serenethos / Shutterstock.com

Butterfly World is located in the nearby city of Coconut Creek, which is just a 15-minute drive away from Boca Raton.

Ronald Boender built this wonderful place in 1988 to let people know more about butterflies.

It’s the world’s largest butterfly park—so don’t miss out on your chance to visit this globally renowned attraction.

The great thing about Butterly World is that it also includes a hiking trail.

A beautiful butterfly on a vibrant flower at Butterfly World

Microfile.org / Shutterstock.com

As you can imagine, the place is colorful.

Your eyes will be greeted with different hues flying around no matter where you look.

There are more than 20,000 exotic butterfly species at Butterfly World.

The park also houses a Tropical Rainforest Aviary, which looks like something straight out of a dream.

You can see hummingbirds flying around here.

Piano key butterfly at Butterfly World

Microfile.org / Shutterstock.com

Snap Photos of Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse

Daytime view of Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse

Richard Semik / Shutterstock.com

Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse is one of the most picturesque locations you’ll see while visiting Boca Raton.

The place is absolutely beautiful, and you need to see it with your own two eyes.

It’s located 20 minutes outside the city, towards Fort Lauderdale.

Night time view of Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse

FloridaStock / Shutterstock.com

The lighthouse is a top attraction for photographers.

It was constructed in 1907 and still stands proudly today.

If you happen to be visiting in August, you may want to participate in the State of Florida Lighthouse Day festivities.

The top part of Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse

cpaulfell / Shutterstock.com

Visit the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Landscape of Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Holly Guerrio / Shutterstock.com

The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens are beautiful beyond words.

This stunning attraction is located in Delray Beach, less than 15 minutes away from Boca Raton.

A waterfall at Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

EdwinWilke / Shutterstock.com

There are very few gardens in this region that are as mesmerizing as this one, making the drive outside the city worth taking.

The designs are of Japanese origin, and if you are interested in the architectural style of old Japan- you’ll recognize them to be from the 19th and the 20th centuries.

Every corner is picture-perfect, so don’t forget to pack your cameras!

The lake of Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Rose West Photo / Shutterstock.com

Take a Side Trip to the Wakodahatchee Wetlands

Walkway at Wakodahatchee Wetlands

thierry dehove / Shutterstock.com

Are you interested in taking a side trip from Boca Raton?

Get close to nature in the Wakodahatchee Wetlands in Delray Beach, just 15 minutes away from the city.

The entire wetlands, which span 50 acres, are filled with islands and ponds.

Great egret at Wakodahatchee Wetlands

Dennis W Donohue / Shutterstock.com

A three-quarter-mile boardwalk lets you cross these water bodies to visit the natural beauties hidden within the islands.

Love spotting animals in their natural habitats?

The Wakodahatchee Wetlands is home to over 178 species of birds, which are hidden away amid the green trees and blue waters.

You may also get the chance to see turtles, alligators, rabbits, frogs, and raccoons.

Great heron at Wakodahatchee Wetlands

Tlshelton79 / Shutterstock.com

Final Thoughts

This prime resort town is a haven for those looking to satisfy their wanderlust.

Explore its natural wonders, cultural institutions, and Instagram-worthy architecture.

Plan for an adventure of a lifetime with this list of the best things to do in Boca Raton, Florida!

© All rights reserved.