5 Things to do with Kids in West Palm Beach

Updated on January 29th, 2015

Here are 5 fun things to do with kids in West Palm Beach!

South Florida Fair

Comprised of 135 acres, the South Florida Fair is an annual occurrence, certain to bring joy to children anywhere. The Fair itself is divided into three different sections: Yesteryear Village, Cruzan Amphitheater, and the exhibit buildings, which include the Expo Center and Agriplex. The Fair usually takes place the last two weeks of January and incorporates a theme purposed to educate patrons about culture. Such examples are “Tales of the American West,” “New England,” and “Hollywood.” Kids especially enjoy the livestock and agriculture exhibits, during which time they can come face-to-face with their favorite two- or four-legged animal. There are also so many rides from which to choose, as well as fun games to win prizes.

South Florida Science Center and Aquarium

Awarded Best Museum in Palm Beach County by South Florida Parenting and 2014 Nonprofit of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches, the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium features over 50 educational exhibits, an 8000 gallon fresh and salt water aquarium, digital planetarium (the only one in Palm Beach County, let alone West Palm Beach), Florida Exhibit Hall, and interactive Everglades Exhibit. There are also several outdoor features such as mini golf, a Science Trail, butterfly garden, and more. The Science Center also offers many educational classes for schools and groups, in addition to summer camps, which are usually a week long and cater to ages 4-12.

Rapids Water Park

Rapids Water Park opened in 1979 and started out as just 4 acres. It has since then multiplied to 30 acres with over 35 slides and water attractions. There are a total of 5 more intense water slides to enjoy, including Big Thunder, Black Thunder (which is completely in the dark), and the Raging Rapids. Some rides designed for all ages include the Baby Blue, Big Red, and Body Blasters. Rides for kids include Alligator Alley, Big Surf, Lazy River, Tadpool, and Splash Hill. Tickets and seasonal passes are available online. The park is closed during the winter months but tends to reopen in March. Most visitors take advantage of the on-site lockers that may be rented. Rapids also offers two full service snack bars and The Big Surf Café, which serves burgers, chicken, hot dogs, sandwiches, and more.

Palm Beach Zoo

Located off Summit Boulevard in West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Zoo lets children get up close and personal with a variety of different animals, including tigers, birds, and bears. Comparatively speaking, it is a relatively small zoo, which is perfect for little feet, as it’s generally easy to get around; some reviewers suggest the Palm Beach Zoo as an excellent “first zoo.” A true highlight of the zoo is the splash fountain that kids can run through in their bathing suits. For those interested in learning about different kinds of animals, there are many exhibits and shows that take place during the day. It is a great place for children’s birthday parties as well as parties and weddings.

City Place

City Place is a fun outdoor shopping center located in West Palm Beach. One major interest point for the kids is the fountain in the center courtyard, which puts on a delightful show to music every half hour. Every Friday and Saturday night, there is live music in the plaza, perfect for a dance. Throughout the year, there are various events geared towards kids. One such is the winter snowfall event, where “snow” drizzles down from the Florida sky. Kids also enjoy the train and even a small ice skating rink and tree lighting ceremony during the holidays. Food is readily available, with quick stops at Annie’s Pretzels and full-service dining at Cheesecake Factory or Ill Bellagio.